NFVF Bursary 2027

## About the Provider The National Film and Video Foundation, known as the NFVF, was established to ensure substantial growth of the film and video industry in South Africa. It does this by providing funding for the development and training of filmmakers, as well as for the production, development, distribution, and marketing of films. As a statutory body, the NFVF operates as an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. The NFVF has several important objectives. It aims to increase the accessibility of South African films, to grow the number of films produced in the country, and to increase the number of producers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. It also works to expand training within the film industry, particularly in scarce skills areas, and to promote the South African film industry both locally and internationally. The film and television industry is an important part of South African culture and the creative economy. It tells the stories of the nation, reflects its diversity, and creates jobs across a wide range of skills, from creative roles to technical and business positions. However, building a strong industry requires a steady supply of trained, talented professionals, and many aspiring filmmakers face financial barriers that prevent them from gaining the qualifications they need. To help address this, the NFVF runs a bursary programme aimed at developing the next generation of film and television professionals. The programme reflects the foundation's commitment to skills development and transformation, opening doors for students who wish to build careers in this exciting field. By funding studies in film and television, the NFVF helps to ensure that the industry continues to grow and that more South Africans, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have the chance to participate. For learners who are passionate about storytelling, filmmaking, and visual media, the NFVF Bursary represents a valuable opportunity. It provides funding to study at a recognised institution and connects students to a respected national body that is dedicated to growing the industry. The programme is about more than just financial support; it is part of a broader effort to nurture local talent, tell South African stories, and build a vibrant film and television sector. Through this investment in education and skills, the NFVF demonstrates its belief in the power of film and television to inform, entertain, and inspire. By supporting talented young people, the foundation helps to shape the future of the industry and to ensure that the country's creative voices continue to be heard on screen.

## About the Program The NFVF Bursary Programme funds undergraduate and postgraduate studies for the 2027 academic year, specifically within film and television-related fields. The programme is open to students pursuing a National Diploma or Degree, and it excludes performing arts, acting, music, dancing, and any other courses that fall outside the film and television category. The aim of the programme is to stimulate and develop the skills of candidates who wish to follow a career in the film and television industry. By focusing on this specific sector, the NFVF helps to build the technical and creative talent needed to grow South Africa's film industry and to tell more local stories on screen. The bursary provides cover for full tuition fees. First-year students also receive additional support, capped at a set amount, for meals, accommodation, and other resources such as textbooks, a computer, and software. This combination of support helps students cover both their academic costs and some of their living and study needs, particularly in their crucial first year. It is important to note that the bursary does not cover travel expenses or any outstanding debt. Students are required to provide proof of expenses through proforma invoices or supporting documents on institution or supplier letterheads before payments are made. This ensures that the funding is used responsibly and for its intended purposes. Selection for the bursary is based on several criteria, including financial need, academic performance, motivation, demographics, adherence to the developmental mandate, and qualifying expenses. This broad set of criteria means that the NFVF looks at the whole applicant, considering not only academic ability but also financial circumstances and genuine commitment to a career in film and television. Applicants must have a strong academic record and, if currently studying, must have achieved an overall average of at least 60%. They must also demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income of less than R600 000 per year. Preference is given to students enrolled at public tertiary institutions. The application process requires students to register an account on the online system before logging in to apply. Applications submitted via fax or email are not accepted, reflecting the programme's structured and professional approach. By funding studies in film and television, the NFVF Bursary helps to develop the storytellers, technicians, and creative professionals who will shape the future of South African cinema and broadcasting.

## Bursary Benefits The NFVF Bursary provides financial support to help students pursue qualifications in film and television. The funding is focused on covering the essential costs of study, with additional support for first-year students. - **Full tuition fees** covered for the duration of the qualification - For **first-year students**, additional support capped at a set amount, covering meals, accommodation, and other resources such as textbooks, a computer, and software The additional support for first-year students is especially helpful, as the first year of study often comes with significant upfront costs for equipment and settling into university or college life. By covering tuition in full and helping with these extra costs, the bursary removes major financial barriers for students entering the film and television field. It is important to be aware of what the bursary does not cover. It does not include travel expenses or any outstanding debt. Students must also provide proof of expenses through proforma invoices or supporting documents before payments are made. This structured approach ensures that funds are used responsibly and reach the students who genuinely need them, while supporting their journey into the creative industries.

## Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered. - You must be a **South African citizen** - You must have **completed Matric** - You must be studying or intend to study **full-time** towards an undergraduate or postgraduate diploma or degree in the film or television industry - You must be registered or provisionally registered to study at a **recognised and accredited tertiary institution** in South Africa - You must have a **strong academic record** - If currently studying, you must have achieved an **overall average of 60%** - You must have proven **financial need**, with a combined household income of **less than R600 000 per year** - Preference will be given to students enrolled at **public tertiary institutions** in South Africa Please note that performing arts, acting, music, dancing, and any other courses outside the film and television category are excluded from this bursary.

