Bursary, learnership and internship applications often ask for a motivation letter. Unlike a cover letter for a job, where you prove you can already do the work, a motivation letter shows that you are a good investment: that you are committed, that you have a plan, and that the opportunity will make a real difference.
What committees look for
- Commitment to the field — why you want to study or work in this area, shown through what you have already done.
- Clear goals — what you want to achieve during and after the programme.
- Evidence of effort — results, responsibilities, projects, volunteering.
- Fit with the sponsor — for company bursaries and learnerships, why this organisation and how your goals align with its work.
- Need, where the bursary is need-based — stated honestly and briefly.
A structure to follow
- Introduction. Who you are, what you are applying for (with any reference number) and the course or field.
- Why this field. A specific moment, experience or interest that led you here. "When our school started a coding club, I…" is more convincing than "I have always been passionate about IT."
- What you have done so far. Results, projects, part-time work, volunteering, leadership.
- Your goals. Where you want to be after the programme, and how this opportunity gets you there.
- Why this sponsor. What you know about the organisation and why you want to be part of it.
- Closing. Thank the committee and restate your commitment in one sentence.
Writing about your circumstances
If your family's financial situation or other hardship is relevant — for example for a need-based bursary — mention it honestly and without exaggeration, then focus on what you have achieved despite it and what you plan to do. Committees respond to determination and clear plans more than to hardship alone.
Practical tips
- Keep it to one page unless the application asks for more.
- Answer any specific questions the application asks, in the order asked.
- Write it yourself. Committees read many letters copied from the internet, and they recognise them.
- Ask a teacher or mentor to read it before you submit.
- Meet the deadline and attach every document requested — an incomplete application is often not considered at all.
Read our guide to learnerships, internships and graduate programmes to understand what each type of opportunity offers.