10 Best Film Schools in Australia (2025)

Australia is home to some of the world’s most prestigious film schools, offering a mix of practical training, industry connections, and state-of-the-art facilities. Whether you’re an aspiring director, screenwriter, or cinematographer, these institutions provide the perfect environment to hone your craft. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 film schools in Australia, including how to get into each one and what makes them stand out.

1. Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS)

Website: aftrs.edu.au
AFTRS is Australia’s national screen and broadcast school, consistently ranked among the top film schools globally. It has produced award-winning alumni like Jane Campion and Tony McNamara, who have made significant contributions to the global film industry.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production
• Master of Arts Screen (specializations in Directing, Editing, Cinematography, etc.)
• Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit a portfolio, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. Some programs require an interview or additional creative work. AFTRS looks for passion, creativity, and a strong vision for storytelling. Visit the website for more details.

Interesting Stats:

• Over 5,000 awards and selections for student films at prestigious festivals like Cannes and Sundance.
• Alumni have won Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs.

2. Griffith Film School

Website: griffith.edu.au
Griffith Film School is one of the largest and most respected film schools in Australia. It offers a range of programs that focus on practical skills and industry connections. Angie Fielder and Matthew Schofield are alumni.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Film and Screen Media Production
• Master of Screen Production
• Graduate Diploma in Screen Production

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit a portfolio, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. Some programs may require an interview.

Interesting Stats:

• The school has produced over 1,500 films in the past 35 years.
• Graduates have worked on award-winning films and TV shows globally.

3. University of Melbourne’s Film and television

Website: unimelb.edu.au
The University of Melbourne offers a comprehensive film program that combines theory and practice. Its Bachelor of Fine Arts (Film & Television) is highly regarded for its focus on artistic and technical excellence.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (Film & Television)
• Master of Film & Television
• Graduate Diploma in Film & Television

How to Get In:
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent, a portfolio, and a personal statement. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Interesting Stats:

• The program emphasizes hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment.
• Graduates have gone on to work in major Australian and international productions.

4. Sydney Film School

Website: sydneyfilmschool.edu.au
Sydney Film School is known for its intensive, hands-on approach to filmmaking. It’s ideal for students looking to jumpstart their careers.

Programs Offered:

• Diploma of Screen and Media
• Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit a portfolio and attend an interview.

Interesting Stats:

• The school has produced over 1,000 alumni who work in various roles in the film industry.

5. University of Technology Sydney (UTS)’s Media Arts and Production

Website: uts.edu.au
UTS offers a dynamic film program that uses industry-based production models. Students can specialize in areas like cinematography, scriptwriting, and directing.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Communication (Media Arts and Production)
• Master of Media Practice and Industry

How to Get In:
Applicants need a high school diploma, a portfolio, and a personal statement. International students must meet English language requirements.

Interesting Stats:

• UTS has strong ties with the Australian film and television industry, providing students with real-world experience.

6. Swinburne University of Technology’s Film and Television

Website: swinburne.edu.au
Swinburne’s film program is known for its focus on narrative films, documentaries, and digital media production. It offers a blend of creative and technical training.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Film and Television
• Master of Media and Communication (Film & TV)

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit a portfolio, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. Some programs may require an interview.

Interesting Stats:

• The program emphasizes hands-on learning and industry engagement.

7. Bond University’s Communication, film and creative media

Website: bond.edu.au
Bond University offers a hands-on, project-based film program that balances practical experience with creative theory. It’s ideal for students looking to explore their artistic voice.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Film and Television
• Master of Film and Television
• Diploma of Creative Design
• Bachelor of Creative Arts

How to Get In:
Applicants need a high school diploma, a portfolio, and a personal statement. International students must meet English language requirements.

Interesting Stats:

• The program includes internships and industry placements, providing valuable networking opportunities.

8. University of New South Wales (UNSW)’s Film studies

Website: unsw.edu.au
UNSW’s film program focuses on critical analysis and the impact of technology, culture, and economics on cinema. It’s perfect for students interested in the theoretical aspects of film.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Media Arts
• Master of Film Studies

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a portfolio, and a personal statement. International students need to demonstrate English proficiency.

Interesting Stats:

• The program offers a global perspective on the history and future of film.

9. University of Adelaide’s Film Studies

Website: www.adelaide.edu.au
The University of Adelaide combines industry focus with theoretical strength, offering a well-rounded film education.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Media
• Master of Media
• Diploma in Arts
• Bachelor of Media with Bachelor of Arts

How to Get In:
Applicants need a high school diploma, a portfolio, and a personal statement. International students must meet English language requirements.

Interesting Stats:

• The program emphasizes research and innovation in media production.

10. Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Website: www.qut.edu.au
QUT offers a broad-based film program that allows students to explore various career options before specializing.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Creative Arts (Film and Screen)
• Master of Fine Arts (Film, Screen, and New Media)

How to Get In:
Applicants must submit a portfolio, academic transcripts, and a personal statement. International students need to demonstrate English proficiency.

Interesting Stats:

• The program includes practical projects and industry placements.

Conclusion

Australia’s film schools offer world-class education, industry connections, and a vibrant creative environment. Whether you’re interested in directing, producing, or cinematography, these institutions provide the tools and opportunities to succeed in the global film industry. Start your journey today by exploring these top film schools and their programs!