Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary 2027: Full 3-Year Fashion Design Funding

South African students with a passion for fashion design can apply for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity offers full funding for a 3-year Fashion Design course at the North West School of Design.

Application Closing Date: 07 September 2026
Location: Klerksdorp, North West, South Africa
Programme Duration: 3 years
Stipend: Not specified (covers tuition, laptop, sewing machine)
Minimum Qualification: Matric or equivalent with Diploma exemption

About the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary

The Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary aims to support aspiring South African fashion designers. This bursary is designed to help one talented individual pursue a full-time, 3-year Fashion Design course at the North West School of Design. The programme is focused on providing comprehensive training in the fashion industry.

This initiative is a partnership between renowned designer Gert-Johan Coetzee and the North West School of Design. It seeks to nurture new talent and provide a strong foundation for a career in fashion. The bursary covers significant costs associated with the study, offering a valuable opportunity for those passionate about design.

About Gert-Johan Coetzee

Gert-Johan Coetzee is a well-known South African fashion designer celebrated for his innovative and glamorous creations. His studio is a hub for high fashion, producing designs worn by celebrities and featured in major fashion events. The brand represents creativity, quality, and a strong presence in the South African fashion landscape.

What the Bursary Offers

Successful applicants will receive substantial support for their fashion design studies. The bursary covers three years of full tuition fees, valued at approximately R200,000. Additionally, the recipient will be provided with a laptop sponsored by Gert-Johan Coetzee Studios and a Bernina sewing machine, valued at around R14,000.

The bursary also includes two annual internship opportunities at Gert-Johan Coetzee Studios. This offers invaluable practical experience and exposure to the professional fashion world. These internships are a key part of the programme, providing hands-on learning.

What Is Not Covered

It is important for applicants to be aware of what the bursary does not cover. Funding does not include expenses such as transport, accommodation, meals, or the fabric required for projects. Students will need to make their own arrangements and budget for these additional costs.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is for a full-time, 3-year Fashion Design course. Studies are scheduled to begin on 03 February 2027. The institution where the studies will take place is the North West School of Design, located in Klerksdorp, North West Province, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be 18 years or older.
• Currently be in Matric or have successfully completed Matric.
• Possess a Diploma exemption or an equivalent qualification.
• Intend to study the 3-year full-time Fashion Design course at the North West School of Design.
• Be available to start studies in February 2027.
• Be willing to commit to the full three years of study.
• Be fluent in English, both in reading, writing, and speaking.

Applicants are also encouraged to read the North West School of Design course prospectus for more details on the programme.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, the application process suggests certain personal qualities are valued. These include creativity, a strong personality, and a clear passion for fashion. The ability to tell a story through fashion and present oneself effectively in a video is also a key aspect.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for young South Africans who dream of a career in fashion design. If you are passionate about creating clothing, have a flair for style, and are eager to learn from industry leaders, this opportunity is for you. It is suited for individuals who are motivated to excel in a creative field and are ready to dedicate themselves to a rigorous study programme.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare several items for their application. This includes completing the standard application for the North West School of Design. Additionally, applicants must record a short video introducing themselves and answering the prompt: “If you could tell any story through fashion, what story would you tell, and why?”

The video should be no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds. It needs to showcase creativity, personality, and passion for fashion. Applicants must also follow specific Instagram and TikTok accounts and use a designated hashtag when posting their video.

How to Apply

To apply for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary 2027, applicants must complete a series of steps. First, follow the Instagram accounts: @nwsdfashion, @gertjohancoetzee, and @berninarsa.

Next, complete the official course application for the North West School of Design. Applicants must also record and post a video on Instagram or TikTok, tagging @nwsdfashion and @gertjohancoetzee, and using the hashtag #GertBursary2026. The video must also be shared to their Instagram Story, tagging @nwsdfashion.

Click here to apply for Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary 2027 through the NWSD application portal

Important Notes

The bursary is specifically for the 2027 academic year and covers a 3-year Fashion Design course. Tuition funding is valued at approximately R200,000, and a laptop and Bernina sewing machine are included. Accommodation, transport, meals, and fabric are not covered. Applicants must submit a creative video as part of their application. Studies commence on 03 February 2027.

Closing Date

Applications for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary 2027 close on 07 September 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

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