The RTS Bursary Scheme

The Royal Television Society believes in diversifying and future-proofing the TV industry, and that starts by channelling new voices.

Since the first RTS Bursary Scheme was launched in 2013 by our Royal Patron, the former Prince of Wales, we have supported nearly 350 students from lower-income backgrounds, with 82% of graduates securing employment within TV and related industries. 

The RTS runs three pioneering schemes:

• TV Production and Journalism Bursary
• Digital Innovation Bursary
• STV Bursary (supports Production, Journalism and Digital Innovation applicants from across the UK)
• Steve Hewlett Scholarship (supports an applicant with an interest in journalism)
• Beryl Vertue Scholarship (supports an applicant with an interest in Producing)

We award bursaries to students from lower-income backgrounds studying any and all subjects as undergraduates or at HND Level 5 or 6. All you have to do is demonstrate your passion for pursuing a career in television, film or related media industries.

We'll provide you with:

• £1,500 per academic year
• Free access to all RTS events, screenings and lectures
• A personal industry mentor
• Free RTS Membership

What sets the Bursary Schemes apart is our phenomenal network of RTS members, patrons and supporters, including RTS Bursary Ambassador, TV Presenter AJ Odudu. Through offering work experience, networking opportunities and mentoring, they help us lay out a clear career path for our scholars: the next generation of TV talent.

If you are interested in funding or supporting the scheme as a mentor, please contact bursaries@rts.org.uk.

Thank you to our funders: All3 Media, ITV Daytime, the Steve Hewlett Memorial Fund, Apple TV+, Hartswood Films and STV.