Every year, thousands of students in South Africa search for bursaries to support their education. However, not all bursary offers are genuine. Scammers often create fake bursaries to collect money or personal information from unsuspecting learners. This guide outlines how to identify and avoid fake bursaries, Only use credible platforms like bursaryforms.co.za to do research about bursaries.
1. Never Pay to Apply
Real bursaries do not ask for money. If an application requires payment for forms, registration, or processing, it is likely a scam.
2. Check the Official Source
Always verify the bursary on the official website of the organisation or government department offering it. Reputable sources include bursaryforms.co.za and known institutional websites.
3. Watch for Unprofessional Communication
Look out for spelling mistakes, strange email addresses, or vague instructions. Official bursaries are communicated clearly and professionally.
4. Avoid Personal Information Scams
Be cautious of bursaries that ask for sensitive information such as your banking login details, ID copy without a secure application process, or mobile verification codes.
5. Look for Contact Information and Physical Address
A legitimate bursary provider will list proper contact details, including a physical address, phone number, or direct email to the bursary department.
6. Use Credible Platforms Only
Use trusted websites such as bursaryforms.co.za, which gathers accurate information directly from schools, companies, and government departments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A fake bursary is a fraudulent opportunity designed to steal money or personal information by pretending to offer financial aid to students.
Check if the bursary is listed on official platforms like bursaryforms.co.za or the official website of the offering institution.
No, real bursaries do not require payment to apply. Any request for payment is a red flag.
Report the scam to the South African Police Service and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Avoid sharing more information with the source.
Only trust links that lead to official websites. Do not apply through WhatsApp or unknown Facebook pages.
Visit bursaryforms.co.za, government portals, or official university websites for accurate bursary listings.
You will be asked to fill out an official application form, attach certified documents, and submit by email or online through a verified portal.
Only submit sensitive documents through secure channels linked to verified bursary providers, not through social media or informal sites.
Yes. There are bursaries for engineering, agriculture, education, health sciences, and many more. BursaryForms.co.za lists opportunities for a wide range of fields.
Most bursary applications open from March to September. Check bursaryforms.co.za weekly to stay updated on opening and closing dates.