MDDA Bursary

Programme Overview

The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), in partnership with the Faculty of Humanities at Nelson Mandela University, offers financial assistance to qualifying students pursuing studies within the Humanities Faculty. The bursary aims to support student access, academic success, and completion of qualifications within the stipulated timeframe.

What the Bursary Covers

• Tuition fees
• Prescribed textbooks
• Once-off laptop purchase
• Travel expenses
• Living expenses

The bursary is administered by the University’s Bursaries and Scholarship Directorate, located within Strategic Resource Mobilisation and Advancement.

Bursary Conditions

• The bursary is intended to fund the recipient for the full duration of the qualification.
• Renewal is subject to good academic progress.
• All registered modules must be passed each year.
• A minimum mark of 60% per module is required.
• The bursary may be withdrawn if modules are not passed.
• Modules registered for may not be cancelled within the academic year.
• The qualification must be completed within the stipulated period.
• The recipient may not hold another bursary simultaneously with the MDDA bursary.
• Proof of purchase must be submitted for the laptop and prescribed books.

Student Support Plan

Bursary recipients will receive academic and psycho-social support aligned with the Faculty of Humanities’ Student Access and Success Plan.

• Student success coaches
• Counselling@Mandela services
• Learning and Teaching administrative support
• Online learning support
• Tutors and academic staff
• Heads of Departments (HoDs)
• Departmental writing centres

Academic progress will be monitored through progress letters and consultations. Interventions will be implemented where necessary. Renewal of the bursary is dependent on positive academic progress.

How to Apply

1. Ensure you are registered or accepted into a qualification within the Faculty of Humanities at Nelson Mandela University.
2. Obtain the MDDA bursary application form from the Faculty or the Bursaries and Scholarship Directorate.
3. Complete the application form in full and ensure all information is accurate.
4. Attach required supporting documents, which may include:
   • Certified copy of South African ID
   • Proof of registration or acceptance
   • Latest academic transcript or matric certificate
   • Proof of household income
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV), if required
5. Submit the completed application to the Bursaries and Scholarship Directorate before the closing date.

Late or incomplete applications may not be considered. Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further verification or interviews.