If you’ve just completed matric — congratulations! The Class of 2024 achieved an overall pass rate of above 80% in South Africa, and that’s something to celebrate. But whether you passed with distinctions or need to repeat, your journey doesn’t end here. The next step is about creating opportunities for your future — and one of the most important tools is your CV for a bursary application.
A strong curriculum vitae (CV) doesn’t just list your marks. It tells your story, highlights your potential, and convinces bursary providers why they should invest in you. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to include in your bursary CV and how to tailor it to stand out.
Why Your CV Matters for a Bursary
When bursary providers review applications, they are not only looking at your academic results. They want to understand who you are, where you come from, and what makes you a promising candidate.
Think of your CV as your personal brand. It should:
- Show your achievements and leadership skills.
- Demonstrate your career goals and how the bursary will help you reach them.
- Share your personal story, especially if you come from a disadvantaged background.
Important Sections of a CV for Bursary Application
Here’s how to structure your CV to impress bursary committees:
1. Personal Information
Include your full name, contact details, ID number, and home address. If the bursary targets a specific province or community, highlight that here.
2. Profile / Career Summary
This is where you introduce yourself in 4–6 sentences. Be specific. For example:
- “2024 Matriculant from Limpopo with an overall average of 94%, Top Achiever in Mathematics and Physical Science, aspiring to study Astronomy at UCT.”
- If you come from a disadvantaged background, briefly explain your situation: “Raised by a single parent in a rural community, I am determined to use education to change both my life and my community.”
3. Academic Achievements
List your matric subjects and percentages. Highlight distinctions, awards, and recognitions. If you achieved above the bursary’s minimum requirement (e.g., 70%+), place it upfront in your CV.
4. Extracurricular Activities & Leadership
Bursary providers value well-rounded candidates. Include:
- Sports teams
- Debate clubs
- Volunteering
- Student leadership roles
These experiences demonstrate teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
5. Work Experience (if any)
Even small roles like tutoring, holiday jobs, or helping with family businesses can show responsibility and initiative.
6. Community Involvement
If you’ve been active in your community (mentorship programs, volunteer work, local projects), include it. Companies love candidates who give back.
7. References
Add at least two referees — usually a teacher, principal, or community leader who knows you well.
How to Make Your Bursary CV Stand Out
- Tailor your CV for each bursary. Check the requirements and emphasize what they value most.
- Keep it clear and professional. Use headings, bullet points, and easy-to-read formatting.
- Highlight your story. Your background and challenges are part of your strength — don’t hide them.
- Include future goals. Explain your career aspirations and how the bursary will help you achieve them.
- Keep it short. One to two pages is enough for a bursary CV.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting the same generic CV for every bursary.
- Forgetting to include academic averages upfront.
- Not mentioning leadership or community involvement.
- Making spelling or grammar errors.
Your bursary CV is more than a document — it’s your chance to open doors for your future. Don’t just list marks; tell your story, show your achievements, and prove your potential.
Remember: South Africa’s job market is highly competitive, and securing a bursary not only funds your studies but also connects you with future employers. Start preparing your CV early, tailor it for each application, and believe in your potential.
