Arts and Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027 — The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, now in its fifth iteration. Nyoloha, meaning “Rise!” in Sesotho, provides life-changing opportunities for school leavers to pursue tertiary studies in performing, visual, and digital arts. Two full scholarships (up to R300,000 each) are awarded annually in Performing Arts and Visual/Digital Arts, covering tuition and study materials for studies commencing in 2027.
About ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship initiative designed to provide life-changing opportunities for school leavers to pursue tertiary studies in the performing, visual, and digital arts. Through a blend of mentorship, training, and live showcases, participants gain professional exposure, build networks, and prepare for sustainable careers in the creative economy.
Programme Highlights
- Identifies talent nationwide through auditions and portfolio reviews
- Provides three months of mentorship and workshops with industry leaders
- Culminates in a visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase of finalists’ work
- Awards two full scholarships annually (up to R300,000 each) in Performing Arts and Visual/Digital Arts
- Builds an alumni network connecting graduates to opportunities in the creative economy
Programme Impact
- 257 young South Africans trained and mentored since the 2022 relaunch
- 30+ programme alumni employed for entertainment services at corporate events since September 2024 through Nedbank Arts Affinity and other corporate partners
- 100+ short-term opportunities created for photographers, caterers, theatre staff, transport, accommodation, and entertainment providers since 2022
General Eligibility for Arts and Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027
- Between the ages of 17 – 25 years old
- Currently in Grade 12 OR have university exemption
- Need financial assistance to pursue a qualification in performing or visual arts at a South African tertiary/accredited institution (studies commencing 2027)
- Not currently registered at a tertiary institution/accredited institution for the 2026 academic year
- Do not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts/creative discipline
- Not considered a professional artist (have specialized training/and or employed full time in their artistic discipline)
- Not a 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme participant or finalist
- Willing and able to commit to the 6-month duration of the programme
- South African citizen
Important: Should you not meet the criteria for the eligibility section, you will not be permitted to participate in the programme.
Performing Arts Application
- Submit one OR two 2-minute videos performing in your selected discipline(s)
- Singing: Prepare a song of your choice, any genre, showcasing vocal range, technique, and talent. May use backtrack or instruments as backup.
- Dance: Prepare a dance/movement piece showcasing your range and talent
- Theatre/Acting: Prepare a monologue from Addendum 2 (downloadable from website) showcasing acting range and talent. Do NOT use own material.
If submitting two videos, they must be in different disciplines (e.g., dancing + singing, not two dancing videos).
Digital/Visual Arts Application
- Submit 4 different and original pieces of work:
- 1 portrait
- 1 landscape
- 2 original artworks
- Short bio of 70–100 words
- Short artist statement of 70–100 words detailing reason for creation of artworks in the format and style
Video Submission Tips
- Film in a room with good lighting and a plain background
- Use landscape/horizontal mode
- Avoid background noise and do not record in bathrooms or places with echo
- No parents/legal guardians or teachers allowed to participate in the audition video
- Use minimal props (table, chair, musical instruments for singing recordings)
Required Documents for Arts and Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027
- ID Copy (front & back)
- Last academic results
- Signed consent form
- Completed Financial Need Assessment Form (Download Here)
- Recent headshot
- Performing Arts: One or two 2-minute video(s)
- Digital/Visual Arts: 4 different and original pieces of work + bio + artist statement
Important: All information in the application is subject to verification during the vetting process. False statements or dishonesty will result in automatic disqualification.
How to Apply for Arts and Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027
Application Method: Online application only via the ACT website.
⏰ Closing Date: 5 April 2026 (No late applications processed)
Important: No e-mailed applications accepted. Only ONE application per candidate permitted. All selected applicants contacted by end of May 2026. Unsuccessful applicants notified accordingly.
Recommended Tertiary Institutions (2026)
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Rhodes University
- University of Limpopo
- University of Johannesburg
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of Venda
- University of Pretoria
- Central University of Technology
- University of Mpumalanga
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of the Free State
- Sol Plaatje University
- Vaal University of Technology
- Inscape Education Group
- North-West University
- Durban University of Technology
- Open Window Institute
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- University of Cape Town
- SAE Institute South Africa
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Western Cape
- Campus of Performing Arts
- The Rainbow Academy
- Waterfront Theatre School
Winners are encouraged to select an institution from the list above. Scholarships valid only at South African institutions accredited by DHET.
Definition of Accredited Institution
- Registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to operate as an academic institution within South Africa
- Compliant with the standards, regulations and legislation that define academic institutions as defined by DHET
Scholarship Coverage
- Covered: Registration fees, tuition fees, study material (up to R5,000 per year)
- Not Covered: Accommodation, transport, living expenses
- Scholarships may only be utilized for Digital/Performing/Visual Arts studies at a South African tertiary or accredited institution
Applicants may apply for additional funding to cover expenses not included in the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship.
Contact Information
- Telephone: 010 023 0899
- Email: info@act.org.za
- Website: act.org.za/nyoloha
Refer to the Application Guidelines on the ACT website for detailed information. Shortlisted applicants must complete full financial assessment and submit supporting documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Individuals aged 17-25, currently in Grade 12 or with university exemption, needing financial assistance for performing/visual arts studies in South Africa, not currently registered for 2026, no existing arts qualification, not a professional artist, not a 2024/2025 participant/finalist, able to commit to 6-month programme, South African citizen.
Can I apply for more than one arts discipline?
No, applicants should apply using the discipline that best showcases their talent.
Can I apply if I’m already studying at a tertiary institution?
No, priority is given to those intending to study for the first time in 2027.
Do I need to have tertiary acceptance upon application?
No, but you must have university exemption.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
ID copy (front & back), previous academic results, signed consent form, headshot, Financial Need Assessment Form, and either video (Performing Arts) or portfolio images with bio and artist statement (Visual Arts).
What does the scholarship cover?
Registration fees, tuition fees, and study material up to R5,000 per year. It does not cover accommodation, transport, or living expenses.
Can I use the scholarship to study abroad?
No, the scholarship is only valid for South African institutions accredited by DHET.
How will the scholarship winners be selected?
Winners are selected based on ratings from the training programme and final performance at the Exhibition or Gala Night.
Can I apply for other scholarships in addition to this one?
Yes, applicants may apply for additional funding to cover expenses not included in the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship.
Who can I contact for more information?
Refer to the Application Guidelines on the ACT website, call 010 023 0899, or email info@act.org.za. For more arts bursaries, explore our arts and culture bursaries database or check creative arts scholarships.
For more arts and culture bursaries, visit EduFunds.co.za
Arts & Culture Trust (ACT)
Nyoloha Scholarship Programme • “Rise!”
Supporting Performing, Visual & Digital Arts • Proudly Supported by Nedbank, Sun International & MTN South Africa