How to apply?
To apply online, go to the UI Graduate and Professional Admissions website.
After you submit your application, you will receive email instructions on how to establish your HawkID and password in order to access your Admissions Profile on MyUI, our online portal for students. All supporting materials can and should be uploaded through your Admissions Profile. If your academic program requires letters of recommendation, you will be asked to provide the contact information of your recommenders on your Profile. The recommender will then receive an email from the Office of Admissions instructing them on how to upload a recommendation letter and/or recommendation form.
Applicants for admission to the graduate program must meet the Admission Requirements of the Graduate College and the department offering the degree program (review the General Catalog for departmental requirements). See the Manual of Rules and Regulations of the Graduate College on the Graduate College website for additional information.
Important deadlines
Application deadline: Jan. 1 (for all programs)
Browse application FAQ
MA/PhD application FAQ
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is Jan. 1 for the following academic year.
How do I apply?
You must apply using the Office of Admissions application portal. Once inside the portal, you will apply to the program through the Graduate College.
What are the designations of the programs on the graduate college admissions site?
The designations of the programs on the Graduate College admissions site are Film Studies – PhD, MA.
What materials are required with the application?
In addition to personal and educational information, you must submit the following:
- A statement of purpose
- A sample of your academic writing (no more than 20 pages, inclusive of bibliography and notes)
- An up-to-date CV or résumé
- Names of three individuals who will provide letters of recommendation
- An unofficial transcript from previous institution(s) (if admitted, official transcripts will be required before enrollment)
What is the application fee?
The application fee is $60 for U.S. residents and $100 for international applicants.
Is the GRE exam required?
No, the GRE exam is not required for entrance into either the MA or PhD program.
Are international students required to take an english proficiency exam?
International applicants that do not meet the requirements for a waiver are required to submit english proficiency scores. Applicants will be given a waiver if they are a citizen, or have earned the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree or PhD in the United States, or any of the countries listed on the Graduate College website.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply to the PhD program?
Yes, a terminal MA is required for matriculation into the PhD program.
How are applications evaluated?
Candidates are evaluated on the following criteria: statement of research goals, alignment with research strengths of the program, motivation and preparation for graduate school, writing and research ability, and potential for teaching. These should be your points of emphasis when putting together your application.
MFA application FAQ
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is Jan. 1 for the following academic year.
How do I apply?
You must apply using the Office of Admissions application portal. Once inside the portal, you will apply to the program through the Graduate College.
What materials are required with the application?
In addition to personal and educational information, you must submit the following:
- A statement of purpose
- A creative work sample (20 minutes or less)
For a creative portfolio, please submit no more than 20 minutes (or a 20 minute equivalent for screenwriting samples), collectively, of material. You may provide links to multiple films (fiction, non-fiction, etc.), new media, documentation of work, and/or screen plays. Whole works are preferred, but clips or segments are acceptable given the time limit.
- An up-to-date CV or résumé
- Names of three individuals who will provide letters of recommendation
- An unofficial transcript from previous institution(s) (if admitted, official transcripts will be required before enrollment)
What is the application fee?
The application fee is $60 for U.S. residents and $100 for international applicants.
Is the GRE exam required?
No.
Are international students required to take an english proficiency exam?
International applicants that do not meet the requirements for a waiver are required to submit english proficiency scores. Applicants will be given a waiver if they are a citizen, or have earned the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree, Master's degree or PhD in the United States, or any of the countries listed on the Graduate College website.
How are applications evaluated?
Candidates are evaluated on the following criteria: statement of research goals, alignment with research strengths of the program, motivation and preparation for graduate school, filmmaking or creative ability, and potential for teaching. These should be your points of emphasis when putting together your application.
Additional questions?
If you have any questions about the program, the application process, or need additional assistance, contact the Director of Graduate Studies.
Director of Graduate Studies
