Are you a South African student living in KwaZulu‑Natal and dreaming of a career in film, tourism or creative tech? The KwaZulu‑Natal Tourism and Film Authority is offering a bursary for the 2027 academic year, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the bursary offers
The KZN Tourism and Film Authority Bursary provides financial support to learners who reside in KwaZulu‑Natal and are studying, or plan to study, at recognised institutions in the province. It covers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that relate to film, television, digital media, heritage, eco‑tourism, hospitality and tourism management.
Who can apply
You must meet all of the following conditions:
- South African citizen residing in KwaZulu‑Natal.
- Currently completing Matric or have already passed Matric.
- Enrolled, or intending to enroll, in one of the eligible fields of study listed below.
- Registered (or planning to register) at a recognised public or private tertiary institution located in KwaZulu‑Natal.
- Applicants with disabilities or from previously disadvantaged backgrounds will receive priority.
Eligible fields of study
| Study level | Fields |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Film and TV Production |
| Undergraduate | Animation |
| Undergraduate | Acting for Film or TV |
| Undergraduate | Digital Skills (Gaming, VFX, VR, AR) |
| Undergraduate | Heritage and Cultural Tourism Studies |
| Undergraduate | Eco‑Tourism |
| Undergraduate | Hospitality Management |
| Undergraduate | Tourism Management |
| Postgraduate | Animation |
What the bursary covers
- Tuition fees – fully paid for students at public universities; for private institutions the amount is capped at the government rate.
- Accommodation – granted to students who live at least 50 km from their campus.
- Monthly allowance – R1 500 per month for successful recipients.
Documents you will need
Gather the following items before you start the online application:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified June Matric results (if you are still in Matric) or your Matric certificate (if completed).
- Certified academic record or transcripts (if already studying).
- Proof of registration or acceptance from a KZN tertiary institution.
- Institution’s 2027 fee schedule on official letterhead.
- Proof of household income (recent payslips, employment letter, SASSA grant, pension slip, or an affidavit if unemployed – not older than three months).
- Proof of disability, if applicable.
- A motivational letter explaining your chosen field and why you deserve the bursary.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official application portal: Apply for KZN Tourism and Film Authority Bursary 2027.
- Create an account using a valid email address.
- Complete the personal and academic information sections.
- Upload all required supporting documents (ensure they are clear and legible).
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before the closing date.
All documents must be uploaded before you click “Submit”. Applications received after 31 October 2026 will not be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is a certified copy and is less than three months old where required.
- Write a clear, sincere motivational letter – focus on your passion for the field and how the bursary will help you achieve your goals.
- If you have a disability or come from a previously disadvantaged background, highlight this in your application.
- Proofread for spelling and grammar errors; a neat application reflects professionalism.
- Keep copies of everything you upload in case you need to resend it.
Next steps
Take a moment today to confirm your eligibility and start gathering the necessary paperwork. The bursary could remove financial barriers and bring you closer to a career in South Africa’s vibrant tourism and film sectors. If you have questions, email the authority at bursaries@visitkznsa.com. Good luck – your future could start with this opportunity.
