The arts are an integral part of human civilization, serving as a means of expression, communication, and cultural preservation. From the cave paintings of our ancestors to the digital art of the future, the arts continue to evolve and inspire.
Creative arts encompass a diverse range of disciplines, each with its own unique beauty and power.
Visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, drawing, and photography, allow artists to express themselves through visual imagery. Performing arts, including theatre, dance, and music, involve live performances that captivate audiences and evoke emotions.
Literary arts, such as writing, poetry, and storytelling, use language to convey ideas, stories, and emotions. Film and media arts, including film, television, and digital media, combine visual and auditory elements to create immersive experiences.
If you want to pursue a career in the creative arts and want to study at a tertiary education institution, then you may want to consider a bursary.
Creative Arts Bursaries You Should Consider
National Arts Council (NAC) Bursaries
The NAC offers bursaries to students pursuing arts-related qualifications at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This includes visual arts, performing arts, and literary arts.
Eligible students must achieve a minimum of 65% and apply through their institutions (undergraduates) or directly to the NAC (postgraduates). Funding may cover tuition fees, accommodation, books, travel, and subsistence allowances. For more information and application details, visit the NAC website.
Sol Plaatje Scholarship
The Canon Collins Trust and Sol Plaatje Educational Project offer postgraduate scholarships in South Africa for students from Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
The 2025 scholarships will prioritize Justice (including Climate Justice), Education Policy and Practice, Humanities, Journalism, and Communications.
Eligible students must have a good first degree and be studying at a South African university. The scholarship package varies but can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. For more information and to apply, please visit the Canon Collins Trust website.
Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture offers bursaries to South African students pursuing heritage-related studies at accredited tertiary institutions.
Eligible students must be South African citizens under 40 years old with outstanding academic performance. The bursary covers
tuition fees, books, electronic devices, accommodation, meals, and transportation. To apply, visit the online portal and submit the required documents before 31 January.
National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF) Bursary
The National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF) offers bursaries to South African citizens pursuing film and television studies at accredited South African institutions.
Applicants must be registered or provisionally registered for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
Visit their website for more information.
ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme
The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) offers the Nyoloha Scholarship Programme for South African youth aged 17-25 who want to pursue a tertiary qualification in performing or visual arts.
Successful applicants will receive financial support and participate in a 6-month training programme.
Visit their website for more information.
For information on the latest bursaries and funding opportunities, visit the Bursaries Portal's funding directory.
