National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts Scholarship

Overview

The National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts (NHFA) provides scholarships to Latino students pursuing graduate degrees in the entertainment industry, including film, television, theater, and related media fields. The foundation was co-founded by actors Jimmy Smits and Esai Morales and producer Sonia Braga to address the underrepresentation of Latinos in the American entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.

The NHFA scholarship program targets graduate-level education because the organization recognizes that advanced training in film and media is a critical pathway to leadership positions in the industry. By supporting Latino graduate students at top film schools and performing arts programs, the NHFA invests in the future decision-makers who will shape how Latino stories are told on screen.

The foundation also advocates for increased Latino representation in Hollywood through partnerships with studios, networks, and industry organizations. Scholarship recipients benefit from these connections as they enter the professional world.

What It Covers

• Cash scholarships of up to $10,000 toward graduate tuition and educational expenses
• NHFA community -- recipients join a network of Latino arts professionals and scholars
• Industry connections -- access to NHFA events and partnerships with entertainment industry organizations
• Career development -- the foundation supports recipients as they transition into professional careers

Eligibility

Applicants must be of Hispanic or Latino descent and enrolled in or accepted to a graduate program in film, television, theater, or a related entertainment field at an accredited US institution. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, creative accomplishment, and financial need. US citizens and permanent residents are eligible.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the NHFA website. Submissions typically include an essay, academic transcripts, proof of graduate enrollment or acceptance, a financial need statement, and a creative portfolio or work sample. The deadline is typically in the spring.

Who Should Apply

Latino graduate students studying film, television, or related entertainment fields at US institutions. The scholarship is particularly valuable for students at top film schools whose tuition costs exceed their available financial resources.

See Also

For guidance on graduate film programs, see Choosing a Film School. To plan your student film production, use the Production Budget Calculator.