The Academy of Digital Arts (ADA) is a recognised private higher education institution located in the heart of Cape Town’s city centre, specialising in contemporary digital design and creative industries education. Founded in 2006 and opened in 2007, the Academy has established itself as a leading institution for practical, industry-focused digital education. The Academy is officially registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) as a Private Higher Education Institution, with all qualifications accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered on the National Qualifications Framework (Level 5) by SAQA.
The Academy operates under the broader Friends of Design collective, which includes the Short Course Academy, corporate training division, and Loud Rabbits design agency. All faculty members are practising professionals actively working in their respective creative fields, bringing real-world expertise directly into classrooms. The Academy’s mission is simple: “We teach creatives.”
The Academy of Digital Arts is not eligible for NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding, as it is a private registered higher education institution. However, the Academy offers its own bursaries, scholarships, and financing options to support deserving students. These are merit-based and/or need-based, with eligibility determined individually. The Academy works with financing partners to provide alternative funding mechanisms.
Payment plan options allow students to spread tuition fees across the academic year. Students may also explore employer sponsorship and industry-specific bursaries. For those unable to afford full-time study, the Academy’s flexible short courses offer an entry point to creative education at lower cost, allowing students to build skills before pursuing full qualifications.
The Academy operates a single main campus in Cape Town’s vibrant city centre, strategically positioned in South Africa’s creative hub. The central location provides easy accessibility via public transport and convenient parking. The campus features dedicated design studios, computer laboratories, collaborative workspaces, and specialist labs for game development and multimedia production.
All workstations are equipped with industry-standard software including Adobe Creative Cloud, Unreal Engine, and web development tools. Beyond the physical campus, the Academy operates online short courses allowing students across South Africa and internationally to access specialised design training through the Academy’s learning management system.
Visit the Academy of Digital Arts website and navigate to the application portal at portal.ada.ac.za/apex/StudentManagerRegistration. Create an online profile, select your desired programme (Graphic Design, Web Design & Development, Game & Interactive Media, Concept Art, or Bachelor in Concept Art), and enter your educational background.
Upload supporting documentation including certified copies of Grade 12 or highest educational certification, valid South African ID or passport, and proof of contact details. After submission, applicants typically receive confirmation within 5-7 working days. Successful applicants receive an official acceptance letter with orientation and fee payment details. For enquiries, contact enrol@ada.ac.za or visit www.ada.ac.za.
Entry requirements are flexible and inclusive, accepting applicants from various educational backgrounds. Prospective students typically need Grade 9 or higher education completion, though the Academy considers mature applicants with relevant work experience. For full-time higher certificate and degree programmes, applicants should demonstrate basic proficiency in English and mathematics.
The Academy values creative passion, motivation, and potential over strict academic credentials. Prospective students are encouraged to submit a portfolio of creative work if available. Portfolio submission is not mandatory but can strengthen applications, particularly for the Bachelor in Concept Art. Non-South African applicants require valid travel documentation and may need visa eligibility for study in South Africa.
The Academy of Digital Arts has applications open for the 2026 full-time course intake. The 2026 academic year: Orientation takes place on February 12, 2026, with course commencement on February 16, 2026. Prospective students are advised to submit applications well in advance of orientation.
For those unable to meet the February 2026 intake, the Academy typically accepts rolling applications for subsequent intakes depending on capacity. Short course intakes are more flexible, with multiple entry points throughout the year. Early application is recommended, as full-time programme spaces may fill quickly.
The Academy of Digital Arts charges early bird tuition fees of R77,900 for students applying before the application deadline, representing a saving of R8,600 from the standard rate. The standard full-time programme tuition fee is approximately R86,500 per year for 2026. This fee covers all instruction, practical labs, software licences, and on-campus facilities. A registration fee of R500 is payable upon enrolment.
The Academy offers multiple payment options and instalment plans allowing students to spread payment across the academic year. Additional costs include external software, design materials, and project-related supplies. Short courses have varying fees depending on duration and content. For detailed fee information for short courses, enquire at shortcourses@ada.ac.za.
The Academy offers one-year full-time Higher Certificate programmes accredited at NQF Level 5: Graphic Design, Web Design & Development (with UX/UI specialisation), Game & Interactive Media Development, and Concept Art. The Academy also offers a Bachelor in Concept Art (3-year degree-level qualification). All full-time programmes combine intensive classroom instruction with hands-on software training and industry-relevant project work.
Beyond full-time qualifications, the Academy provides flexible short courses and specialist modules available both virtually and on-campus, including Desktop Publishing (3 months), 3D Art and Animation, Film Production, and design software training. All programmes emphasise practical, project-based learning with students working on real-world briefs from day one using Adobe Creative Cloud, Unreal Engine, and web development frameworks.
The Academy of Digital Arts is located in Cape Town’s city centre, easily accessible via public transport. Administrative enquiries: enrol@ada.ac.za. Short course questions: shortcourses@ada.ac.za. Website: www.ada.ac.za.
Student support services include regular office hours with all lecturers, industry connections through partnerships with leading creative companies, and career services. The Academy facilitates partnerships with organisations such as Xneelo, Learning Curve, First Thursdays, Iziko, Old Mutual, and Woolworths. Graduates gain access to networking events, industry conferences, and continuing education through the Short Course Academy. Career services include portfolio development assistance, interview preparation, and ongoing employment connections.