AFI Conservatory: How to Apply for 2025, Acceptance Rate, and What to Expect as an AFI Fellow

For more than 50 years, the American Film Institute Conservatory has elevated the art of cinema and helped film students lay the groundwork for lifelong film careers. In 2022, FilmSchool.org named AFI Best West Coast Film School. And in 2024, The Hollywood Reporter ranked AFI no. 2 in its annual list of the top U.S. film schools for the third year in a row.

As a not-for-profit film school based on the conservatory model, the AFI Conservatory is widely considered one of the best graduate film programs in the world, ideal for disciplined filmmakers with prior experience who want to elevate their career. Fellows specialize in one of six disciplines— Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design, and Screenwriting — in a highly collaborative environment.

The AFI Conservatory also has an exceptionally strong alumni network. From Ari Aster (Screenwriter and Director, "Hereditary," "Midsommar,") to Terrence Malik (Screenwriter and Director, "Badlands," "Tree of Life"), Fellows have become households names in the industry. Today, AFI Conservatory alumni have taken home more than 149 Academy Award nominations and more than 30 Academy Awards.

What is it like to study at the American Film Institute Conservatory? ​

Located in the Hollywood hills, one of Los Angeles's most idyllic neighborhoods, the AFI Conservatory places Fellows at the forefront of the industry. Filmmaking courses are conducted at the Warner Bros. Building and the Manor House. Fellows utilize the Sony Digital Arts Center for all their post-production needs; the center includes the latest AVID Media Composer editing systems networked by the AVID ISIS media storage system.

FilmSchool.org’s exclusive interview with the AFI Admissions Office offers a deeper look into applying to and attending the AFI Conservatory. Jill Murrin, Director of Admissions; Giovanni Maldonado Chinea, Admissions Coordinator; and Anna Proulx, former Director of Admissions explain the conservatory model, why the AFI Conservatory differs from other film schools, common issues on the application, how to develop a strong portfolio, and more.


Teams of six develop three cycle films in their first year of study and one cycle film in their second year of study; each film requires a new team. To help Fellows diversify their set and post-production experience, the AFI Conservatory gives each discipline the equal opportunity to assemble student production teams. For example, if Directing is the first specialization to choose their team members for the first cycle film, a different specialization will choose their team members first for the second cycle film.

Thesis films are a significant portion of the tuition (read “AFI Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid (2024)”). In their second year of study, Fellows must develop at least one thesis film by assembling their own teams. They must also create their final portfolio, such as a reel or a series of short films.

8 commonly asked questions about the American Film Institute Conservatory​

1. Do you need a bachelor's degree to apply to the AFI Conservatory?​

No, you do not need a bachelor's degree to apply. Non-degree holders will attend the same two-year program as Associate Fellows and receive a Certificate of Completion instead of a Master of Fine Arts degree. However, all applicants are highly encouraged to have a strong film background.

2. What is the AFI Conservatory looking for in a portfolio?​

Each discipline’s application requirements change year to year. Prompts are straightforward and allow students to experiment within the framework of the three-act structure. The Admissions Office stresses that applicants should not imitate other filmmakers, especially alumni.

3. Does AFI Conservatory accept genre filmmakers?​

AFI welcomes all storytellers, including genre filmmakers. (The comedy genre has historically received a lower number of applications). However, all sample films must follow the assigned time limit. Films that exceed the time limit will not be disqualified, but the remaining footage will not be viewed.

4. Does my GPA play a role in my admissions decision?​

Having a low undergraduate GPA won't disqualify you from applying to AFI. However, if you fail to explain any blips in your academic history on the 'Previous Academic Experience' supplement of the application, you could be rejected.

FilmSchool.org's Application Database gives you access to the GPAs and demographics of accepted vs. rejected AFI applicants. To find out even more information about applying to AFI, become a Supporting Member to discover the lowest GPA for accepted Fellows and other key admissions statistics.

5. Can I submit old films on the application?​

Applicants can submit films from any point in their career. However, the Admissions Office encourages applicants to use the exercise film to show their current skill set.

6. Does the exercise film have to be a single scene? ​

The exercise film can be a single scene or contain multiple scenes, but it must follow the three-act structure. In other words, the film must have a clear beginning, middle, and end with an identifiable conflict and resolution. It is limited to a five-page screenplay.

7. Does the AFI Conservatory require an interview for acceptance?​

Yes, all applicants must complete a virtual interview to be considered. Expect to speak with alumni or current instructors.

8. Does the AFI Conservatory offer housing?​

As of 2025, AFI Conservatory does not offer housing. The Fellow Affairs Office can help students find housing close to campus and offer information about rental applications and housing regulations in Los Angeles.

AFI admissions events for 2025​

AFI Fellow Experience Roundtable
Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024 – 11:00 a.m. PT (Zoom)
Details: Admissions Counselor, Giovanni Maldonado, hosts a panel of recent Alumni where they discuss everything from applying to AFI, their experience in the program and life post-AFI. Followed by a Q&A
Click here to register

Editor's note: This article has been revised to reflect 2024-2025 application instructions.

Continue reading...​

• AFI Acceptance Rate​

• AFI Cost of Attendance, Financial Aid, and Scholarships for 2025 Entry​

• AFI Application Deadlines and What to Expect After Applying for 2025 Entry​

• AFI General Admissions Requirements for 2025 Entry​

• How to Apply to the 6 AFI Disciplines for 2025 Entry​

• Admissions Requirements and Guidelines for AFI International Applicants​

• Complete the AFI Scholarship Application​

• Increase Your Chances of Acceptance to AFI​

• Read Full Article​