The Nyoloha Scholarship offers talented South African youth a chance to study arts at tertiary level. This prestigious programme supports aspiring performers and visual artists. It also helps remove financial barriers to education.
- What Is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship?
- Fields Covered by the Nyoloha Scholarship
- What Does the Nyoloha Scholarship Cover?
- Nyoloha Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
- How to Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
- Important Dates to Remember
- Contact Details for ACT
- Why You Should Apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship
- FAQs About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship is run by the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT). It partners with Nedbank Arts Affinity and the MTN Foundation South Africa. Together, they invest in the future of the creative industry.
What Is the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship supports young creatives entering higher education. It focuses on developing future leaders in the arts sector.
Founded in 1994, the Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is a non-profit organisation. It works across all nine provinces in South Africa. Its goal is to grow and sustain the arts industry.
The scholarship programme aims to:
- Fund undergraduate arts studies
- Identify emerging talent
- Build a strong creative economy
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Fields Covered by the Nyoloha Scholarship
The Nyoloha Scholarship supports undergraduate studies in the following fields:
Performing Arts
- Singing
- Dance
- Acting
Digital and Visual Arts
- Fine arts
- Digital design
- Mixed media and creative disciplines
This wide scope allows different types of artists to apply and grow.
What Does the Nyoloha Scholarship Cover?
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship provides strong financial support. However, it focuses only on study-related costs.
Scholarship Value
- Up to R300 000 per student
- Only 2 full scholarships available
Covered Expenses
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Study materials (up to R5 000 per year)
Not Covered
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Living expenses
Therefore, applicants should plan for additional costs.
Nyoloha Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Nyoloha Scholarship, you must meet all criteria below:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be aged between 17 and 25 years
- Be in Matric or have completed Matric
- Have a university exemption
- Plan to study arts at undergraduate level in 2027
- Show financial need
- Demonstrate talent and passion in the arts
- Commit to the 6-month programme
- Not be currently studying at a tertiary institution
- Not have a previous arts qualification
- Not be a professional artist
- Not be a previous ACT Nyoloha finalist or participant
Failure to meet these requirements will result in disqualification.
How to Apply for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
Applying for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship requires careful preparation. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- Fill in the official application form
- Enter “www.nasi-ispani.co.za” as your referral source
Step 2: Upload Supporting Documents
You must submit all required documents:
- Certified copy of ID
- Latest academic results
- Clear head-and-shoulders photo
- Tertiary acceptance letter
- Signed consent form (if under 18)
- Financial assessment form
Additional Requirements by Field
Performing Arts Applicants
Submit a 2-minute audition video:
- Singing: Perform a song of your choice
- Dance: Perform a dance routine
- Acting: Perform a monologue from ACT guidelines
Ensure good lighting, clear sound, and minimal background noise.
Visual/Digital Arts Applicants
Submit a portfolio of 4 artworks:
- 1 portrait
- 1 landscape
- 2 original works
Also include:
- A short bio (70–100 words)
- An artist statement (70–100 words)
Incomplete applications may be rejected.
Important Dates to Remember
- Closing Date: 5 April 2026
- Selection Feedback: End of May 2026
Late applications will not be accepted. Apply early to avoid missing out.
Contact Details for ACT
If you have questions, contact the Arts & Culture Trust:
- Tel: 010 023 0899
- Email: info@act.org.za
Avoid contacting ACT after the closing date has passed.
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Why You Should Apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship
The Nyoloha Scholarship is highly competitive but rewarding. It provides financial relief and career development opportunities.
Moreover, it connects you with industry leaders and mentors. This support can shape your future in the arts.
If you are passionate about creativity, this is your chance.
FAQs About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
Who can apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship?
South African students aged 17–25 who want to study arts in 2027.
How many scholarships are available?
Only two full scholarships are awarded each year.
Does the scholarship cover accommodation?
No. It only covers tuition, registration, and study materials.
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship is a powerful opportunity for young creatives. It supports talent, education, and growth in South Africa’s arts sector.
If you meet the requirements, apply before the deadline. Your artistic journey could start here.
