South African creatives who dream of studying film and television abroad now have a powerful opportunity to elevate their careers globally. The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) has officially opened applications for its 2026 International Postgraduate Bursary Programme.
This funding initiative is designed to equip local talent with world-class skills, global exposure, and specialised industry expertise.
Quick Overview
Programme: NFVF International Film & TV Postgraduate Bursary 2026
Funding Amount: Up to R280 000
Study Level: Postgraduate (Overseas)
Field: Film and Television Studies
Application Opens: 09 February 2026
Closing Date: 09 March 2026 at 17h00 (CAT)
Study Start: September/October 2026
Eligibility: South African citizens or permanent residents
Application Platform: NFVF Grant Management System
Purpose of the International Bursary Programme
The NFVF International Bursary focuses on strengthening South Africa’s film and television sector through capacity building.
The programme aims to:
- Upskill South African creatives at international institutions
- Address specialised training gaps not available locally
- Develop scarce skills within the industry
- Build globally competitive filmmakers
- Strengthen South Africa’s creative economy
Importantly, the bursary supports postgraduate programmes that are not currently offered in South Africa, ensuring funding is directed toward unique and high-impact qualifications.
Funding Coverage
Successful applicants may receive up to R280 000, which may contribute towards:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Academic-related costs
Funding decisions are based on:
- Academic merit
- Financial need
- Programme relevance
- Potential impact on South Africa’s film and television sector
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is ideal for aspiring:
- Directors
- Producers
- Screenwriters
- Cinematographers
- Editors
- Film and television specialists
If your intended qualification is not offered locally and aligns with strengthening South Africa’s film ecosystem, you are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Apply at least six months before course commencement
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Have a strong academic record
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be accepted or enrolled at an accredited overseas institution
- Study full-time postgraduate film or television
- Start studies in September/October 2026
- Apply for a qualification not available in South Africa
Important:
- Live performance and acting programmes are not eligible.
Motivation Requirement
Applicants must submit a detailed motivation explaining:
- Why they should receive the bursary
- How the qualification will benefit South Africa
- Their career plans after completing studies
Your motivation must clearly show national impact and industry contribution.
Required Documents
Applications must include:
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of acceptance at an overseas institution
- Motivation letter
- All required supporting documents
Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the NFVF Grant Management System:
Application steps:
- Register an account on the portal
- Complete the bursary application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before 09 March 2026 at 17h00
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Applicants are responsible for keeping their contact details updated throughout the process.
Enquiries
For application support, contact:
Applications Officer – Thandekile Hlatshwayo
Email: thandekileh@nfvf.co.za
Tel: 011 483 0880
Applications Officer – Manti Sekwakwa
Email: mantim@nfvf.co.za
Tel: 011 483 0880
Why This Bursary Matters
The NFVF International Bursary is more than financial support — it is an investment in:
- South Africa’s storytelling capacity
- Global industry competitiveness
- Advanced technical and creative skills
- Cultural export potential
For creatives ready to take their talent to an international level and return with skills that uplift the local industry, this opportunity could be career-defining.