Scholarships vs Bursaries

Scholarship vs. Bursary: Understanding the Key Differences

When it comes to funding your education, the terms scholarship and bursary are often used interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings, eligibility criteria, and purposes. Understanding the differences can help you determine which type of financial aid best suits your needs.

What Is a Scholarship?

A scholarship is a form of financial aid awarded primarily based on merit. This merit can include:

  • Academic achievement (such as high grades)

  • Athletic talent

  • Artistic ability

  • Community involvement

  • Other specific skills or accomplishments

Scholarships are typically non-repayable and are often funded by universities, government bodies, private organizations, or foundations. While some scholarships also consider financial need, the main criterion is usually some form of excellence or achievement. Scholarships can cover tuition fees, housing, textbooks, transportation, and other educational costs135.

What Is a Bursary?

A bursary, on the other hand, is a financial award given primarily based on financial need. Bursaries are designed to support students who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education due to their economic circumstances. The application process often requires proof of household income or evidence of financial hardship.

Like scholarships, bursaries do not need to be repaid. They can be used to cover tuition, accommodation, study supplies, and sometimes even living expenses. Bursaries are commonly provided by educational institutions, governments, or private organizations, and may also target specific groups, such as students with disabilities or those from underrepresented backgrounds2456.

Key Differences Between Scholarships and Bursaries

Feature Scholarship Bursary
Main Criterion Merit (academic, athletic, artistic, etc.) Financial need
Purpose Reward achievement or talent Provide access to education for those in need
Application Often requires proof of achievement Requires proof of financial hardship
Repayment Not required Not required
Coverage Tuition, fees, sometimes living expenses Tuition, fees, living expenses, supplies
Prestige Often carries recognition and honor Focus is on support, less on prestige

Can You Apply for Both?

Yes, students can often apply for both scholarships and bursaries simultaneously, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for each. This can maximize the financial support available for their studies5.

Final Thoughts

Both scholarships and bursaries are valuable forms of financial aid that can reduce the financial burden of higher education. The main distinction lies in why they are awarded: scholarships reward achievement, while bursaries address financial need. Understanding these differences ensures you can target the right opportunities and make informed decisions as you plan your educational journey