Bursary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bursary

[หˆbษœหrsษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

education

A monetary grant given by an institution to support a student's education. It is often awarded based on financial need or academic achievement.

Synonyms

fellowship, grant, scholarship.

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Word Description / Examples
bursary

In the UK and some other Commonwealth countries, it's used to describe financial aid given to students based on their financial need.

  • Helen applied for a bursary to help cover her tuition fees
  • The university offers several bursaries for low-income families
scholarship

Money awarded to students based on academic or other achievements to help pay for their education.

  • She earned a full scholarship for her outstanding academic performance
  • The school offers several scholarships for students with athletic talent
grant

Financial aid given for a particular purpose such as a project, research, or specific academic pursuit, often without the expectation of repayment.

  • The scientist received a grant to study climate change
  • They applied for a grant to fund the community project
fellowship

Typically refers to a merit-based scholarship that often includes a stipend and is awarded for graduate or postgraduate study, research, or professional development.

  • He was awarded a research fellowship for his groundbreaking work in chemistry
  • The fellowship enabled her to spend a year researching in Germany

Examples of usage

  • She was able to attend university thanks to a bursary she received from the government.
  • The bursary covered her tuition fees and living expenses for the academic year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Educational Systems

  • In many countries, bursaries are awarded based on financial need, allowing students from less privileged backgrounds to attend school.
  • Different institutions have various bursary programs, often funded by the government, charities, or the universities themselves.
  • Some bursaries are specific to fields of study, promoting education in areas like science, arts, or technology.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Bursaries are an essential part of higher education systems in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia, ensuring accessibility for all students.
  • In some cultures, receiving a bursary is a significant achievement and greatly enhances the recipient's status within their community.
  • Certain bursaries are named after prominent figures, making them prestigious and sought after by students.

Social Impact

  • Bursaries play a crucial role in reducing educational inequalities, helping those who may not afford tuition to pursue higher studies.
  • Research suggests that students who receive financial aid are more likely to graduate and have better career prospects.
  • Bursaries can help reduce student debt, allowing graduates to start their professional lives with less financial burden.

Origin of 'bursary'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'bursa', which means purse or bag, representing the financial support provided.
  • It first entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally referring to funds for students.
  • The term has roots in medieval European universities, where funds were set up to help scholars.

The word 'bursary' has its origins in the medieval Latin word 'bursarius', which referred to a treasurer. Over time, the term evolved to describe a financial award given to support students in their education. The concept of bursaries has been around for centuries, with various institutions and organizations providing financial assistance to deserving individuals.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,861 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.