## Required Documents Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents with your online application. All certified documents must have been certified within the last six months, and missing items may lead to disqualification. - A certified copy of your **ID document** (not older than six months) - Your **Matric certificate** (certified, not older than six months) - Your **most recent academic results or transcripts**, if currently studying (certified, not older than six months) - **Proof of tertiary acceptance** or acknowledgement of your application, on the institution's letterhead - A **breakdown of annual academic fees**, on the institution's letterhead - A one-page **motivational letter** explaining why you wish to study and work in the film industry - If under 21 years old, your parents', guardian's, or spouse's **proof of income** (payslips, bank statement, or social grant if applicable) - If over 21 years old, **proof of financial support** (payslips if employed, bank statement, social grant, or an affidavit if unemployed) - If receiving other bursary funding, a **commitment letter** stating this and the coverage amount

## How to Apply Applications for the NFVF Bursary must be submitted online through the official application system. Applications sent by fax or email will not be accepted. Follow these steps to apply successfully: 1. Gather all your required documents and ensure they are certified within the last six months, as required. 2. Visit the online application portal for the NFVF Bursary. 3. Register an account on the system before you can log in and apply. 4. Log in and complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic details. 5. When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the referral information as requested. 6. Write a one-page motivational letter explaining why you wish to study and work in the film industry. 7. Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear, complete, and recently certified. 8. Review your application carefully, then submit it before the closing date and time. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted. The closing time is 17:00 on the closing date, so do not leave your submission until the last moment. Keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.

## Tips for Success A strong bursary application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the NFVF Bursary. - **Write a compelling motivational letter.** This is your chance to show your passion for film and television. Explain clearly why you want to study and work in the industry, and keep it to one page. - **Make sure your field qualifies.** The bursary is only for film and television-related studies. Performing arts, acting, music, and dancing are excluded. - **Certify your documents recently.** All certified documents must be certified within the last six months. Plan ahead to get this done in time. - **Register early.** You must create an account on the online system before you can apply. Do this early so you are ready to complete your application. - **Mind the closing time.** The deadline is at 17:00 on the closing date, not midnight. Submit well before then to avoid problems. - **Prepare proof of income carefully.** Financial need is part of the selection, so make sure your income documents are recent and clear. - **Get a fee breakdown from your institution.** You will need a breakdown of your annual academic fees on the institution's letterhead, so request this in good time. - **Confirm your average.** If currently studying, you need an overall average of at least 60%. Check your results before applying. - **Proofread your application.** Errors and missing fields create a poor impression. Review everything before submitting, or ask someone to check it for you. - **Be truthful.** Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation. Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application, and writing a genuine motivational letter, will help you stand out among other candidates.

## Career Prospects The NFVF Bursary prepares students for careers in the film and television industry, a creative and dynamic sector that plays an important role in South African culture and the economy. Graduates can move into a wide range of roles, both in front of and behind the camera, though the bursary focuses on film and television production rather than performing arts. Graduates can pursue careers as directors, producers, screenwriters, cinematographers, editors, and production managers. These roles are at the heart of creating films, television programmes, documentaries, and other screen content. Each requires a combination of technical skill and creative vision, and each is essential to bringing stories to life on screen. There are also many opportunities in the technical side of the industry, including roles in sound design, lighting, visual effects, animation, and post-production. As technology continues to transform how films and television are made, professionals with strong technical skills are increasingly in demand. Beyond production, graduates can work in areas such as film distribution, marketing, and broadcasting. The industry needs people who can not only create content but also bring it to audiences, both locally and internationally. South Africa's film industry has been growing, and there is a strong push to produce more local content and to develop producers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. The skills developed in film and television studies are also transferable to the broader media and communications sector. Graduates may find opportunities in advertising, digital media, content creation, and corporate communications, where the ability to tell compelling visual stories is highly valued. Because the NFVF is a statutory body focused on developing the industry, bursary recipients become part of a wider effort to grow South African cinema and broadcasting. This connection can provide valuable networks and insight into the industry, helping graduates find their footing as they begin their careers. The film and television industry offers creative, varied, and rewarding work for those who are passionate about storytelling and visual media. For talented young people who dream of a career in this field, the NFVF Bursary provides both the funding and the foundation to turn that dream into a reality, while contributing to the growth of an important cultural and economic sector.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the NFVF Bursary? South African citizens who have completed Matric and are studying or intend to study full-time towards a film or television-related diploma or degree at a recognised institution, with a household income below R600 000 per year, may apply. ## What fields of study does the bursary cover? The bursary covers undergraduate and postgraduate studies in film and television-related fields. It excludes performing arts, acting, music, dancing, and any course outside the film and TV category. ## What expenses does the bursary cover? The bursary covers full tuition fees. First-year students also receive capped support for meals, accommodation, and resources such as textbooks, a computer, and software. It does not cover travel or outstanding debt. ## What marks do I need? You need a strong academic record, and if currently studying, an overall average of at least 60%. ## What is the income requirement? Your combined household income must be less than R600 000 per year. ## When is the closing date? Applications close on **31 August 2026 at 17:00**. Late applications will not be accepted. ## How do I apply? Applications are submitted online. You must register an account before logging in to apply. Applications by fax or email are not accepted. ## Do my documents need to be recently certified? Yes. All certified documents must have been certified within the last six months. ## Is preference given to any group? Yes. Preference is given to students enrolled at public tertiary institutions in South Africa.

Applications Closing

Applications close on 31 August 2026 at 17:00. Late applications will not be accepted, so prepare your documents and motivational letter early and submit well before the deadline.

About the Organization

National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) Thandekile Hlatshwayo - Tel: 011 483 0880 / Email: thandekileh@nfvf.co.za Manti Sekwakwa Mmalebati - Tel: 011 483 0880 / Email: mantis@nfvf.co.za