National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) Bursaries 2027: Film and Television Studies

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students pursuing studies in Film and Television. This opportunity is for undergraduate and postgraduate students who want to build careers in the South African film and television industry.

Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Location: Recognised tertiary institutions in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software for first-year students up to R50,000)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (for first-time applicants), 60% academic average (for current students)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027

The NFVF Bursary Programme aims to develop skills and support students in the film and television sector. It is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are studying or plan to study National Diplomas or degrees in Film and Television-related fields. The programme focuses on nurturing talent and providing financial assistance to those who wish to establish careers within this dynamic industry.

This bursary specifically supports qualifications directly related to film and television production, directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound production, animation, visual effects, producing, documentary production, post-production, and film business and distribution. It is designed to foster growth and provide opportunities for aspiring professionals in South Africa’s creative media landscape.

About the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is a government agency dedicated to supporting the growth and development of South Africa’s film and video industry. Its mandate includes funding for filmmaker development, training, and supporting the production, development, distribution, and marketing of local film content. The NFVF plays a key role in shaping the future of the South African film industry.

Fields of Study Covered

The NFVF bursary supports a wide range of Film and Television-related qualifications. These include, but are not limited to:

• Film production
• Television production
• Directing
• Screenwriting
• Cinematography
• Film editing
• Sound production for film and television
• Animation
• Visual effects
• Film and television producing
• Documentary production
• Post-production
• Film business and distribution

Applicants must ensure their chosen qualification falls directly within the Film and Television sector to be considered.

Courses Not Covered

The NFVF bursary does not fund studies in areas outside of Film and Television. Qualifications that will not be funded include:

• Acting
• Performing arts
• Music
• Dancing
• Theatre performance

If a qualification includes some film-related modules but is primarily classified under performing arts, it may not be eligible. Applicants should confirm their course’s eligibility before applying.

What the NFVF Bursary Offers

Successful applicants will receive financial support for their studies. The bursary covers full tuition fees. For first-year students, there is additional funding available, capped at R50,000. This extra support can be used for accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software, and other approved academic resources.

The bursary aims to alleviate the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus on their academic performance and career development within the film and television industry. Expenses not covered include travel, outstanding student debt, and costs not supported by valid documentation.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is for the 2027 academic year and is intended for students studying at recognised and accredited tertiary institutions within South Africa. The specific duration of the programme depends on the chosen qualification, whether it is an undergraduate diploma or degree, or a postgraduate qualification.

The NFVF encourages applications from students across the country who are pursuing relevant studies. While the bursary supports studies at various institutions, preference is given to students registered at public tertiary institutions.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Have completed Matric or Grade 12.
• Be studying or planning to study full-time.
• Be pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate diploma or degree in a Film or Television-related field.
• Be registered or provisionally registered at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
• Current tertiary students must have achieved an overall academic average of at least 60%.
• Demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income of less than R600,000 per year.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate certain qualities that align with success in the film and television industry. These include:

• A strong passion for Film and Television.
• Clear career goals within the industry.
• Good communication skills.
• A willingness to learn and adapt.
• The ability to work under pressure.
• A proactive and motivated attitude.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth and students who are passionate about film and television and are seeking financial assistance to pursue their studies. If you are aiming for a career in areas like film production, directing, screenwriting, or any other Film and Television-related discipline, and meet the academic and financial requirements, you are encouraged to apply.

The programme is particularly suited for individuals who can articulate their career aspirations and explain how this qualification will contribute to their development and impact on the South African film industry.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• A certified copy of your South African identity document (certified within the last six months).
• A certified copy of your Matric certificate.
• Certified copies of recent academic results or transcripts (if applicable).
• Proof of tertiary acceptance or acknowledgement of application.
• A breakdown of annual academic fees on the institution’s letterhead.
• A one-page motivation letter.
• Proof of household income (e.g., latest payslips, bank statements, social grant proof, affidavit for unemployment).
• A commitment letter if you receive other bursary funding.
• Any additional documents requested through the online application portal.

How to Apply

Applications for the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted through the official NFVF online application portal.

Click here to apply for the NFVF Bursary 2027

Applicants need to register an account, log in, complete all sections of the application form, and upload all required supporting documents. Ensure all certified documents are valid and that your application is reviewed carefully before submission. Submit your application before the closing date and time.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must meet all minimum academic and financial requirements.
• Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
• Ensure all submitted documents are certified and not older than six months.
• Applications must be submitted before 17:00 on 31 August 2026.

Closing Date

The closing date for the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027 applications is 31 August 2026 at 17:00. Applicants are advised to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

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