Quick Overview
Bursary Description
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious South African arts bursary designed to support talented young creatives pursuing tertiary studies in performing, visual, and digital arts. The programme provides financial funding, mentorship, and industry exposure to help emerging artists build sustainable careers.
About the Bursary and Organisation
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to developing South Africa’s creative sector.
The Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) is a development-focused initiative, not just a bursary. It identifies raw talent, nurtures it through structured training and mentorship, and ultimately funds tertiary education in the arts.
The programme is supported by major partners including Nedbank, MTN South Africa, and Sun International, strengthening its credibility and industry reach.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Tuition fees at an accredited South African institution
- Registration fees
- Prescribed books and study materials
- Mentorship and professional development workshops
- Industry exposure and networking opportunities
Funding can reach up to R300,000 per recipient depending on the programme and duration.
How to Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship?
- Apply online via the official ACT Nyoloha platform
- Submit all required supporting documents
- Participate in auditions or portfolio review
- Shortlisted candidates enter a mentorship and development phase
- Finalists present at a showcase or exhibition event
- Winners are selected and awarded scholarships
The programme runs over several months and includes workshops, training, and final performances or exhibitions.
Field Covered by the Arts Scholarship
| Performing Arts: | Visual Arts | Digital Arts |
| Acting | Fine Arts | Animation |
| Dance | Photography | Graohcs Design |
| Music | Sculpture | Multimedia |
| Theatre | Illustration | Digital Storytelling |
Career Opportunities After Completion
The Nyoloha Scholarship prepares students for careers in:
- Theatre and performing arts
- Film and television
- Creative direction and design
- Digital media and content creation
- Arts entrepreneurship and production
The programme’s industry exposure + mentorship model gives students a strong competitive edge in South Africa’s creative economy.
University Scholarships in 2026
Requirements & Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the Arts Scholarship.
- South African citizen
- Aged between 17 and 25 years
- Currently in Grade 12 OR have university exemption
- Intend to study arts at a recognised South African institution
- Not currently registered at a tertiary institution in 2026
- No prior tertiary qualification in an arts field
- Not a professional artist (no full-time work or advanced training in the field)
- Not a previous Nyoloha finalist or participant
- Able to commit to the full programme duration
Required Documentation
The following documents are to be submited with your application:
- Certified copy of ID
- Academic results
- Motivation letter
- Portfolio / audition material (depending on discipline)
- Proof of university exemption or Grade 12 status
A strong portfolio or audition submission is critical for selection.
Learn more about the requirements and submission rules for the scholarship: ACT Scholarship Guide 2026.
Bursaries for nursing students in South Afrrica 2026:
How to Apply
Application Method: Online
Download the official application form
