GCRA Bursary application 2024
In South
Africa, access to quality education still remains a pivotal challenge for many
individuals, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Recognizing the
importance of education as a catalyst for social and economic development, the
Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) has established a robust bursary program
aimed at supporting deserving students in pursuing their academic aspirations.
We are going to delve into the intricate details of the Gauteng City-Region
Academy (GCRA) bursary, outlining its eligibility criteria, benefits, and
application process.
It is important to note that the Gauteng City- Region Academy (GCRA) is not a loan it is a bursary scheme that provides financial assistance to students from disadvantaged communities to further their studies. Bursaries are non-repayable, meaning that students do not have to repay the money they received.
It does not
stop at giving out bursaries to deserving students, the Gauteng City-Region
(GCRA) provides skills and career guidance programmes, learnerships, and
internships which are said to prove most beneficial to South African youth in
particular.
Background and Objectives:
The Gauteng
City-Region Academy (GCRA) bursary scheme was first established in the year
2009 and is aimed at investing in the education of young people in the
Gauteng province and has so far spent over R2. 2 billion since its inception
and has seen over 27 000 young people graduate, an initiative of the Gauteng
Provincial Government, is committed to fostering skills development and human
capital investment within the Gauteng City-Region. Central to its mission is
the belief that education is the cornerstone of individual empowerment and
societal progress. In alignment with this vision, the Gauteng City-Region
Academy (GCRA) Bursary Program seeks to alleviate financial barriers hindering
students' access to higher education, particularly in fields critical to the
region's economic growth
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must satisfy
the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure
to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being
considered):
v You must reside within the Gauteng province
v You must have completed Matric in Gauteng
v You must be a South African citizen
v You must be between 18 and 35 years’ old
v You must be a South African citizen
v You must have been accepted/ registered to study
towards an Undergraduate or Postgraduate qualification, in 2024
v You must have been accepted to study at an
accredited and registered Post School Education and Training institution in
South Africa.
v Preference will be given to students pursuing
studies in GGT2030 priority sectors: Art and Design, Finance; Economics and
Accounting, Electrical Infrastructure Construction, Civil Engineering
Construction, Hospitality Management, IT and Computer Science, Mechanical
Automotive, Mechanical Automotive and Diesel Engineering, Tourism; Transport
and Logistics.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR GCRA BURSARY APPLICATIONS
Submit clear copies of the
following supporting documentation along with your online application (the
submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your
application may be disqualified):
v Proof of address in Gauteng (Water and Electricity bill/ stamped ward councilors letter/ letter from traditional authority if in a rural area)
v ID document and matric certificate (certified copy)
v Most recent academic record, if currently studying
(certified copy)
v Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised
PSET institution/ institution of higher learning (on institutions letterhead)
v Motivational letter stating why you should be awarded the bursary (maximum 2 pages) (Click here for a guide on how to write a motivational letter)
v Parents or guardians proof of income (latest
payslips if employed/ affidavit if unemployed) (certified copy)
v Proof of any other bursaries you are currently
receiving, if applicable
v Disability or medical report if disabled
What They Offer and Cover:
The Gauteng
City- Region Academy (GCRA) bursary provides comprehensive support to
successful applicants, covering various aspects of their academic journey:
1.
Tuition Fees: The bursary covers full or partial
tuition fees, depending on the applicant's financial need and the specific
arrangements made with the academic institution.
2.
Accommodation and Living Expenses: In some cases, the bursary may
extend to cover accommodation costs for students residing in university
residences or approved accommodation facilities.
3.
Books and Study Materials: Financial assistance may be
provided to purchase prescribed textbooks and other necessary study materials.
4. Transportation
Allowance: A stipend for transportation expenses may also be included to
facilitate students' commute to and from their academic institutions.
Application
Process: The application process for the Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA)
bursary typically follows these steps:
1.
Online Application: Prospective applicants can access the bursary
application form through the official Gauteng City- Region Academy (GCRA)
bursary website or designated online portals.
2.
Submission of Documents:
Along with the application form, applicants are required to submit supporting
documents, including academic transcripts, proof of residency, proof of income,
and any other relevant documentation.
3.
Assessment and Selection: Submitted applications undergo a thorough
review process, where academic performance, financial need, and alignment with
priority fields of study are taken into consideration.
4.
Interviews (if applicable): Shortlisted candidates may be
invited for interviews to further assess their suitability for the bursary.
5.
Notification of Outcome: Successful applicants are notified
of their bursary awards, detailing the extent of financial assistance provided
and any additional terms and conditions.
Closing Details for Applications:
The 28/29th February is the closing date for applications annually, it is essential for prospective applicants to adhere to the specified deadlines and guidelines during the application process. Failure to submit required documents or meet deadlines may result in disqualification. Additionally, applicants should ensure accuracy and honesty in providing information, as any misrepresentation may lead to the cancellation of the bursary. Click here to apply for the GCRA BURSARY.
The Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) bursary
program stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring students in Gauteng, offering
not only financial support but also the opportunity to realize their academic
potential and contribute meaningfully to the region's development. By investing
in education, the Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) bursary continues to sow
the seeds of progress and prosperity, paving the way for a brighter future for
all.
