Is a diploma in Digital Animation from The Animation School Accredited?

Yes, this qualification is accredited by the Council on Higher Education. The programme details are as follows: • Abbreviation: Dip (Digital Animation) • SAQA ID: 71756 • NQF Level: 6 • Total Credits: 360 • Minimum Duration: Three years full-time

Can I Study Animation Part-Time While I Work?

The three-year Diploma in Digital Animation is a full-time programme with live classes, regular assignments, and collaborative activities scheduled during the day (typically between 08:30 and 16:30). We discourage diploma students from working part-time during the term, as this programme’s workload is very demanding. However, we offer a variety of short online animation courses for anyone who wants to learn animation skills but is unable to attend classes full-time.

What Does It Cost to Study Computer Animation?

Our 2027 tuition fees for South African and other African students range between R131,000 and R144,500 (subject to your payment schedule). Tuition for international applicants (and rest of Africa) costs R131,000, with the full amount due on registration. Early Bird Discount: Students who register on or before 31st August 2026 receive an early bird discount; and are eligible to pay the 2026 fees. The tuition fees for the online diploma are the same as the on-campus programme, as both offer the same high-quality qualification, academic support, and access to expert lecturers. Tuition fees include free access to Autodesk Maya, Adobe Suite, and Toonboom Harmony, but exclude any compulsory books, other software, digital drawing equipment and/or removable hard drives required to complete day-to-day responsibilities. All students should budget an additional R3,000 per year for these expenses. Download prospectus

Do You Offer Financial Assistance for a Diploma in Digital Animation?

The Animation School only awards internal scholarships in second and third year to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, skill, and work ethic. For first-year students, we recommend exploring the following external funding opportunities: • Student Hero is a funding platform that connects students with multiple funding providers. You can apply online, check your affordability, and get guidance on student loan options. - Email: hello@studenthero.co.za - Tel: 061 585 3490 • National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) offers bursaries to talented South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Applications typically open in July for a limited two-month window. • Oasis Bursary Programme provides support for students through its award-winning investment firm. • MultiChoice Talent Factory offers full tuition bursaries for students entering second year or higher at qualifying institutions. • Nestlé Bursary Programme is focused on upskilling young talent through education support. We encourage students to begin their funding search early and reach out to these organisations directly to explore the best options available. See our Prospectus for more information about financial assistance and bursaries.

What Animation Software Will I Use during the digital animation course?

You will develop proficiency in the following software packages used by the animation industry: ● Autodesk Maya (3D animation software) ● Adobe Photoshop (painting & texturing software) ● Adobe Premiere (video-editing software) ● Adobe After Effects (special effects software) ● Adobe Substance Painter (painting & texturing software) ● Toonboom (2D animation software) ● Arnold (rendering software) ● Nuke (compositing software) ● ZBrush (sculpting software) Tuition fees include free access to Autodesk Maya, Adobe Suite, and Toonboom Harmony. You will receive a full list and installation instructions upon registration.

What Computer Specs Do I Need to Study Animation?

Because animation software is demanding, students need a powerful desktop computer to complete the Diploma in Digital Animation. Below are the minimum and recommended specifications: Minimum (Mid-Range) Requirements: ● Intel i7 processor ● 32GB RAM ● 512GB SSD (for fast performance) ● 1TB hard drive (for storage) ● 4GB graphics card ● 27-inch monitor ● Microsoft Windows ● Gaming keyboard and mouse (for durability and responsiveness) Recommended (High-End) Specifications: ● Intel i9 processor ● 64GB RAM ● 512GB SSD + 1TB hard drive ● 6GB graphics card ● 27-inch monitor ● Microsoft Windows ● Gaming keyboard and mouse We strongly recommend using a Windows desktop setup rather than a laptop, as it offers better performance and reliability for the intensive software used throughout the course. Investing in the right equipment will ensure students can fully engage with the course content and avoid unnecessary technical issues.

What Kind of Internet Connection Is Needed to complete the animation course?

