Top 15 Film Schools In Johannesburg And Fees (2026)
Johannesburg stands as the creative capital of South Africa’s film and television industry. With a thriving entertainment scene, world-class studios, and access to global networks, the city offers aspiring filmmakers the perfect environment to build successful careers.
From prestigious private academies to affordable public universities, Johannesburg provides a wide range of film schools catering to different budgets and career goals. Whether you aim to become a director, cinematographer, scriptwriter, or editor, choosing the right institution is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 15 film schools in Johannesburg and their fees, helping you make an informed decision.
Top 15 Film Schools In Johannesburg And Fees
1. AFDA – The School for the Creative Economy
AFDA is widely recognized as one of the best film schools in Africa. Established in 1994, it has built a strong reputation for producing award-winning filmmakers and industry professionals.
The school focuses heavily on practical learning, ensuring that students gain real-world experience by creating films throughout their studies. Its facilities include modern studios, editing suites, and production equipment.
Courses Offered:
- BA in Motion Picture Medium
- Higher Certificate in Film Production
- Postgraduate Diploma
Fees: R85,000 – R120,000 per year
AFDA is ideal for students who want a highly respected qualification with strong industry connections.
2. SAE Institute Johannesburg
SAE Institute is an internationally recognized creative media school offering top-tier film production programs.
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, covering directing, cinematography, sound design, and post-production. Students work on real projects, preparing them for global opportunities.
Courses Offered:
- BA in Film Production
- Higher Certificate in Digital Film Production
Fees:
- Degree: ~R125,500 per year
- Certificate: ~R71,625 total
SAE is perfect for students seeking global exposure and industry-standard training.
3. AACA Film College
AACA Film College offers a blend of academic theory and practical filmmaking experience. The institution focuses on developing creative storytelling skills alongside technical expertise.
Students benefit from mentorship programs and opportunities to work on real film productions.
Courses Offered:
- BA Film & Cinematic Studies
- Certificate in Filmmaking
- Acting for Television
Fees: R60,000 – R100,000 per year
AACA is suitable for students who want a balanced and creative learning environment.
4. Media City Academy
Media City Academy is known for its strong emphasis on practical training, with students spending most of their time working on actual film sets.
The institution follows a hands-on learning model, ensuring graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Courses Offered:
- Film & Television Production (NQF Level 5)
Fees: R45,000 – R80,000 per year
This academy is ideal for students who prefer learning by doing rather than theoretical study.
5. CityVarsity Johannesburg (Creative Campus)
CityVarsity offers a wide range of creative programs, including film and television production.
The school is well known for its industry connections and focus on nurturing creativity.
Courses Offered:
- Film & Television Production
- Acting for Camera
Fees: R70,000 – R110,000 per year
CityVarsity is a great option for students looking for a creative and industry-focused education.
6. Open Window Institute
The Open Window Institute specializes in visual storytelling, combining film, animation, and digital media.
Students learn both traditional filmmaking and modern digital production techniques.
Courses Offered:
- Film Arts
- Animation & Visual Effects
Fees: R80,000 – R120,000 per year
This school is ideal for students interested in combining film with animation and design.
7. Boston Media House (Sandton)
Boston Media House provides media and film-related programs with a strong emphasis on practical skills.
The institution is known for offering affordable education compared to other private film schools.
Courses Offered:
- Film & Television Production
- Media Studies
Fees: R50,000 – R90,000 per year
It is suitable for students seeking quality education on a moderate budget.
8. Oakfields College (Film & TV Production)
Oakfields College focuses on preparing students for careers in film and television production through hands-on training.
The programs are designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills.
Courses Offered:
- Higher Certificate in Film & TV Production
Fees: R60,000 – R85,000 per year
This college is ideal for students looking for career-oriented training.
9. Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking
Big Fish School is known for offering intensive short courses in filmmaking.
These programs are designed to help students quickly gain practical skills in areas such as directing, editing, and cinematography.
Courses Offered:
- Short Courses in Filmmaking
- Directing and Editing
Fees: R15,000 – R40,000 per course
This school is best suited for individuals looking to upskill quickly.
10. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT is a public university offering affordable film and television production programs.
It provides a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical training.
Courses Offered:
- National Diploma in Film & TV Production
Fees: R30,000 – R60,000 per year
TUT is an excellent option for students seeking affordable, accredited education.
11. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits University offers academically rigorous film and television programs that combine theory and practice.
Courses Offered:
- BA Film & Television
- Honours Programs
Fees: R40,000 – R70,000 per year
12. Vega School Johannesburg
Vega specializes in creative storytelling and media communication.
Courses Offered:
- BA in Creative Brand Communication
Fees: R90,000 – R120,000 per year
13. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ provides structured academic programs in film and television studies.
Courses Offered:
- Film & Television Studies
Fees: R35,000 – R65,000 per year
14. The Animation School (Johannesburg)
This institution focuses on animation and digital filmmaking.
Courses Offered:
- Digital Animation & Film
Fees: R70,000 – R110,000 per year
15. Damelin (Media & Film Courses)
Damelin offers entry-level programs in film and media production.
Courses Offered:
- Media Production
- Film Basics
Fees: R30,000 – R60,000 per year
Comparison Table of Film Schools in Johannesburg
| School | Key Program | Duration | Estimated Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFDA | BA Motion Picture | 3 Years | R85k – R120k/year |
| SAE Institute | BA Film Production | 3 Years | R125k/year |
| AACA Film College | BA Film Studies | 3 Years | R60k – R100k/year |
| Media City Academy | Film Production | 1 Year | R45k – R80k/year |
| CityVarsity | Film & TV | 3 Years | R70k – R110k/year |
| Open Window | Film Arts | 3 Years | R80k – R120k/year |
| Boston Media House | Media/Film | 3 Years | R50k – R90k/year |
| Oakfields College | Film & TV | 1–2 Years | R60k – R85k/year |
| Big Fish School | Short Courses | Months | R15k – R40k |
| TUT | Film & TV Diploma | 3 Years | R30k – R60k/year |
| Wits University | BA Film | 3 Years | R40k – R70k/year |
| Vega School | Creative Media | 3 Years | R90k – R120k/year |
| University of Johannesburg | Film Studies | 3 Years | R35k – R65k/year |
| Animation School | Animation & Film | 3 Years | R70k – R110k/year |
| Damelin | Media/Film | 1–3 Years | R30k – R60k/year |
Conclusion
Johannesburg remains one of the best cities in Africa to study film, thanks to its vibrant entertainment industry and diverse educational options.
If you are looking for top-tier private education, AFDA and SAE Institute stand out. For budget-friendly options, public institutions like TUT, UJ, and Wits provide excellent value. Meanwhile, schools like Media City Academy and Big Fish School are perfect for those who prefer practical, hands-on learning.
Ultimately, the best film school for you depends on your career goals, preferred learning style, and financial capacity. By choosing wisely, you can take the first step toward building a successful career in the film industry.