A Bursary is a type of scholarship that is used by learning institutions in the UK and other parts of Europe.Bursaries are made available to prospective students who are confirmed to be in financial need, rather than on the basis of academic performance.If you don't have the means to pay for your child's education on your own, you need to apply for a bursary.
Step 1: Find out if the institution has a bursary program.
Some schools don't provide funds for fee relief.If you or your child are interested in attending the school, you can call the admissions office or visit the website for more information.There are answers to questions you may have about the process.You can find a list of schools and universities that advertise bursary programs by running a quick search.Transferring to another school for future terms if you or your child are already in a school that doesn't offer fee relief is a good idea.
Step 2: You can apply to your school.
The next step is to apply for financial assistance from the institution you have identified.Bursaries are only granted to students aged 16 and up who have begun the formal application process and are awaiting notification of acceptance.Students between the ages of 16 and 19 may have to have a parent submit an application on their behalf.Copies of your or your child's final academic records for Grades 11 and 12 are required when applying to university.You don't have to be a student at the school in order to apply for a bursary.Even if you haven't applied or qualified before, you can still apply for a Bursary from a school that you're currently attending.
Step 3: The school has qualification standards.
Eligibility guidelines can vary from program to program.Your ability to afford things like tuition, lodging, and materials on your own will affect your chances of approval.Your or your child's grade level, field of study, course load, and area of residence are some of the factors that might affect the total expense that an institution is willing to cover.
Step 4: If you have good academic standing, consider applying for a scholarship.
If your child has historically tested well or received high marks, there is a chance you could qualify for a traditional scholarship.If you don't meet the financial requirements for a bursary but still need help paying for school, this could be a lifesaver.Past academic performance or the results of an entrance exam can be used to award scholarships.You or your child could be eligible for an academic scholarship if they have exceptional marks.You could get as much as 100% of your school expenses covered between the two.Bursaries are a non-performative source of funding, which means things like marks aren't important as long as the school thinks your child has something to offer.
Step 5: Before applying, check the school's application deadlines.
You can find the cut-off date for the bursary on the institution's website.You will not be able to submit an application or be considered for fee relief after this time.The end of the preceding term is when most schools ask students to submit their bursary applications.If you need help paying for Spring 2020, you will need to submit your application no later than the final weeks of Fall 2019.Don't wait until the last minute to apply.Bursaries are usually filled on a first come, first served basis due to high demand.
Step 6: The school has an online services system.
Bursary applications are managed digitally.Click on the option to create a new account when you visit the registration or bursary application section of the school website.In order to log in, you will have to choose a custom password and usernames.When you register at the school you are applying to, you may need to give certain information, such as student credentials.It is possible to apply via mail if you don't have internet.You can request a physical application from the admissions office.
Step 7: To apply for a bursary, fill out and submit a form.
Provide your or your child's full name, birth date and current address.Then, specify the recipient student's grade level, field of study, and the particular bursary you're applying for.You will be asked for an email address and phone number if you fill out the form.If you apply for the first time, the institution may require you to provide some form of personal identification, such as a driver's license, birth certificate, or passport.
Step 8: Give financial documents to the institution.
Records that confirm your need for financial assistance will be sent along with your application.Income related files may include tax forms, bank statements, property value assessments, and copies of your savings and pensions.If the school thinks it is necessary to verify your financial situation, you could be contacted by a bursary officer to schedule a time for a home inspection.You have to show your need for financial assistance on paper in order to be approved for a bursary.
Step 9: Wait to hear the status of your application.
A special committee that is responsible for deciding which students are qualified for assistance will process your application after you send it off.It could take weeks or even months for them to get back to you, so be patient.Email will be sent to you if your application has been approved or rejected.To make sure you don't miss any important updates, check your email regularly.If your application is denied, you won't be able to receive financial aid for any classes you or your child attend.You will have to wait until the following course or term to apply for a bursary again.
Step 10: If asked, be prepared to sit for a follow up interview.
In most cases, the committee will simply review your information and make a determination.Bursary officers at some schools may be able to meet with you in person to discuss your application or financial records.If you are called in for an interview, it is most likely to confirm certain details or clear up some small inconsistencies.The parent of a prospective student may be asked questions that the student can't answer.
Step 11: Check your student account to make sure you get your money back.
The funds that you or your child are awarded can either be credited to a school account or sent directly to you.The money can be used to pay for tuition, reserve lodging, or buy books, uniforms, and other materials as outlined in the provisions of the specific bursary.If you receive a reimbursement certificate through the institution's online services or email, you will need to print it out and present it to a cashier in person at the school before the money is actually handed over to you.
Step 12: At the end of the period, apply for your bursary again.
After each course or term, some schools require students to apply for their own bursaries.If you don't get your application in by the due date listed on your school's website, you will not get the help you need.By the time the deadline rolls around, your child may be able to apply on their own.Depending on the institution's policies, you or your child may only receive a 70% reimbursement for one course or term.If you and your child work hard and stay in good academic standing, you are more likely to be approved for relief.