Fully Funded Arts Scholarship for South African Youth

Applications are now open for the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026, a life-changing opportunity for young creatives in South Africa.

Supported by Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa, this programme offers two fully funded scholarships worth up to R300,000 each.

If you’re passionate about performing, visual, or digital arts, this could launch your creative career

Application Deadline

5 April 2026

About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship

The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship is designed to support young South African artists by providing:

Funding for tertiary studies (2027 intake)
Professional mentorship & training
Industry exposure and networking
Live showcases and exhibitions

Participants go through a competitive selection process, including auditions and portfolio reviews.

Programme Highlights

3 months of mentorship & workshops with industry experts
National talent identification process
Final performing arts showcase & visual arts exhibition
Strong alumni network in the creative economy
2 scholarships awarded annually (up to R300,000 each)

Fields Covered

Performing Arts (e.g. acting, dance, music)
Visual Arts (e.g. painting, sculpture)
Digital Arts (e.g. animation, design)

You can also:

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Be 17–25 years old
Be in Grade 12 or have university exemption
Require financial assistance
Plan to study arts at a South African tertiary institution (2027)
Not be currently registered for 2026 studies
Not hold a prior arts qualification
Not be a professional artist
Not have participated in the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Programme
Be able to commit to the 6-month programme

Scholarship Value

Up to R300,000 per scholarship
Covers tertiary studies in arts-related fields

Why You Should Apply

This is more than funding — it’s a career-launching platform:

Gain industry mentorship
Showcase your talent nationally
Build a powerful creative network
Get exposure to top arts professionals

How to Apply

Visit the official ACT Nyoloha Scholarship webpage
Complete your application
Prepare:
- Portfolio (visual/digital artists)
- Audition material (performing artists)

Visit the Official Webpage of the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme

⚠️ Tip: Focus on originality, passion, and your long-term creative vision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship worth?

Each scholarship is valued at up to R300,000.

2. Who can apply?

South Africans aged 17–25 interested in performing, visual, or digital arts.

3. Can I apply if I’m already studying?

No. You must not be registered for 2026 tertiary studies.

4. Do I need a portfolio or audition?

Yes.

Performing arts → Audition required
Visual/digital arts → Portfolio required

5. When will studies begin?

Successful applicants will begin studies in 2027.

6. What is the deadline?

Applications close on 5 April 2026.

YouthSpace

ACT Nyoloha Scholarship 2026 (Up to R300,000 Funded) – For Young SA Creatives | Apply by 5 April!