ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme
Role Overview
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?
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
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.
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.
Industry exposure through showcases
Career development opportunities
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The Nyoloha Scholarship goes beyond funding. It prepares students for real careers.
Talent identification through auditions and portfolios
Three months of mentorship with industry professionals
Final exhibition or performance showcase
Two full scholarships awarded annually
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship supports undergraduate studies in:
Applicants must apply in one discipline only.
The Nyoloha Scholarship provides focused academic funding.
Only 2 full scholarships available
Study materials (up to R5 000 per year)
Applicants may apply for additional funding to cover these costs.
To qualify for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship, you must:
Be in Grade 12 or have university exemption
Not be registered for 2026 tertiary studies
Not have an existing arts qualification
Not be a 2024 or 2025 participant or finalist
Be able to commit to the 6-month programme
Follow these steps to apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship:
Fill in the official application form
Use “www.nasi-ispani.co.za” as your referral source
Certified ID copy (front and back)
Submit a 2-minute audition video (singing, dance, or acting)
Submit portfolio images of original work
Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
Before applying, download and review all required documents:
The ACT Nyoloha Scholarship selection process includes:
Shortlisting and training phase
Selection of winners based on performance
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The programme has delivered strong results:
8 scholarships awarded since 2022
30+ alumni placed in paid opportunities
100+ jobs created across the arts sector
Applications Close: 27 April 2026
Applications close in a limited time, so apply early
South African students aged 17–25 who want to study arts in 2027.
No. The programme is for first-time students.
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.
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• 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
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Nyoloha Scholarship:
Multiple positions/application links:
• Fill in the official application form: https://act.org.za/2026-act-nyoloha-scholarship-programme/
• Download Consent Form: https://act.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Consent-Form-2026-1-1.pdf
• Download Guidelines Doc: https://act.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Application-Guidelines-Document-2026-Final-2.pdf
• Financial Assessment Form: https://act.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ACT_Nyoloha_Financial-Assessment-Form-2026-Tier-1.pdf
• Recommended Tertiary List: https://act.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Recommended-Tertiary-List-2026-1.pdf
• Download Monologues: https://act.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Between-Pillar-and-Post-Monologues.docx.pdf
About ACT Nyoloha Scholarship
This bursary is offered by ACT Nyoloha Scholarship.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from ACT Nyoloha Scholarship can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 27 April 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 27 April 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.