The eTV eMedia Bursary Programme matters right now because many South African students want to enter media, but money can block the way. If you are starting your first year in 2026 and you want to study broadcasting, radio, television, journalism, or media, this bursary may help you stay in class and keep moving forward.
What the opportunity is
The eTV eMedia Bursary Programme 2026 is a tuition bursary from eMedia Investments / eTV. The reference number is etv241. It is for students who need support with study fees and who want a future in South Africa’s media and broadcasting industry.
This bursary is aimed at first-year university students only. It is a contract bursary opportunity and only one bursary is available. That means competition will be strong, so you must apply carefully and on time.
Quick overview
- Programme: eTV eMedia Bursary Programme 2026
- Reference Number: etv241
- Organisation: eMedia Investments / eTV
- Industry: PR, Communications, Journalism, Media & Broadcasting
- Academic Level Required: First-year students for the 2026 academic year
- Minimum NSC Average: 65%
- Funding Coverage: Tuition fees only
- Eligibility: South African university students in media-related qualifications
- Important Condition: You must not receive NSFAS or any other bursary funding
- Supporting Documents Required: Yes, mandatory and certified where applicable
- Number of Positions: 1 bursary available
- Application Type: Contract bursary opportunity
Who can apply
Many applicants struggle because they do not check the study field, the year of study, or the funding rules. Please read these requirements carefully before you apply.
To qualify, you must already be registered for a media or broadcasting-related qualification at a recognised South African university.
Eligible study areas
- Television Production
- Radio Production
- Journalism
- Media Studies
- Broadcasting Technology
- Communication Science
- Film and Television
- Multimedia Production
- Digital Media and Content Creation
Students in other study programmes are not eligible.
Academic requirements
- You must be a first-year student
- You must study at a recognised South African university
- You must be registered for a media or broadcasting-related qualification
- You must have a minimum NSC average of 65%
The bursary is looking for students who show both strong results and real commitment to their studies.
Financial requirements
- You must not receive NSFAS funding
- You must not receive any other bursary support
- You must show genuine financial need
This bursary is meant for students who would otherwise find it hard to continue with university because of fees.
What you gain
This bursary covers tuition fees only. It does not cover other study costs.
Not covered:
- Accommodation
- Textbooks
- Meals
- Transport
- Personal expenses
Even though it only pays tuition, this support can still make a big difference if you are trying to stay enrolled and finish your qualification. It can also help you focus more on your studies and less on fee pressure.
Documents you must prepare
Your application must be complete. Missing documents can lead to instant disqualification. This is one of the most common reasons students lose out.
Identity document
- Certified copy of your South African ID, not older than 3 months
Academic document
- National Senior Certificate or Statement of Results, not older than 3 months
University registration proof
- Official proof of registration or acceptance
- The document must show your qualification field clearly
- It must confirm enrolment for the 2026 academic year
Financial document
- Latest university fee statement
- You can get this from your student portal or finance office
Household income proof
You must provide income proof for each parent or guardian.
- Latest payslip, or
- Affidavit confirming unemployment
- Plus three months of bank statements
These documents help the organisation confirm that you truly need financial support.
How to apply
Apply only through the official application process. Do not send your details to unofficial pages or people claiming they can help with the bursary.
- Check that you meet all the academic and financial requirements.
- Gather every required document.
- Make sure certified copies are recent and clear.
- Confirm that your proof of registration shows the correct qualification.
- Check that your fee statement and income documents are up to date.
- Submit your application through the official portal.
Official application link: APPLY FOR THE ETV EMEDIA BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 FOR MEDIA AND BROADCASTING STUDENTS HERE
Tips to improve your chances
Because only one bursary is listed, you should treat this application as important. A small mistake can cost you the chance to be considered.
- Apply early.
- Use certified documents that are still valid.
- Make sure your ID copy is clear.
- Check that your NSC average is at least 65%.
- Make sure your registration letter matches your study field.
- Include all financial documents requested.
- Do not leave gaps in your application.
If you are unsure whether your course qualifies, check whether it fits into broadcasting, media, journalism, or communication. Do not guess. Read the requirements properly before submitting.
It is also wise to apply for other funding at the same time. You can look for SETA bursaries, university faculty funding, private media scholarships, and journalism foundation programmes. That way, you do not depend on one opportunity only.
Frequently asked questions
Can NSFAS-funded students apply?
No. If you receive NSFAS or any other bursary funding, you are not eligible.
Does the bursary cover accommodation?
No. It only covers tuition fees.
Can TVET college students apply?
No. The bursary is for students registered at a South African university.
What if my NSC average is below 65%?
You will not qualify if your average is below the required mark.
Can second-year students apply?
No. Only first-year students for the 2026 academic year may apply.
How many bursaries are available?
Only one bursary is listed under Job Ref #: etv241.
Closing date
Closing date: Not specified
That means you should not wait. Prepare your documents now and submit through the official process as soon as you can. In bursary applications, late action often means missed opportunity.
Final advice
If you want a career in broadcasting, media, or journalism, this bursary can give you important support at the start of your studies. The requirements are strict, but they are clear. If you meet them, apply with care and make sure every document is correct.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, so stay realistic and keep looking for other funding too. The students who do best are usually the ones who prepare early, check everything twice, and apply to more than one opportunity.
Disclaimer
This bursary information is based on the official opportunity details provided under Job Ref #: etv241. Applicants should verify submission steps on the official eMedia careers platform and confirm deadlines directly with the organisation.
Always make sure your documents meet the certification rules before you apply. Never share personal information with unofficial people or pages asking for money.
