FAQ
Do I need a visa to study in Poland?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. As a general rule, a visa for long-term stay (over 90 days) is required for non-EU nationals. Please contact your nearest Polish consulate to confirm your status.
Can the School arrange a visa for me?
While we can assist you and provide guidance, we are unable to apply for the visa on your behalf. You will need to contact the nearest Polish consulate to initiate the application process. Kindly note that this process can take some time, so it’s best to start as soon as possible.
My visa application requires a document of purpose, can you provide one?
Yes, we can provide you with a letter confirming that you are undergoing the application process at the School.
I can get my diploma naturalized in Poland, do I still need an Apostille?
No. A diploma that has been naturalized (recognized) by the Polish government is considered equivalent to a Polish diploma. If this process is easier for you, feel free to go ahead. For more information, please visit this link.
What is NAWA (The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange)?
NAWA is a new institution that was established on October 1st, 2017. It is set up to coordinate state activities driving the process of internationalization of Polish academic and research institutions. The mission of NAWA is to foster the development of Poland in the area of science and higher education.
The NAWA's Director individual recognition statements on secondary education certificates confirming the right to apply for admission to first-cycle studies or long-cycle studies are issued.
I will receive my English certification after the application deadline. What should I do?
Don’t worry! Please send us a brief letter describing the certification you will be obtaining and its expected date, and attach it to your application form. Just remember, we will need the scan of your certification before the end of July.
Here’s a list of certified English testing centers online that offer official exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English assessments. These centers typically provide online testing options, which can be convenient for remote exam-taking:
1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Website: https://www.ielts.org
- Details: Offers online testing options, including the IELTS Indicator, a version of the exam for remote assessment.
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Website: https://www.ets.org/toefl
- Details: ETS offers the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, which can be taken online with a secure remote proctor.
3. Cambridge English Exams (including FCE, CAE, CPE)
- Website: https://www.cambridgeenglish.org
- Details: Cambridge English offers online testing options for various certifications. The tests are available through authorized online exam centers.
4. Pearson PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
- Website: https://www.pearsonpte.com
- Details: PTE Academic offers a secure online test for assessing English proficiency for study and migration purposes.
5. LanguageCert International ESOL
- Website: https://www.languagecert.org
- Details: Offers online English proficiency exams with a focus on general and business English.
What are the admission rules?
The admission process is simple: fill out the online application on our website (APPLY HERE), ensure all required documents and work samples are attached, submit your application along with the proof of payment of the admission fee (30 Euro), and wait for us to contact you via email.
In order to join Warsaw Film School please fill in the form and attach the following:
- proof of application fee (30 EUR)
- motivation letter addressed to the Rector of Warsaw Film School, describing your educational background, work experience and interests; it should contain candidate’s name and surname, phone number and e-mail address
- artistic work: photostory and film project on any topic.
Once we receive the form and attachments, we will contact you to inform you of the date of the recruitment interview online.
How to prepare for the interview?
Once you’ve submitted your application, including all required documents (as listed on our website), and paid the application fee, you will be contacted to schedule your interview. Interviews are conducted online.
The interview is typically led by our Vice-Rector for International Cooperation, Mr. Artur Zaborski, and one of our film directing professors, Mr. Marek Brodzki. We will discuss your film inspirations, work samples, and some basic questions related to film knowledge and storytelling. The interview usually lasts 15-20 minutes, and you will receive the results either during the interview or within a few days. All interviews are conducted in English.
What is the duration of the entire course?
The entire BA program lasts 3 years (6 semesters).
How much does the course cost per semester and in total?
The cost of the 3-year BA Modern Filmmaking program is EUR 8000 per year if paid in full in advance. Otherwise, the cost is EUR 8500 per semester.
Is my work sample expected to be a festival-level short film?
No, it does not need to be a festival-level film. The work sample should demonstrate that you have creative ideas and the ability to use whatever tools are available to you.
Is there a limit on the number of students admitted to each specialization?
Yes, the maximum number of students per specialization is 16. However, the final number will depend on the quality of applications.
Will there be a second application period?
If we still have available places by the end of July, we may open a second application round in August or September, though this cannot be guaranteed.
What will the tuition fees be next year?
Tuition fees for each year are regulated by an order from our Chancellor. Please check our website for the most up-to-date fees.
Does the school offer scholarships to international students?
No, Warsaw Film School does not provide scholarships to international students. However, second and third-year students can apply for the Chancellor’s Scholarship based on their academic performance, involvement in school activities, creativity, and leadership.
Can international students work in production houses during or after their studies?
Yes, the school organizes various activities to prepare you for work in the film industry, including masterclasses and networking opportunities. Networking is a key component at Warsaw Film School and will help you make valuable connections with potential future collaborators.
Does the school promote films made during the studies?
Yes, the Creative Department promotes student films by submitting them to various international and national film festivals.
Where can I watch films made by students and graduates of Warsaw Film School?
Student films and trailers are available on our Vimeo and YouTube channels.
Does the school assist with accommodation in Warsaw?
Our Creative Department is happy to provide assistance in finding accommodation, offering advice on safety, pricing, and the best student-friendly neighborhoods in Warsaw.
Work Sample Tips:
Mandatory assignments:
1. Photostory: 7 photos telling a story - a distinctive main character who has a problem. The story should have a beginning, development, and ending. Photos in horizontal mode only.
2. Film project on any topic, preferably one that best defines the candidate (max. 5 minutes).
We will be evaluating: storytelling, composition, and light character.
Note: videos must also be in horizontal mode only.
Additionally: other personal works for example: drawings, animations, photos.
There is no specific theme for the work sample. We require a piece that conveys a message and is understandable to the audience. For Film Directing applicants, we recommend choosing a piece with a classic storytelling structure that includes key components such as:
- Introduction/Setup: Introduce the characters, setting, and conflict.
- Conflict/Problem: Present the main issue that needs resolution.
- Rising Action: Build tension, introduce obstacles, and complicate the situation.
- Climax: The peak moment of the story, where the conflict reaches its highest point.
- Falling Action: The story begins to wind down and leads to resolution.
- Resolution/Conclusion: The conflict is resolved, and the story concludes.
If you have further questions or need additional information, feel free to contact us at:
international@warsawfilmschool.com