ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026: Open for Young South African Artists

Applications are now open for the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 for Young South Africans. This programme targets South Africans aged 17 to 25 who want to study performing, visual, or digital arts at a South African tertiary institution starting in 2027. The deadline is 5 April 2026, so act fast—today is 26 March 2026. It offers undergraduate scholarships with mentorship, workshops, and career prep in the creative economy. This article covers programme highlights, eligibility rules, and how to apply.

The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme helps school leavers start tertiary studies in performing, visual, and digital arts. It mixes mentorship, training, and live showcases. This gives young artists professional exposure and strong networks. Sponsors Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa back the effort. The programme builds an alumni network that links graduates to jobs in the creative economy. It also finds talent across South Africa.

Key Takeaways

• The programme awards two full scholarships up to R300,000 each for undergraduate studies in performing, visual, or digital arts starting in 2027.
• Eligibility requires being 17-25 years old, in Grade 12 or with university exemption, needing financial aid, and not currently studying or professionally employed in arts.
• Participants get three months of mentorship, workshops with industry leaders, and end with showcases or exhibitions.
• Applications close on 5 April 2026, so check eligibility and submit via the official ACT website soon.

Here are the key programme highlights:

• Builds an alumni network that connects graduates to opportunities in the creative economy.
• 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.

To qualify, applicants must meet these criteria:

1. Be between the ages of 17 and 25 years old.
2. Be currently in Grade 12 or have university exemption.
3. Need financial assistance to pursue a qualification in performing or visual arts at a South African tertiary or accredited institution, for studies commencing in 2027.
4. Not be currently registered at a tertiary institution or accredited institution for the 2026 academic year.
5. Not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts or creative discipline from a South African tertiary or accredited institution.
6. Not be considered a professional artist (with specialized training or employed full time in their artistic discipline).
7. Not be a 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme participant or finalist.
8. Be willing and able to commit to the 6-month duration of the programme.

For full application details, visit the official programme webpage. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Check if you meet the eligibility rules above.
2. Prepare for auditions or portfolio reviews as needed.
3. Submit your application by 5 April 2026.
4. If shortlisted, join the 6-month programme with mentorship and showcases.

Scholarship Value: Up to R300,000 per award

The programme spots talent from all over South Africa and readies participants for lasting careers. Strong sponsors ensure quality mentorship and workshops. This undergraduate scholarship stands out for its focus on real-world prep in performing arts, visual arts, and digital arts. Past events like showcases highlight the impact on young talents.

The Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 offers young South Africans aged 17-25 a chance to pursue arts studies with full funding, mentorship, and career support. With strong sponsors and a focus on real-world preparation, it builds lasting networks in the creative economy. Apply by 5 April 2026 at the official website to join this exciting opportunity.

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