Are you a South African student looking for financial support to further your studies? The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary offers a great opportunity for those residing in Gauteng to pursue higher education. With the 2024 application window open, now is the time to explore how to apply and what benefits you can expect from this bursary. Here’s everything you need to know about the GCRA application process and the bursary program itself.

What is the GCRA Bursary?

The GCRA Bursary is a financial aid program provided by the Gauteng City Region Academy. It is designed to support students who wish to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational studies at accredited South African institutions. This bursary program covers various educational expenses, including tuition, accommodation, and even a laptop allowance, making it a fantastic opportunity for students in Gauteng.

GCRA Application: How to Apply

The GCRA bursary application process is straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Visit the GCRA Application Portal:
   Start by visiting the official GCRA bursary website at GCRA Bursary Application.
2. Create an Account:
   To apply, you need to create an account on the GCRA application portal. You’ll be asked to provide basic personal details such as your name, contact information, and identification number.
3. Complete the Application Form:
   Once you’ve created your account, you can access the application form. Be sure to fill in all the required fields accurately. You will need to provide information about your educational background, the course or program you intend to pursue, and your financial situation.
4. Upload Supporting Documents:
   The GCRA bursary requires applicants to upload several supporting documents, including:
   • A certified copy of your South African ID
   • Proof of residence in Gauteng
   • A copy of your matric certificate (or latest academic transcript if you’re currently studying)
   • A letter of acceptance or proof of enrollment from the institution where you will study
   • Any other documents as specified on the application portal.
5. Submit Your Application:
   After completing the form and uploading all necessary documents, review everything to ensure it’s correct. Once you’re confident everything is in order, submit your application through the portal.

Benefits of the GCRA Bursary

The GCRA bursary offers a comprehensive package of support to eligible students. Here are the key benefits:

• Tuition Fees: The bursary covers full tuition fees for the course or program you are enrolled in.
• Accommodation Costs: Accommodation expenses are also covered, which is particularly helpful for students studying away from home.
• Laptop Allowance: A once-off allowance of R10,000 is provided to help students purchase a laptop for their studies. This is an essential tool for online learning and research.
• Registration Fees: Registration fees are fully covered, ensuring that students are not burdened with the upfront costs of enrollment.

GCRA Bursary Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the GCRA bursary, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35.
• Residency: You must reside within the Gauteng province.
• Educational Requirement: You should have completed your Matric in Gauteng.

GCRA Application Deadline

It is essential to apply on time to be considered for the GCRA bursary. The closing date for the 2024 GCRA bursary is 28 February 2025. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline, as no late submissions will be accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does GCRA pay registration fees? Yes, the GCRA bursary covers registration fees along with tuition and accommodation.
2. How much is the laptop allowance for GCRA? The bursary provides a once-off laptop allowance of R10,000. This allowance can help you purchase a laptop to assist with your studies.
3. What if I miss the deadline? Unfortunately, no applications will be accepted after the closing date, so it’s crucial to apply before 28 February 2025.