Applications open for Local Postgraduate Bursary Programme (South Africa)

The National Arts Council (NAC) Local Postgraduate Bursary Programme supports emerging South African arts practitioners pursuing postgraduate qualifications. Funding covers tuition, living costs, study materials, travel, and research, with priority given to students demonstrating academic merit, financial need, and community impact. Full-time and part-time students in MA or PhD programmes are eligible, with funding contingent on academic progress and community contribution.

Program Overview

The Local Postgraduate Bursary Programme by the National Arts Council (NAC) provides financial support to emerging arts practitioners in South Africa. It aims to enhance arts skills, knowledge, and professional development through postgraduate study.

Objectives

• Support postgraduate arts education for South African students

• Fund tuition, living costs, research, travel, and study materials

• Encourage students to contribute back to their communities using acquired skills

• Prioritize academic excellence, financial need, and social impact

Who is Eligible?

• South African citizens pursuing postgraduate arts qualifications (MA, MPhil, or PhD)

• Full-time or part-time students, including those in two- or three-year programmes

• Students demonstrating academic merit and commitment to community development

• Preference given to previously disadvantaged individuals

• Applicants must meet NAC documentation requirements, including:

  • Proof of identity

  • Academic transcripts

  • Course details and fee structures

  • Reference letters

Funding Details

The bursary can cover:

• Tuition fees (primary focus)

• Living expenses

• Study materials

• Travel costs

• Research expenses (if tuition is already funded)

Funding is provided for the full duration of the programme, subject to:

• Satisfactory academic progression each year

• Commitment to community contribution, with proof required upon completion

Why It Matters

• Reduces financial barriers for postgraduate arts students

• Encourages the development of skilled arts practitioners in South Africa

• Fosters community development through knowledge transfer

• Strengthens the local arts ecosystem by supporting emerging talent

How to Apply

1. Access the NAC Grant Management System online

2. Complete the application form thoroughly

3. Upload all required documents:

   • Proof of identity

   • Academic transcripts

   • Course details and tuition fees

   • Reference letters

4. Ensure the application is complete to avoid disqualification

5. Submit before the closing date: 19 December 2025

Post-Submission Requirements

• Sign the bursary agreement if awarded

• Maintain academic progress reports

• Provide evidence of community contribution at the end of the programme

• Comply with all NAC monitoring and reporting requirements

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 19 December 2025

• Outcome Announcement: 30 January 2026

Tips for Applicants

• Start early to gather transcripts, references, and financial documents

• Clearly demonstrate financial need and community engagement

• Highlight academic achievements and future goals

• Double-check all uploads and ensure files meet submission guidelines

FAQ

1. Can part-time students apply?
Yes, the bursary supports both full-time and part-time postgraduate arts students.

2. What costs does the bursary cover?
Tuition, living expenses, study materials, travel, and research costs if tuition is funded.

3. Are international students eligible?
No, only South African citizens are eligible.

4. Do I need to contribute to the community?
Yes, bursary recipients must provide proof of practical community service upon completion.

5. What programmes are eligible?
Master’s (MA/MPhil) and PhD programmes in the arts.

6. Is prior academic achievement considered?
Yes, academic merit is a key selection criterion alongside financial need and community impact.

7. How long will funding last?
Funding covers the full duration of the programme, subject to annual academic progression.

Conclusion

The NAC Local Postgraduate Bursary Programme is a vital resource for South African arts students, providing financial support, academic development, and opportunities to give back to the community. By fostering emerging talent, the programme strengthens both individual careers and the broader arts ecosystem.