Top 15 Acting Schools In Johannesburg And Fees (2026)

Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest hubs for film, television, and theatre training. Aspiring actors have access to a wide range of institutions—from university-level film schools to private drama studios and youth academies.

When choosing an acting school, the most important factors are tuition fees, industry exposure, course flexibility, accreditation, and performance opportunities. Below is a detailed guide to the top 15 acting schools in Johannesburg, including what they offer and estimated costs where available.

Top 15 Acting Schools In Johannesburg And Fees

1. AFDA Johannesburg

AFDA is one of South Africa’s most prestigious film and performance schools, known for producing award-winning actors, directors, and filmmakers. It offers degrees in performance, film, and media production with strong industry integration.

Fees: Approximately R55,000 – R80,000 per year (depending on programme level).

AFDA emphasizes hands-on training, including film sets, stage performances, and production work, making it ideal for serious acting students.

2. National School of the Arts (NSA)

NSA is a specialised public arts school offering drama, music, dance, and visual arts for high school learners.

Fees: Generally subsidised (varies annually; lower than private institutions).

Students receive structured training in theatre performance and often progress into professional arts careers or university-level studies.

3. Johannesburg Academy for Theatre Arts (JATA)

JATA is a popular performing arts academy offering acting, singing, and dance training for children, teens, and adults.

Fees: Not fixed publicly; typically paid per term or monthly.

It is known for its flexible, part-time training and strong focus on performance development and confidence-building.

4. National Children’s Theatre (NCT)

NCT focuses on youth theatre training and professional stage exposure for children and teenagers.

Fees: Varies by programme (generally affordable group class rates).

Students regularly participate in live productions, making it ideal for early performance experience.

5. African Academy of Cinematic Arts (AACA) Film & Acting School

AACA combines acting training with film production skills, including directing, screenwriting, and media studies.

Fees: Moderate (course-based pricing depending on programme length).

It is suitable for students interested in both acting and behind-the-camera roles.

6. Figment School of Dramatic Arts

Figment is known for personalised acting coaching and small class sizes, helping beginners and intermediate actors refine their skills.

Fees: Around R500 – R800 per month range (varies by class type).

It also offers agency connections, helping students find auditions.

7. AFDA Short Courses (Johannesburg Campus Programmes)

Apart from degrees, AFDA also offers short acting and performance courses for skill development.

Fees: Typically from R5,000 upwards depending on duration.

Great for working individuals or beginners testing acting as a career.

8. CityVarsity Johannesburg (Braamfontein Campus)

CityVarsity is a well-known creative media school offering acting for film, television, and stage.

Fees: Approximately R40,000 – R70,000 per year (programme dependent).

Students gain exposure to industry-standard film production environments.

9. Helen O’Grady Drama Academy (Johannesburg Branches)

This international drama programme focuses on confidence, communication, and acting skills for children.

Fees: Monthly class fees (varies by age group).

It is not exam-focused but excellent for early development and speech training.

10. ADK Drama & Film Academy

ADK offers structured drama, film acting, and performance training for children and adults.

Fees: Mid-range private school pricing (contact-based).

It has been active for decades and is respected for foundational acting training.

11. Upstage Concepts Performing Arts Studio

Upstage Concepts is a performance coaching studio focused on competitions, auditions, and confidence building.

Fees: Monthly coaching fees depending on programme.

Students frequently participate in national and international performance competitions.

12. The Market Theatre Laboratory

Linked to the iconic Market Theatre, this institution focuses on professional theatre training.

Fees: Subsidised/varies by intake programme.

It is highly respected for producing socially conscious theatre actors.

13. Footprint Media Academy

Footprint Media Academy trains students in acting, voice, and media performance skills.

Fees: Mid-range (programme dependent).

It is registered with training authorities and offers structured certification courses.

14. Star Quality Creative Arts College

This institution offers acting, dance, and modelling training for aspiring performers.

Fees: Moderate private tuition (varies by programme).

It is best for students seeking multi-disciplinary entertainment training.

15. University of Johannesburg (UJ Arts & Culture / Drama Programmes)

UJ offers formal theatre and performance degrees through its arts faculty.

Fees: University standard tuition (approximately R45,000 – R60,000 per year depending on programme).

It provides academic training combined with live theatre exposure.

Comparison Table of Top Acting Schools in Johannesburg

Conclusion

Johannesburg offers one of the most diverse acting education landscapes in Africa, ranging from affordable youth drama schools to internationally recognised film institutions like AFDA.

If you want formal qualifications and film industry access, AFDA or UJ are ideal.
If you prefer flexible, affordable training, schools like JATA, Figment, and Helen O’Grady are strong options.
For serious stage performance careers, Market Theatre Lab remains one of the most respected pathways.

Choosing the right acting school depends on your budget, experience level, and long-term career goals, but Johannesburg provides a strong foundation for every type of aspiring performer.