Accordion
Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the Directing Program, faculty, facilities, and curriculum.
You cannot make any changes to your application after it has been submitted.
Create an account to begin the application process. This is where you’ll complete each step in the application and receive updates on your application status. Add your personal background and academic history.
An artist statement is very important in the admissions process and should answer the following three questions:
Maximum of 500 words.
We ask that you upload your headshot and resume as a part of the online application. Maximum of three pages.
MFA Directing Program applicants should submit a portfolio containing video documentation of their work. We require two separate video clips that are each 5 to 7 minutes (max) in duration. These clips should not be heavily edited (e.g. trailers), but should show the continuous unfolding of the work. Ideally, the two clips should be from different projects presented within the last 5 years.
Our application system accepts videos that are directly uploaded, as well as YouTube and Vimeo links. Portfolios must be submitted to our online portfolio site. Video links or portfolios will not be accepted via email.
Applicants are strongly urged to submit their application and portfolio materials on or before the preferred deadline in order to allow for thorough review and, if selected by the Head of the Directing Program, a personal interview. The Office of Admissions will contact all applicants who are selected for an interview.
If you experience technical difficulties while uploading your portfolio, please email admissions@calarts.edu.
Two letters of recommendation from professionals who know your work are required.
All letters of recommendation should be received by the application deadline, so it’s important that you contact your recommenders months before. We ask that you submit the requests for your letters of recommendation through the online application, as it will allow you to track when we receive your requested letters.
If this is not possible, you may download the Letter of Recommendation Form (pdf) and have your recommender send their letters by mail to the Office of Admissions. Please choose only one method – either through the online application (preferred) or by mail – per recommender. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted via credentialing services such as Parchment or Naviance.
Mailed letters of recommendation should be sent to:
CalArts Office of Admissions
24700 McBean Pkwy.
Valencia, CA 91355
United States of America
Letters of recommendation must be written in English or accompanied by a certified English translated document.
Select applicants to this program will be contacted for a personal interview based on a review of their application and portfolio materials.