Understanding the different types of funding available can make it easier to identify opportunities that may be suitable for your circumstances and level of study.
Funding opportunities can differ in their eligibility requirements, application processes and terms. Always check the official website of the relevant funding provider for the most current information.
What Is a Bursary?
A bursary is a form of financial assistance provided to help students meet the costs associated with their education.
Bursaries may be offered by government programmes, universities, companies, trusts, foundations and other organisations.
Each bursary provider sets its own eligibility requirements, which may consider factors such as academic performance, financial need, field of study, institution or other criteria.
What Is a Scholarship?
A scholarship is financial support awarded to a student based on criteria determined by the organisation providing the scholarship.
Scholarships may recognise academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, talent or other qualities.
The eligibility requirements and conditions vary between scholarship providers.
What Is a Grant?
A grant is financial assistance provided for a specific purpose, which may include education, research, training or other activities.
Grants can be offered by government bodies, organisations, foundations and other institutions.
The purpose, eligibility requirements and conditions depend on the grant provider.
What Is a Student Loan?
A student loan is borrowed money provided to help cover education-related expenses.
Unlike many bursaries, scholarships and grants, a loan generally has to be repaid according to the terms agreed with the lender.
Before accepting a student loan, carefully review the repayment terms, interest, fees and other conditions.
Bursary vs Scholarship vs Grant vs Loan
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they can refer to different forms of financial assistance.
Bursaries and scholarships may provide financial support that does not generally need to be repaid, subject to the provider's terms and conditions. Grants provide funding for a specified purpose, while student loans involve borrowing money that generally must be repaid.
Always read the specific terms of a funding opportunity before applying or accepting an award.
Finding Funding Opportunities
Start by identifying your level of study, field of study, institution and potential eligibility requirements.
You can explore funding opportunities through university financial aid offices, government programmes, companies, trusts, foundations and reputable funding platforms.
The funding opportunities listed on SA Psychology Bursaries are intended to help psychology students discover potential sources of funding in one place.
Understanding the Funding Application Process
Funding providers may have different application processes, eligibility criteria, deadlines and supporting document requirements.
Before applying, carefully review the official application instructions and requirements provided by the relevant funding organisation.
Applicants are responsible for completing and submitting their own applications and ensuring that the information and documentation they provide is accurate and complete.
Verifying Funding Information
Funding information can change. Application dates, eligibility requirements, available funding and other conditions may be updated by funding providers.
Always verify the latest information through the relevant provider's website before relying on a funding listing or submitting an application.
Avoiding Funding Scams
Legitimate funding opportunities generally do not require students to pay a fee simply to submit an application.
Be cautious of funding opportunities that appear suspicious, request personal information or sensitive documents without providing sufficient information about the organisation.
Always verify funding opportunities through the provider's official website before applying.
SA Psychology Bursaries provides links to funding providers so that students can access official sources of information and verify application details.
Important Reminder
Funding requirements, application dates, available funding and eligibility criteria can change.
Information provided on SA Psychology Bursaries is for informational purposes. Always visit the relevant funding provider's official website to confirm the latest requirements and application information.