To participate fully in the online programmes, you need a stable and reliable broadband internet connection. This is especially important for attending live classes, uploading assignments, and accessing video content. We recommend the following minimum internet speeds: ● Download Speed: 10–25 Mbps ● Upload Speed: 3–5 Mbps A wired connection (LAN cable) is often more stable than Wi-Fi, especially during live sessions. We also recommend having an uncapped data plan if possible, as animation software and media files can be large. Before your programme starts, you will receive a tech checklist and support to ensure your setup is ready for online learning.

How Are Students Assessed for the diploma in digital animation?

All assessments in the diploma are designed to evaluate a student's understanding of animation principles, creative thinking, and technical skills—and all of them can be completed fully online, without the need to attend campus. We use a variety of assessment methods to help students demonstrate their learning and prepare for the demands of the animation industry. These include: ● Essays and reports to develop written communication, research, and reflection skills ● Creative writing assignments such as short stories and scripts to strengthen storytelling and narrative design ● Practical projects such as hands-on animation tasks where students apply what they’ve learned to create original work ● Portfolios or collections of work that show growth and development over time ● Presentations where students pitch ideas or showcase work, either live or pre-recorded ● Quizzes and tests to check students’ understanding of key concepts and theory ● Peer and self-assessment to encourage students to evaluate their own work and provide constructive feedback to others These assessments are submitted through our online platforms and are marked by lecturers, sometimes with input from peers or external reviewers. Feedback is provided regularly to support ongoing learning and improvement.

Do digital animation Graduates Easily Find Careers in Animation?

Yes, 80-90% of our graduates find secure employment in the local animation industry, and several have gone on to work in the US, Canada, and Europe.

Does South Africa Have a Strong Animation Industry?

Yes, South Africa has a well-established and ever-growing animation industry. It is home to several award-winning animation studios producing world-class content, including Triggerfish Animation Studios, Mind’s Eye Creative, Sunrise Animation Studios, and Hidden Hand Studios.

Is an Animation Diploma the Same as an Animation Degree?

A diploma and a degree are both higher education qualifications, but they serve different purposes. An animation degree is often more academic and theory-based. Our Diploma in Digital Animation is practical and job-focused. It’s designed to get you working in the industry as soon as you graduate. You’ll learn by doing: creating characters, producing short films, and working in a team just like in a real animation studio. This hands-on training is exactly what many studios look for when hiring. In fact, employers often tell us our graduates are ready to contribute from day one. Completing the Diploma in Digital Animation also qualifies you to apply for an Advanced Diploma or a Bachelor’s Degree in Animation or a related field. You may be able to transfer credits for advanced entry into a Bachelor’s Degree in Animation, although some programmes may have extra requirements or require a bridging course.

Do Students Have Access to Facilitators Outside of Class Time at The Animation School?

Yes, students have access to their facilitators outside of scheduled class times. While facilitators may be busy with other classes or meetings during the day, they are committed to supporting students and will respond as soon as possible. Students can contact lecturers and facilitators via: ● Discussion forums on Moodle for general questions and peer support ● Chat groups on Microsoft Teams for quick updates and informal discussions ● Email for direct communication ● One-on-one appointments, which can be scheduled when more in-depth support is needed We encourage students to make use of these channels and reach out whenever they need help or feedback.

Will There Be Online Animation Communities or Forums to Interact With Classmates?

Yes! There are class-based Microsoft Teams chat groups and Moodle discussion forums where students can share ideas, ask questions, and stay in touch with their classmates outside of the live sessions. In addition to class-based chat groups and discussion forums, we’re committed to creating a vibrant online community where students can connect, collaborate, and support one another. We’re also working on launching a range of online community initiatives, including: ● Social meetups and game nights to help students relax and get to know each other ● Interest-based channels (e.g., sketching, gaming, movies, tech tips) ● Creative challenges and virtual exhibitions to celebrate student work and talent We believe that building friendships, sharing experiences, and feeling part of a supportive community are just as important as academic success—and we’ll provide the space for students to do just that, even in a virtual environment.

