AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary 2026

The AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary for studies beginning in 2026 typically closes on 30 September each year. 

Prepare your documents early and apply as soon as the postgraduate admissions portal opens.

Aggressive competition and limited spots mean you must act quickly.

About AFDA

AFDA, the South African School for the Creative Economy, was established in 1994. 

It offers accredited undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in motion picture, live performance, creative writing, and entertainment production. 

The institution is fully recognised by the Council on Higher Education and SAQA and maintains its reputation as Africa’s leading creative arts university.

Fields of Study Funded

This bursary specifically supports a Postgraduate BA Honours in Motion Picture Medium at any AFDA campus (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha). 

Both full-time and part-time Honours studies are eligible for funding.

Benefits for Recipients

Recipients receive full tuition coverage for one academic year of Honours study in Motion Picture. 

You will be required to sign a “Spirit of Agreement,” committing to work back the value of the bursary for one year within AFDA or its network after completing your studies.

Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify for this award, you must meet all the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen
  • Wish to study Postgraduate BA Honours in Motion Picture at AFDA
  • Be a current AFDA third-year student, AFDA BA graduate, or RPL entrant
  • Hold excellent academic results in the motion picture or related creative field
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Possess B‑BBEE status (Black, Coloured, or Indian/Asian)
    Applications that do not meet every criterion will be disqualified.

How to Apply

  1. Apply online for the Postgraduate BA Honours Motion Picture programme via the AFDA portal at www.afda.co.za/apply.
  2. Once your course application is accepted, download and complete the bursary application form.
  3. When asked where you heard about bursaries, enter “www.bursariesafrica.co.za.”
  4. Submit your application form and certified documents via email or hand-deliver to your nearest AFDA Student Affairs office.
    Ports: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Gqeberha campuses.

Required Documents

Prepare and provide clear, certified copies of the following with your submission:

  • South African ID document
  • Academic transcripts or completion certificate for relevant AFDA qualifications
  • Curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)
  • Motivational letter (max 1 page), including financial status and career aspirations
    Supporting documents may strengthen your case, but are not always mandatory.

Closing Date

The bursary application deadline is 30 September 2025 for the academic year 2026 intake. 

No extensions or late submissions will be accepted.

Contact Details

For inquiries or assistance, contact the nearest AFDA campus Student Affairs representative:

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)