AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary South Africa For 2026. In South Africa, the field of motion picture studies has seen tremendous growth over the past few decades, and at the forefront of this growth is AFDA a leading institution in television, film, and performance education. Established in 1994, AFDA has rapidly positioned itself as a powerhouse, producing some of Africa’s most talented filmmakers and media professionals. For aspiring professionals looking to advance their careers in motion pictures, the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary offers a unique opportunity to pursue a Postgraduate BA Honours qualification without the financial burden.
This article will delve into the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary for the 2025-2026 academic year, including eligibility criteria, application process, and key information for interested students.
About AFDA: A Leader in Motion Picture Education
AFDA, the African Film and Drama Academy, is a relatively young institution that has achieved extraordinary success in the world of higher education. Over the past two decades, it has become the leading educational establishment for students aiming to make a mark in the motion picture and performance industries across Africa. AFDA’s dynamic curriculum, hands-on learning approach, and extensive industry connections have enabled it to produce graduates who are highly sought after by industry players.
Recognizing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the motion picture industry, AFDA launched the Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary to provide financial assistance to students who show potential but may lack the resources to pursue their higher education goals.
What is the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary?
The AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary is specifically designed for students who wish to complete a Postgraduate BA Honours qualification in Motion Picture. This bursary aims to assist students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential but face financial barriers to continuing their studies. The bursary covers the full tuition fees for one year of study, allowing recipients to focus on their education and professional development.
This initiative is particularly geared towards students who are committed to contributing to the growth and development of the motion picture industry in South Africa and beyond.
Key Features of the Bursary
- Full Tuition Coverage: The bursary covers the entire tuition fee for the Postgraduate BA Honours qualification in Motion Picture for one year.
- Bursary Agreement: Recipients are required to sign two important documents the Bursary Offer Letter and the Spirit of Agreement. The Spirit of Agreement stipulates that the recipient must work for one year in the motion picture industry upon completing their studies, essentially “paying back” the bursary through their contributions to the industry.
- Comprehensive Support: In addition to the financial support, bursary recipients will be provided with access to industry experts, mentoring, and networking opportunities that are crucial for a successful career in motion picture.
Eligibility Requirements
The AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary has specific criteria that applicants must meet to be considered for the award. These requirements ensure that the bursary is directed towards students who have demonstrated academic excellence and possess the potential to contribute significantly to the motion picture field.
- South African Citizenship: Only South African citizens are eligible for this bursary.
- Qualification Program: Applicants must intend to pursue a Postgraduate BA Honours qualification in Motion Picture.
- Study Mode: Applicants must be willing to study either full-time or part-time.
- Current AFDA Students or Graduates: The bursary is available to current third-year AFDA students, previous AFDA BA graduates, or students who have completed their studies through Recognised Prior Learning (RPL).
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate excellent academic performance, as this bursary is awarded to those who show the highest potential in the field.
- Financial Need: A demonstrated financial need is crucial for eligibility, as the bursary is designed to assist those who may not otherwise have the means to continue their studies.
- BBBEE Status: Applicants must comply with the relevant Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) status requirements.
How to Apply for the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary
Applying for the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary involves several steps. The first step is to apply for the Postgraduate Bachelor of Arts qualification in Motion Picture through the AFDA online application system. After submitting the course application, students can apply for the bursary.
- Submit Your Application for the Postgraduate Qualification: To begin the process, applicants must submit their application for the Postgraduate Bachelor of Arts qualification online at AFDA Application Page.
- Gather Necessary Documentation: Applicants must provide the following supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Latest academic transcripts or certificates of tertiary qualifications
- CV (maximum of 2 pages)
- Motivational letter (maximum of 1 page) explaining why you believe you deserve the bursary
- Letter detailing your financial need (this can be included in the motivational letter or submitted separately)
- Complete the Application Forms: Ensure that all application forms are completed thoroughly and accurately. This is a critical part of the process.
- Submit the Application: Once the required documents are gathered, submit them via email or hand-deliver them to the nearest AFDA campus.
Note: The deadline for submitting applications is 30 September annually. Make sure to submit all documents well in advance to avoid missing the deadline.
Closing Date
The final date to apply for the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary is 30 September each year. Late applications will not be considered, so it is important to ensure that all materials are submitted before the deadline.
Contact Information
If you have any queries or need further information, AFDA has designated contacts at each campus for bursary inquiries.
- Cape Town:
- Contact: Lanna Lamberts
- Tel: 021 448 7600
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 18 Lower Scott Road, Observatory, 7925
- Durban:
- Contact: Vashika Mistry
- Tel: 031 569 2252
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 2a Highdale Road, Glen Anil, 4051
- Johannesburg:
- Contact: Sifiso Khuboni
- Tel: 011 482 8345
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 41 Frost Avenue, Auckland Park, 2092
Why Choose the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary?
For many students, funding remains a significant obstacle when it comes to pursuing higher education. The AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary is designed to alleviate this burden, enabling students to focus on what truly matters: their education and their passion for motion pictures. This bursary not only offers financial support but also creates pathways to industry exposure and career opportunities post-graduation.
Benefits of the Bursary
- Complete Tuition Coverage: This allows students to study without the stress of managing tuition fees.
- Industry Connections: AFDA’s strong ties to the motion picture industry give bursary recipients the chance to network with industry professionals, gain internships, and even secure employment.
- Return on Investment: By agreeing to work in the industry for one year after graduation, students contribute to the development of Africa’s entertainment sector while honoring the bursary agreement.
FAQs About AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary
What is the deadline for applying for the AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary?
The deadline for submitting applications is 30 September each year. Ensure all documents are submitted before this date.
Can I apply for the bursary if I am not currently studying at AFDA?
Yes, the bursary is open to current third-year AFDA students, previous AFDA BA graduates, and those who have completed their studies through Recognised Prior Learning (RPL).
Is the bursary available for students studying full-time or part-time?
Yes, applicants can choose to study either full-time or part-time when applying for the Postgraduate BA Honours qualification in Motion Picture.
Conclusion
The AFDA Postgraduate Honours Development Bursary is a valuable opportunity for students in South Africa who are passionate about advancing their careers in motion pictures. With full tuition coverage and the chance to work in the industry after graduation, this bursary provides not only financial support but also a chance to shape the future of the entertainment industry in Africa. If you are a South African student with the ambition to make a difference in motion pictures, this bursary could be your ticket to success.
