Art is a powerful way to express culture, history, and identity. In South Africa, the creative and performing arts industries offer many opportunities for talented individuals to build successful careers. These fields include dance, drama, fashion, visual art, music, film, and more.

However, studying towards an art qualification can be expensive. To help students achieve their goals, several bursaries are available across different areas in the arts. These bursaries are offered by government departments, private institutions, arts councils, and universities.

Why Study Art?

The arts play a big role in education, tourism, entertainment, and business in South Africa. Skilled artists, designers, musicians, and performers contribute to the economy and help shape the country’s future.

Studying art can lead to exciting careers that combine creativity with professional growth. Whether you want to become a choreographer, filmmaker, stage performer, designer, or music producer, there is a path for you.

What Subjects Should You Study?

If you are in high school and interested in the arts, it is helpful to take subjects such as:

  • Visual Art
  • Dramatic Arts
  • Music
  • Design
  • Life Orientation (to help build communication and collaboration skills)

At university or college level, you can study for degrees, diplomas, or certificates in areas like:

  • Fine Art or Visual Art
  • Fashion Design and Textile Studies
  • Film and Motion Picture Production
  • Drama and Theatre Arts
  • Music Performance or Music Education
  • Jewellery Design
  • Performing Arts

Careers in the Arts

A qualification in the arts can lead to various careers, including:

  • Professional Dancer
  • Actor or Stage Performer
  • Fashion Designer or Textile Technologist
  • Jewellery Designer
  • Art Director
  • Film Producer or Editor
  • Musician or Composer
  • Theatre Technician
  • Art Teacher or Lecturer

Types of Art Bursaries in South Africa

Dance Bursaries

Support for students who want to pursue dance professionally, whether in ballet, contemporary, African, or modern styles.

Drama and Theatre Bursaries

Offered to students who want to study acting, directing, stage design, or theatre production.

Fashion and Textile Bursaries

These bursaries help future designers, stylists, and textile artists gain formal training.

Film and Motion Picture Bursaries

Targeted at students interested in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, film editing, or production.

Fine Art and Visual Art Bursaries

These bursaries support painters, sculptors, illustrators, and other visual artists pursuing formal education.

Jewellery Design Bursaries

Offered to students who want to specialise in creative and technical aspects of jewellery making and design.

Performing Art Bursaries

Focused on students involved in stage performance, including musical theatre and live performance arts.

Music Bursaries

Help students study music theory, composition, or performance in voice or instrument at a recognized institution.

Art bursaries help make creative careers more accessible for talented South African students. If you are passionate about the arts and need financial assistance, start by exploring the various bursaries available under each category. Always check the eligibility requirements and deadlines before applying.

2026 Arts Bursaries for Studies In South Africa

National Arts Council of (SA) Bursary

South African Reserve Bank Scholarship

You can also view available art bursaries and application guides here: