Due to the highly competitive nature of a film school, many schools will require a portfolio. This is a show of the student's abilities of filming. The necessary items for the portfolio vary by school, but often include a short film or animation, story boards, creative writing or even essays relating to films. Film Schools in the USA website points out that the schools do not often return the portfolio, so it should only contain copies of original work.
Film colleges need to know the class rank, grade point average and any other details relating to grades from high school. While the grades in high school are not the only factor in getting into the school, having good grades is helpful. Most film colleges will require at least one official transcript sent to the school.
Grade requirements vary between colleges. Many film colleges will require a minimum of C average grades for classes like English and Math states Film Schools in the USA. The minimum grade requirements for other classes are often variable.
Regardless of the course or program, applications with applicable processing fees are required. Applications are often available online at the school's website. Fees will vary depending on the specific college, but typically range between $75 and $100 as of February 2011.