How to Apply to Film School

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:ApplyFilmSchool
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How to Apply to Film School

Introduction

Film school offers valuable experience and networking opportunities to prospective filmmakers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Steps

1

Step One

Research. Go to your school library, your local library, the Internet, friends and acquaintances to find out what schools are most recommended and appropriate for what you want to do.
2

Step Two

Keep in mind that a school with a top name and a great reputation will help you in your career. Some top film schools can be found at New York University (NYU), the University of Southern California (USC), The American Film Institute in Los Angeles and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
3

Step Three

Talk to everyone you know who attended these schools. Ask them if they recommend the school and, if so, whether they'll serve as a reference to help you get in. Connections are extremely important.
4

Step Four

Get catalogs, application materials and financial aid information from the schools that interest you.
5

Step Five

Prepare all work you have done in film, television or mixed media for your portfolio. The school will want to see your work included in your application. Have your "reel" (a tape of all work you have done) professionally mastered at a film laboratory; have a professional recommend the best lab.
6

Step Six

Fill out the application, then send in your reel, references and other supporting material by the deadline.
7

Step Seven

Sign up for an interview and dress nicely for it; dressing neatly and professionally shows respect and seriousness. Many people underestimate the importance of this first impression.

Tips & Warnings

  • Make sure the supporting materials you send in, like your reel, are professionally mastered and not amateurish.
  • Who you know in the film business is extremely important. Even if you have a second cousin twice removed who attended the school or is successful in the film business, call her up and find out if she can put in a good word for you.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Demo Videocassettes
  • Word-processing Software
  • Internet Access
  • Computers
  • Portfolios
  • Applications
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