Beijing Film Academy International Student Admissions Guide

About Beijing Film Academy

Beijing Film Academy (BFA), established in 1950, is the most prestigious institution in China for film and television production. Known as the “cradle of Chinese filmmakers,” BFA has cultivated countless renowned directors, actors, and film professionals. Located in Beijing, BFA offers a creative and inspiring environment for international students passionate about the art of storytelling through film.

Program Overview

BFA offers a diverse range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs designed to provide comprehensive training in film, television, and media arts.

Key Fields of Study:

• Film Directing: Focusing on narrative development, visual storytelling, and directing techniques.
• Acting and Performance: Training in stagecraft, screen acting, and character development.
• Cinematography and Lighting: Mastering camera operations, lighting design, and visual composition.
• Animation and Digital Arts: Programs in 3D animation, visual effects, and interactive media.
• Screenwriting: Developing skills in storytelling, dialogue, and script structure.
• Film Studies and Criticism: Analyzing film history, theory, and global cinematic trends.

Program Highlights:

• Access to state-of-the-art film studios and production facilities.
• Faculty members who are industry professionals with extensive experience.
• Opportunities to participate in national and international film festivals.

Scholarships

BFA offers several scholarships to support talented international students:

1. Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)
   • Covers tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and medical insurance.
   • Application: Apply through the Chinese Embassy or directly to BFA.
2. Beijing Municipal Government Scholarship
   • Provides tuition waivers or partial financial support for eligible students.
   • Application: Indicate interest during the application process.
3. BFA Artistic Excellence Scholarship
   • Awarded to students with exceptional artistic talent and academic performance.
   • Coverage: Tuition waiver or partial living allowance.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid passport.
2. Educational Background:
   • Undergraduate: High school diploma or equivalent.
   • Master’s: Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
   • Doctoral: Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
3. Portfolio Requirement: Submit a portfolio showcasing artistic works relevant to the program.
4. Language Proficiency:
   • Chinese-Taught Programs:
     • HSK Level 4 or above (Level 5 or 6 preferred for advanced programs).
     • Applicants without the required Chinese proficiency can enroll in a preparatory Chinese language course at BFA before starting their degree program.
   • English-Taught Programs:
     • TOEFL (≥80) or IELTS (≥6.0), unless prior education was conducted in English.

Application Procedure

1. Online Application:
   Submit your application through the BFA International Student Portal.
2. Required Documents:
   • Academic transcripts and graduation certificates.
   • Personal statement or study plan.
   • Two recommendation letters (for graduate programs).
   • Portfolio of artistic works (as required by the program).
   • Passport copy and a recent photo.
   • Language proficiency certificates.
3. Application Fee:
   • Non-refundable fee of RMB 800.
4. Submission Deadline: Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

Key Dates

• Application Opens: December 1, 2024
• Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
• Admission Results: June 2025
• Enrollment: September 2025