A successful bursary application might require you to write a motivational letter. A good motivation letter can set the student apart from their competition, hence its importance within the application.
We’ll provide guidelines on compiling a strong motivation letter for a bursary application.
Section 1: Understanding the role of Bursaries in South Africa
What is a Bursary?
A bursary is a financial support offered to students to cover the cost of their studies.
Why Motivation Letters Are Required
A strong motivation letter helps bursary providers understand the following:
- Why you need the bursary
- How the bursary will help you with your future career pursuits
- Why you deserve the bursary over other applicants
Section 2: Key Elements of a Winning Motivational Letter
Structure Overview
A motivational letter should follow a formal structure:
- Sender’s Address: Include the sender’s address in the right-hand corner of the page.
- Receiver’s Address: Include the receiver’s address on the left side under the sender’s.
- Salutation: Use “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Introduction: State the purpose of the letter.
- Body: Include your academic background, financial need, and career goals.
- Conclusion: Thank the bursar for their time and consideration.
- Sign-off: Use “Kind Regards” or “All the Best” followed by your name.
Essential Content
- Reason for Application: Address the bursary you would like to apply for and the qualification for which you would like to pursue funding.
- Educational Background: Include information about your past education and past achievements.
- Financial Need: Write an honest confession about how you plan to use the bursary money and how it will help your financial situation.
- Career Goals: Explain how the Degree will support your future career pursuits.
- Gratitude: Express gratitude for the bursar’s time and consideration.
Tone and Style
Be genuine and honest while maintaining a professional tone. Ensure you convey all the essential points clearly and reflect your personality in the letter.
Section 3: Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Motivational Letter
Step 1: Format Your Letter Properly
- Place your address in the right-hand corner of the page.
- Add the receiver’s address on the left-hand side under the sender’s address.
- Start with a formal greeting such as “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
Step 2: Write a Strong Introduction
State the reason for the bursary application.
Example:
“I am writing to apply for the [Bursary Name] to fund my studies in [Degree/Field].”
Step 3: Craft the Body Paragraphs
Paragraph 1: Educational Background
Include information about your past education and past achievements.
Paragraph 2: Financial Need
Explain your financial situation honestly.
Example:
“Receiving this bursary would help me cover my tuition and other study-related expenses.”
Paragraph 3: Career Goals and Bursary Impact
Explain how the Degree will support your future career pursuits.
Example:
“This bursary will allow me to focus on my studies and contribute to [Industry/Field] after graduating.”
Step 4: Conclude with Gratitude
Thank the bursar for their time and consideration.
Example:
“Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your positive response.”
Step 5: Sign Off
Use a professional closing such as:
“Kind Regards,
[Your Full Name]”
Section 4: Tips to Make Your Letter Stand Out
Be honest and genuine.
Follow a clear structure.
Avoid unnecessary details—stay focused on your goals.
Proofread for any spelling and grammar mistakes.
Section 5: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Failing to follow the correct structure.
Being too vague or overly detailed.
Not explaining why you need the bursary and how it will help you.
Forgetting to express gratitude at the end of the letter.
Section 6: Sample Motivational Letter for a South African Bursary
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Email, Phone]
[Date]
[Bursary Provider’s Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for the [Bursary Name] to support my [Degree] at [Institution]. I am passionate about [Career Goal], and this bursary will help me achieve my academic and career goals.
I have maintained excellent academic results and am currently pursuing my studies in [Field of Study]. My financial situation is challenging, and this bursary would allow me to focus on my studies without the burden of financial strain.
With this bursary, I aim to complete my Degree and contribute to [Career Goal/Industry]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your positive response.
Kind Regards,
[Your Full Name]
Section 7: Additional Resources
- Learnerships and Internships: The Careers Portal provides resources on leadership, internships, and bursaries.
- Application Tips: Stay updated on bursary deadlines and requirements.
A well-crafted motivational letter can help you secure the financial support you need to achieve your academic and career goals. Follow the structure and tips outlined in this guide to create a compelling and professional bursary motivational letter.
