The University Bursary Scheme is a financial assistance program managed directly by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the university. It is specifically designed to support undergraduate students who do not receive the Mahapola scholarship but require financial aid to complete their higher education comfortably.
Selection and Eligibility Criteria
Unlike merit-based awards, the Bursary focuses purely on the financial needs of the student’s family. The selection is based on:
- Family Income: The annual income of the parents or guardians must fall below the threshold set by the UGC.
- Family Background: Additional consideration is given based on the number of school-going siblings in the family and the distance from the student’s home to the university.
- No Other Major Scholarships: Students who are already selected for the Mahapola scholarship or any other major financial award are not eligible for the Bursary.
Benefits to Students
- Monthly Stipend: Eligible undergraduates receive a fixed monthly financial allowance throughout the academic year.
- Financial Relief: This allowance helps students manage daily university expenses, including hostel fees, meals, textbooks, and travel costs.
Special Provision for Mid-Year Income Changes
If a student did not apply or qualify for the Bursary at the beginning of the year due to income limits, they can still apply later if their family’s financial situation suddenly drops during the academic year.
Students can request this mid-year financial assistance if they face severe hardships, such as:
- The sudden death or permanent disability of the family’s primary breadwinner.
- A major loss in monthly income due to a parent’s sudden job loss or retirement.
- Any other unexpected and severe family crisis that directly affects income.
To apply under these circumstances, students must write a request letter explaining their current situation and submit it to the Student Welfare Branch along with certified supporting documents (such as a new income certificate signed by the Grama Niladhari and Divisional Secretary, a death certificate, or medical records). A special university committee will review the case and award the Bursary based on genuine need.
Rules and Conditions for Continuous Payment
To receive the monthly Bursary payments regularly without interruption, students must follow these university regulations:
- Academic Attendance: Students must maintain a minimum of 80% attendance for lectures, practical sessions, and tutorials.
- Examination Performance: Students must sit for all end-of-semester examinations. Failing to attend exams without a valid medical reason can lead to the suspension of payments.
- Good Discipline: Students must obey university rules. Payments will be suspended if a student is found guilty of disciplinary misconduct.
How to Apply and Inquire?
Applications for the Bursary are usually called at the beginning of the first academic year.
For application forms, closing dates, bank account registration, and payment schedules, students should visit or contact the Student Welfare Branch of the university.