National Arts Council of SA Bursary South Africa For 2026. The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), established through an act of Parliament in 1997, plays a vital role in promoting the arts in South Africa. With a strong commitment to the creative industries, the NAC aims to foster a culture of free expression through the arts, ensuring that diverse voices and stories from all communities are heard and celebrated. Managed under the South African Department of Arts and Culture, the NAC has become one of the country’s most influential bodies in advancing artistic talent. Through its various funding programs, the NAC provides essential financial support to both emerging and established artists in South Africa.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the National Arts Council of South Africa bursary for 2025, including eligibility criteria, fields of study supported by the NAC, application process, important dates, and more. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the application process for this prestigious bursary and support your journey in the arts.
Overview of the National Arts Council of South Africa
The National Arts Council (NAC) was formed to nurture and advance South Africa’s arts and culture sector by funding various creative projects, initiatives, and individual artists. It operates under the mandate of the Department of Arts and Culture, which is tasked with overseeing the development of South Africa’s cultural landscape. The NAC has been instrumental in ensuring that South African arts receive national and international recognition.
One of the NAC’s most important roles is the provision of bursaries to students pursuing studies in the creative arts. This bursary is aimed at helping students with financial need who demonstrate exceptional talent in their respective fields. The NAC bursary program provides funding for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, helping students achieve their academic and career goals in the arts.
Fields Covered by the NAC Bursary Programme
The NAC Bursary Programme covers a wide range of disciplines within the arts. These fields include:
- Craft: This category includes traditional crafts, fine arts, and design practices that require a strong understanding of cultural heritage and modern artistic techniques.
- Dance: Dance is a key part of South Africa’s vibrant cultural history. The NAC bursary supports students pursuing dance studies at a professional or academic level.
- Literature: Writers and poets who wish to further their education in the literary arts are also eligible for funding under this bursary program.
- Multidiscipline: This category supports students involved in multidisciplinary work, combining art forms and creating new avenues for artistic expression.
- Music: South Africa’s rich musical heritage is nurtured through bursary awards in the field of music, ranging from classical to contemporary genres.
- Theatre: Theatre arts are a vital part of South African culture, and the NAC provides funding to students who wish to explore drama, performance, and theatre production.
- Visual Arts: The NAC supports students in fine arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art, helping them develop their craft and showcase their work.
Selection Criteria for the NAC Bursary Programme
The NAC bursary is highly competitive, and applicants must meet certain selection criteria to be considered for funding. The following factors are taken into account during the selection process:
- Artistic Merit: Candidates must demonstrate exceptional talent in their chosen art form. This includes showcasing their previous work, artistic potential, and unique contribution to the arts.
- Financial Need: The bursary is designed to assist students who require financial assistance to pursue their studies. The NAC takes into account the financial situation of the applicant and their family.
- Credibility of the Qualification: Applicants must be enrolled or accepted at a recognized institution. The NAC ensures that the institution offering the program is reputable and capable of providing the necessary training and qualifications.
- Acceptance at a Tertiary Institution: Students must have been accepted or be in the process of applying to a tertiary institution, either in South Africa or abroad, that offers a recognized arts program.
- Prestige of the Institution: The reputation of the institution where the applicant plans to study will also influence the selection process. Prestigious institutions are prioritized to ensure the students receive the best possible education.
Coverage and Value of the NAC Bursary
The NAC bursary offers a significant amount of financial support to students pursuing arts education. The value of the bursary is R250,000, awarded once every year. This funding is designed to cover various academic expenses, including tuition fees, study materials, and other related costs.
The bursary is renewable each year, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic progress and adheres to the grant’s conditions. The renewal process ensures that students receive consistent support throughout their studies. If a student completes the year successfully and meets all necessary criteria, they will continue to receive funding for the duration of their qualification.
Eligibility Criteria for the NAC Bursary
Before applying, prospective candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of application.
- Field of Study: Applicants must be pursuing or intend to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification in one of the eligible arts fields (Craft, Dance, Literature, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts, and Multidisciplinary).
- Institutional Requirement: Applicants must either be enrolled or have applied to study at a recognized institution, either in South Africa or abroad.
- Financial Need: The bursary is aimed at students who demonstrate a need for financial support to pursue their studies.
How to Apply for the NAC Bursary
The application process for the National Arts Council Bursary is entirely online. Here’s how you can apply:
- Create an Account: Applicants must register an account on the NAC Bursary Application Portal before they can proceed with the application.
- Submit Required Documents: Along with the online application, candidates are required to submit various supporting documents, including:
- A certified copy of the ID document (no older than six months).
- A Curriculum Vitae detailing academic and professional achievements.
- Proof of acceptance or application to a recognized tertiary institution.
- Academic Transcript showing prior academic performance.
- Fees Structure from the institution.
- Banking details for payment.
- Two reference letters dated and signed, no older than 18 months.
- Proof of income for the student and parents or guardians.
Failure to submit all required documents will result in disqualification.
Closing Date for Applications
The deadline for submitting NAC bursary applications is 11 July 2025. Any applications received after this date will not be considered, so be sure to submit your application before the closing date.
Contact Information
For any queries related to the NAC Bursary Programme, you can contact the National Arts Council of South Africa directly using the following details:
- Phone: 087 7000 683
- Email: [email protected]
FAQs About National Arts Council of South Africa Bursary
What is the NAC Bursary Programme?
The NAC Bursary Programme provides financial support to South African students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications in various arts fields, including craft, dance, literature, music, theatre, and visual arts.
How much is the NAC Bursary worth?
The bursary provides up to R250,000 annually, covering tuition fees, study materials, and related academic costs. It is renewable for the full duration of the qualification, subject to meeting academic requirements.
What are the eligibility requirements for the NAC Bursary?
Applicants must be South African citizens, at least 18 years old, and pursuing a qualification in one of the supported arts fields at a recognized institution. Financial need is also a key consideration for eligibility.
Conclusion
The National Arts Council of South Africa Bursary is an incredible opportunity for students with a passion for the arts. By offering substantial financial support, the NAC helps students achieve their educational goals and contribute to South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. If you meet the eligibility requirements, don’t miss the chance to apply for this prestigious bursary and take your place in the vibrant world of South African arts.
