The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is offering a bursary that could launch your career in film and television, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the NFVF Bursary Programme 2027 offers
The NFVF Bursary Programme is open for the 2027 academic year. It funds undergraduate and postgraduate National Diploma or degree studies that are directly related to film and television production.
The bursary covers tuition fees and, for first‑year students, a one‑off top‑up of up to R50 000. The extra amount can be used for accommodation, meals, textbooks, computers, software or other approved study resources.
Expenses that are not covered include travel costs, any outstanding student debt and items without proper documentation.
Eligibility – Who can apply
You must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Matric completed
- Enrolled or planning to enrol full‑time at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate National Diploma or degree in a Film or Television‑related field
- Current academic average of at least 60 % (for those already studying)
- Household income below R600 000 per year
- Strong motivation to build a career in the local film and TV industry
Film and Television fields that are funded
- Film production
- Television production
- Directing
- Screenwriting
- Cinematography
- Film editing
- Sound production for film and TV
- Animation
- Visual effects
- Producing (film & TV)
- Documentary production
- Post‑production
- Film business and distribution
- Other recognised film and TV disciplines
Studies that are not funded
- Acting, performing arts, music, dancing, theatre performance
- Any qualification that falls outside the film and television sector
What you will receive
The bursary pays your tuition fees for the full length of your qualification. First‑year students may also receive the additional R50 000 top‑up for approved living and study costs.
How to apply – Step‑by‑step guide
All applications must be submitted online through the official NFVF portal.
Apply for the NFVF Bursary 2027
- Open the NFVF bursary portal.
- Create an account using a valid email address.
- Log in and select the “NFVF Bursary Programme 2027”.
- Complete every required field in the application form.
- Upload all supporting documents (see list below).
- Check that every certified document is dated within the last six months.
- Review your application carefully for completeness.
- Submit before 17:00 on 31 August 2026.
Applications sent by email or fax will not be accepted.
Required documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified recent academic transcript or results
- Proof of acceptance or provisional admission at a recognised tertiary institution
- Letterhead breakdown of annual tuition fees
- One‑page motivation letter (see below)
- Proof of household income (see “Financial documents” section)
- Commitment letter if you already receive another bursary
- Any additional documents requested by the online system
Financial documents
If you are under 21
- Latest payslips, bank statements or proof of social grants for parents/guardians
- Proof of income for a spouse or partner, if applicable
If you are 21 or older
- Latest payslips (if employed) or bank statements
- Proof of social grants
- Affidavit confirming unemployment, if relevant
- Any other official documents showing your financial situation
Motivation letter
Write a clear, one‑page letter that explains:
- Why you want to study film or television
- Your career goals in the industry
- Why you need financial support
- How the qualification will help you develop
- The impact you hope to have on South African film and TV
- Why you deserve the NFVF bursary
Tips to strengthen your application
- Double‑check that your field of study is listed under the funded disciplines.
- Make sure every certified document is dated within the last six months.
- Keep your motivation letter focused on the NFVF bursary – no generic fluff.
- Submit early – technical glitches are common on the final day.
- Provide clear, legible copies of all financial documents.
- If you already receive another bursary, attach a detailed commitment letter.
Contact for enquiries
If you have questions, contact the NFVF application officers:
Thandekile Hlatshwayo
Telephone: 011 483 0880
Email: thandekileh@nfvf.co.za
Manti Sekwakwa Mmalebati
Telephone: 011 483 0880
Email: mantis@nfvf.co.za
Always mention that your query relates to the “NFVF Bursary Programme 2027”.
Final advice and next steps
Before you hit submit, confirm that you:
- Are a South African citizen with a Matric certificate.
- Are studying (or will study) full‑time in a recognised film or TV field.
- Meet the 60 % academic average requirement (if already studying).
- Have a household income below R600 000 per year.
- Have attached a one‑page motivation letter and all required certified documents.
- Have uploaded proof of tuition fees and, if applicable, the top‑up budget.
- Are applying before the 31 August 2026, 17:00 deadline.
Take the first step today. Gather your documents, write a strong motivation letter, and submit your application through the official portal. This bursary could be the financial boost you need to start a rewarding career in South Africa’s vibrant film and television industry.
