Hey future stars and industry game-changers! 👋 Are you dreaming of a career in the entertainment world? Well, listen up! While Bursaries Room usually focuses on amazing South African opportunities, we sometimes stumble upon international gems that could be perfect for our ambitious readers. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the Equity Student and Young Member Bursary from the UK – an incredible opportunity if you’re part of the performing arts scene!
The Equity Student and Young Member Bursary is offered by Equity, the UK’s performing arts and entertainment trade union. It’s designed to give a financial boost to aspiring professionals who are just starting their journey in this exciting but often challenging industry. We’re talking about support to help cover those initial career costs, whether it’s for auditions, travel, or getting your portfolio ready. Each bursary is worth £500, a welcome contribution to help kickstart your professional career. While it’s specifically for Equity members in the UK, it’s worth knowing about these kinds of opportunities, especially if you’re considering international studies or career paths that might lead to Equity membership.
Who Can Apply?
Okay, so here’s the deal on who can snatch up this bursary:
- Equity Student Members: If you’re in your final year of study on a course that’s one year or longer, and you’re an Equity Student Member, you could be eligible!
- Young Equity Members: If you’re an Equity member aged between 18 and 30, you’re also in the running.
Important Note for South African Students: This bursary is primarily for members of Equity, the UK performing arts trade union. To be eligible, you would generally need to be a member, which usually implies being based or working within the UK entertainment industry. If you are an SA student considering an international career or studies that might lead to UK Equity membership, keep this on your radar!
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is all about helping you hit the ground running in your professional career. While it doesn’t cover tuition fees, the £500 award is meant to ease those initial expenses that come with breaking into the entertainment industry. Think travel for auditions, creating a professional showreel, headshots, or other start-up costs that can make a huge difference in your early career development.
How to Apply?
Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to know for the 2026 cycle:
- Applications for the 2026 Equity Student and Young Member Bursary are expected to open next spring (around March-May 2026).
- Keep a close eye on the official Equity website for the exact opening date and application guidelines. We’ll update this page as soon as more information is released!
- In the meantime, you can learn more about Equity’s Student Membership and how to join on their official page: https://www.equity.org.uk/join-us/equity-for-students-and-graduates/
- Bookmark this page and set a reminder for next spring to check for the application link!
Even if this bursary isn’t a direct fit right now, it shows you the incredible support available for creatives worldwide! If you’re looking for funding for your studies or career in South Africa, don’t stop here – explore hundreds more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room. Your future in the arts could be just one application away!
