Getting into Film School

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Top Five Tips for Applying to Film Schools

Launching your career in the film industry may seem to be a daunting mission—like finding the Holy Grail or destroying a highly coveted ring in the depths of Mount Doom—but earning your film degree can give you a strong foundation for taking on the challenges you'll encounter along the way. And luckily, getting into film schools, although competitive, is not exactly mission impossible.

It's a good idea to have a general idea of what admissions officers are looking for in a film school applicant. While every film school has unique requirements, preparing for some of the standard admissions hurdles can help boost your confidence as you go through the process.

Here are some pointers that should help you focus your energy in the right direction as you explore how to get into film schools.

1. If you can't write anything nice... learn how before you apply to film schools.

It's not enough to have great ideas or artistic vision. Film schools want students who can communicate in a clear, compelling way. Learn the art of storytelling. Learn the technical aspects of language and grammar.

You don't need to be a screenwriting expert. That's why you're going to film school. However, admissions reps want to see that you're able to write. Show your potential. If writing isn't your strong suit, take a class or two. After all, writing is a life skill that can serve you well in any field.

2. Become well rounded. Film schools want more than raw talent.

It might be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that academics don't have anything to do with your creativity or aptitude for a filmmaking career. And you may be right, at least in part. Nevertheless, grades matter. Especially when spaces in prestigious film schools are limited and competitive, your academic performance will be a factor in whether you make the cut. So, words to the wise: don't coast through chemistry class just because you don't think you'll use it later. Besides, who knows—all that "useless" information about covalent bonds could inspire your future sci-fi blockbuster.

3. Speak for yourself. Film schools want to hear your voice.

You have life experience and something to say. You'll bring your own unique perspective to the film school that is lucky enough to have you. And that's exactly what film schools want to see. What sets you apart from other applicants? What's your story? Embrace life experiences. They can make your stories richer and deeper. Travel to faraway places, or get involved in your own community. Do something worth talking about. If you don’t think you have anything to say, film school admissions representatives won't either.

4. Practice makes perfect... and a stronger film school applicant.

There's one sure way to prove that you have the talent to make it in film school and the film industry. Start filming. Tell a story. Tell lots of stories. They don't have to be feature length—just five to ten minutes will do. Learn from your experience. You'll become a stronger writer, director or cinematographer, and you'll be a stronger film school applicant.

Whether or not you'll need to submit samples of your work with your film school application, it can only help you to have something to show for yourself. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.

5. Get ready for your close-up. Acting classes can build your filmmaking skills.

Take a turn on the other side of the camera. Enroll in acting classes. It may not be a requirement for getting into film schools, but it will broaden your perspective of the film industry. It can also give you insight on how to be a good director. Anything that makes you more well-rounded and versatile can only be an asset when it comes time to apply to film schools.