Film MFA Application Process
If you are interested in graduate study in the Film Program at UCA, please complete this online information request.
Students must be accepted by both the Graduate School and Film Program. Meeting the requirements for admission to the Graduate School does not guarantee admission to the program.
The Film Program generally accepts around seven students per year.
The deadline for applications for Fall 2025 Admission is March 1st, 2025.
Applicants are required to create an online account to apply (see Online Application link below), and will submit all materials through this account. Any questions about the application process can be asked through the online account platform.
Graduate School Requirements:
The Graduate School requires the following (see the application form for more details):
- Completed application (Online Application)
- Application fee ($45)
- Transcripts (2.7 minimum GPA required)
Note: Students applying to the Filmmaking Program do not need to take the GRE exam.
Program Requirements:
In addition to the graduate school application, fee, and transcripts, students applying to the MFA program in Film must also submit the following:
- A statement of purpose that explains the student’s background, why the student wants to attend the Film program at UCA, what they hope to accomplish, and why they think they can be successful (2-3 pages)
- A current résumé or vita
- Two letters of recommendation (directly from the recommender)
- A 2–3 page creative film scenario writing sample. Choose one of the following:
- A 2 to 3 minute dialogue scene between two people, using proper script formatting.
- A 2 to 3 page concept or treatment for a feature length narrative fiction film.
- Supplemental (highly recommended): A portfolio of creative work, either visual (video or film work, photographs) or written (screenplays, stage plays, or fiction)
All materials should be submitted digitally through the online account you create to apply.
For specific information on Program Requirements, please contact Bruce Hutchinson (bruceh@uca.edu)
Graduate Assistantships:
The Film Program has a limited number of graduate assistantships available. Students work 20 hours per week and earn approximately $9000 a year. Assistantship opportunities include assisting with courses, working in the equipment check-out room, working on special projects for the department, social media, and working the front desk. All applicants are encouraged to apply for an assistantship, and can do so here:
Application for Graduate Assistantship
International Students:
UCA and the Film program encourage International Students to apply. In addition to the departmental requirements, additional information is needed by the University to process international applications. Please visit the UCA International Admissions Page here to review the application process and requirements for students applying from outside the United States. For more information you can take a look at the International Graduate Admission website, or contact Matt Smith who is an International Admissions Counselor, by following the links below.