The National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF) invites applications for its 2025 International Postgraduate Bursary Programme, designed to support South African citizens and permanent residents pursuing film & television postgraduate studies abroad in courses not offered within South Africa.

About the Bursary Provider

The NFVF is a statutory agency under the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture. It aims to grow the South African film and video industry by funding training, production, distribution, and international skills development for emerging creatives and industry professionals.

Fields Covered

The bursary supports full-time postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD) in Film or Television disciplines not currently available at any South African tertiary institution. Live performance or acting courses are not eligible.

Expenses Covered

The bursary provides financial assistance covering:

  • Tuition fees at the overseas institution
  • Living expenses (e.g., accommodation, meals)

Total funding is capped in most cases at approximately R280 000, covering both tuition and living costs.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • South African citizen or permanent resident
  • Accepted for full-time postgraduate Film/TV study at an accredited institution outside South Africa
  • The chosen course may not be available in South Africa
  • The programme must start in September or October 2025
  • Apply at least six months before course commencement
  • Strong academic record (proof from previous studies)
  • Demonstrable financial need through income documents

Failure to satisfy all criteria or submit required documents in full may result in disqualification.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the NFVF bursary portal (PraxisGMS)

You must register for an account first, then complete the application form and upload certified supporting documents including:

  • ID or permanent residence documentation
  • Academic transcript and matric certificate
  • Proof of acceptance at an international institution
  • A motivational letter outlining career goals and relevance to SA film/TV industry
  • Proof of financial need (e.g. parents’ income statements)
  • Letter of recommendation from an industry professional (recommended by some sources)

Note: Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Closing Date

7 April 2025 at 17:00 CAT. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

National Film & Video Foundation
Applications Officers:
Thandekile Hlatshwayo – Tel: 011 483 0880 | Email: thandekiles@nfvf.co.za
Manti Sekwakwa – Tel: 011 483 0880 | Email: mantis@nfvf.co.za

1. Who is eligible for this bursary?
South African citizens or permanent residents accepted for full-time postgraduate Film or TV programmes abroad (Masters or PhD) in courses not offered locally, with strong academic performance and financial need.
2. What qualifications are supported?
Only postgraduate degrees or diplomas (Master’s or PhD) in Film/TV disciplines available in South Africa. Acting or live performance courses are excluded.
3. When must the overseas programme start?
The course must begin in September or October 2025, and you must apply at least six months before commencement.
4. How much funding is provided?
The bursary covers tuition and living expenses up to approximately R280 000, depending on your programme and needs.
5. What documents are required?
Certified ID or permanent residence, full academic transcript and matric certificate, acceptance letter from overseas institution, motivational letter, proof of financial need, and optionally a letter of recommendation.
6. How do I submit my application?
Apply online only via the NFVF portal at praxisgms.co.za. Register for an account, complete the form, upload documents, and submit. Email or fax submissions are not accepted.
7. What is the deadline?
7 April 2025 at 17:00 CAT. Late or incomplete applications will be disqualified.
8. How will I know if I am successful?
NFVF will notify successful candidates via email. If you do not hear back several months after the deadline, your application was likely not selected.
9. Can I apply for an international course already available in SA?
No—only programmes not offered in South Africa are eligible. Ensure your chosen course is unavailable locally before applying.
10. Who can I contact with queries?
Contact Thandekile Hlatshwayo or Manti Sekwakwa via email or phone at the NFVF offices listed above.