The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) invites applications for its Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, supporting South African youth pursuing undergraduate studies in the arts.
11 April 2026
Open Call:
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is open for applications. The programme supports young South Africans pursuing careers in performing, visual, and digital arts through a structured scholarship and development process.
Institutional Context:
The programme is administered by the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), a South African non-profit organisation established in 1994 to support the development of arts and culture. The Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is supported by partners including Nedbank, MTN South Africa, and Sun International.
Eligibility and Criteria:
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be aged between 17 and 25.
- Be in Grade 12 or have achieved university exemption.
- Intend to study arts at a tertiary institution in South Africa in 2027
- Demonstrate financial need
Applicants must not:
- Already studying at a tertiary institution.
- Hold a previous tertiary qualification in the arts.
- Be established, professional artists.
Applicants must be available for the full duration of the programme.
Evaluation Process:
The selection process includes:
- Application review
- Auditions (performing arts) or portfolio assessments (visual/digital arts)
- Shortlisting of candidates
- Participation in mentorship and training
- Final showcase
Final scholarship recipients are selected based on performance and development during the programme.
Practical Information:
- The programme runs for approximately six months.
- Two scholarships are awarded:
- One for Performing Arts
- One for Visual/Digital Arts
- Each scholarship may cover up to R300,000.
- Funding covers tuition, registration, and study materials.
- Funding does not cover accommodation or transport.
Applications and Queries:
Applications must be submitted online via the ACT Nyoloha website.
Required documents include:
- Academic records
- Proof of identity
- Supporting artistic material (portfolio or performance video)
Further details are available on the ACT website, and queries can be directed to the Arts & Culture Trust at info@act.org.za.
