National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) International Bursary 2026 — The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) invites students to apply for their international bursary programme for the 2026 academic year (starting in September or October 2026). Bursaries will be awarded for International Postgraduate studies towards a Film or Television qualification (excluding Live Performance or Acting courses). The aim of the NFVF bursary programme is to stimulate and develop skills of candidates who wish to follow a career within the film and TV industry, with funding up to R280,000 covering tuition fees and living expenses.
About National Film and Video Foundation
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) was formed in order to ensure substantial growth of the film and video industry in South Africa, by providing funding for the development and training of filmmakers, as well as for producing, developing, distribution and marketing of films.
The NFVF is a statutory body and an agency of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC). The main objectives of the NFVF are to: increase the accessibility of South African films; to increase the amount of films in South Africa and the amount of producers for previously disadvantaged backgrounds; to increase the amount of training within the film industry and in scarce skills areas; to locally and internationally promote the film industry of South Africa.
Maximum Funding: R280,000 • Academic Year: 2026 (Sept/Oct start) • Study Level: International Postgraduate
Fields Covered by National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) International Bursary 2026
Bursaries will be awarded for International Postgraduate studies towards a Film or Television qualification.
- Film Production
- Film Direction
- Screenwriting
- Cinematography
- Film Editing
- Sound Production
- Documentary Filmmaking
- Television Production
Excluded: Live Performance or Acting courses are NOT eligible for this bursary.
Eligibility Requirements for National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) International Bursary 2026
- You must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident in South Africa
- You must be enrolled for full-time studies towards a Postgraduate qualification in Film/TV programme, which is NOT available in South Africa (the course must commence in September or October 2026)
- You must be accepted or enrolled at an accredited overseas tertiary institution
- You must apply 6 months before the course starts
- You must have a strong academic record
- You must have proven financial need
- You must read the NFVF Bursary Funding Policy
Expenses Covered by National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) International Bursary 2026
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
Maximum Value: Up to R280,000 total coverage for tuition and living expenses.
How to Apply for National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) International Bursary 2026
Application Method: Online application only via the NFVF portal.
Application website: nfvf.praxisgms.co.za
Applicants will be required to Register an Account before they can Login and apply.
⏰ Closing Date: 9 March 2026 at 17:00
Important: Applications submitted via fax or email will NOT be accepted. Submit all required documents online before the deadline.
Required Documents
Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your online application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified):
- ID document or proof of permanent residence (certified copy)
- Full academic record (certified copy)
- Proof of enrolment at an international institution (on institutions letterhead)
- Motivational letter stating why you should be awarded the bursary (read our tips on how to write a motivational letter for your bursary application)
- Proof of financial need – parents or guardians proof of income (certified copy)
Programme Details
- Company: National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)
- Bursary Name: NFVF International Bursary Programme
- Academic Year: 2026 (September/October start)
- Study Level: International Postgraduate
- Fields: Film and Television qualifications (excluding Live Performance/Acting)
- Coverage: Tuition fees and living expenses
- Maximum Value: R280,000
- Application Method: Online at nfvf.praxisgms.co.za
- Closing Date: 9 March 2026 at 17:00
Contact
For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the NFVF directly:
Applications Officers:
- Thandekile Hlatshwayo – Tel: 011 483 0880 / Email: thandekiles@nfvf.co.za
- Manti Sekwakwa – Tel: 011 483 0880 / Email: mantis@nfvf.co.za
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the NFVF International Bursary?
A bursary programme for South African students to pursue international postgraduate studies in Film or Television qualifications that are not available in South Africa. It covers tuition fees and living expenses up to R280,000 for the 2026 academic year (starting September/October 2026).
2. Who is eligible to apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents enrolled for full-time postgraduate studies in Film/TV at an accredited overseas institution, for courses NOT available in South Africa. Applicants must have a strong academic record, proven financial need, and apply 6 months before the course starts.
3. What fields of study are covered?
Film and Television qualifications including Film Production, Film Direction, Screenwriting, Cinematography, Film Editing, Sound Production, Documentary Filmmaking, and Television Production.
4. What qualifications are excluded?
Live Performance or Acting courses are excluded. The bursary is for Film or Television qualifications only.
5. How much does the bursary cover?
Up to R280,000 maximum value, covering tuition fees and living expenses.
6. How do I apply?
Apply online at nfvf.praxisgms.co.za. You must register an account first. Applications via fax or email will NOT be accepted. Closing date: 9 March 2026 at 17:00.
7. What documents are required?
Certified ID/proof of residence, certified academic record, proof of enrolment from international institution, motivational letter, and certified proof of income for parents/guardians.
8. When must my course start?
The course must commence in September or October 2026.
9. Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Thandekile Hlatshwayo or Manti Sekwakwa at 011 483 0880 or email thandekiles@nfvf.co.za / mantis@nfvf.co.za.
10. Where can I find more bursaries?
For more bursaries and funding opportunities, explore our bursaries database or check art and culture bursaries.
For more film and television bursaries, visit EduFunds.co.za
National Film and Video Foundation
International Bursary • Postgraduate Studies • Film & Television
Developing Skills • Growing SA Film Industry