Are you young, creative, and passionate about performing, visual, or digital arts, and looking for financial support to pursue higher education? The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Program 2027 offers a life-changing opportunity for talented South African youth to study arts-related courses at accredited tertiary institutions.
ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate scholarship initiative designed to support talented young artists who wish to pursue tertiary studies in performing, visual, or digital arts. “Nyoloha,” a Sesotho word meaning “Rise,” reflects the programme’s mission of empowering young creatives to rise above financial barriers and build sustainable careers in the creative industry.
The programme combines financial support, mentorship, industry training, and professional exposure to prepare scholars for the creative economy. Through workshops, mentorship sessions, and live showcases, participants gain real-world experience and build valuable networks with industry professionals.
This scholarship initiative is proudly supported by Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa, organizations committed to developing the next generation of creative leaders.
ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2027 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | South Africa |
| Study Destination | Accredited South African Tertiary Institutions |
| Scholarship Type | Undergraduate Scholarship |
| Programme Focus | Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Digital Arts |
| Funded By | ACT (Arts & Culture Trust) with support from Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa |
| Eligible Applicants | Young South Africans (School Leavers) |
| Scholarship Value | Up to R300,000 per scholarship |
| Number of Awards | 2 Scholarships Annually |
| Age Requirement | 17 – 25 Years |
| Study Mode | Full-Time |
| Programme Duration | 6-Month Programme + Tertiary Study |
| Deadline: | April 5th, 2026 |
What Is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme All About?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme was created to identify, nurture, and support exceptional young talent in the arts sector. The initiative focuses on helping school leavers pursue formal education in creative disciplines while providing the mentorship and professional training needed to succeed in the industry.
The programme begins with a nationwide talent search, where applicants are assessed through auditions (for performing arts) or portfolio reviews (for visual and digital arts). Selected participants then take part in an intensive three-month mentorship and training programme guided by experienced industry professionals.
At the end of the programme, finalists showcase their talents through a performing arts showcase or visual arts exhibition, giving them valuable exposure to industry leaders and potential collaborators.
Two outstanding candidates are ultimately awarded full scholarships worth up to R300,000 each, enabling them to pursue tertiary education in the arts.
Beyond financial support, the programme also creates a strong alumni network, connecting graduates to employment opportunities, collaborations, and projects within the creative economy.
Programme Highlights
Participants in the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme gain access to several valuable opportunities, including:
- Nationwide talent identification through auditions and portfolio reviews.
- Three months of mentorship and workshops led by industry professionals.
- Professional development training to prepare participants for careers in the creative industry.
- Final exhibitions and performances showcasing participants’ work.
- Two full scholarships annually (up to R300,000 each) for tertiary studies.
- Alumni network access provides long-term industry connections and opportunities.
The programme is designed not only to fund education but also to build confident, career-ready creatives capable of thriving in the modern arts industry.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be between 17 and 25 years old.
- Must currently be in Grade 12 or have a university exemption.
- Must require financial assistance to pursue tertiary studies in the performing or visual arts.
- Must intend to study at a South African accredited tertiary institution starting in 2027.
- Must not be currently registered at a tertiary institution for the 2026 academic year.
- Must not hold an existing tertiary qualification in an arts or creative discipline.
- Must not be considered a professional artist (i.e., not fully employed or extensively trained in the discipline).
- Must not have been a 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship participant or finalist.
- Must be available to participate in the full six-month programme.
These criteria ensure that the scholarship supports emerging talent that truly needs financial and professional support to begin their journey in the arts.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful recipients of the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme will receive a comprehensive support package designed to help them succeed academically and professionally.
Benefits include:
- Full scholarship funding of up to R300,000.
- Financial support for tuition and related academic costs.
- Mentorship and professional training from industry leaders.
- Participation in arts workshops and creative development sessions.
- Exposure through exhibitions and live showcases.
- Opportunities to build networks with industry professionals and corporate partners.
- Long-term access to the ACT Nyoloha alumni network.
These benefits ensure that scholars receive not only financial assistance but also the guidance and connections necessary for sustainable creative careers.
Impact of the Programme
Since its relaunch in 2022, the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme has made a significant impact on South Africa’s creative sector.
Some key achievements include:
- 257 young South Africans were trained and mentored through the programme.
- 30+ alumni employed for entertainment services at corporate events since September 2024 through Nedbank Arts Affinity and other partners.
- 100+ short-term employment opportunities were created for photographers, caterers, theatre staff, transport providers, accommodation services, and entertainment professionals.
These outcomes highlight the programme’s role in stimulating the creative economy while empowering young artists.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Interested applicants can follow these steps to apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme:
Review the application guidelines.
Download and read the official guidelines to understand the requirements and application process.
Prepare Your Application Materials
Applicants must prepare the required documents and materials, including portfolios or performance auditions, depending on their discipline.
Download Required Forms
Applicants may need to complete documents such as:
- Consent Form
- Financial Assessment Form
- Programme Guidelines Document
- Recommended Tertiary List
Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form and upload all required documents before the application deadline.
Participate in Auditions or Portfolio Reviews
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to showcase their talents through auditions (for performing arts) or portfolio evaluations (for visual and digital arts).
Final Showcase and Selection
Finalists will participate in exhibitions or performances, after which the final scholarship recipients will be selected.
Why Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme offers far more than financial support. It provides a platform for young creatives to develop their talents, gain mentorship, and connect with industry leaders.
Key reasons to apply include:
- Significant financial support for tertiary education.
- Professional mentorship from experienced artists and industry experts.
- Exposure to corporate and creative industry partners.
- Opportunities to join a growing network of talented alumni.
- A chance to launch a sustainable career in the arts.
For talented young artists who dream of turning their creativity into a career, the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme represents a powerful stepping stone.
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