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Admissions

Compass has a selective and competitive recruiting policy. We keep our class sizes small to ensure our students the hands-on, intense experience they deserve. Do you think you have what it takes?

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2011

To begin the admission process, download the application and gather all the information to complete an application and portfolio. Be sure to contact the Admissions office if you have questions regarding the portfolio and application requirements.

Applications will be reviewed and the applicant will be notified of his or her acceptance status within four weeks of the completion of application requirements.

Program Start: August 31, 2011 Application Deadline: July 31, 2011

Admissions FAQ:

What are the dates of the next session?

The next Film and Video Production Program session begins on August 31, 2011, and classes run through August, 2012, with an internship following until the end of October.

How can I set up a visit at Compass Film Academy?

A visit can be scheduled anytime, Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Go to our tours page for contact information.

How long is my application valid?

Applications received in 2010/11 are valid until December 31, 2011.

Is the optional writing portion of the ACT required?

Currently, the optional writing portion is not required for admission.

Are students required to provide their own equipment?

Click here for a list of equipment needs Compass provides students with wireless Internet service and basic sound and lighting equipment.

How many students currently attend Compass Film Academy?

Compass limits enrollment to 30 students per session in order to maintain a close mentoring relationship between our students and faculty. Compass Film Academy has over 600 alumni who have attended our sessions and workshops.

What will my class schedule be like while attending the Academy?

Students attend classes for five hours per day, Monday-Friday. This allows students to work on film projects, as well as hold part time jobs.

Can I go to school at night or attend part time?

Currently, Compass does not offer individual classes. Students are enrolled full time in the Film and Video Production program; however, part time status is reviewed on a case by case basis.

Is Compass Film Academy an accredited school?

Yes, Compass is accredited by ACCSC, the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges.

Can I transfer my Compass Film Academy credits to another college?

The ability to transfer credits is based on the policies of the school accepting the credits. In the past, students have been able to successfully gain credit for classes taken at Compass. The student is responsible for contacting the new school’s registrar and obtaining the correct information needed.

What degree does Compass Film Academy offer?

The successful student receives a Film and Video Production Program Diploma upon completion. The program is authorized and licensed by the State of Michigan, and the school is recognized as a post-secondary institution and accredited by ACCSC.

What type of financial aid is available at Compass?

Financial aid information is available here.

When is my application considered “complete”?

Information will be mailed to you within one week of the arrival of your application at Compass Film Academy. You will be informed of any items that are still needed to complete your admissions file.

Does Compass provide housing?

No, but we do connect incoming students with each other as roommates. We also help them find affordable housing. Several of our alumni and families help out our new students by offering nearby rental properties for the school year.

What is the Grand Rapids area like?

Grand Rapids, Michigan, is an excellent location for a film school. It is a vibrant, thriving city with a population of more than 600,000. Grand Rapids also offers a diverse and growing arts community. Shopping, recreational outlets, and scenic beauty can be found in and around the city. Our students have a wide range of opportunities in West Michigan to pursue filmmaking.

Does Compass offer scholarships?

Tuition covers roughly half of our expenses; we therefore rely on the generosity of donors. However, scholarships are considered on a per student basis.

Is Compass accredited?

Compass Film Academy is accredited by ACCSC. ACCSC also accredits other film schools located in the United States. The Compass program is designed to focus on career placement, and placement depends on the student’s successful completion of the program. Click here for our Excellence Award Policy.

Will someone at Compass read my script?

We are always looking to expand our community of Artists and help others discern their path into their artistic and career goals. However, since our resources are directed toward the formation of our students and alumni, we have limited time to provide detailed feedback on scripts that do not come from students or alumni. That being said, there are always folks in the community looking to form creative partnerships. Drop us a line, and we’d love to get you hooked in to the community.

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