Do you want to start a career in fashion design right now? The Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary offers a full‑time place for one South African student in 2027, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the Gert‑Johan Coetzee Fashion Bursary 2027?
The bursary funds a three‑year, full‑time Fashion Design programme at the North West School of Design in Klerksdorp, North West. Studies begin on 03 February 2027. The sponsor is the fashion house Gert‑Johan Coetzee.
Who can apply?
- South African citizen
- 18 years or older
- Currently in Matric or have finished Matric
- Hold a Diploma exemption or equivalent
- Plan to study full‑time for three years
- Can start in February 2027
- Fluent in English (read, write, speak)
- Willing to read the North West School of Design prospectus
What will you receive?
- Full tuition fees for three years (about R200 000)
- A laptop provided by Gert‑Johan Coetzee Studios
- A Bernina sewing machine (value ~R14 000)
- Two paid internships each year at Gert‑Johan Coetzee Studios
What is not covered?
- Transport costs
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Fabric for assignments
You will need to arrange these yourself.
How to apply – step by step
- Follow the required Instagram accounts (details given by the school).
- Complete the online application for the North West School of Design.
Apply through the NWSD portal - Record a short video (max 1 min 30 sec) answering: “If you could tell any story through fashion, what story would you tell, and why?”
- Post the video on Instagram or TikTok. Tag @nwsdfashion and @gertjohancoetzee, use the hashtag #GertBursary2026, and share the post to your Instagram Story tagging @nwsdfashion.
Tips to improve your chances
- Read the 2027 Fashion Design prospectus before you start your application.
- Keep the video under the time limit and make sure sound is clear.
- Show your personality and creativity – think of a story that matters to you.
- Double‑check that you have tagged the accounts and used the correct hashtag.
- Proofread your written application for spelling and grammar.
- Apply early; many applicants wait until the last day and risk technical glitches.
Important dates
- Application deadline: 07 September 2026
- Finalists announced by the school: 11 September 2026
- Winner announced after the shortlist
- Course starts: 03 February 2027
Contact for enquiries
Telephone: 018 462 5149
Email: admin@nwsd.co.za
Next steps
Gather your documents, record your video, and submit everything before 07 September 2026. This could be the first step toward a professional fashion career.
