The Nyoloha Scholarship offers young South African creatives a chance to study arts at tertiary level. It combines funding, mentorship, and industry exposure to build sustainable careers.
- What Is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme?
- Programme Highlights
- Fields Covered by the Nyoloha Scholarship
- What Does the Nyoloha Scholarship Cover?
- Eligibility Requirements for the Nyoloha Scholarship
- How to Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
- Download Application Documents
- Selection Process
- Impact of the Programme
- Important Dates
- FAQs About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship is led by the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), with support from Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa. It focuses on developing future talent in the creative economy.
What Is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme is an undergraduate initiative for school leavers. It supports studies in performing, visual, and digital arts.
“Nyoloha” means rise in Sesotho. The programme reflects this by helping young artists grow professionally.
Participants benefit from:
- Mentorship and workshops
- Industry exposure through showcases
- Career development opportunities
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Programme Highlights
The Nyoloha Scholarship goes beyond funding. It prepares students for real careers.
Key Features
- Talent identification through auditions and portfolios
- Three months of mentorship with industry professionals
- Skills-based workshops
- Final exhibition or performance showcase
- Two full scholarships awarded annually
- Access to an alumni network
Fields Covered by the Nyoloha Scholarship
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship supports undergraduate studies in:
Performing Arts
- Singing
- Dance
- Acting
Visual and Digital Arts
- Fine arts
- Digital design
- Creative media
Applicants must apply in one discipline only.
What Does the Nyoloha Scholarship Cover?
The Nyoloha Scholarship provides focused academic funding.
Scholarship Value
- Up to R300 000 per student
- Only 2 full scholarships available
Covered Costs
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Study materials (up to R5 000 per year)
Not Covered
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Living expenses
Applicants may apply for additional funding to cover these costs.
Eligibility Requirements for the Nyoloha Scholarship
To qualify for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be aged 17–25 years
- Be in Grade 12 or have university exemption
- Plan to study in 2027
- Show financial need
- Not be registered for 2026 tertiary studies
- Not have an existing arts qualification
- Not be a professional artist
- Not be a 2024 or 2025 participant or finalist
- Be able to commit to the 6-month programme
How to Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
Follow these steps to apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- Fill in the official application form
- Use “www.nasi-ispani.co.za” as your referral source
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Upload the following:
- Certified ID copy (front and back)
- Latest academic results
- Head-and-shoulders photo
- Signed consent form
- Financial assessment form
Step 3: Submit Your Work
Performing Arts
- Submit a 2-minute audition video (singing, dance, or acting)
Visual/Digital Arts
- Submit portfolio images of original work
Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
Download Application Documents
Before applying, download and review all required documents:
- Download Consent Form
- Download Guidelines Doc
- Financial Assessment Form
- Recommended Tertiary List
- Download Monologues
- Apply Now
Selection Process
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship selection process includes:
- Application review
- Shortlisting and training phase
- Mentorship and workshops
- Final showcase or exhibition
- Selection of winners based on performance
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Impact of the Programme
The programme has delivered strong results:
- 8 scholarships awarded since 2022
- 257 young creatives trained
- 30+ alumni placed in paid opportunities
- 100+ jobs created across the arts sector
Important Dates
- Applications Close: 27 April 2026
- Applications close in a limited time, so apply early
FAQs About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
Who can apply?
South African students aged 17–25 who want to study arts in 2027.
Can I apply for multiple disciplines?
No. Choose one discipline.
Can I apply if I am already studying?
No. The programme is for first-time students.
Do I need a university acceptance letter?
No, but you must have university exemption.
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship offers more than funding. It provides mentorship, exposure, and career pathways.
If you meet the requirements, apply before 27 April 2026.
