Journalism Diversity Fund (NCTJ)

Journalism Diversity Fund bursary (NCTJ)

You get a needs-based bursary, a grant based on your financial situation, that can cover your course fees, living costs and travel while you train as a journalist. There is no fixed amount, as it is worked out for your situation. You are also paired with a working journalist who mentors you (gives you advice and guidance) throughout your studies. The fund is run by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ), the UK body that accredits journalism training. It supports people from under-represented backgrounds who cannot afford an accredited course. Some applicants can also be considered for extra named bursaries, for example one for people with a long-term illness or disability (which comes with work experience at Sky Sports News) and one for British Muslim applicants.

Who can apply

• Course: You have already secured a place on an NCTJ-accredited diploma course. Undergraduate degrees and distance-learning courses do not qualify. For an MA, the fund usually cannot pay course fees, but you can still apply for living and travel costs.
• Timing: Your course must start after the bursary is awarded. If you have already begun the course, you cannot apply.
• Nationality and residence: You are a British citizen living in the UK.
• Financial need: You cannot fund the course yourself.
• Diversity: You can show you would bring diversity to a newsroom.
• Commitment: You have a genuine passion for journalism and want to build a career in it.
• No double funding: You are not receiving another bursary, and you have not had a JDF bursary before.

How to apply

Once you have your course place, fill in the online application form. You describe your background, financial need, passion for journalism and any experience. Bursaries are awarded in four rounds a year. For the 2026/27 academic year the deadlines run from 29 April 2026 to 4 November 2026, each at 5pm. A panel of journalists shortlists applicants. Those shortlisted are invited to an interview with senior industry figures before the final decision.

How realistic are your chances?

This bursary is aimed at a specific group: British citizens in financial need who can show they bring diversity to journalism and have already secured a place on an accredited course. That narrows the field to people genuinely committed to a journalism career. Applications run four times a year and you can reapply after feedback. If you clearly fit the criteria and prepare a strong application and interview, your prospects are realistic.