Can International Students Apply for a diploma in digital animation?

Yes, international students are welcome to apply for the online Diploma in Digital Animation. Please note that live classes are scheduled in South African Standard Time (SAST), so time zone differences may affect your availability for sessions. If you have foreign qualifications (including but not limited to Cambridge, or homeschooling), you must submit them to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for evaluation before applying. This is to confirm whether you meet the minimum general admission requirements for higher education in South Africa. We’ll support you through this process and provide guidance if you need assistance with the evaluation.

Can I Transfer From Another Animation Programme to the Animation School?

Yes. You can apply for credit transfer through our Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) process. To be considered, the modules you’ve completed must cover similar content, learning outcomes, and assessments as those in our diploma. You’ll need to submit an official academic record, module descriptions, and a reference letter from your current institution. Please note: no more than 50% of the total credits can be transferred, and each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. CAT applications close on 31 October 2026.

Can I Apply for a diploma in digital animation if I Don’t Meet the Academic Requirements but Have Work Experience?

Yes. If you’re 23 or older and have relevant experience in the field, you may apply through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. You’ll need to follow the usual application steps and request the RPL application when you submit your portfolio. Applications for RPL also close on 31 October 2026.

Bursary Competition | Launch Your Animation Career

3 BURSARIES. 3 CREATIVE FUTURES.

Animate your future with The Animation School.

Your imagination could be the start of something extraordinary.

The Animation School is awarding three full tuition bursaries for the 2027 intake of our three-year Diploma in Digital Animation, with one bursary available for each study option:

Cape Town
Johannesburg
Online

Each bursary covers full tuition fees for first, second and third year, subject to normal academic progression and student conduct requirements.

Equipment, materials, accommodation, transport, stipends and all other non-tuition costs are excluded.

WHO CAN ENTER?

Already applied or registered for 2027?

Eligible applicants will automatically be considered using their existing completed application.

You do not need to apply or register again. If you do not wish to participate, notify Admissions in writing before selection.

Haven’t applied for 2027 yet?

The bursary campaign is open to all new applicants who:

Are applying to start first year of the Diploma in Digital Animation in 2027;
Meet The Animation School’s normal admission requirements; and
Submit a complete application, including the required creative work and supporting documents, by the closing date.

Cape Town and Johannesburg: Open to South African citizens.

Online: Open to South African and International citizens.

Applicants under 18 require parent or guardian consent.

SHOW US YOUR TALENT

We’re looking for creative minds with imagination, originality and a passion for visual storytelling.

There’s no separate competition project. Your existing Diploma application and creative portfolio are your opportunity to show us what you can do.

Whether you’re creating characters, building worlds or telling stories through drawing, we want to see your talent and potential.

HOW TO ENTER

Applications open on 9 October 2026.

Complete your Diploma application and select the option to participate in the bursary campaign.

You may submit one application for one study option: Cape Town, Johannesburg or Online.

START YOUR APPLICATION

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO SUBMIT?

Your application must include the documents and creative work required through our normal admissions process:

Your creative portfolio and required comic strip
Your motivation letter
Your latest academic results
Your identification documents
Follow the submission instructions on the application form. Your creative work must be your own original work. Copied, plagiarised or AI-generated artwork will not be accepted.
Only completed and submitted applications will be considered.

HOW WILL RECIPIENTS BE SELECTED?

Bursaries will be awarded on creative talent and potential, assessed through your portfolio and an interview with the Principal and/or CEO.

The highest-rated qualifying finalist in each study option will receive a bursary—one for Cape Town, one for Johannesburg and one for Online.

This is a talent bursary. Financial need and payment status do not form part of the assessment.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 31 DECEMBER 2026

Complete and submit your application by 23:59 South African Standard Time.

Recipients will be announced in early January 2027, following verification and acceptance.

Your next chapter could start with animation.

APPLY NOW

Ts & Cs apply.

Want to Learn More? Attend Our Next Open Day

Join our interactive two-hour Diploma in Digital Animation presentation

Ask questions and see examples of student work

Book my open day Apply now