Aspiring fashion designers have the opportunity to secure substantial funding for their studies through the Design Academy of Fashion (DAF) Bursary Competition.
The annual competition offers successful applicants the chance to win bursaries worth up to R88,320 towards a Bachelor of Fashion Degree, helping talented young creatives access higher education in the fashion industry.
Win A Bachelor Of Fashion Bursary
The Design Academy of Fashion (DAF), located at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, Cape Town, has extended the entry deadline for its annual bursary competition to 4 September 2026.
Now in its second year, the competition is open to Matric learners and aspiring fashion creatives from Cape Town and across the Western Cape.
Successful entrants could receive bursary funding covering up to 80% of their tuition costs, making it easier for talented students to pursue a career in fashion.
How To Enter The DAF Bursary Competition
Applicants are required to submit an original fashion-related creative project together with a short motivational essay explaining why they want to study fashion.
Creative submissions may include:
- A fashion illustration or drawing.
- A mood board.
- A styled outfit.
- An upcycled garment.
The competition is designed to identify creative potential and provide opportunities for aspiring designers to develop their skills through formal higher education.
Bursary Prizes Available
The competition offers three bursary awards:
- First Prize: An 80% bursary valued at R88,320 towards a Bachelor of Fashion Degree.
- Second Prize (Two Winners): A 50% bursary valued at R55,200 each.
In addition to these awards, the Design Academy of Fashion continues to work with partner organisations to secure additional funding opportunities that may help more students access fashion education.
Supporting Future Fashion Designers
According to the academy, the bursary competition aims to increase access to quality fashion education while encouraging creativity and diversity within the industry.
"As a boutique institution built on excellence and industry exposure, we're always looking for diversity — different views, different perspectives, different stories. Seeing the success of our financially supported students is what makes this job, and this opportunity, so rewarding." — Luke Fobian, Operations Director, Design Academy of Fashion
Aspiring fashion students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their creative entries before the 4 September 2026 closing date for the opportunity to receive significant financial support towards their studies.
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