🚨 Attention future animator, 2027 applications are open!
Attention future animator,
2026 applications are open!
Apply to study at The Animation School
and take your first step towards your
dream career
Click on the button below to begin the pre-application process. Once you've gone through the pre-application quiz, we'll then provide you with all the details on how to submit your full application! PLUS: Save R9,000 on your tuition fees if you complete registration before 31 August 2026!
Cape Town
+27 21 461 0822
apply-cpt@theanimationschool.co.za
42 Searle Street, Woodstock
Online
+27 21 461 0822
online@theanimationschool.co.za
Johannesburg
+27 11 886 0624
apply-jhb@theanimationschool.co.za
110 Conrad Drive, Craighall Park
Attention future animator, 2026 applications are open!
🚨Attention future animator,
2027 applications are open!
Apply to study at The Animation School and take your first step towards your dream career
Click on the button below to begin the pre-application process. Once you've gone through the pre-application quiz, we'll then provide you with all the details on how to submit your full application! PLUS: Save R9,000 on your tuition fees if you complete registration before 31 August 2026!
Cape Town
+27 21 461 0822
apply-cpt@theanimationschool.co.za
42 Searle Street, Woodstock
Online
+27 21 461 0822
online@theanimationschool.co.za
Johannesburg
+27 11 886 0624
apply-jhb@theanimationschool.co.za
110 Conrad Drive, Craighall Park
Online Learning
Now Available!
Transform your creative passion into professional skills from anywhere in the world. Our new online learning option delivers the same world-renowned curriculum as our campus program, now accessible from your home.
Studios Our Alumni Are Working At...
Online Learning
Now Available!
Transform your creative passion into professional skills from anywhere in the world. Our new online learning option delivers the same world-renowned curriculum as our campus program, now accessible from your home.
The Animation School is dedicated to helping talented young creatives kickstart their animation careers the right way.
Our diploma is designed to give students the practical skills and industry connections they need to hit the ground running after graduation!
You'll be job-ready from day one and walk away with real skills, a killer portfolio, and the connections you need to land your first animation job.
Want to turn your animation dreams into an actual career?
Ever watch an incredible animated scene and think "I want to make stuff like that"? But then the doubts creep in… The idea of spending years studying something that might not get you a job is terrifying. Most animation courses teach theory, hand you a certificate and wish you luck… And that leaves you thinking "okay, now what?"
But what if you learned animation the way studios actually need it… Graduated with a portfolio that makes hiring managers pay attention… and build real connections to people already working in animation?
With The Animation School's Diploma in Digital Animation, you learn practical skills studios need, build a portfolio that shows what you can do, and graduate with industry connections.
As Africa’s #1 animation school, we've been training animators for over 20 years. Our graduates work at top studios around the world, and we know exactly what it takes to get you from student to working animator.
Want to turn your animation dreams into
an actual career?
The Animation School is dedicated to helping talented young creatives kickstart their animation careers the right way.
Our diploma is designed to give students the practical skills and industry connections they need to hit the ground running after graduation!
You'll be job-ready from day one and walk away with real skills, a killer portfolio, and the connections you need to land your first animation job.
Ever watch an incredible animated scene and think "I want to make stuff like that"? But then the doubts creep in…
The idea of spending years studying something that might not get you a job is terrifying. Most animation courses teach theory, hand you a certificate and wish you luck… And that leaves you thinking "okay, now what?"
But what if you learned animation the way studios actually need it… Graduated with a portfolio that makes hiring managers pay attention… and build real connections to people already working in animation?
With The Animation School's Diploma in Digital Animation, you learn practical skills studios need, build a portfolio that shows what you can do, and graduate with industry connections.
As Africa’s #1 animation school, we've been training animators for over 20 years. Our graduates work at top studios around the world, and we know exactly what it takes to get you from student to working animator.
Apply For 2027 & Receive Exclusive Bonuses!
