50+ Arts Bursaries for South Africa Students in 2027

Arts bursaries in South Africa support students studying creative fields such as fine arts, music, film, design, theatre, and cultural studies.

These bursaries are offered by government departments, arts councils, private institutions, and industry organisations to develop creative talent and support the country’s cultural sector.

Which arts bursaries are available in South Africa for 2027?

Here are 50+ arts and creative bursaries you can apply for:

1. National Arts Council of South Africa Bursary
2. Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Bursary
3. South African Reserve Bank Art Scholarship
4. SAMRO Music Bursary
5. SASMT Music Bursary
6. Wakkerstroom Music Festival Bursary
7. AFDA Postgraduate Development Bursary
8. FEDISA Fashion School Bursary
9. Foschini Group Bursary
10. Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary
11. KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission Bursary
12. Revolution Media Academy Bursary
13. FAME Academy Bursary
14. Boston Media House Bursary
15. Open Window Institute Bursary
16. Vega School Bursary
17. City Varsity Bursary
18. Tshwane University of Technology Arts Bursary
19. University of Cape Town Creative Arts Bursary
20. University of the Arts internal bursaries
21. Allan Gray Fellowship
22. Canon Collins Scholarship (Arts and Humanities)
23. National Film and Video Foundation Bursary
24. Arts & Culture Trust Scholarships
25. Market Theatre Foundation Bursary
26. National School of the Arts Scholarships
27. Playhouse Company Bursary
28. Cape Town Creative Academy Bursary
29. Red & Yellow Creative School Bursary
30. AAA School of Advertising Bursary
31. Inscape Education Group Bursary
32. Design Academy of Fashion Bursary
33. Ruth Prowse School of Art Bursary
34. Creative Academy at UCT Bursary
35. Durban University of Technology Arts Bursary
36. Nelson Mandela University Arts Funding
37. Rhodes University Fine Arts Bursary
38. Stellenbosch University Music Bursary
39. North-West University Arts Bursary
40. Sol Plaatje University Arts Merit Bursary
41. Grassroots Youth Development Bursary
42. PPS Foundation Bursary
43. Bryan Montgomery Bursary
44. Clockwork Media Bursary
45. Valterra Platinum Bursary
46. SANAS Bursary
47. Oasis Bursary (Arts-related fields)
48. Career Wise Bursary Listings
49. StudyTrust Bursary
50. Bursaries Africa Arts Listings
51. Apply.org Arts Bursary Directory

Many of these bursaries are listed and updated on platforms where students can browse multiple funding opportunities.

Who qualifies for arts bursaries in South Africa?

Most arts bursaries have similar eligibility rules.

1. You must be a South African citizen.
2. You must be studying or planning to study an arts-related course.
3. You must have good academic results, often 60 percent or higher.
4. You must show financial need in many cases.
5. You must be accepted at a recognised institution.

Postgraduate bursaries often require a higher academic average such as 65 percent.

How do I apply for arts bursaries for 2027?

Follow this step-by-step process.

1. Choose a bursary that matches your art field such as music, design, or film.
2. Visit the official portal like Apply for NAC bursary
3. Complete the application form online.
4. Upload required documents like ID, results, and portfolio if required.
5. Submit before the closing date.

Some arts bursaries require a portfolio or audition depending on the discipline.

When do arts bursaries close in South Africa?

Closing dates depend on the bursary provider.

1. National Arts Council bursaries close around December each year.
2. Many private bursaries close between September and November.
3. Some institutions close applications as early as January or February.

Always confirm deadlines on the official website before applying.

What fields are covered under arts bursaries?

Arts bursaries cover a wide range of creative disciplines.

1. Fine Arts
2. Graphic Design
3. Fashion Design
4. Film and Television
5. Music and Performing Arts
6. Theatre and Dance
7. Literature and Creative Writing
8. Cultural and Heritage Studies

The National Arts Council supports fields such as theatre, dance, literature, music, and visual arts.

What do arts bursaries cover?

Funding varies depending on the sponsor.

1. Tuition fees
2. Accommodation
3. Study materials
4. Art supplies and equipment
5. Monthly allowance in some cases

Some government bursaries also cover full study costs including living expenses.

Contact details for arts bursary enquiries

1. National Arts Council of South Africa
   Website: https://www.nac.org.za
   Email: info@nac.org.za
   Tel: 011 010 8886
2. Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
   Website: https://www.dsac.gov.za
   Email: info@dsac.gov.za
3. South African Reserve Bank Scholarship Programme
   Website: https://www.resbank.co.za
4. Career Wise
   Website: https://www.careerwise.co.za
   Email: info@careerwise.co.za

These official organisations provide verified bursary information and application support for arts students in South Africa.