Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship 2026: Apply Now for Young South African Artists
Applications are now open for the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 for young South Africans. This undergraduate scholarship targets school leavers aged 17 to 25 who want to study performing, visual, or digital arts. The deadline is 5 April 2026. It offers life-changing chances through mentorship, training, and live showcases. Two full scholarships, worth up to R300,000 each, go to winners in performing arts and visual/digital arts. This article covers programme highlights, eligibility rules, how to apply, and its bigger impact.
The programme stands out for its strong support structure. It builds an alumni network that links graduates to jobs in the creative economy. Organizers find talent across South Africa with auditions and portfolio reviews. Participants get three months of mentorship and workshops led by top industry experts. The experience ends with a visual arts exhibition and a performing arts showcase for finalists.
Here are the key highlights:
- Builds an alumni network connecting 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.
Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa back the programme.
To qualify, applicants must meet these eight criteria:
- Be between 17 and 25 years old.
- Be in Grade 12 now or have university exemption.
- Need financial help for a 2027 arts qualification at a South African tertiary or accredited institution.
- Not be registered at a tertiary institution for 2026.
- Have no prior tertiary arts or creative qualification from a South African institution.
- Not be a professional artist with specialized training or full-time arts employment.
- Not have joined the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme as a participant or finalist.
- Commit to the full six-month programme.
Young artists who fit all these points should check their status carefully.
Applications are open right now for studies starting in 2027. Submit by the deadline to join this mix of mentorship, training, and live showcases. These steps build professional skills, networks, and real-world exposure.
Key Dates and Link
Application Deadline: 5 April 2026
Visit the Official Webpage
The Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 prepares young talents for lasting careers in South Africa’s creative economy. It spots promising artists from every corner of the country. Details come from Scholarships South Africa by OFA, dated 6 March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship 2026?
You can apply if you are 17-25 years old, in Grade 12 or have university exemption, need financial help for arts studies in 2027, and meet the other eight criteria like no prior tertiary arts qualification.
What does the programme offer?
It includes three months of mentorship and workshops, a visual arts exhibition or performing arts showcase, and two full scholarships up to R300,000 each.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is 5 April 2026, so submit your application soon via the official webpage.
How does the programme help participants?
It builds skills, networks through an alumni group, and connects graduates to jobs in South Africa’s creative economy.