Each year, we provide support for members to access teaching qualifications where finance may be a barrier to ensure that dance teachers can invest in their own development and progress with their teaching journey.
To date, the scheme has financially supported the training of 169 teachers from countries across the globe, including the USA, Italy, South Africa, the UAE and the UK.
The scheme is available under four categories:
- Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) – Maximum award £5000
- Dancesport Associate – Maximum award £2000
- Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (DDP) – Maximum award £2000
- Diploma in Teaching Community Dance (DTCD) - Maximum award £2000
How to apply
Applications open on Monday 9 March 2026 at midday.
If you have any questions, please contact bursaries@istd.org.
Application timeline for 2026/27:
- Opens: Midday (GMT+0) on 9th March 2026
- Closes: Midday (GMT+0) on 18th May 2026
- Shortlist Period: 19th May 2026 to 5th June 2026
- Announcements made by: 19th June 2026
- Acceptances must be received by: 17th July 2026
If low application numbers are received under a certain category in the spring, applications may open again in the autumn; details of which will be updated on this page.
"My dance teacher told me about the bursary that the ISTD were offering and to apply and I’ve never been so grateful! It came through right when I needed it. I was able to use the bursary money to buy text books, materials and teaching aids, hire studio space and renew my membership. I graduated in October 2022 and this would not have been as smooth without the help of the bursary. Thank you so much ISTD! "
Georgina Thompson
DDE Bursary recipient