When you apply and complete your registration, you get instant access to bonuses designed to help you build your skills faster and get ahead before your diploma even starts. Apply today and get access to:
BONUS #1: FREE Short Course Of Your Choice (Worth R3,900)
Pick any of our specialised courses - Character Design, 3D Modeling, Storyboarding - and get it completely free. Start building your skills before your diploma even begins.
BONUS #2: 50% Off Additional Short Courses (Save Up To R7,800)
Want to dive deeper? Get half-price access to our entire short course library. Perfect for exploring different animation styles or getting ahead of the game.
BONUS #3: Priority Class Scheduling (Priceless)
No fighting for the good time slots. You'll get first pick of class schedules, so you can build your timetable around your life, not the other way around.
Our Promise: Rock Solid Guarantee
If you don't pass your matric, we will refund your deposit in full, no questions asked.
With this guarantee, students can feel confident that they are making a sound investment in their future.
Apply For 2027 & Enjoy
A Suite of Exclusive Bonuses!
When you apply and complete your registration, you get instant access to bonuses designed to help you build your skills faster and get ahead before your diploma even starts. Apply today and get access to:
BONUS #1: FREE Short Course Of Your Choice (Worth R3,900)
Pick any of our specialised courses - Character Design, 3D Modeling, Storyboarding - and get it completely free. Start building your skills before your diploma even begins.
BONUS #2: 50% Off Additional Short Courses (Save Up To R7,800)
Want to dive deeper? Get half-price access to our entire short course library. Perfect for exploring different animation styles or getting ahead of the game.
BONUS #3: Priority Class Scheduling (Priceless)
No fighting for the good time slots. You'll get first pick of class schedules, so you can build your timetable around your life, not the other way around.
Our Promise: Rock Solid Guarantee
If you don't pass your matric, we will refund your deposit in full, no questions asked.
With this guarantee, students can feel confident that they are making a sound investment in their future.
Early Birds Save R9,000
On Tution Fees!
If you complete your full registration on or before 31 August 2026, you will be eligible to pay the 2026 fees and save up to R9,000 on your tuition fees! Here's how it works:
Deposit Payment: Deposit of R22,500-00 on registration secures a place in the course for 2027.
Monthly Payments: You will then be eligible to pay a monthly instalment of R11,300-00 from February 2027 to November 2027
Don't miss out on this incredible chance to enjoy savings while you study at Africa's #1 animation school!
Early Birds Save R9,000
On Tution Fees!
If you complete your full registration on or before 31 August 2026, you will be eligible to pay the 2026 fees and save up to R9,000 on your tuition fees! Here's how it works:
Deposit Payment: Deposit of R22,500-00 on registration secures a place in the course for 2027.
Monthly Payments: You will then be eligible to pay a monthly instalment of R11,300-00 from February 2027 to November 2027
Don't miss out on this incredible chance to enjoy savings while you study at Africa's #1 animation school!
The Animation School is dedicated to helping talented young creatives kickstart their animation careers the right way.
Our diploma is designed to give students the practical skills and industry connections they need to hit the ground running after graduation!
You'll be job-ready from day one and walk away with real skills, a killer portfolio, and the connections you need to land your first animation job.
How To Apply To The Animation School:
STEP #1 - When you click on any of the buttons on this page, you will be redirected to a short questionnaire that will help us get to know you a little better and see if you're the right candidate to apply at The Animation School.
STEP #2 - Once you’ve submitted your details, we’ll redirect you to a page where you can watch a video explaining the next steps of your application process.
STEP #3 - Once you’re ready to go, you can get started with the next step of the application process, where you will need to fill out a form and give us some details about yourself and your parents/guardians
STEP #4 - Registrants will receive instructions on how to complete their registration, claim their FREE short course and access their 50% discount on additional courses.
An animation career opens many possibilities...
People say that pursuing a career in the arts is a dead end... To that, we respond with the fact that The Animation School boasts a high success rate in our graduates finding work and building successful careers after graduation!
Animators are in high demand in several industries around the world, including entertainment, gaming, advertising, education, healthcare, and software design. Becoming an animator opens so many doors for you.
By clicking the button below, The Animation School can help you be a part of that success.
An animation career opens many possibilities...
