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Admissions

Compass has a selective and competitive recruiting policy. Only 24 students at a time are accepted into the program.

Applications are now being accepted for 2009

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.

Students accepted will have the choice of beginning the One-Year Program in the May 2009 class start or the September 2009 class start. Accepted students will be contacted for their start date preference.

May Class Start Application Deadline: March 1, 2009

September Start Application Deadline: April 15, 2009

Admissions FAQ:

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 2009 are valid until December 31, 2009.

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 24 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 one-year program; however, part-time status is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

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

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 quiet city with a population of more than 600,000. Grand Rapids offers a vibrant 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.