Graphic Design Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Find on this page a List of Graphic Design Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a creative South African student with a passion for visual communication, digital art, and design innovation? If you dream of pursuing a career in Graphic Design but face financial challenges, applying for a Graphic Design bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your key to unlocking opportunities in the creative and digital industries. With businesses, advertising agencies, media houses, and tech companies increasingly relying on skilled designers to create impactful visuals, the demand for talented graphic designers continues to grow. Fortunately, many institutions, companies, and creative organizations are offering Graphic Design bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who wish to develop their design skills and build a career in this dynamic and fast-evolving field.
What Is Graphic Design?
Graphic Design is the art and practice of creating visual content to communicate ideas, messages, and emotions through typography, imagery, color, and layout. It blends creativity with technology to design everything from logos and advertisements to digital interfaces and motion graphics. Beyond aesthetics, graphic design plays a vital role in branding, marketing, education, and entertainment which helps businesses and organizations connect with their audiences effectively.
Major Fields of Graphic Design Studies
In South Africa, Graphic Design studies encompass various creative and technical specializations, including:
- Digital Design: Creating visuals for websites, apps, and digital media.
- Print Design: Designing posters, brochures, packaging, and other printed materials.
- Motion Graphics and Animation: Bringing visuals to life through movement and storytelling.
- Branding and Identity Design: Developing logos, color schemes, and brand guidelines.
- Illustration and Visual Art: Using drawing and visual storytelling in commercial and creative contexts.
- User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design: Designing interactive and user-friendly digital experiences.
- Advertising Design: Crafting visual campaigns for marketing and promotions.
Career Opportunities in Graphic Design in South Africa
A qualification in Graphic Design opens doors to a wide range of creative and digital career paths across industries. Graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Graphic Designer
- Digital Designer
- Illustrator
- Brand or Art Director
- UX/UI Designer
- Motion Graphics Designer
- Visual Communicator
- Advertising or Marketing Designer
- Freelance or Studio-Based Creative
With South Africa’s growing digital economy, e-commerce industry, and expanding creative sector, skilled graphic designers are increasingly in demand both locally and internationally.
Why Apply for Graphic Design Bursaries in 2026?
Studying Graphic Design can be financially demanding, with costs such as tuition fees, design software, creative materials, and accommodation. Thankfully, various universities, design schools, corporate sponsors, and government arts bodies are offering Graphic Design bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover tuition, study materials, and living expenses, and may also include mentorship, internships, and portfolio-building opportunities.
Applying for a Graphic Design bursary not only eases the financial burden but also helps students gain industry experience and professional exposure, positioning them for success in South Africa’s competitive creative market.
List of Graphic Design Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Graphic Design bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by reputable educational institutions, creative agencies, and arts funding organizations. Each listing includes details on eligibility criteria, study areas supported, application procedures, and closing dates which will help you plan your future in the world of design and visual communication.
Absa Fellowship / Scholarship Programme
Academy of Digital Arts Bursaries
Department of Correctional Services Bursary
Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Bursary
Gauteng Department of e-Government Bursary
Gauteng Provincial Treasury Bursary
Mpumalanga Provincial Government Bursary
North West Provincial Government Bursaries
