Unlock Your Global Film & TV Career with NFVF International Bursaries 2026!
Are you a passionate South African creative with big dreams of making your mark on the international film and television stage? The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is once again opening doors for local talent to gain world-class expertise through its highly anticipated 2026 International Postgraduate Bursary Programme. This is your chance to acquire specialized skills, gain global exposure, and contribute significantly to South Africa's vibrant creative economy.
Your Pathway to International Excellence: Key Details
Here’s a snapshot of this incredible opportunity:
- Programme Name: NFVF International Film & TV Postgraduate Bursary 2026
- Maximum Funding: Up to R280,000
- Study Level: Postgraduate studies overseas (Master's, PhD)
- Field of Study: Specialised Film and Television studies not offered in South Africa
- Applications Open: 09 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 09 March 2026 at 17h00 (CAT)
- Study Commencement: September/October 2026
- Eligibility: South African citizens or permanent residents
- Application Portal: NFVF Grant Management System (online)
Why NFVF Champions Global Training for Local Talent
The NFVF's international bursary programme is a strategic investment in the future of South African film and television. Its core mission is to empower local professionals with skills that will elevate the entire industry. The programme specifically aims to:
- Upskill talented South African creatives at leading international institutions.
- Address critical specialised training gaps currently unavailable within South Africa.
- Develop scarce and high-demand skills essential for industry growth and innovation.
- Cultivate globally competitive filmmakers and television professionals.
- Strengthen South Africa's creative economy and enhance its international standing.
Crucially, this bursary focuses on postgraduate programmes that are not offered locally, ensuring that the funding directly supports the acquisition of unique and high-impact qualifications.
Understanding the Financial Support (Up to R280,000!)
Successful applicants can receive up to R280,000 to help cover the significant costs associated with overseas study. This comprehensive funding may contribute towards:
- Tuition fees for your chosen programme.
- Accommodation expenses while living abroad.
- General living costs, including daily essentials.
- Other academic-related costs, such as research materials or software.
Bursary decisions are made based on a careful assessment of several factors, including your academic merit, demonstrated financial need, the relevance of your chosen programme to the South African industry, and its potential positive impact on the sector.
Who Should Seize This Opportunity?
If you're an ambitious individual in the film and television sector looking to specialise, this bursary could be perfect for you. It's particularly ideal for aspiring:
- Directors
- Producers
- Screenwriters
- Cinematographers
- Editors
- Sound Designers
- Animation Specialists
- Post-Production Supervisors
Remember, your intended qualification must not be offered in South Africa and should clearly align with strengthening our nation's film and television ecosystem.
Are You Eligible? Check These Requirements
To be considered for the NFVF International Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Possess a strong and consistent academic record.
- Demonstrate genuine financial need for the bursary.
- Have already received acceptance or be enrolled at an accredited overseas academic institution.
- Plan to study a full-time postgraduate programme in film or television.
- Your studies must commence in September or October 2026.
- The qualification you are applying for must specifically be unavailable at institutions within South Africa.
Important Note: Programmes focused on live performance and acting are unfortunately not eligible for this particular bursary. Ensure your chosen course aligns with technical or creative production aspects of film and television.
Crafting Your Compelling Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter is a critical component of your application. It’s your opportunity to convince the NFVF why you are the ideal candidate. Make sure to articulate:
- Why you are deserving of this prestigious bursary.
- How your chosen international qualification will directly benefit and strengthen the South African film and television industry.
- Your clear career plans and aspirations upon completing your studies and returning to South Africa.
Emphasise how your future contributions will create a tangible national impact and drive industry innovation.
Don't Miss Out! Apply Early
The application window is narrow, so ensure you prepare thoroughly. The application period runs from 09 February 2026 to 09 March 2026 at 17h00 (CAT). Gather all necessary academic transcripts, proof of acceptance, financial statements, and your well-crafted motivation letter in advance.
This is a golden opportunity to expand your horizons and bring invaluable international knowledge back home. Visit the NFVF Grant Management System to start your application and take the first step towards a truly global career in film and television!
