Unisa Bursaries 2024
The University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a range of merit and need-based bursaries across study levels to assist students with academic expenses. Read on for an overview of available Unisa bursaries to pursue your higher education.
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UNISA (UNISA Online Application: How to register)
Postgraduate Bursary – Application Guide
Online Courses Funded By NSFAS
BANKSETA Bursaries 2024: Who Qualifies, How To Apply and Preparing Your Candidacy
Undergraduate Bursaries
Unisa provides dedicated undergraduate funding support through these sources:
NSFAS Bursary
- Government-funded scheme for financially needy students
- Covers full cost of study for poor and working class qualifying candidates
- Apply via National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) directly
Unisa Merit Bursary
- For top-performing undergraduate students
- Awards up to 100% of tuition fees
- Based on Grade 12 marks and university scores
External Undergraduate Bursaries
- Department of Transport Bursary
- Hillensberg Trust Bursary
- Various SETA industry bursaries
Eligibility for these external bursaries depend on factors like:
- Field/program of study
- Academic performance
- Family income
Postgraduate Bursaries
Unisa offers tailored aid to master’s and doctoral candidates:
Postgraduate Diploma/Honours Bursary
- For South African alumni studying Unisa diploma or honours programs
- Up to R15k funding for tuition fees
Research Master’s and Doctoral Bursary
- Open to South African and international Unisa students
- Up to R65k funding for tuition, research, travel, and books
Additional private bursaries may exist per faculty/school or corporate sponsors.
Eligibility Requirements
Standard eligibility criteria for Unisa bursaries are:
- South African citizenship
- Registered or accepted Unisa student
- Academic merit and consistent performance
- Financial need assessment
Specific requirements beyond this baseline vary by bursary scheme. Reconfirm criteria before applying.
How to Apply
Follow this process to apply for relevant Unisa bursaries:
Step 1: Check Deadlines
- Applications usually open in November
- Closing date is typically end January
- Exact dates announced annually
Step 2: Review Eligibility
- Verify you meet the criteria for selected bursaries
- Gather required documents (academic records, ID, income statements etc)
Step 3: Complete Online Application
- Access application portal from Unisa Student Funding website
- Complete all compulsory sections fully and accurately
- Upload necessary supporting documentation
- Submit complete application before cutoff
Step 4: Evaluation Outcomes
- Evaluation process takes up to 3 months post deadline
- Check status regularly in your portal
- Accept offer within stipulated timeframe if successful
Step 5: Bursary Administration
- Sign binding bursary contract
- Provide payment details for fund transfers
- Disbursements process upon registration and satisfactory performance each semester
Application Tips
Follow these tips to strengthen your Unisa bursary application:
- Start early to collect all documents
- Stick to instructions outlined for every section
- Supply accurate details throughout the application
- Follow up online regularly to check if shortlisted
- Proofread rigorously before submitting to avoid unnecessary errors
Meeting requirements and applying diligently gives your candidacy the best prospects.
Additional Resources
Visit these sites for supplementary info:
Unisa Student Funding
www.unisa.ac.za/funding
NSFAS Financial Aid
www.nsfas.org.za
Unisa Prospectus
www.unisa.ac.za/prospective
Conclusion
Unisa offers diverse funding assistance for students facing financial obstacles. Identify relevant bursaries or grants aligned to your situation and field of interest. Apply diligently by meeting stipulations and submitting persuasive documentation emphasizing academic excellence and compelling motivation to uplift communities upon graduation. Secure this career-enabling support to increase access and student success outcomes.
FAQs
How are Unisa bursary recipients selected?
Decisions involve evaluating:
- Eligibility compliance
- Related academic track record
- Overall application quality and strength
- Available annual bursary funding quota
Top-performing candidates demonstrating financial need get prioritized.
If awarded, when will I receive bursary funding?
- First tranche of tuition fee payments discharge directly to Unisa
- Further disbursements for allowances happen at these times:
- April
- July
- October
- Payments are subject to continued positive academic progress
Can I hold a part-time job while on the bursary?
Yes, part-time employment is encouraged to fund additional expenses beyond bursary coverage like groceries, transport and cellphone costs. This builds financial responsibility without compromising academic focus. Inform sponsors upfront for approval before taking employment.
What are my obligations as a Unisa bursary holder?
You must:
- Uphold high performance each semester
- Comply with all bursary contract conditions
- Complete compulsory vacation work
- Participate in graduate development initiatives
- Fulfill South African employment obligations equal to sponsorship duration
This develops well-rounded, community-oriented graduates, giving back while paying it forward.