Kin Blog

What's the difference between a scholarship and a bursary? 

Scholarships and bursaries are financial awards for students entering or attending post-secondary education. Although they are often confused as the same thing, there is a distinct difference between the two.

Scholarships

Scholarships are merit-based. These look at your academic record, but can also focus on volunteer involvement, work experience or special skills (athletics, arts etc.). You may be asked to provide a copy of your academic transcript in your application.

Bursaries

Bursaries are focused on providing financial assistance to those with demonstrated need. Some bursaries will also consider a student’s academic achievement and community involvement.

Both awards do not require repayment and can make a meaningful impact on the cost of tuition. It is worth taking the time to research and apply to some. Need help? Here are some handy tips:

 10 tips for Applying to Scholarships and Bursaries

1. Do your research
   

   Check online and talk to your guidance counsellor about what bursaries or scholarships are available. There are a lot out there that you could be eligible for.
   

2. Check the eligibility requirements
   

   Each bursary or scholarship will have different requirements. For example, some require you to be enrolled in full time studies or a specific program/field. Ensuring that you meet the requirements before you apply will save you time and increase the chances of your application being successful.

3. Carefully read the instructions 
   

   This may seem obvious but it is very common to rush through an application and miss important details. Be sure to take your time. 

4. Make sure that all sections of the application are complete 
   

   Bursaries and scholarships are typically scored using a rubric or point system. If sections of your application are incomplete, you will lose points for that section or your application could be disqualified.

5. If there is something you aren’t sure about, ask 
   

   Sometimes there are sections that you aren’t sure how to complete. Find out who the administrative contact is for the bursary or scholarship and contact them directly. They are there to help!

   Note: asking for clarification on something will not hurt your chances. Just remember to be polite. 

6. Get someone to read it over 
   

   Do your answers make sense? Have you made any spelling or grammar mistakes? It is always good to have another set of eyes to offer feedback and catch any errors.   

7. Appearance is important 
   

   If you are submitting a paper copy of an application, ensure that the pages are not stained, wrinkled, or torn. If the application is handwritten, keep your writing neat.

8. Submit the application on time 
   

   For many bursaries and scholarships, the deadlines are strict. Applications submitted after the due date are usually not considered. Preparing applications can take a lot of time so be sure to plan ahead and allow yourself extra time.
   

9. Apply! 

   Students often are hesitant to apply for bursaries and scholarships for fear of significant competition. Although that is the case for some, there are many that receive few applications. The more you apply to, the greater your chance of receiving a financial award. Don’t get discouraged!  

10. Continue to seek volunteer and leadership experience
    

    Getting involved in your community and developing leadership skills can increase your chances of success with some awards. Kin Canada offers many volunteer opportunities where you can develop skills and make connections. Find a club near you to get involved!

Kin Canada Bursaries 

Kin Canada Bursaries is a program of the Hal Rogers Endowment Fund, supported by Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs, and public donations across the country. Each year, $1,000 bursaries are awarded to successful Canadian applicants who are pursuing post-secondary education at a recognized university, community college, technical institute or other advanced education institution. Since 1994, over 1000 bursaries have been distributed to students across the country. You do not need to be a member of a Kin Canada club in order to qualify for the bursary. The annual application deadline is February 1. 

For more information about the bursary and how to apply, go to: http://www.kincanada.ca/apply. 

If you have questions about the bursary, please contact Christine Stahl at cstahl@kincanada.ca.