Students who study music Courses in south Africa are invited to Apply for the Announces Bursaries Programme 2026 by Fine Music Radio (FMR).
Programme Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Fine Music Radio (FMR) Bursaries Programme 2026 |
| Provider | Fine Music Radio |
| Level | Undergraduate / Diploma / Certificate (depending on bursary availability) |
| Application Period | Open for 2026 intake |
| Eligibility | Academic potential, financial need, and commitment to studies |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, study materials, and limited living support |
| Target Audience | Students across South Africa pursuing higher education |
| Fields of Study | Media, Communications, Music, and other accredited academic programs |
Field Covered by FMR Bursary
Fine Music Radio is inviting students to apply for the FMR Bursary Trust Awards, for the 2026 academic year.
The bursary will be awarded for studies towards a performance Diploma or Degree in Music.
The competition rewards a student in each of the following 4 categories:
- African Music (vocal/ instrument)
- Classical Vocal
- Classical Instrumental
- Jazz Vocal/ Instrumental
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the FMR Bursaries 2026, applicants typically need to:
- You must be a South African citizen
- You must reside in South Africa
- You must be studying towards a Diploma or Degree in Music
- You must be registered at a tertiary institution in South Africa
Required Documents
Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your completed online application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified)
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of registration at a tertiary institution
- Reference letter from a lecturer or teacher
- Short biography (max 300 words)
- Motivational letter
- Full programme details
- Link to an unlisted YouTube audition video
Find More Active Bursaries 2026 Here
Bursary Competition Time line and Process
The FMR Bursary Trust Awards will include the following rounds:
- The first round (application) will be through a pre-recorded audition video, and thereafter a final round will be held in the Baxter Concert Hall, in Rondebosch. The competition is made up of 4 categories: Classical Voice, Classical Instrumental, Jazz Vocal/ Instrumental and African Music.
- The Preliminary round performance is made up of pre-recorded unlisted YouTube videos, which must be presented for adjudication. The link must be included in your application. Up to 3 applicants will be chosen from each category for the final round. (Please email bursaryawards@fmr.co.za if you have trouble uploading your video to YouTube).
- The final rounds will be held in the Baxter Concert Hall (on 28 July at 6:30pm for Classical and 31 July at 6:30pm for Jazz/ African). It will also be broadcast by Fine Music Radio and the competitors will each receive a copy of the broadcast for their own non-commercial use. Final round competitors must provide FMR with full details including names and instruments of ensemble/ accompanist by no later than 15 July 2026. By applying for this bursary competition, applicants agree that the FMR Bursary Trust may record and use any of the performances in the competition at their discretion.
- The Adjudication stage will include the adjudication panel making a decision on the selected candidates. Their decisions are final and no appeal will be considered. Feedback on the decisions will only be revealed after the final round of the competition. The preliminary and final rounds will be assessed individually, therefore the performance scoring is not combined. Applicants will be adjudicated based on general presentation and balanced programme compilation. Applicants in the Jazz and African categories may also receive marks towards the instrumentation and arrangement of the pieces, as well as leadership within the ensemble.
- Repertoire: applicants must produce a programme of up to 15 minutes duration, which must include at least two pieces of contrasting style. The Classical Vocal category must contain at least one opera aria and one art-song. The African Music category must show skill on at least two instruments, one of which can be voice.
Competitors should repeat the works from the preliminary round in the final, but changes in repertoire may be allowed if submitted before 15 July 2026. Backline ensemble should not exceed four persons.
READ: Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Germany Now Open for Application (Fully Funded)
CLOSING DATE FOR THE FMR BURSARY
12 June 2026.
(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)
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How to Apply Fine Music Radio (FMR) Announces Bursaries Programme 2026
To apply for the FMR Bursaries Programme 2026:
- Visit the official Fine Music Radio website
- Navigate to the Bursaries Programme 2026 page
- Check eligibility criteria and required documents
- Prepare documents including academic transcripts, proof of financial need, CV, and motivation letter
- Submit your application online before the closing date
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the FMR Bursaries Programme?
It is a financial support programme that helps students access quality education through bursaries for the 2026 intake.
Who can apply?
Students showing academic potential, financial need, and commitment to studies.
What level of study is covered?
Undergraduate, diploma, or certificate programs depending on bursary availability.
Is it fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition fees and study-related costs. Limited living support may also be included.
Where can I study?
At accredited institutions in South Africa.
What documents are required?
Academic transcripts, proof of financial need, CV, and motivation letter.
When is the application deadline?
Check the official FMR bursaries page for the exact 2026 deadline.
Is prior work experience required?
No, bursaries are primarily based on academic potential and financial need.
Can international students apply?
Generally limited to South African students unless otherwise stated.
Will I receive mentorship?
Yes, FMR offers mentorship and guidance to bursary recipients.
Can I apply for multiple programs?
Yes, if eligible, but separate applications are required.
How competitive is the bursary?
It is competitive due to limited positions and high demand.
Can the bursary help with living expenses?
Some bursaries may include limited support for living costs.
What fields of study are eligible?
Media, Communications, Music, and other accredited academic programs.
Is the bursary renewable?
It may be renewed based on academic performance and continued eligibility.
How will I know if I am successful?
Shortlisted candidates will be notified through the contact details provided in their application.
Can I apply online?
Yes, applications are submitted via the official FMR website.
Does the bursary provide networking opportunities?
Yes, recipients get to connect with peers and professionals in their field.
Is a motivation letter required?
Yes, it is an essential part of the application.
Can the bursary cover part-time studies?
It primarily supports full-time students; check eligibility details on the FMR website.
