NAC Bursary Funding

The National Arts Council (NAC) provides two categories of local bursary funding:

  1. Block Institutional Grants for Undergraduate Studies: These grants are allocated to undergraduate students through applications submitted by institutional heads of departments. Individual undergraduate students cannot apply directly to the NAC. These bursaries are specifically designated for undergraduate-level studies.
  2. Individual Postgraduate Funding: Postgraduate students pursuing arts qualifications may apply directly to the NAC for funding. Funding for postgraduate qualifications is awarded based on academic merit. Applicants achieving less than 65% will not be considered. In cases where tuition fees are already covered from other sources, funding may be directed towards accommodation, books, travel, and subsistence allowances.

Bursary Criteria:

  • Bursaries are available for students pursuing arts qualifications at any institution of Higher Learning and Further Education Training levels in South Africa and abroad.
  • International bursaries are granted only when there is evidence that the desired course or qualification is not available at South African tertiary institutions. Applicants accepted at prestigious institutions may also be considered.

Block Institutional Bursaries:

  • Institutional heads of departments submit applications on behalf of undergraduate students. Individual undergraduate students cannot directly apply to the NAC. These bursaries are specifically for undergraduate-level studies.

Individual Postgraduate Bursaries:

  • Postgraduate students can directly apply to the NAC for funding towards an arts qualification. Part-time study applications may also be accepted.

International Bursary Funding:

  • The NAC may provide funding for international postgraduate studies if specialized qualifications are not available in South Africa. Proof of acceptance must accompany all applications. However, the NAC will not be the sole funder, and students are encouraged to seek additional funding sources.
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