National Arts Council invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for its Individual Postgraduate Bursary Vacancies. The closing date for applications is 19 December 2025.
If you love theatre, dance, music, visual arts, literature, crafts, or any other art field and want to study at a higher level, this money could help you. The National Arts Council (NAC) offers a bursary for students in South Africa who need financial support to finish a Master’s, PhD, or honours degree.
Quick Overview
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Programme | NAC Individual Postgraduate Bursary (Local Studies) |
| Opening date | 11 November 2025 |
| Closing date | 19 December 2025 (no late apps) |
| Outcome date | 30 January 2026 |
| Fields | Theatre, dance, visual arts, music, literature, crafts, cultural policy, arts management, and more |
| Study level | Honours, Masters, PhD |
| Minimum average | 65 % (63 % may be accepted in special cases) |
| Priority | Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds |
| Funding covers | Tuition, accommodation, books, travel, and research costs |
| Location | South Africa only |
| Apply | Online through the NAC Grant Management System |
About the National Arts Council
The NAC is South Africa’s main body for supporting the arts. It gives money, creates policies, and helps artists, teachers, and organisations grow. The council funds people in all art areas – from visual arts and performance to writing and cultural leadership. Thousands of South Africans have benefited from NAC funding to study and work in the arts.
What the Bursary Offers
- Money for study – the bursary is based on your academic results.
- Support for living costs – if your tuition is paid elsewhere, the bursary can also pay for accommodation, books, travel, and daily expenses.
- Freedom to focus – with less worry about money, you can concentrate on your studies and your art.
- Community impact – after you finish, you are expected to give back by teaching, mentoring, or running workshops.
Who Should Apply?
You’re a good fit if:
- You’re a South African citizen with a valid SA ID.
- You love art and want to study it at a higher level.
- You have an average of 65 % or more in your previous exams (63 % may be considered in exceptional cases).
- You need money for tuition or living expenses.
- You already have a spot at a South African university or institution.
- You want your work to help your community or local arts scene.
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition – the main part of the bursary.
- Living costs – if your tuition is already covered by another source, the bursary can pay for:
- A place to live
- Books and study materials
- Travel for research or projects
- Daily allowance
The money can also help with local arts residencies or supervised research.
Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| South African citizenship | Valid ID required. |
| Postgraduate study | Full‑time or part‑time honours, master’s, or PhD. |
| Local institution | Must be a South African university or college. |
| Academic record | Minimum 65 % average. |
| Previously disadvantaged status | Priority, but not mandatory. |
| Funding agreement | You must agree to monitor your progress. |
| Community contribution | Promise to share skills after graduation. |
Documents You’ll Need
- CV (curriculum vitae)
- Copy of SA ID (not older than 12 months)
- Course outline or syllabus
- Fee schedule from the university
- Proof of acceptance or registration
- Academic transcript or record of prior learning
- Copies of earlier qualifications
- Proof of any other bursaries or funding
- Two recent reference letters (within 3 months)
- Motivational statement showing your goals
- Proof of household income
- Bank statement or proof of a bank account (within 6 months)
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
- Go online – visit the NAC Grant Management System.
- Create or log in – enter your personal and academic details.
- Fill the bursary form – double‑check every field.
- Upload all documents – missing files will disqualify the application.
- Submit before 19 December 2025 – late applications are not accepted.
- Check the result – on 30 January 2026 you’ll know if you’re successful.
- Sign the funding agreement – if you win, you must keep up to date with your progress.
Career Paths After the Bursary
A postgraduate degree opens many doors:
- Professional artist – create and perform advanced works.
- Lecturer or researcher – teach at a university or write academic papers.
- Arts manager or cultural director – run programmes, festivals, or organisations.
- Writer, critic, or cultural analyst – write reviews, blogs, or policy reports.
If you finish a master’s, the bursary can also support a PhD for up to three years, with annual reviews.
Tips to Make Your Application Stronger
- Write a clear motivation letter – explain why you love the arts and how you will use your degree to help others.
- Show past work – include photos, videos, or links to exhibitions, performances, or publications.
- Get solid reference letters – choose people who know your art well and can speak to your talent.
- Apply early – technical problems happen; upload at least 3–5 days before the deadline.
- Align with NAC goals – demonstrate how your project supports community growth or transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cover international studies?
No, only South African institutions.Can part‑time students apply?
Yes, both full‑time and part‑time students are accepted.What is the minimum average?
65 % (63 % may be considered in special cases).Does it fund living expenses?
Yes, if tuition is covered by another funder.Do I need to reapply each year?
No. Master’s students can keep the funding for two years, PhD students for three, as long as they progress.Do I need to give back after studies?
Yes, you must share skills with your community and provide evidence.What if I miss the deadline?
Late applications are not accepted.Can I appeal a rejection?
Yes, you can appeal to the Minister within 30 days after the decision.Do I need to provide financial documents?
Yes – household income and bank statements are required.When will I find out if I got the bursary?
Results will be posted on 30 January 2026.
Closing date: 19 December 2025.
Disclaimer
This information is not from the official NAC site. All details come from the NAC guideline document. Check the NAC website for the most up‑to‑date information and to make sure you submit on time.
