Dance Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Dance Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a talented South African student with a passion for movement, rhythm, and creative expression? If you dream of pursuing a career in Dance but face financial challenges, applying for a Dance bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your key to unlocking opportunities in the performing arts industry. With theatres, production companies, arts organizations, and schools relying on trained dancers and choreographers, the demand for skilled professionals in dance continues to grow. Fortunately, many institutions and foundations are offering Dance bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who wish to further their education in this dynamic and creative field.
What Is Dance?
Dance is a performing art form that uses the body, rhythm, and movement as a means of expression and storytelling. It plays an important role in cultural identity, entertainment, and education, while also offering career opportunities in performance, choreography, teaching, and production. Dance goes beyond performance; it builds discipline, creativity, and collaboration, making it one of the most impactful art forms globally.
Major Fields of Dance Studies
In South Africa, Dance studies include a variety of specializations such as:
- Contemporary Dance: Focuses on modern expressive movement techniques.
- Ballet: A classical dance style emphasizing precision, technique, and grace.
- Traditional and African Dance: Preserves cultural heritage and storytelling through movement.
- Jazz and Modern Dance: Combines rhythm, energy, and improvisation for stage and performance.
- Choreography: The art of creating and directing dance performances.
- Dance Education: Prepares professionals to teach in schools, academies, and universities.
- Dance Therapy: Uses movement as a tool for emotional and physical healing.
Career Opportunities in Dance in South Africa
Graduates in Dance can pursue diverse career paths across the creative arts industry, including:
- Professional Dancer (stage, film, or television)
- Choreographer
- Dance Teacher or Lecturer
- Arts Administrator or Project Manager
- Cultural Development Practitioner
- Dance Therapist
- Performer in musicals, theatre productions, or festivals
With the rise of cultural tourism and performing arts initiatives, skilled dancers in South Africa have opportunities both locally and internationally.
Why Apply for Dance Bursaries in 2026?
Pursuing formal education in Dance can be costly, with expenses such as tuition fees, performance gear, accommodation, and study materials. Fortunately, many arts councils, cultural foundations, government institutions, and private sponsors are offering Dance bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover study fees, equipment, and living costs, while also providing mentorship, industry exposure, and opportunities to participate in professional productions.
Applying for a Dance bursary not only eases the financial burden but also connects students with networks in the performing arts, increasing their chances of building successful careers in the creative industry.
List of Dance Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Dance bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by reputable institutions, cultural trusts, and organizations supporting the performing arts. Each listing includes information on eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, how to apply, and application deadlines to help you plan your future in Dance.
Allan Gray Orbis Fellowship Bursary
Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Scholarship
Canon Collins Tom Queba Scholarship
National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) Bursaries
NYDA Solomon Mahlangu Scholarship Fund
