Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship 2026: Open for Young South Africans

Applications are now open for the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 for Young South Africans. Young people aged 17 to 25 have until April 5, 2026, to apply for these undergraduate scholarships worth up to R300,000 each. The program targets school leavers pursuing studies in performing, visual, or digital arts at South African tertiary institutions starting in 2027. Sponsors Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa back this effort to nurture talent. This article covers program details, key highlights, eligibility rules, and how to apply.

The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme offers school leavers a chance to build careers in the creative economy. It combines mentorship, training, and live showcases to give participants real-world exposure. The process starts with auditions and portfolio reviews to find talent across the country. Selected finalists join three months of workshops with industry leaders. The program ends with a visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase. It also builds an alumni network that links graduates to job opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Young South Africans aged 17-25 can apply for up to R300,000 scholarships to study performing, visual, or digital arts starting in 2027.
• The program includes nationwide auditions, three months of workshops with industry leaders, and final showcases.
• Eligibility requires being a Grade 12 student or equivalent, needing financial aid, and not having prior arts qualifications or professional experience.
• Applications close on April 5, 2026; visit the official site for details and to submit.

Programme Highlights

• Builds an alumni network that connects graduates to jobs in the creative economy.
• Identifies talent nationwide through auditions and portfolio reviews.
• Provides three months of mentorship and workshops with industry leaders.
• Ends with a visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase for finalists.
• Awards two full scholarships each year, up to R300,000 in Performing Arts and Visual/Digital Arts.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Between the ages of 17 and 25 years old.
2. Currently in Grade 12 or have university exemption.
3. Need financial assistance for a qualification in performing or visual arts at a South African tertiary or accredited institution, starting in 2027.
4. Not currently registered at a tertiary or accredited institution for the 2026 academic year.
5. Do not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts or creative discipline from a South African institution.
6. Not considered a professional artist, meaning no specialized training or full-time employment in an artistic discipline.
7. Not a participant or finalist in the 2025 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme.
8. Willing and able to commit to the full six-month duration of the programme.

Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN South Africa proudly support the programme. Their backing helps make these opportunities possible for young artists.

Application Deadline: April 5, 2026

Application Process
Head to the official webpage of the Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme for full details and to submit your application by April 5, 2026. Prepare for auditions or portfolio reviews as part of the selection. The six-month timeline includes three months of mentorship and workshops, leading to showcases. Check the site for updates on the process or past finalists.

The Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 offers young South Africans aged 17-25 a great chance to pursue arts studies with up to R300,000 in funding, mentorship, and real-world exposure. Backed by Nedbank, Sun International, and MTN, it builds skills and networks for creative careers. Apply by April 5, 2026, at the official website to start your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship 2026?

You must be 17-25 years old, in Grade 12 or with university exemption, need financial help for arts studies in 2027, and meet other rules like no prior arts degree.

What does the program include?

It offers auditions or portfolio reviews, three months of mentorship and workshops, showcases, and two full scholarships up to R300,000 each.

When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by April 5, 2026, via the official Arts & Culture Trust website.

How do I apply?

Go to act.org.za/nyoloha/, prepare for auditions or portfolio reviews, and follow the six-month program if selected.