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

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 looking to gain qualifications and build careers in the country’s vibrant film and television industry.

Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Location: Recognised South African tertiary institutions
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software)
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 who are passionate about building careers in South Africa’s film and television sector. It provides financial assistance for National Diploma and degree qualifications. The programme focuses on specific film and television-related fields, excluding areas like acting, music, or dancing.

This bursary is designed to help students overcome financial barriers to education. It supports those who show academic promise and a strong desire to contribute to the local film industry. Applicants must meet specific academic and financial criteria to be considered for funding.

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 the production, distribution, and marketing of local film content. The NFVF plays a key role in nurturing talent and promoting diversity within the South African film landscape.

Fields of Study Covered

The NFVF bursary supports undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in a range of film and television-related disciplines. 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 course falls directly within the Film and Television sector.

Courses Not Covered

The bursary specifically does not fund qualifications in the following areas:

• Acting
• Performing arts
• Music
• Dancing
• Theatre performance
• Any courses outside the Film and Television category

If a qualification includes some film-related modules but is primarily classified under performing arts, it will not be eligible for funding.

What the NFVF Bursary Offers

Successful applicants can expect the following to be covered by the bursary:

• Full tuition fees
• For first-year students, additional funding of up to R50,000 may be provided for:
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Textbooks
• Computers
• Software
• Other approved academic resources

The bursary aims to provide comprehensive support for students’ academic journey in film and television.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for full-time study at recognised and accredited tertiary institutions within South Africa. The specific duration of the programme is not specified, as it will depend on the chosen qualification. Applicants should ensure they are registered or provisionally registered at a South African tertiary institution.

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.
• Be studying or planning to study full-time.
• Be pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate diploma or degree.
• Be studying in a Film or Television-related field.
• Be registered or provisionally registered at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Submit all required documents before the closing date.

Academic Requirements

Current tertiary students must have achieved an overall academic average of at least 60% in their previous studies. Applicants should submit their most recent certified academic transcript as proof of their academic performance. A strong academic record is a key factor in the selection process.

Financial Need Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate financial need. The combined household income for applicants must be less than R600,000 per year. Proof of income for parents, guardians, spouse, or partner will be required, depending on the applicant’s age and circumstances.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are passionate about film and television and wish to pursue a formal qualification in these fields. It is suited for individuals who demonstrate academic potential and a clear financial need. If you are committed to a career in the South African film industry and meet the academic and financial requirements, you are encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• A certified copy of their South African identity document.
• A certified copy of their 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.
• A commitment letter if the applicant receives other bursary funding.
• Any additional documents requested through the online application portal.

All certified documents must have been certified within the previous six months.

Financial Documents for Applicants

• Under 21: Submit proof of income for parents, guardians, or spouse/partner. Accepted documents include latest payslips, bank statements, or proof of social grants.
• Over 21: Submit proof of financial support, such as latest payslips, bank statements, proof of social grants, or an affidavit confirming unemployment.

Applicants with Other Bursary Funding

If you already receive other bursary funding, you must submit a commitment letter. This letter should detail the bursary provider, funding amount, covered expenses, funding period, and any remaining unpaid costs.

How to Apply for the NFVF Bursary 2027

Applications must be submitted through the official NFVF online application portal.

Click here to apply for the NFVF Bursary 2027

Applicants must follow these steps:

1. Open the NFVF bursary portal.
2. Register an online account.
3. Log in to the application system.
4. Complete all compulsory sections of the application form.
5. Upload all required supporting documents.
6. Ensure all certified documents are valid and up to date.
7. Review your application carefully before submission.
8. Submit your application before 17:00 on 31 August 2026.

Applications sent via email or fax will not be accepted.

Bursary Application Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 31 August 2026 at 17:00. Late applications will not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Important Application Advice

Before submitting your application, please confirm that:

• You are a South African citizen.
• You have completed Matric.
• Your chosen qualification is Film or Television-related.
• You will be studying full-time.
• Your institution is recognised and accredited.
• Your academic average is at least 60% if you are already studying.
• Your household income is below R600,000 per year.
• Your motivation letter is one page long.
• Your financial documents are attached.
• Your certified documents are not older than six months.
• Your application is submitted before the closing date and time.

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