Frequently Asked Questions

When is the application deadline for next fall and when will the program begin accepting applications?
The deadline is April 1st. Applications will be accepted after January 1st.

Can I apply for acceptance in the spring semester?
Acceptance is for FALL ONLY-- Each group begins together in the fall semester and moves on together to build and nurture production collaboration. Therefore, we cannot admit new students into the program during Spring semsters.

Can I attend as a part-time student?
The program is designed as FULL-TIME, therefore most students either work freelance or are employed on a contract basis, since working a full-time M-F/ 9am-5pm job along with attending this program is not feasible.

How long does it take to complete Program?
This program is full-time, 4-semesters (two years), 51 credits.

Do I need to take entrance exams?
Standardized entrance exams, such as GRE's are not required. However, foreign students must take the TOEFL test and achieve a standard minimum score of 575 (or 233 computerized).

What are the academic requirements for entrance?
Applicants must have a BA or BFA degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the major. International applicants MUST have an equivalency of a U.S. 4-year BA or BFA degree (this is determined by the UAPC).

What is the tuition?
In-state tuition is $3200 per semester. Out-of-state and foreign student tuition is $555per credit hour (up to 15 credits).

Am I considered a New York State resident?
In order to be eligible for "in-state" tuition rates, you must be a legal NYS resident. For more information on NYS residency, please contact the admissions office directly at: 212-650-6448 or via email at: gradadm@ccny.cuny.edu

Are there any other fees?
You can anticipate at least $400 per year in materials fees, in addition to books and/or living expenses.

Are there any scholarships or graduate assistantships?
We do not offer assistantships or teaching assistant positions. However, the department awards several departmental scholarships based on merit/performance in the program - most of which are awarded to students in their second year of study. There are also awards of cash and services given to winning films at The Annual Cityvisions Film Festival. Students are also strongly encouraged to apply for federal and state financial aid via: http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/mca/mfa/admissions/financial_aid.html which can also determine their eligibility for Federal Work Study (paid student hourly positions) within our department (placement is at the discretion and based on the needs of department faculty).

Does the program subsidize thesis projects or offer production insurance?
Not directly. We do, however, create an environment that is conducive to keeping costs to an absolute minimum. We do offer production insurance exclusively for thesis projects only.

Are there internship opportunities?
Yes, although most are not "paid" internships. The program will give credit for an internship.

If I am accepted but cannot attend in the fall, can I defer my attendance to the next fall?
No, you must re-apply for the following year. This means that you must re-submit new applications (and fees), portfolio reels, and any other supporting documents and be re-evaluated amongst a new pool of applicants.

Is there campus housing/dorms?
Yes, for more information on campus housing at The City College of NY, visit: http://www.ccnytowers.com/ccny/ . For assistance with "off campus" student housing, please contact the Student Services Office at: 212-650-5370 to request a student housing assistance application, and also make an appointment with Mr. Carmelo Rodriquez, who will meet with you and refer you to vacancies nearby. For more information on off-campus housing, you can also visit: http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/student_affairs/OSS/HSFacilities.html

Who do I contact with International Student inquries?
For information on I-20, financial certificate and/or transfer release forms, please contact the International Admissions Advisor, Ms. Stathis, at 212-650-6438 or via email at: tstathis@ccny.cuny.edu. For ALL other International Student inquiries such as immigration, employment, medical insurance, social security numbers, housing) pleases contact the International Students & Scholar Services at: (212) 650-8106 or via email at: OISCC@ccny.cuny.edu or visit thier website at:
http://www.ccny.cuny.edu/student_affairs/InterNat/Default.html

What are the academic standards to stay in the program?
As a graduate program, we institute very high standards. Students must maintain a cumulative "B" (3.0) grade point average. If the GPA drops below 3.0, the student is automatically on probation for the next semester. If the cumulative GPA does not rise above 3.0 by the end of the next semester, the student will be dismissed from the program.

What if I have to leave the program before I am through?
The University does not allow for a leave of absence from our MFA program. Should you decide to leave, you must withdraw from the program completely and re-apply at a later time.

How do I obtain/request copies of both applications and more information?
Visit the MFA Program Office, located in Shepard Hall, Room 286 or contact our Program Coordinator at 212-650-7235 or email at mfamediaarts@ccny.cuny.edu

or

Visit the Admissions Office, located in the Administration Building, Room 100 or contact a Graduate Admissions Advisor at 212-650-6898 or via email at gradadmin@ccny.cuny.edu

or

You can also download both applications from our admissions webpage: HERE