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Are you an arts student dreaming of studying abroad? The National Arts Council (NAC) of South Africa offers international bursaries to help talented students pursue undergraduate or postgraduate arts qualifications at top international institutions.

This blog will guide you step by step on how to qualify, apply, and secure NAC international bursary funding for 2025.

🎓 What is the NAC International Bursary?

The NAC international bursary is financial support for South African arts students accepted into international universities or arts institutions. It primarily covers tuition and registration fees, but if those are already covered, funding may be redirected to accommodation, books, travel, or living allowances, subject to NAC approval.

✅ Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the NAC international bursary, you must:

• Be a South African citizen.

• Be accepted or registered at an international tertiary institution for a full-time arts-related undergraduate or postgraduate degree.

• Have a minimum academic average of 65%. In exceptional cases, a 63% average may be considered.

• Preference is given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.

• Sign an agreement with the NAC if your application is successful.

📚 What Does the Funding Cover?

The bursary prioritises tuition and registration fees. Any leftover funds may cover:

• Accommodation

• Books and materials

• Travel expenses

• Subsistence allowances

For multi-year degrees (e.g., MA or PhD), the bursary will fund the full duration, subject to satisfactory annual progress.

🔍 Key Application Requirements

Prepare the following before applying:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).

• Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than 12 months).

• Course structure or curriculum outline.

• Proof of acceptance or registration at an accredited international institution.

• Study fees structure from the institution.

• Academic transcripts and certified copies of your degrees/diplomas.

• Proof of other bursary funding (if applicable).

• Two reference letters from industry professionals (signed, dated, and not older than 12 months).

• Personal motivation letter explaining why you need the bursary and your career goals.

• Proof of household or personal income.

• Recent bank statement (stamped, not older than 6 months).

⚠️ Incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.

✍️ How to Apply

1. Complete the online application form on the NAC Grant Management System.

2. Check for additional supporting documents needed.

3. Review the NAC funding guidelines before submission.

4. Submit before the published deadline (late applications are not accepted).

📝 What Happens After You Receive the Bursary?

Successful applicants will:

• Sign a formal agreement with the NAC.

• Submit progress reports from their institution or supervisor during and after their studies.

• Plough back their expertise by sharing skills in their community through workshops, mentoring, capacity building, or administration support. Proof of this service must be submitted with photographs and a report from community leaders or institutions.

⚖️ Appeal Process

If you feel aggrieved by the NAC’s decision:

• Submit a written appeal to the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture within 30 days of the decision notification.

• Notify the NAC in writing within 30 days, providing:

  • Your name and address.

  • The grievance.

  • The reasons for your grievance.

  
  

🗓️ When is the Closing Date?

Deadlines are announced on NAC social media platforms and the website. Always check early to avoid missing out.

📞 Contact Details for Assistance

For queries, contact:

• Thola@nac.org.za

• info@nac.org.za

• Tel: 087 700 0683

• Visit: www.nac.org.za

Final Tip

The NAC international bursary is highly competitive. Ensure your academic results are strong, documents are certified and up to date, and your motivation clearly demonstrates your passion, purpose, and potential impact on South Africa’s arts sector.