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

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is inviting South African students to apply for its bursary programme for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity is for students pursuing National Diplomas or degrees in Film and Television-related fields.

Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Location: Recognised tertiary institutions in South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (funding for tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software, and other academic resources)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (Grade 12) or equivalent

About the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027

The NFVF Bursary Programme aims to develop skills and support students who wish to build careers in South Africa’s vibrant film and television industry. This bursary is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. It focuses on qualifications directly related to film and television production, directing, screenwriting, and other technical and business aspects of the industry.

The programme is designed to provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate academic potential and financial need. It supports the growth of local content creation and aims to foster talent within the South African film sector. Courses in performing arts, acting, music, or dancing are not funded by this bursary.

About the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)

The National Film and Video Foundation is a government agency established to support 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 South African film content. The NFVF plays a key role in nurturing talent and promoting the industry both locally and internationally.

Fields of Study Covered

The NFVF bursary supports undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in a variety of Film and Television-related disciplines. These include:

• 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

This bursary specifically excludes funding for qualifications in the following areas:

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

If your qualification includes some film-related modules but is primarily classified under performing arts, you should confirm your eligibility before applying.

What the NFVF Bursary Offers

Successful applicants will receive financial support for their studies. The bursary will cover full tuition fees. For first-year students, there may be additional funding available, capped at R50,000. This additional funding can contribute towards essential academic expenses such as accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software, and other approved academic resources.

Programme Duration and Location

The specific duration of the bursary programme is not specified. However, it supports students pursuing National Diploma or degree qualifications. The study must take place at recognised and accredited tertiary institutions within South Africa.

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 (Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification.
• 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.
• Demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income of less than R600,000 per year.

Academic Requirements

Current tertiary students applying for the bursary must have achieved an overall academic average of at least 60%. Applicants should be prepared to 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

Demonstrating financial need is a crucial part of the application. The combined annual household income of the applicant must be less than R600,000. Applicants will need to provide appropriate financial documents for their parents, guardians, spouse, or partner, depending on their age and circumstances.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are passionate about pursuing a career in the film and television industry. It is suited for students who have completed Matric and wish to obtain a National Diploma or degree in a film-related field. Applicants must be academically capable and demonstrate a genuine financial need for support to further their education.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• A certified copy of their South African identity document (not older than six months).
• A certified copy of their Matric certificate.
• Certified copies of recent academic results or transcripts, if currently studying.
• 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 required by the online application portal.

Financial Documents for Applicants

Applicants younger than 21 must submit proof of income for their parents, guardians, or spouse/partner. This can include latest payslips, bank statements, or proof of social grants. Applicants aged 21 and over must submit their own proof of financial support, such as payslips, bank statements, or an affidavit confirming unemployment.

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 should 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 not older than six months.
7. Review the entire application carefully before submission.
8. Submit the application before 17:00 on 31 August 2026.

Applications sent via email or fax will not be accepted.

Important Application Advice

Before submitting your application, please confirm the following:

• You meet all the minimum requirements, including citizenship and qualification field.
• Your household income is below the specified limit.
• Your motivation letter is concise and within the one-page limit.
• All required documents are attached and certified correctly.
• Your application is submitted well before the closing date to avoid last-minute issues.

Closing Date

The closing date for the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027 applications is 31 August 2026 at 17:00. Late applications will not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application as early as possible.

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