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Applications are now open for the fully funded Arts & Culture Trust Nyoloha 2025 Scholarship for international students
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) 2025 offers young South African artists the opportunity to receive fully funded scholarships for performing, visual, or digital arts at an accredited South African tertiary institution.
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This prestigious scholarship is open to passionate and talented artists aged 17 to 25 who require financial support to pursue higher education in the arts.
Scholarship Benefits
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship provides:
✔ Full Tuition Coverage – Covers registration, tuition fees, and study materials.
✔ Training & Mentorship – Bi-weekly online workshops with industry experts.
✔ Fully Funded Travel & Accommodation for Finalists – Includes travel, housing, and meals for finalist week in Johannesburg.
✔ Gala Performance & Exhibition – Finalists showcase their work before industry professionals.
✔ Scholarship Award – Two winners (one per category) receive full funding for their 2026 academic year.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2025, applicants must:
✅ Be a South African Citizen.
✅ Be between the ages of 17 – 25 years old.
✅ Have completed Matric (Grade 12) or currently in Matric.
✅ Need financial assistance to study performing, visual, or digital arts.
✅ Not be registered at a tertiary institution in 2025.
✅ Not have an existing tertiary qualification in an arts-related field.
✅ Not be considered a professional artist.
✅ Be able to commit to a 6-month mentorship programme.
✅ Not have participated in the ACT NSP over the past 3 years.
NOTE: Applicants under 17 require parental or guardian consent.
Who Cannot Apply?
🚫 Professional artists or performers.
🚫 Applicants with an existing arts degree.
🚫 Students already enrolled at a tertiary institution for 2025.
🚫 Previous ACT Nyoloha Scholarship winners or finalists from the last 3 years.
Required Documents
- For Visual & Digital Arts Applicants:
- Portfolio Submission – Must follow the application guidelines.
- For Performing Arts Applicants:
- A 2-Minute Video Performance – In singing, acting, or dance.
- General Application Requirements:
- Certified Copy of ID – Proof of South African citizenship.
- Matric Certificate or Proof of Grade 12 Enrollment.
- Motivation Letter – Explain why you need the scholarship.
- Parental or Guardian Consent – Required for applicants under 17.
Guidelines for Applications
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- Visit the ACT Website: Click Here to Apply
- Select Your Category:
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- Performing Arts (Singing, Acting, Dance)
- Visual & Digital Arts.
3. Upload Required Documents (Portfolio or Video, ID, Matric Proof, etc.).
Step 2: Await Shortlisting Notification (May 2025)
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email.
- Successful applicants will begin the bi-weekly training program.
Selection & Finalist Week (September – October 2025)
- Top 15 Finalists Selected – Across all disciplines.
- Finalists Travel to Johannesburg (Sept 28 – Oct 5, 2025) – All expenses covered.
- Showcase Event on October 2 & Gala Performance on October 4.
- Two Winners Announced at the Gala.
Application Deadline: 30 March 2025.
