What Documents Do You Need When Applying for Funding?

Why Are Documents Required?

Funding providers may request documents to assess whether an applicant meets the requirements of a particular funding opportunity. Documents can also be used to verify information provided in an application.

The documents required can differ depending on the funding provider, the type of funding and the applicant's circumstances. Students should therefore carefully review the specific document requirements before submitting an application.

Academic Documents

Funding providers may request academic information to confirm a student's academic record and current or intended studies.

Examples may include an academic transcript, latest examination results, matric certificate or other proof of academic achievement. A funding provider may also request proof of registration or an official admission letter from an institution.

Students should provide the academic documents specifically requested by the funding provider and ensure that the information is current where required.

Identity Documents

Some funding opportunities may require an applicant to provide proof of identity as part of the application process.

For South African applicants, this may include a copy of a South African identity document or another form of identification accepted by the funding provider.

Students should check the funding provider's requirements to determine which form of identification is accepted and whether a specific format or certification is required.

Proof of Household or Financial Circumstances

Some funding providers consider an applicant's financial circumstances when assessing eligibility. In these cases, applicants may be asked to provide documents relating to household income or financial circumstances.

Depending on the requirements, this may include proof of income, payslips, employment information, an affidavit or other supporting documentation.

The exact requirements can differ considerably between funding providers. Students should provide only the documents requested and follow the provider's instructions carefully.

Proof of Registration or Admission

A funding provider may require evidence that an applicant has been accepted or registered to study at an institution.

This may include an official admission letter, proof of registration or another document issued by the relevant institution.

Applicants should check whether the funding opportunity requires proof of admission, proof of registration or both.

Supporting Documents

Some funding opportunities may require additional documents depending on their eligibility criteria. These requirements can relate to academic achievements, community involvement, leadership, personal circumstances or the specific purpose of the funding.

For example, an applicant may be asked to provide a curriculum vitae, motivational letter, reference letter or other supporting information. However, students should not assume that every funding provider will request the same documents.

How Can You Prepare Your Documents?

Before starting an application, students should review the complete list of required documents provided by the funding provider.

Documents should be clear, legible and submitted in the format requested. Students should also check that their personal information is consistent across the documents where applicable.

It can be useful to keep commonly requested documents organised in one secure location so that they are easier to access when completing different funding applications.

What If You Do Not Have a Required Document?

If an applicant does not have a document requested by a funding provider, they should first check the provider's instructions to determine whether an alternative document is accepted.

Where the instructions are unclear, the applicant should contact the funding provider directly for clarification rather than submitting an unrelated document or making assumptions about what will be accepted.

Where Can You Find Funding Opportunities?

Students can explore bursaries, scholarships and other funding opportunities through the funding information provided on SA Psychology Bursaries.

Each funding opportunity may have its own eligibility requirements, application process and document requirements. Students should always review the official information provided by the relevant funding provider before applying.

Important Information

Document requirements vary between funding providers and may change over time. A document required for one funding opportunity may not be required for another.

Always consult the official website or application instructions of the relevant funding provider to confirm which documents are required before submitting an application.