Applications are now open for the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 for Young South Africans. This programme targets school leavers aged 17 to 25 who want to study performing, visual, or digital arts at a South African tertiary institution starting in 2027. Organizers will award two full scholarships, each worth up to R300,000. The deadline to apply is 5 April 2026. Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa support the effort. This article covers programme highlights, eligibility rules, and next steps to apply.
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme helps young people launch careers in the creative economy. It mixes mentorship, training, and live showcases. Participants get professional exposure and build networks. School leavers can pursue undergraduate studies in performing, visual, or digital arts. The programme runs for six months and prepares talent for real-world jobs. Apply by 5 April 2026.
Key Takeaways
- The programme awards two full scholarships worth up to R300,000 for undergraduate studies in performing, visual, or digital arts starting in 2027.
- Eligibility requires applicants to be 17-25 years old, have Grade 12 or university exemption, and not be enrolled in tertiary studies in 2026.
- Highlights include six months of mentorship, workshops, auditions, and a final showcase to build networks and job links.
- Applications close on 5 April 2026; supported by Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa.
Programme Highlights
- Builds an alumni network that links graduates to jobs in the creative economy.
- Finds talent across South Africa through auditions and portfolio reviews.
- Offers three months of mentorship and workshops with industry leaders.
- Ends with a visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase for finalists.
- Gives two full scholarships each year, up to R300,000, one in Performing Arts and one in Visual or Digital Arts.
Eligibility Criteria
These rules make sure the programme reaches new talent ready to grow. Check if you qualify:
- You must be 17 to 25 years old.
- You are in Grade 12 now or have university exemption, which means you passed matric with entry requirements for higher studies.
- You need money to study performing or visual arts in 2027 at a South African tertiary or accredited school.
- You are not signed up for any tertiary studies in 2026.
- You do not hold a prior qualification in arts or creative fields from a South African school.
- You are not a professional artist with full-time training or a job in your art field.
- You did not join or reach the finals of the 2025 ACT Nyoloha programme.
- You can commit to the full six-month programme.
Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa back this initiative to boost young artists. The six-month timeline includes key steps like auditions and showcases. For full details on selection, terms, and how to apply, check the official site right away.
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 offers young South Africans a chance to kickstart arts careers with full funding, mentorship, and industry exposure. With just two scholarships up to R300,000 available, eligible school leavers aged 17-25 should check their fit against the criteria and act fast. Visit the official site today to apply before the 5 April 2026 deadline and step into the creative economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Nyoloha Scholarship 2026?
You qualify if you are 17-25, in Grade 12 or have university exemption, need funding for arts studies in 2027, and meet other rules like no prior arts qualifications or 2026 tertiary enrollment.
What does the scholarship cover?
It provides up to R300,000 per full scholarship for studies in performing, visual, or digital arts at a South African tertiary institution.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 5 April 2026.
What happens during the six-month programme?
Participants get mentorship, workshops with industry leaders, auditions, portfolio reviews, and end with showcases and exhibitions.
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