Academy of Digital Arts Bursary South Africa 2026

ADA’s Fast Track Advertising Bursary for 2026 supports a limited group of South African citizens looking to start a career in digital advertising. 

The programme includes Adobe certification and runs for three months. 

Applications usually close around early April 2026, so prepare early and apply on time.

About the Academy of Digital Arts

The Academy of Digital Arts (ADA) is based in Cape Town and registered with the Department of Higher Education. 

It offers accredited courses in graphic design, advertising, game development, web design, and concept art. 

ADA courses combine industry-standard tools and creative techniques to train students for jobs in the digital and creative sectors.

What the Bursary Covers

This is a fully funded programme focused on digital advertising skills. Selected recipients receive:

• A three-month training course in Photoshop, Illustrator, branding, and marketing design.
  
• Preparation for Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) exams.
  
• A stipend of approximately R11 400 to cover training‑related costs.
  Note that funding covers tuition and stipend only; accommodation and travel must be arranged separately.

Fields of Study Funded

This bursary is only for the Fast Track Advertising short programme. 

It leads to Adobe certification but does not support full-time degree or diploma study at ADA.

Eligibility Criteria 

You must meet all the following:

• Be a South African citizen.
  
• Have completed Matric.
  
• Be digitally comfortable and have basic computer skills.
  
• Be committed to attending and finishing the full, intensive three‑month course.
  No experience in design or advertising is required.

How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online through the ADA bursary portal.

1. Create an account on ADA’s official website and log in.
   
2. Complete the application form in full.
   
3. When asked where you heard about ADA bursaries, enter “www.bursariesafrica.co.za”.
   
4. Upload supporting documents before submitting.
   Shortlisted candidates receive confirmation in early December, and final selection follows.

Required Documents

Your application must include certified copies (not older than 3 months):

• South African ID document.
  
• Matric certificate.
  
• A 100-word motivational essay explaining your interest in the programme.
  
• Two reference letters supporting your application.
  Incomplete applications will be disqualified from consideration.

Selection Process and Outcomes

Applicants are assessed on digital ability, motivation, and readiness for the advertising field.

Given limited places, only top candidates are offered bursaries. Notifications of acceptance are sent in early December. 

If you do not hear from ADA by then, assume your application was unsuccessful.

Contact Details

For questions or assistance:
Academy of Digital Arts, Cape Town
Call: 021 300 0298
Email: [email protected]

Use the official contact form on ADA’s website for application support.