What is the Difference Between Scholarship and Bursary?

The main difference between a scholarship and a bursary is the basis on which they are awarded. Scholarships are primarily merit-based, meaning they are given to students with outstanding academic performance, while bursaries are granted to students who demonstrate financial need. Both scholarships and bursaries are meant to help cover educational expenses, but they serve different purposes and have different eligibility criteria.

Here is a summary of the differences between scholarships and bursaries:

• Basis for Award: Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, while bursaries are awarded based on financial need.
• Eligibility Criteria: Scholarships typically require students to submit diplomas and transcripts, while bursaries require documents indicating the student's financial status, such as family income and monthly expenses.
• Coverage: Scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, textbooks, transportation, and other related costs. Bursaries usually cover tuition fees, living expenses, or other academic costs.
• Providers: Scholarships are often awarded by educational institutions, governments, foundations, or corporations. Bursaries are provided by educational institutions and other organizations to support students in financial need.

Both scholarships and bursaries share several advantages, including reducing financial stress, allowing students to focus on their education without worrying about income, and providing recognition of students' hard work and determination.

Comparative Table: Scholarship vs Bursary

Here is a table summarizing the differences between scholarships and bursaries:

Scholarships are financial aid given to students mainly on academic merit, sometimes also based on gender or need. They often cover tuition fees, discounts on maintenance, transport expenses, and the cost of books. Bursaries, on the other hand, are need-based financial supports that cover the living costs of the student in a specific year. While both scholarships and bursaries provide financial assistance to students, scholarships focus on rewarding exceptional merit, talent, or achievements, whereas bursaries primarily target individuals with financial need.