NWSD Funding / Bursaries
North West School of Design offers diverse financial support options, from bursaries to
fee concessions, to help students pursue their studies without financial strain:
1. STUDENT HERO
A platform that connects students with bursaries, loans, and other financial aid from
trusted providers. The application process is entirely online and student-friendly.
What it offers:
- Access to multiple funding providers
- Pre-qualification for student loans
- Support with bursary applications
- No registration required at an institution to begin
Required Docs:
- ID, academic results, acceptance letter, fee statement
- Sponsor’s ID, payslips, bank statements, proof of residence
Visit Student Hero
2. GERT-JOHAN COETZEE BURSARY
A prestigious, full-tuition bursary sponsored by designer Gert-Johan Coetzee, offered at NWSD since 2009.
What it offers:
- 3-year Fashion Design Course
- Tuition worth R195,120
- Laptop sponsored by Gert-Johan
- Bernina sewing machine valued at R14,000
- Two annual internships at Gert-Johan Coetzee Studios
Key Dates:
- Opens: 1 August 2025
- Closes: 1 September 2025
- Finalists announced: 5 September 2025
- Winner starts: February 2026
How to Apply:
- Complete the NWSD online application form.
- Upload a short video (max 1min30s) introducing yourself and answering: “If you
could design an outfit for someone iconic, who would it be – and why?” - Post the video to TikTok or Instagram using hashtags: #nwsd #gert
#gertbursary2024 #fashiondesign #fashionbursary #fashionschool Tag:
@nwsdfashion and @gertjohancoetzee
Eligibility:
- South African citizen, 18+
- Gr 12 certificate with diploma exemption or equivalent
- No prior fashion experience required
- Able to start in Feb 2026
- Fluent in English
3. OTHER BURSARIES
From time to time, North West School of Design receives access to additional bursary opportunities from external funders, sponsors, and community partners. These bursaries vary in value, eligibility, and application criteria — and are often time-sensitive. To ensure fair and timely access, NWSD shares these opportunities exclusively with applicants in our bursary database, which is compiled from entries received for the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary. That means: Even if you don’t win the Gert-Johan Coetzee Bursary, your application allows us to share other bursary options with you as soon as they become available. So make sure you submit your entry! You could unlock a range of financial support options beyond the flagship bursary itself.
4. MANATI ALTERNATE STUDENT FUNDING
Provides low-interest study loans through partnerships with academic and corporate entities. Loans cover tuition and related expenses (excluding accommodation), with fixed repayments during studies.
Key Benefits:
- Fixed instalments during studies
- Loans tailored to affordability and future employability
- Partnerships with 75+ institutions across South Africa
- Joint household income considered for affordability
What to Expect:
- Repayments begin immediately but are spread out
- Loans assessed based on your qualification and career prospects
Contact Manati via WhatsApp: 064 605 0554
5. MMABANA ARTS, CULTURE & SPORTS FOUNDATION BURSARY
The Mmabana Arts, Culture & Sports Foundation Bursary is a financial aid program designed to support students in the North West Province who are pursuing studies in the Performing or Visual Arts at South African institutions.
Requirements:
- South African citizen residing in the North West Province
- Accepted or enrolled at an accredited South African institution
- Studying towards undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications in Performing or Visual Arts
- Not receiving NSFAS funding
- Not employed by Mmabana or government
- Must demonstrate financial need
Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Study materials
- Accommodation (if needed) Excludes transport and meals
Submission: Email to applications@mmabana.org.za or deliver to Mmabana Centres (Mahikeng, Taung, Lehurutshe, Rustenburg, Kanana CAC in Orkney) NWSD students pursuing Fashion Design under Visual Arts.
6. CITY OF MATLOSANA MAYORAL BURSARY
Students residing in Matlosana are eligible. The bursary is open-ended and may support creative fields if the application is strong.
Requirements:
- South African citizen residing in Matlosana Municipality (includes Klerksdorp,
Stilfontein, Orkney, Hartbeesfontein) - Proven financial need
- Strong academic record
- Accepted at a recognized South African tertiary institution
- Preference for scarce skills fields, but not limited to them
Covers:
- Tuition
- Study materials
- Accommodation
Deadline: 31 January annually
Application: Collect forms from local municipal offices or libraries in KOSH area.
Submit to: Office of the Executive Mayor – Bursary Committee City Council of Matlosana, Civic Center Building, Klerksdorp
7. NWSD BURSARY-BASED FEE CONCESSIONS
Internal financial aid available to full-time South African students with household
incomes below R350,000 per year.
Concessions Include:
- 50% tuition sponsorship (1 recipient/year)
- 35% tuition sponsorship (2 recipients/year)
- 20% tuition sponsorship (3 recipients/year)
- Full sponsorship for student resources and Platinum Fashion Festival fees (3recipients/year each)
Eligibility:
- South African citizen, 18+
- Proof of Income
- 3 Months Bank Statement
- Gr 12 certificate
- No prior fashion experience required
- Fluent in English
Apply via email: admissions@nwsd.co.za