Education

Bursary Motivation Letter Template (Word)

Attach this letter to bursary applications for university, TVET colleges, or private funders when they ask for a motivation.

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Download Word Template.docx · edit in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or LibreOffice

How to edit this template

  1. 1Replace everything in square brackets with your own details, then delete the brackets.
  2. 2Keep it to one page. Bursary committees read hundreds of these — be specific and be brief.
  3. 3Attach your latest academic results, ID copy, and proof of household income if the bursary requires them.
  4. 4Use the filled-in example as a guide for tone and length, not for copying word-for-word.

Before you submit it

  • Confirm the recipient's latest format, document and submission requirements on its official website.
  • Replace every example name, date, address and reference number with your own accurate information.
  • Remove personal information that the recipient has not asked for, especially when sending the document by email.
  • Check whether the final document must be signed, witnessed, commissioned or certified before submission.

Filled-in example

Example

Thandeka Mokoena ID: 0311250123456 14 Protea Street, Soweto, Johannesburg, 1818 082 345 6789 | thandeka.mokoena@gmail.com 14 March 2026 The Bursary Committee Sasol Bursary Fund 1 Sasol Place, Sandton, 2196 Dear Sir / Madam, RE: MOTIVATION LETTER FOR SASOL ENGINEERING BURSARY — 2027 My name is Thandeka Mokoena, and I am currently in Grade 12 studying Mathematics and Physical Sciences at Kwa-Thema Secondary School. I am writing to apply for the Sasol Engineering Bursary for 2027. I chose to pursue engineering because I have always been fascinated by how infrastructure shapes communities, and I want to help fix the water and electricity challenges in my own neighbourhood. My long-term goal is to become a civil engineer working on public infrastructure projects in South Africa. Academically, I have maintained an average of 82%, with distinctions in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. I currently serve as deputy head girl and volunteer as a peer tutor for Grade 10 maths students. My family is currently unable to fund my studies because my mother is a domestic worker and the sole breadwinner for four children. This bursary would allow me to complete my engineering degree without having to defer my studies to work. I have attached my academic transcript, ID copy, and proof of household income for your consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further and can be reached at 082 345 6789 or thandeka.mokoena@gmail.com. Thank you for considering my application. Yours sincerely, Thandeka Mokoena

All templates are provided free of charge. Personalise every detail before submitting — do not use the example text verbatim. We are an independent resource, not a government body or legal practice.
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