National Film and Video Foundation Bursary

Calling all aspiring South African filmmakers and television professionals!

Are you passionate about storytelling, cinematography, or video editing? Do you dream of seeing your name in film credits one day? Then this opportunity is for you! The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is now accepting applications for their bursary programme for the 2026 academic year.

This incredible initiative is designed to help students who want to pursue a career in the film and television industry by providing financial support to ease the burden of tuition and, in some cases, accommodation.

 The bursary is a powerful tool for students who are dedicated to the craft of visual storytelling but lack the financial resources to fund their studies.

NFVF Bursary - 2026 Online Applications 

The NFVF bursary programme is a cornerstone of the foundation’s broader goal to grow and professionalize the South African film and video industry. 

By offering bursaries, the NFVF ensures that young, talented, and previously disadvantaged individuals can gain access to higher education and training opportunities in a field that is competitive and demanding — but also rewarding and culturally significant.

As the film and TV industry continues to evolve with digital media, streaming platforms, and global audiences, the need for skilled, creative professionals in South Africa has never been greater. That’s why the NFVF is investing in the future, one student at a time.

About the NFVF Bursary Programme:

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) bursary programme is part of the NFVF’s mandate to develop and promote the film and video industry in South Africa. The bursary seeks to identify, support, and empower talented students who are passionate about film and television but face financial barriers in accessing higher education.

The programme not only offers financial relief but also opens doors to networking opportunities, mentorship, and industry exposure. The NFVF is particularly committed to transforming the industry by increasing participation from previously marginalised groups, especially Black South Africans, women, and students from rural areas.

Ultimately, the bursary programme aims to nurture the next generation of filmmakers, editors, producers, scriptwriters, and technicians, who will go on to shape the stories that represent South Africa to local and global audiences.

FIELD OF STUDY

The bursary programme is open to students who are pursuing or want to pursue an undergraduate/postgraduate qualification (National Diploma/Degrees) in the Film and Television fields (excluding any performing arts, acting, music, dancing, and any other course not within the Film and TV category).

This means if you are studying or plan to study behind-the-scenes roles such as directing, producing, editing, cinematography, screenwriting, and sound engineering, you are eligible. 

However, courses focused on acting or performance are not covered by this bursary.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NFVF BURSARY PROGRAMME

To qualify for the NFVF bursary programme, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must be a South African citizen. Only citizens with a valid South African ID are eligible.
• You must have completed and passed matric.
• You must demonstrate financial need
• If currently studying, you must have achieved a minimum of 60% average.
• You must be accepted to study or studying an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification in Film and Television.
• You must be accepted to study or studying at an accredited tertiary institution within South Africa.
• Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals and to students enrolled in South African public tertiary institutions.

NOTE:

For continued support, beneficiaries must apply in every academic year cycle and pass all modules for the academic year. Failure to meet academic performance standards could result in the withdrawal of funding.

This condition encourages students to take their studies seriously and make the most of the opportunity they've been given.

NFVF BURSARY COVERS:

• Tuition fees
• Meals
• Accommodation
• Studying Materials

NFVF BURSARY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

To ensure your application is considered, you need to submit the following certified documents:

• Your certified ID copy
• Your certified copy of Matric certificate
• Your certified copy of academic results/transcripts (if currently studying)
• Tertiary acceptance/application OR proof of registration
• Annual academic fee breakdown from your institution
• A motivational letter (1 page) stating why you should be considered for the bursary
• Household proof of income;
• If under 21: submit parents/guardian/partner’s income documents (payslips/bank statements/social grant slips)
• If over 21: submit your own proof of financial support (payslips/bank statements/social grant/affidavit if unemployed)
• Commitment letter for other bursary funding (if applicable)

Ensure all documents are certified within the last three months and clearly legible. Missing or unclear documents will result in disqualification.

How to apply for the NFVF Bursary for 2026

Applications for the NFVF bursary programme for the 2026 academic year should be submitted online before the deadline. Follow through the steps stipulated below to get started with your online application:

• Visit the NFVF application site HERE
• Register a profile by filling in your personal information and creating a username and password.
• After completing your profile, log in and begin your application.
• Upload all supporting documents, and review before final submission.

NB: Applications sent through fax or email will not be accepted. Only applications submitted via the official NFVF online system will be reviewed.

CLOSING DATE

The closing date for the NFVF bursary programme applications for the 2026 academic year is the 31st of July 2025.

Please note:

• Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
• Missing or uncertified documents will result in automatic disqualification.
• Incomplete forms or incorrect information may lead to your application being rejected.
• Applicants are urged to read all instructions carefully and double-check their submission to ensure eligibility and compliance.

Don’t miss this opportunity to kickstart your career in the film and video industry!

Apply for the NFVF bursary programme today and take the first step toward building a future in one of South Africa’s most creative and impactful industries. Whether you want to work on documentaries, television shows, or feature films, this bursary could be the boost you need to get started.

Don't forget to share this exciting opportunity with anyone who might be interested in studying film and television. You could help someone take the next big step in their academic and professional journey!