DAY NINE  November 11, 2005
AFI Conservatory Allows For Intimate, Hands-on Film Education
by Rochelle L. Levy
The AFI Conservatory is world-renowned for its advanced professional training designed to nurture the talents and enhance the skills of tomorrow's leading storytellers in the global motion picture and television professions. Focusing on narrative, visual storytelling through hands-on collaboration, the Conservatory's Master of Fine Arts degree program is taught by working professionals from the film and television communities.
Inspiring, supporting and guiding artists in six disciplines--Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design and Screenwriting--the AFI Conservatory has trained more than 3,000 artists since its founding in 1969. These graduates have made--and will continue to make--a major impact on the art of film, television and digital media.
Applications may be obtained by calling the Admissions Office at 323.856.762 or by visiting AFI.com. Completed applications and all supporting materials must be postmarked December 16, 2005, for consideration for the academic year beginning August 2006. A list of frequently asked questions regarding AFI Conservatory is listed below.
Q: What makes AFI different from a university program?
A: Each and every program is unique unto itself. AFI is based on a Conservatory model, which focuses the educational experience in a hands-on production environment. For example, during the First Year, each Directing, Producing and Cinematography Fellow has the opportunity to make three narrative projects; Editors work on up to six projects; Production Designers work on up to six; and Screenwriters write one of the narrative projects produced, as well as commence work on a feature screenplay. Unlike a large university, AFI has an intimate Conservatory environment with highly accessible faculty and administration.
Q: I do not have a Bachelor of Arts degree. May I still be considered for admission?
A: Yes. However, you must meet all program requirements and you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion upon successful completion of your program.
Q: May I apply to more than one discipline?
A: Most successful applicants are committed to one discipline, but you may apply to more than one. You must submit a separate application (including a discipline-specific narrative statement, submission materials and application fees) for each discipline to which you wish to apply.
Q: May I be enrolled in more than one discipline?
A: No. The program emphasizes collaboration, but the AFI Conservatory is designed for those who want to advance their craft in a specific discipline.
Q: What submission materials are best to send with my application?
A: Only include materials that best represent your talent and ability in your specific discipline. AFI focuses on narrative filmmaking. Providing samples that include narrative material is most helpful. If applying to the Directing discipline, one production sample should be narrative in format.
Q: How many individuals apply and how many are accepted?
A: The AFI Conservatory receives hundreds of applications each year. Enrollment is limited to 28 Cinematographers, 28 Directors, 14 Editors, 28 Producers, 14 Production Designers and 28 Screenwriters.
Q: May I visit AFI?
A: Yes, and you are encouraged to do so. Campus tours are conducted on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. You may call the Admissions Counselor at 323.856.7714 to schedule an appointment. Regular hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday during the academic year.
Q: Are scholarships available?
A: While limited AFI scholarships are available, applicants are encouraged to research scholarship funding from non-AFI sources or local foundations in your area. Many outside (non-AFI) scholarships can take up to a year to process, so apply for those scholarships one year prior to your desired entry into the program.
Q: I applied last year and was not accepted. Should I reapply?
A: Although the applicant pool changes each year, it is recommended that you reapply only if your experience or submission materials have improved your qualifications.
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