Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025. Are you passionate about digital creativity and looking for a career in advertising or graphic design? The Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025 by the Academy of Digital Arts (ADA) is your golden opportunity to break into the industry with professional training, Adobe certification, and financial support.
Whether you’re dreaming of designing high-impact visuals or building brand strategies in the digital world, this bursary programme is tailored to equip aspiring creatives with the tools they need to succeed.
About the Academy of Digital Arts (ADA)
The Academy of Digital Arts, situated in the creative heart of Cape Town, South Africa, is a prestigious institution offering full-time and short courses in Graphic Design, Web Design and Development, Game and Interactive Media Development, and Concept Art. Recognized as a center of Higher Education and registered with the Department of Higher Education, ADA holds both national and international industry accreditations.
This reputation makes ADA one of the top destinations for students aiming to pursue a career in digital and visual communication.
What is the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme?
The Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025 is a three-month intensive learning opportunity designed to prepare students for the digital advertising industry. The programme is set to start on 24 June 2025, and it provides participants with access to:
- Adobe’s industry-standard design software
- Adobe Certified Professional exams in both Photoshop and Illustrator
- Training in branding, graphic design fundamentals, and digital marketing techniques
Upon completion, students will obtain the Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) qualification an internationally recognized credential that significantly boosts employability in the advertising sector.
Programme Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025 |
| Institution | Academy of Digital Arts (ADA), Cape Town |
| Duration | 3 Months |
| Start Date | 24 June 2025 |
| Qualification | Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) |
| Financial Support | R11,400 Stipend |
| Industry Partner | MICT SETA |
| Tools Provided | Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator |
What Makes This Programme Unique?
Here’s why the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme stands out:
- Industry-Linked Training: The programme is in collaboration with MICT SETA (Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority), which ensures quality and relevance to real-world job demands.
- Certified Outcome: Earning the Adobe Certified Associate status distinguishes students in a competitive job market.
- Hands-On Experience: You will not only learn design but also how to market and promote brands in the digital space.
- Financial Inclusion: A total stipend of R11,400 will be provided to cover your basic costs during the programme.
Bursary Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must have successfully completed Matric (Grade 12)
- Must possess basic computer literacy
- Must be digitally inclined and internet-savvy
- Must commit to attending and completing the full 3-month programme
These requirements ensure that candidates are both capable and committed to completing this fast-paced, high-impact learning journey.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
This is a fully-funded opportunity designed to uplift creative talent. Here’s what the bursary includes:
- Total Stipend: R11,400 (disbursed during the 3-month period)
- Free Access to Adobe Creative Software: Illustrator and Photoshop
- Training for Adobe Certification Exams
- Career preparation for entry into digital design and advertising roles
How to Apply for the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025
The application process is entirely online. To apply:
- Register an Account on the Academy of Digital Arts official bursary portal.
- Log in using your newly created credentials.
- Complete the application form and ensure you answer every section honestly and accurately.
- In the section asking where you heard about the bursary, enter “www.zabursaries.co.za”.
Required Supporting Documents
Ensure you upload the following certified documents (not older than 3 months):
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Certified ID Copy | South African identity document |
| Matric Certificate | Proof of Grade 12 completion |
| Motivational Essay | 100 words on why you want to join the programme |
| Letters of Reference | 2 letters from academic/professional references |
Note: Incomplete applications or missing documents may result in disqualification.
Fields of Study Covered (Extended Opportunities)
While the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme primarily focuses on Graphic Design and Advertising, ADA’s broader academic landscape also spans:
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Web Development
- Concept Art
- User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design
- Game Design and Development
- Visual Communication
Graduates from the programme are well-positioned to enter creative and technical careers in South Africa’s growing digital economy.
Why Choose the Fast Track Advertising Bursary?
Choosing the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme is not just about gaining a qualification it’s about stepping confidently into a career in advertising and digital media. Here’s what makes it an ideal launchpad:
- You will be taught by industry-experienced instructors
- Gain practical skills in branding and communication
- Get real-world experience in using Adobe software tools
- Earn an internationally recognized certificate
- Be job-ready within just 3 months
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of the programme can pursue roles such as:
- Junior Graphic Designer
- Digital Marketer
- Advertising Coordinator
- Social Media Content Creator
- Brand Assistant
- Visual Content Designer
With the Adobe Certified Associate status, your résumé stands out making you attractive to employers in agencies, media houses, startups, and corporate marketing departments.
Contact the Academy of Digital Arts
For any queries or assistance with your application, you can contact the Academy of Digital Arts using the following details:
- Telephone: 021 300 0298
- Email: [email protected]
- Contact Form: www.ada.ac.za/contact-us
FAQs About Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025
What is the deadline to apply for the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025?
The specific closing date has not been announced, but since the programme starts on 24 June 2025, it’s recommended to apply as early as possible to ensure your application is processed in time.
Do I need any prior design experience to qualify for the bursary?
No prior design experience is required. However, you must have basic computer knowledge and a strong willingness to learn. The programme is structured to guide beginners through the fundamentals of advertising and graphic design.
Will I get a job after completing the programme?
While employment is not guaranteed, graduates of the Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme gain in-demand skills and internationally recognized certification that make them highly employable in the creative and digital industries.
Conclusion
The Fast Track Advertising Bursary Programme 2025 by the Academy of Digital Arts is a rare opportunity for South African youth to upskill in the high-growth field of digital advertising—without financial burden. With expert instruction, top-tier tools, and a focus on employability, this bursary empowers aspiring creatives to fast-track their careers.