People say that pursuing a career in the arts is a dead end... To that, we respond with the fact that The Animation School boasts a high success rate in our graduates finding work and building successful careers after graduation!
Animators are in high demand in several industries around the world, including entertainment, gaming, advertising, education, healthcare, and software design. Becoming an animator opens so many doors for you.
By clicking the button below, The Animation School can help you be a part of that success.
Experience is the best teacher
Knowledge is knowing what to do, but experience is what teaches you how to do it.
This is why The Animation School’s renowned Diploma In Digital Animation focuses largely on the practical application of skills and techniques.
Upon graduation, students have everything they need to hit the ground running and ‘wow’ their potential employers or use their qualification as the perfect stepping stone towards furthering their studies locally or internationally!
Experience is the best teacher
Knowledge is knowing what to do, but experience is what teaches you how to do it.
This is why The Animation School’s renowned Diploma In Digital Animation focuses largely on the practical application of skills and techniques.
Upon graduation, students have everything they need to hit the ground running and ‘wow’ their potential employers or use their qualification as the perfect stepping stone towards furthering their studies locally or internationally!
Tap into a $400-billion Indsutry!
The global animation industry is worth over $400 billion and it's growing at a rapid pace, with no signs of slowing down.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime are pumping billions into animated content every single year... game studios are exploding, advertising agencies are hungry for motion designers, and the demand for skilled animators has never been higher.
The opportunity is wide open, and the only thing standing between you and your place in it is the right training...
Tap into a $400-billion Indsutry!
The global animation industry is worth over $400 billion and it's growing at a rapid pace, with no signs of slowing down.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime are pumping billions into animated content every single year... game studios are exploding, advertising agencies are hungry for motion designers, and the demand for skilled animators has never been higher.
The opportunity is wide open, and the only thing standing between you and your place in it is the right training...
Degree Vs Diploma?
The aim of the Diploma in Digital Animation prepares students for a successful career in the animation industry.
The Animation School's diploma program prioritises industry readiness and practical application over purely theoretical information, giving students the ultimate edge over their peers when joining the workforce or even furthering their studies.
Through the Diploma, you will equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, technological training and professionalism required to make a smooth transition into the workplace.
Click the button below and gain the TAS advantage!
Degree Vs Diploma?
The aim of the Diploma in Digital Animation prepares students for a successful career in the animation industry.
The Animation School's diploma program prioritises industry readiness and practical application over purely theoretical information, giving students the ultimate edge over their peers when joining the workforce or even furthering their studies.
Through the Diploma, you will equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, technological training and professionalism required to make a smooth transition into the workplace.
Click the button below and gain the TAS advantage!
Our Story
We started The Animation School over 20 years ago with one goal - train people who can actually work in animation, not just talk about it.
Since then, our students have won over 200 awards across different animation genres, from 2D to 3D, from character work to full productions. But here's what matters more - they're working at studios that matter.
Our graduates land positions at Triggerfish Animation, Paramount, and Disney because we don't teach animation in a bubble. We work directly with these studios to make sure what you're learning today is what they need tomorrow. Our curriculum changes with the industry, not years behind it.
Every lecturer you learn from has worked in animation professionally. They've been on real productions, hit real deadlines, and solved real problems. They know what it takes because they've done it themselves, and now they're here to show you how.
We've built a space where you can experiment, mess up, learn, and grow without the pressure of a client breathing down your neck. You get to be creative while learning the discipline the industry demands.
Over 20 years, thousands of students, one constant - we prepare you for the real world of animation. Ready to be part of what we're building? Click the button below.
Best Animation School in Africa. My son absolutely loves the Animation school. He is currently enrolled for a 3 year diploma in animation.
Leola Nyoka
The Animation School has a very good reputation because over 60% of the students that graduated already have jobs.
I love the new campus - more spacious and relaxed. I can't wait to attend this amazing institution!
Thabile Ngwatwana
What an awesome Open Day! Thanks Nuno for an excellent and highly entertaining presentation.
