Securing a bursary can make a huge difference in your educational journey. While strong academic results remain important, many bursary providers also want to see evidence of leadership, community involvement, personal achievements, and future career goals.
This is where a well-prepared student CV becomes valuable.
A professional CV allows bursary selection committees to learn more about you beyond your marks. It highlights your strengths, achievements, skills, and potential, helping you stand out from other applicants competing for the same funding opportunity.
If you are applying for a bursary, scholarship, or educational funding programme, understanding how to create a strong CV can significantly improve your chances of success.
Why a Student CV Matters for Bursary Applications
Many students believe bursaries are awarded solely based on academic performance. Although good grades are important, bursary providers often look for applicants who demonstrate a broader range of qualities.
These qualities may include:
Leadership potential
Community involvement
Academic dedication
Personal responsibility
Strong communication skills
Career ambition
Commitment to making a positive impact
Your CV serves as a personal introduction to the selection panel and provides evidence that you possess these qualities.
A professional CV can help bursary providers understand who you are, what you have achieved, and why you deserve financial support.
What Is a Student CV?
A student CV, also known as a Curriculum Vitae, is a document that summarises your educational background, achievements, skills, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and career goals.
Unlike experienced professionals who may focus heavily on work history, student CVs place greater emphasis on education, leadership activities, awards, and potential.
For bursary applications, your CV should present a clear picture of your academic journey and future aspirations.
Information Every Bursary CV Should Include
Personal Details
The first section of your CV should contain your basic personal information.
Include the following:
Full name and surname
Identity number
Date of birth
Residential address
Contact number
Email address
Example:
Name: Thando Mkhize ID Number: 0605121234087 Date of Birth: 12 May 2006 Cell Number: 071 234 5678 Email Address:thandomkhize@gmail.com Address: 45 Zwelibanzi Street, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
Use a Professional Email Address
Your email address creates an immediate impression.
Using a professional email address shows maturity and professionalism.
Professional Profile or Career Objective
This section should briefly introduce who you are and explain your educational and career goals.
Keep it short and focused.
Example Career Objective
Dedicated and hardworking Grade 12 learner with a strong academic background and a passion for engineering. Seeking bursary funding to pursue tertiary studies and contribute to South Africa’s infrastructure and development. Committed to academic excellence, leadership, and lifelong learning.
Volunteer work can significantly strengthen a bursary application.
Awards and Certificates
Include any certificates or awards that showcase your achievements.
Examples:
Leadership Certificate
Academic Excellence Certificate
First Aid Certificate
Public Speaking Certificate
Mathematics Olympiad Participation Certificate
These achievements help demonstrate dedication and personal growth.
References
References provide independent confirmation of your character and achievements.
Good references include:
Principal
Teacher
Coach
Community Leader
Religious Leader
Example
References
Mrs N. Dlamini Mathematics Teacher KwaMashu Secondary School 071 123 4567
Mr S. Mthembu Principal KwaMashu Secondary School 072 987 6543
Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference.
Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid
Including False Information
Never exaggerate achievements or provide incorrect information.
Bursary providers often verify details before making final decisions.
Using Unprofessional Email Addresses
A poor email address can create a negative impression.
Create a professional email account if necessary.
Submitting a CV with Spelling Errors
Proofread your CV carefully before submission.
Spelling and grammar mistakes can make your application appear careless.
Forgetting Contact Details
Always check that your phone number and email address are correct.
If bursary providers cannot contact you, you may miss important opportunities.
Using Complicated Designs
Keep your CV simple, clean, and professional.
Avoid excessive colours, graphics, and decorative elements.
Tips to Make Your Bursary CV Stand Out
Tailor Your CV to the Bursary
If you are applying for an engineering bursary, emphasise:
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Technical achievements
Engineering-related interests
If applying for a teaching bursary, focus on:
Leadership roles
Tutoring experience
Communication skills
Community involvement
Highlight Relevant Achievements
Only include information that strengthens your application.
Quality is more important than quantity.
Keep It Concise
Most student bursary CVs should be between one and two pages long.
Selection committees often review many applications, so clarity matters.
Save Your CV as a PDF
Submitting a PDF helps preserve formatting and ensures your document appears professional on all devices.
Sample Student CV for Bursary Applications
CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL DETAILS
Full Name: Thando Mkhize ID Number: 0605121234087 Date of Birth: 12 May 2006 Address: 45 Zwelibanzi Street, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal Cell Number: 071 234 5678 Email Address:thandomkhize@gmail.com
CAREER OBJECTIVE
Dedicated and ambitious Grade 12 learner with a strong academic record and a passion for engineering. Seeking bursary funding to pursue tertiary studies and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s development through innovation and technical expertise.
Mrs N. Dlamini Mathematics Teacher KwaMashu Secondary School 071 123 4567
Mr S. Mthembu Principal KwaMashu Secondary School 072 987 6543
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a student bursary CV be?
A student bursary CV should generally be between one and two pages long.
Do I need work experience for a bursary CV?
No. Most students applying for bursaries have little or no work experience. Focus on education, achievements, leadership roles, and volunteer activities.
Should I include Grade 11 results in my CV?
Yes, especially if you are still in Grade 12 and have not yet received your final matric results.
Can volunteer work improve my bursary application?
Yes. Community service and volunteer work demonstrate responsibility, leadership, and commitment to helping others.
What file format should I use when submitting my CV?
PDF is usually the preferred format because it maintains the document’s layout and appearance.
Conclusion
A professional student CV can play a major role in helping you secure bursary funding. While academic results remain important, bursary providers also want to see evidence of leadership, community involvement, achievements, and future potential.
By including accurate personal information, educational details, academic accomplishments, skills, leadership experience, volunteer work, and references, you can create a strong CV that presents you as a deserving candidate.
Take time to tailor your CV to each bursary opportunity, proofread it carefully, and present your information in a clear and professional format. A well-prepared CV could be the document that helps open the door to your future studies.
