Letters of Recommendation
As the application states, only two or three letters are required. There is no standardized form for these letters. The letter writer should simply convey (on formal letterhead, if possible) how long he/she has known the applicant and in what capacity, including relevant evaluative remarks.
 

Transcripts
Please send all transcripts from previous undergraduate or graduate studies.

While grades are given some consideration, the Admissions Committee uses transcripts primarily to gain a better sense of the applicant's background and specific areas of study. Applicants who do not have any undergraduate experience are eligible to apply to the Certificate program, and are required to submit high school transcripts.

Letters of recommendation and transcripts can be mailed directly to AFI Admissions from the issuing institution. If these materials are included with the application mailing, they must be submitted in the original envelopes, unopened.

Recommendation letters and transcripts are accepted after the application deadline but all other materials must be postmarked by December 1.
 

Narrative Statement
This is one of the most important parts of the application and will be weighed equally against examples of work. The Narrative Statement should answer these basic questions:

1) Why do you want to be a filmmaker? What is your personal philosophy on the discipline to which you are applying and why is that discipline the one for you? 2) Why have you chosen AFI? What do you hope to gain from this particular program and what are your plans upon completion of your degree or certificate? 3) What is your story? AFI's main emphasis is on visual narrative storytelling, and the best starting point is your own personal story. What experience, event, person, or film represents the defining moment in which you knew you wanted to be a filmmaker?

Your statement does not have to follow the order given above and does not have to answer each question separately. While your statement should be clear and well written, do not forget to convey individual personality. Speak honestly and openly. The Narrative Statement is an additional opportunity to demonstrate your artistic voice, as well as your desire and commitment to enter this renowned program.
 

Resume
The resume should list, in detail, the applicant's education to date, as well as all professional work accomplished.
 

Length of Supporting Materials
Given the large number of applications received each year, the Committee is unable to review more than 20 minutes of any one moving image submission. Examples of work should be no longer than 15 to 20 minutes in length. There is no mimimum length requirement, although pieces shorter than 5 minutes may not provide the best example of narrative filmmaking. If the original is more than 20 minutes in length, please cue the piece up to the portion that best demonstrates a talent for storytelling. Please call the Admissions Office if you need further clarification on this point.
 

Application Submission
The application should be submitted as simply as possible. Plastic folders or fancy bindings are not necessary. Paperwork should be stapled in the upper left hand corner and pages should be numbered. Please make sure to include the requested number of copies (original AND three copies each for the Application, Narrative Statement and Resume).
 

If you have more specific questions about the application process or the Conservatory, please contact the Admissions Office at 323.856.7740 or you may inquire via e-mail at admissions@AFI.com.