ACT Nyoloha Scholarship South Africa 2025

The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the arts and culture sector across South Africa.

Independent of government control, ACT operates in all nine provinces, providing crucial support and resources for artists and cultural initiatives.

About the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship

Developed through a collaborative effort between ACT and Nedbank Arts Affinity, the Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP) aims to empower young South African artists by providing financial assistance for undergraduate studies in performing or visual arts.

The scholarship package goes beyond financial aid.

It includes a series of workshops and culminates in a final showcase event, offering invaluable exposure and networking opportunities.

ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

Before working on your application, ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. You must be a South African citizen.
  2. Applicants must be between 17 and 25 years old.
  3. Currently enrolled in Matric or have completed Matric with university exemption.
  4. You must intend on pursuing an undergraduate qualification in performing or visual arts.
  5. Study Commencement: Applicants must be starting their first year of study in 2025.
  6. Financial Need: Demonstrate financial need to pursue your artistic studies.
  7. Program Commitment: Willingness to participate in the six-month program duration.
  8. Study Institution: Plan to study at a South African tertiary institution or an ACT-accredited institution (list provided in the application details).
  9. Professional Status: Not considered a professional artist (no specialized training or full-time employment in your artistic discipline).
  10. Previous Qualifications: No existing tertiary qualifications in an arts/creative discipline from a South African institution.
  11. Program History: Not a participant or finalist in the 2023 ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme.

ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Application Requirements

Applications are submitted exclusively online.

Ensure you have all the following supporting documents ready for upload:

  1. Identification: Certified copy (front and back) of your South African ID document.
  2. Academic Records: Previous semester’s results or your last academic results.
  3. Photograph: A clear headshot of yourself.
  4. Tertiary Acceptance Letter (if applicable): Proof of acceptance from your chosen tertiary institution.
  5. Consent Form: Signed consent form (if under 18, your parent/guardian must sign).
  6. Performance Audition (Performing Arts Applicants):
    • Singing: Prepare a two-minute video showcasing your vocal skills with a song of your choice (backing tracks or instruments are allowed).
    • Dance: A two-minute video demonstrating your dance/movement range and talent.
    • Acting: Prepare and film a monologue from Addendum 2 (provided with application details) showcasing your acting ability. Ensure good lighting, plain background, and landscape mode. Avoid noisy environments and minimal props (table, chair, and musical instruments for singing are allowed). No assistance from parents/guardians or teachers is permitted.
  7. Portfolio (Digital/Visual Arts Applicants):
    • Four original pieces of artwork: one portrait, one landscape, and two additional pieces.
    • A short artist statement (70-100 words) explaining the creation of your artworks.
    • A brief bio (70-100 words) about yourself.

How to Apply

Applications for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme are currently closed.

The application window for the 2025 academic year has not yet been announced.

However, keep an eye on the ACT website for updates and application deadlines.

Contact ACT Nyoloha Scholarship

For any inquiries related to the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, contact the Arts & Culture Trust directly:

  1. Telephone: 010 023 0899
  2. Email: [email protected]