Arts Bursaries 2026

National Arts Council (NAC) Bursary

Requirements: South African citizenship. Proof of acceptance/registration at a recognized institution. Focus on arts disciplines (dance, music, theatre, visual arts, literature, etc.). Financial need may be considered.

Application Dates: Usually opens in March/April and September/October each year.

Apply at NAC website

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursary

Requirements: South African citizen. Studying or intending to study in heritage-related or creative fields. Must demonstrate financial need. Academic merit considered.

Application Dates: Typically September to November for the following academic year.

Apply at DSAC website

SAMRO (Southern African Music Rights Organisation) Bursaries

Requirements: For music students (performance, composition, musicology). Must be registered at a recognized South African institution. Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Application Dates: Usually July to September.

Apply at SAMRO website

The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarships

Requirements: Open to African citizens (including SA). Leadership potential and academic excellence. For postgraduate studies in arts/humanities-related fields.

Application Dates: April (closes in June).

Apply at Mandela Rhodes Foundation

Rupert Art Foundation Scholarships

Requirements: Focus on visual arts. Must be enrolled or applying to a recognized art institution. Portfolio submission required.

Application Dates: Varies, usually mid-year.

Apply at Rupert Art Foundation

Cape Tercentenary Foundation Bursaries

Requirements: Western Cape residents. For studies in music, fine arts, or performing arts. Financial need and academic merit.

Application Dates: August to September.

Apply at Cape Tercentenary Foundation

KZN Department of Arts & Culture Bursary

Requirements: KwaZulu-Natal residents. Studying arts, culture, or heritage-related fields. Financial need considered.

Application Dates: Around October to December.

Apply at KZN DAC website

Afda Scholarships & Bursaries

Requirements: For film, TV, performance, or business innovation in entertainment. Academic merit and creative potential.

Application Dates: Varies (check yearly).

Apply at AFDA website

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship (Creative Entrepreneurship)

Requirements: For young entrepreneurs in creative industries. Leadership potential and innovative thinking.

Application Dates: January to April.

Apply at Allan Gray Orbis Foundation

PPC Imaginarium Awards (Visual Arts & Design)

Requirements: Emerging artists in sculpture, photography, design, etc. Open to students and recent graduates.

Application Dates: Early 2025 (usually opens in February).

Apply at PPC Imaginarium Awards