The NFVF National Bursary for Film and Television Studies 2026 is now open for South African students who want to build careers in the creative and entertainment industry. This bursary is offered by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) and is designed to support both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing film and television-related qualifications.
With funding covering tuition fees and additional study costs, this opportunity helps remove financial barriers for students who want to enter one of South Africa’s fastest-growing industries.
What Is the NFVF National Bursary?
The NFVF National Bursary is a financial support programme aimed at developing skilled professionals in the film and television sector.
It supports full-time studies at accredited South African tertiary institutions, including:
- National Diplomas
- Undergraduate Degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Postgraduate Degrees
The programme is part of NFVF’s mission to promote transformation, growth, and skills development in the creative economy.
Who Can Apply for the NFVF Film and Television Bursary?
To qualify for the bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have passed Matric
- Be registered or provisionally accepted at an accredited institution
- Study a film or television-related qualification
- Show financial need
- Maintain a good academic record
Both undergraduate and postgraduate students are encouraged to apply.
NFVF Bursary Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on several important factors.
Financial Need
Priority is given to students whose household income is below R600,000 per year.
Applicants over 21 must provide proof of their own financial situation.
Academic Performance
For current students:
- Minimum average of 60% required
- Must meet progression requirements for the next academic year
For Matric learners:
- Grade 11 results or
- Mid-year Matric results
Final selection is also subject to acceptance at a tertiary institution.
Motivation Letter
Applicants must explain:
- Why they want to study film or television
- Career goals in the industry
- How they plan to contribute to the sector
Transformation Factors
The NFVF also considers:
- Gender
- Race
- Disability status
- Home province
These factors support industry transformation goals.
What Does the NFVF Bursary Cover?
Funding depends on available budget, but may include:
Tuition Fees
- Full tuition support based on official institution fee statements
Accommodation and Meals
- Student accommodation
- Meal allowances
Study Materials
- Textbooks
- Required software
- Computer-related study tools
Annual Limit
Additional costs (accommodation, meals, and study materials) are capped at R50,000 per year, applicable mainly to first-year students.
Expenses Not Covered
The bursary does not cover:
- Travel costs
- Existing student debt
- Outstanding tertiary fees
Courses That Do NOT Qualify
The NFVF bursary is strictly for film and television-related studies.
The following are not funded:
- Acting
- Music
- Dance
- General performing arts qualifications
Only approved film and television academic programmes are considered.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application with certified documents, including:
- Completed online application form
- Certified South African ID copy
- Certified Matric certificate
- Latest academic results
- Proof of institution acceptance
- Motivation letter (one page)
- Detailed fee statement from institution
- Proof of financial support (if applicable)
Additional Documents (Under 21)
- Parent/guardian income proof
- Social grant documents (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if applicable)
- Affidavit for absent parent (if required)
Additional Documents (Over 21)
- Payslips
- Bank statements
- IRP5 certificates
All certified documents must be less than six months old.
Important Notice for Students
Students funded at public institutions cannot switch to private institutions after approval.
If a student changes from a public to a private institution, funding will be cancelled immediately.
Applicants are advised to confirm their institution before applying.
How to Apply for the NFVF Bursary
NFVF Bursary Application Portal
Steps include:
- Visit the official NFVF website
- Access the bursary application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
Applications submitted via email or fax will not be accepted.
Application Closing Date
- Opening Date: 2 June 2026
- Closing Date: 31 August 2026
- Closing Time: 17:00
Late applications will not be considered.
Contact Details
For enquiries, applicants may contact:
Thandekile Hlatshwayo
Email: thandekileh@nfvf.co.za
Tel: 011 483 0880
Manti Sekwakwa Mmalebati
Email: mantim@nfvf.co.za
Tel: 011 483 0880
Final Thoughts
The NFVF National Bursary for Film and Television Studies 2026 offers an important opportunity for students who want to build careers in South Africa’s creative industry.
With full tuition support, assistance for accommodation, and funding for study materials, this bursary helps reduce financial pressure while allowing students to focus on their studies.
For aspiring filmmakers, editors, producers, and media professionals, this opportunity can serve as a strong foundation for entering the film and television sector.
Applicants who meet the requirements are encouraged to prepare their documents early and submit their applications before 31 August 2026.





