Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Bursaries

Kholofelo Modise18 September , 2025

1 5 minutes read

Applying for bursaries in South Africa can be a life-changing opportunity, but it’s also highly competitive. Thousands of students apply every year, and funding bodies carefully screen applications to ensure only the most deserving candidates receive support. This means even small mistakes can cost you the chance to secure funding.

This guide highlights the most common mistakes students make when applying for bursaries and offers practical tips to improve your chances of success.

Not Reading the Requirements Carefully

One of the biggest mistakes students make is not reading the eligibility criteria. Most bursaries specify requirements such as age, level of study, household income, or the type of institution you attend. Applying for a bursary that doesn’t match your field of study or financial circumstances is almost always a wasted effort.

Equally important is checking which documents are required. Some bursaries insist on certified copies of your ID, academic records, or proof of income. Failing to supply these could mean automatic rejection.

Example: A student applies for a bursary meant for final-year university students but is only in their first year. Even though their marks are good, their application will be rejected because they don’t meet the basic criteria.

Missing Deadlines

Deadlines for bursary applications are strict and rarely extended. Missing one can mean waiting an entire year for the next cycle. Common reasons for late submission include procrastination, incomplete documentation, or underestimating how long the application process takes.

Late applications hurt your chances because bursary providers plan budgets and allocations in advance.

Tips for keeping track of bursary deadlines:

Use a calendar or app to track key dates.
Set reminders a week before each closing date.
Gather all documents in advance so you’re ready to submit early.

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documents

Another frequent pitfall is submitting incomplete or incorrect documents. Missing items like ID copies, proof of residence, or academic transcripts can disqualify your application immediately.

Common issues include:

Uncertified or expired documents: Certification must be up to date.
Poor-quality scans or photos: Blurry images look unprofessional and may be rejected.
Inconsistent information: Your name, date of birth, and ID numbers must match across all documents.

Always double-check the document list and have someone else review your application before submission.

Poorly Written Motivation Letters or Essays

Many bursaries require motivation letters or essays to understand your background, goals, and achievements. Generic or poorly written letters can undermine your application.

Common mistakes include:

Not personalising your letter to the bursary.
Failing to answer specific essay questions.
Using vague or clichéd language.

Tips for strong motivation letters:

Not Following Instructions Properly

Bursary providers often have strict rules about how applications should be submitted — from acceptable file formats to word count limits. Ignoring these details can get your application disqualified.

Examples of overlooked instructions:

Submitting forms in JPEG instead of PDF.
Not signing all required sections.
Sending the application to the wrong email or portal.

Always read instructions twice before submitting.

Overlooking the Importance of Academic Performance

Most bursaries are awarded based on academic merit. Failing to meet the minimum grade requirements or not showcasing your academic achievements can reduce your chances.

Tips to present your academic performance effectively:

Include your most recent certified academic transcripts.
Highlight any awards, distinctions, or extracurricular achievements.
Explain upward trends in your marks if applicable.

Applying for Too Few Bursaries

Many students make the mistake of relying on one bursary application. While it’s good to focus on quality, applying to only one opportunity drastically reduces your chances.

Strategy: Apply to multiple bursaries that you’re eligible for. Tailor each application carefully but reuse elements like your CV or motivation letter to save time.

Providing Inaccurate or Misleading Information

Honesty is non-negotiable in bursary applications. Fabricating results, misrepresenting income, or claiming qualifications you don’t have can lead to instant disqualification or even blacklisting from future funding opportunities.

Double-check every detail before submitting, and if you’re unsure, provide an explanation instead of inaccurate information.

Lack of Follow-Up

Once you’ve submitted your application, the process doesn’t end there. Many bursary providers contact applicants for additional documents or clarification. Failing to respond promptly could cost you funding.

Tips for effective follow-up:

Check your email and spam folders regularly.
Log in to application portals weekly.
Politely contact the bursary provider if you haven’t received updates after the stated timeline.

Tips to Avoid These Mistakes

Create a bursary calendar and checklist: Track requirements and deadlines.
Gather and verify documents before applying: Have them certified and scanned in high quality.
Tailor motivation letters to each bursary: Avoid generic applications.
Double-check all details before submission: Ask a teacher, mentor, or family member to review.
Seek guidance from career offices or mentors: They can spot errors you might miss.

FAQs: Common Mistakes When Applying for Bursaries

Q1. Can a small mistake disqualify my bursary application?
Yes. Missing a signature or submitting an uncertified document can lead to disqualification.

Q2. How many bursaries should I apply for at once?
Apply for as many as you’re eligible for, as long as you maintain quality in each application.

Q3. What is the most common reason for rejection?
Incomplete or incorrect documentation is the leading cause of rejection.

Q4. Can I reapply if my application was rejected for errors?
Yes. Most bursary providers allow you to apply again in the next cycle if you meet requirements.

Q5. How can I ensure my documents are certified correctly?
Visit a police station, post office, or commissioner of oaths. Certification must include a stamp, signature, and date.

Q6. Should I still apply if I don’t meet all the requirements?
It’s usually not worth applying if you don’t meet the basic eligibility criteria. Focus on bursaries that match your profile to increase your chances of success.

Q7. Can I submit handwritten applications?
Unless explicitly allowed, it’s best to submit typed applications. Handwritten forms can appear less professional and may be harder to read or process.

Q8. What happens if I miss the bursary deadline but still send my documents?
Late applications are almost always rejected automatically. Rather start preparing for the next application cycle to avoid missing future deadlines.

Q9. How can I make my application stand out?
Highlight your achievements, community involvement, and career goals in your motivation letter. Tailoring your application to the bursary’s values is key.

Q10. Is it okay to contact the bursary provider after submitting my application?
Yes — polite follow-ups show initiative. Just wait until after the stated response period and keep your communication professional.

Also check: Funding Options for Students Who Don’t Qualify for NSFAS

Bursaries are highly competitive, and mistakes can cost you the funding you need. By paying close attention to requirements, deadlines, and document quality — and by applying to multiple bursaries — you can dramatically improve your chances of success. Preparation, honesty, and persistence are your greatest tools. Use this guide to avoid common pitfalls and put your best foot forward in every bursary application.