For students dreaming of careers in television, radio, journalism or broadcasting, university tuition can be a major challenge. The eMedia Bursary Programme 2026 offers financial support to first-year students with strong academic results who need help paying tuition fees.
This bursary is aimed at students studying media-related qualifications at South African universities in 2026.
If you want to build a future in broadcasting or media, this opportunity could help you stay on track academically.
What You Need Before You Apply
Make sure you have the following ready:
- South African ID (certified, not older than 3 months)
- National Senior Certificate or Statement of Results
- Proof of 2026 university registration or acceptance
- Recent fee statement
- Proof your qualification is media-related
- Parent/guardian income documents
- Latest 3 months bank statements (where required)
- Minimum 65% NSC average
- No NSFAS or other bursary funding
What Is the eMedia Bursary Programme 2026?
The eMedia Bursary Programme is a tuition-focused funding opportunity for students entering university for the first time.
It supports students studying qualifications linked to:
- Television
- Radio
- Broadcasting
- Media studies
- Communication-related programmes
- Journalism pathways
- Production and digital media courses
The bursary is linked to eMedia Investments, a company in South Africa’s broadcasting and media industry.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is best for students who:
- Are passionate about the media industry
- Want careers in television, radio or broadcasting
- Need tuition support
- Have strong academic results
- Are registered for first-year study in 2026
If you have talent and ambition but limited funding, this bursary is worth serious consideration.
Fields of Study Covered
Applicants must be enrolled in a media-related qualification.
Common Eligible Fields Include:
- Television Production
- Radio Studies
- Broadcasting
- Journalism
- Communication Science
- Media Studies
- Film & Video Production
- Digital Content Creation
- Public Relations (where relevant)
Make sure your university registration letter clearly shows your programme name.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
Included:
- Tuition fees only
Not Included:
- Accommodation
- Books
- Transport
- Meals
- Data or devices
- Living expenses
This means students should plan ahead for other university costs.
Who Qualifies for the eMedia Bursary?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be studying toward a degree or diploma in a media-related field
- Be a first-year student
- Be registered at a South African university for 2026
- Have at least 65% average in Matric
- Need financial assistance
- Not receive NSFAS or another bursary
This bursary is designed for students without other funding support.
Can NSFAS Students Apply?
No.
Students already receiving NSFAS or another bursary may not qualify.
Check your funding status carefully before applying.
Required Documents
You must upload complete supporting documents.
Prepare These:
- Certified South African ID copy
- NSC certificate or Statement of Results
- University acceptance or registration letter for 2026
- Proof your course is media-related
- Latest university fee statement
- Parent/guardian payslips
- Affidavit if unemployed
- Latest 3 months bank statements
Applications with missing documents may be declined automatically.
Why the Fee Statement Matters
Your fee statement helps show:
- Current tuition balance
- Amount needed for study costs
- Your funding gap
Because the bursary focuses on tuition, this document is very important.
You can usually download it from your student portal or request it from your university finance office.
How to Apply for the eMedia Bursary
Applications must be completed online through the official eMedia Bursary application portal.
Reference Number:
etv241
Before You Submit:
- Check every upload is clear
- Ensure documents are certified where needed
- Confirm your contact details are correct
- Review your academic marks carefully
Applications must be submitted through the official eMedia Bursary Programme application portal.
Is There a Closing Date?
No official closing date was listed in the available information.
That means students should apply as soon as possible to avoid missing internal deadlines or early closure.
Do not wait until the last minute.
Expert Insight: Biggest Mistake Applicants Make
Many students treat bursary applications like a quick admin task.
Common Pitfall
Uploading incomplete documents or failing to prove that the qualification is directly linked to media or broadcasting.
Pro Tip to Stand Out
Create one clean folder with all certified documents named clearly, such as:
- ID Copy
- Matric Results
- Registration Letter
- Fee Statement
- Household Income Proof
If the form asks for motivation, explain why you want a career in South African media and how this bursary will help you succeed.
That shows purpose and professionalism.
Why This Bursary Is Worth Considering
Media studies can be expensive, especially when students also need equipment, transport and data.
This bursary can reduce tuition pressure so you can focus on learning and building practical skills.
For South African youth aiming to work in:
- TV production
- Broadcasting
- Journalism
- Radio presenting
- Digital media
- Content creation
…this support can be a strong first step.
You Can Also Explore Youthscope
If you are interested in similar opportunities, you can also check:
- Internships in South Africa
- Bursaries for 2026
- Learnership programmes
- Apprenticeships
- Jobs for youth
- Student guides and resources
- Scholarships and funding options
- Fellowship opportunities
Final Thoughts
The eMedia Bursary Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for first-year students who want careers in South Africa’s media industry.
If you achieved 65% or higher, need tuition support, and are studying a media-related qualification, prepare your documents and apply early.
Opportunities in broadcasting often begin with education — and funding can make that possible.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
With a strong commitment to youth empowerment and skills development, Mbalizuke Nkosi oversees the publication of valuable resources covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, employment opportunities, and study guidance across South Africa.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
For inquiries or support, please contact admin@youthscope.co.za.