How to Write a Bursary Motivational Letter (With Examples)

A bursary motivational letter can make or break your bursary application. Your marks matter, however, the way you present yourself in your bursary cover letter will put you ahead.

A strong and well drafted letter of motivation strengthens your chances of getting funding. Many students are applying for the same position as you, so use this opportunity to stand out and get that bursary. 

We’ve created an easy to follow guide on writing a bursary motivational letter. Examples and a template are included so you can get ideas of how to structure yours.

Read the article below to find out more.

What is a Bursary Motivational Letter?

A bursary motivational is a formal letter that accompanies your bursary application. It’s where you can motivate:

• Why you want that particular bursary
• Why the deciding committee should choose you
• How getting funding can assist you in your goals and studies

Not all bursaries in South Africa and abroad require one, but it’s a good add-on when requested by the bursar. As such, it’s best to know how to write one when the time comes. Below is a simple process of writing a  bursary cover letter.

How to Write the Best Bursary Motivational Letter 

Being asked to attach a bursary motivational letter can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite easy. It’s like any other formal letter. The only difference is that it’s directed to the committee choosing bursary applicants to fund.

1. Start With a Strong Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state your name, study course, and bursary you’re applying for. 

• Example: “I am a Grade 12 learner intending to study Accounting at university, and I am applying for the Sasol Bursary to support my studies.”

2. Talk About Your Academic Background: Highlight your marks, achievements, subjects you like doing, and reasons foxr choosing your course.

• Example: “I have maintained strong results in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, which are subjects I enjoy because they challenge my problem-solving skills. I chose to study Engineering because I want to build solutions that improve infrastructure in South Africa.”

3. Explain Your Financial Need: Honestly share why you need funding and financial challenges you’re facing that hinder your studies. Be open and direct.

• Example: “My family is unable to afford university fees as my parents are currently unemployed. Without financial assistance, I may not be able to continue with my studies despite my academic performance and commitment.”

4. Share Your Goals and Career Plans: Explain your career goals, how the bursary will assist you, and how you plan on giving back to your community or industry after graduation.

• Example: “My goal is to become a Civil Engineer and contribute to developing safe and sustainable infrastructure in underserved communities. This bursary will allow me to focus fully on my studies and help me achieve this long-term goal.”

5. End With a Strong Closing: Thank the bursary provider for their time and express sincere appreciation. Also, sign the letter with your name  and a suitable salutation. 

• Example: “Thank you for considering my application. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity.” Yours faithfully, (Your Name)

Bursary Motivational Letter Example South Africa

Here are 5 bursary motivation letter samples you can view and gain inspiration from.  Full PDF examples can found at the end of this article, along with a template you can make use of.

Bursary Motivational Letter Sample 1

Bursary Motivational Letter Sample 2

Bursary Motivational Letter Sample 3

Bursary Motivational Letter Sample 4

Bursary Motivational Letter Sample 5 

Bursary Motivational Letter Template 

FAQs on Bursary Motivational Letter 

• How long should a bursary motivational letter be?

  The number of words for a bursary motivation letter don’t matter much, it's how you present yourself. However, it would be best to stick between 300 - 500 words, at least one page.

• What to write in a motivational letter for a bursary?

  Depending on the bursary criteria, some bursars may give you a list of questions your letter should answer. Generally, in a motivational letter for a bursary, you include a brief academic and personal background,  reasons for applying,your chosen study field, and plans for the future in your field.

• How do you write a letter of motivation for a bursary? You can write a letter of motivation for a bursary in Google docs or Microsoft word document, which you’ll convert to PDF and upload accordingly. Your letter will have your address, recipients address, subject, body, and closing. 

Final Thoughts: Bursary Motivational Letter 

Your bursary cover letter is an important aspect in your bursary application. How you portray yourself can impact the outcome of your application for a bursary.

A concise and easy-to-read bursary motivational letter is key. Your motivation for a bursary should include: both sender and recipient's addresses, the date, subject, introduction, body, and conclusion. 

Carefully read the requirements from the bursar before writing your letter. If you don’t know how to start yours, check for the available bursary motivation letter samples below.

Since that you know how to write a strong bursary motivational letter, make sure you fully understand the type of funding you’re applying for so you can tailor your application effectively.

Read: Bursary vs Scholarship Explained.