A bursary[1] is a monetary award made by any educational institution or funding authority to individuals or groups.
[4] To obtain such a bursary, it is customary for the student or their parents or guardians to be asked to provide details of their financial circumstances, supported by documentary evidence.
The amounts awarded in Scotland,[5] for instance, are made on a sliding scale, with household income below £34,000 p.a.
Bursaries are similar to but distinct from "scholarships" or "prizes", which are based on performance or sponsorship.
Scholarships and prizes are generally awarded for good performance in the study preceding course entrance in which the student achieves grades above the standard entry.