Zelda Nel Bezuidenhout
IT TRULY IS THE BEST OF THE BEST, it has left me speechless
KEANO. Inc
Great presentation. Outstanding work by students.
Andre Nathanson
Best Animation School in Africa. My son absolutely loves the Animation school. He is currently enrolled for a 3 year diploma in animation.
Leola Nyoka
The Animation School has a very good reputation because over 60% of the students that graduated already have jobs.
I love the new campus - more spacious and relaxed. I can't wait to attend this amazing institution!
Thabile Ngwatwana
What an awesome Open Day! Thanks Nuno for an excellent and highly entertaining presentation.
Zelda Nel Bezuidenhout
IT TRULY IS THE BEST OF THE BEST, it has left me speechless
KEANO. Inc
Great presentation. Outstanding work by students.
Andre Nathanson
Never has there been a time in history when young creatives have had so much opportunity to pursue their passions in an industry that is growing at such a rapid pace. The animation industry is booming, and you’ve got the opportunity of a lifetime to boom with it.
The Animation School, has trained some of the biggest names in the animation industry today and is your ticket to success. Our practical and comprehensive diploma program will equip you with the skills and network needed to jumpstart your career in the industry.
LIMITED TIME OFFER: Register early and receive a FREE short course, AND a 50% discount on additional courses.
Don't wait until it's too late, apply today secure your spot for 2027 and join us in shaping the future of animation!
Frequently Asked
Questions
What is the Diploma in Digital Animation?
The Diploma is a three-year, full-time programme that prepares you for a professional career in animation. You'll learn everything from 2D and 3D animation to character design, storyboarding, and full production pipelines. By the time you graduate, you'll have real skills, a professional showreel, and the connections to land your first job.
Is the Diploma available online?
Yes. You can study the Diploma on campus in Cape Town or Johannesburg, or through our full online learning option. The online programme delivers the same world-renowned curriculum as our campus programme, just accessible from wherever you are.
What are the entry requirements?
Entry requirements for the Diploma in Digital Animation are as follows:
1. Portfolio of Artwork
You are required to present a portfolio of artwork for assessment.
2. Computer Literacy
You should be able to use a personal computer confidently and be familiar with Windows or Mac operating systems.
3. Minimum Qualifications
You should have a National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) with admission to a Diploma or Bachelor's Degree or a National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4.
You must have achieved at least 50% in three fundamental subjects, including English, and at least 60% in the three compulsory vocational subjects.
If you are an international student with foreign qualifications, you must apply to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to have your qualifications evaluated.
Who should apply for the Diploma in Digital Animation?
If you're eager to develop strong drawing skills, are curious about people and the world around you, have a passion for visual storytelling, and are willing to put in long hours to bring characters and stories to life, we invite you to apply.
Experience in art and drama will support the more creative aspects of animation, while mathematical and logical thinking skills will benefit those looking to focus on the technical side.
If you want to explore specific areas of animation or sharpen your skills, our short courses can help you develop and grow where you need
Do you offer financial assistance?
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 (NEVE) 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 can I do with this Diploma after graduating?
Our graduates work at studios like Triggerfish Animation, Paramount, and Disney. Career paths include 2D animator, 3D animator, character designer, motion graphics artist, storyboard artist, visual effects artist, and many more. The animation industry is projected to reach 640 billion dollars by 2030, so the opportunities are only growing.
How many spots are available for 2027?
There are only 170 seats available across our Johannesburg campus, Cape Town campus, and online learning option. Applications are processed on a first come, first served basis, and once those spots are filled, they're gone.
Can I apply with my Grade 11 results?
Yes. You can apply with your Grade 11 marks or current Grade 12 term results for preliminary acceptance. This means you can secure your spot for 2027 while other students are still waiting for their matric results. If you don't pass matric, your deposit is refunded in full.
What makes The Animation School different from a university degree?
The Animation School focuses on practical, industry-ready training rather than years of theory. Everything you learn is based on what studios actually need. Your lecturers are working professionals who have been on real productions and hit real deadlines. You graduate with a professional showreel and portfolio that shows employers what you can do, not just a piece of paper that says you studied animation.