10 Best Film Schools in China (2025)
Here is a look at China's top film schools for local and international students: admission tips, tuition fees, alumni success, and how to apply.
China’s film industry has grown massively over the past decade, producing globally acclaimed directors like Zhang Yimou and blockbusters that dominate box offices all over the world. For local and international students, studying film in China offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, affordable tuition, and access to cutting-edge technology. Below, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best film schools in China, complete with admission tips, notable alumni, and links to their official websites.
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1. Beijing Film Academy (BFA)
Known as the “Cradle of Chinese Filmmakers,” BFA is Asia’s largest film school and a powerhouse for cinematic education. Established in 1950, it offers specialized programs in directing, cinematography, and acting. International students can apply for English-taught Master’s programs, though proficiency in Mandarin is advantageous.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (short films, scripts, or photography).
- Demonstrate English or Mandarin proficiency (HSK 4+ for Chinese-taught programs).
- Annual tuition for international students: up to $12,900.
Interesting Fact: Over 10,000 BFA alumni work in China’s film industry, shaping its global reputation.
Website: bfa.edu.cn
2. Central Academy of Drama (CAD)
Founded in 1950, CAD is China’s top drama school, emphasizing theater and screen acting. It’s affiliated with the Ministry of Education and offers rigorous training in performance and directing. The academy’s alumni dominate Chinese cinema and theater.
How to Get In:
- Prepare a live audition or video submission (monologues, scenes).
- Showcase your storytelling skills through a written essay or portfolio.
- Annual tuition: up to $5,500 (bachelor’s programs) for international students.
Interesting Fact: CAD hosts the UNESCO Chair on Theatre Education, reflecting its global influence.
Website: en.chntheatre.edu.cn
3. Shanghai Theatre Academy (STA)
STA, founded in 1945, is renowned for its acting, directing, and stage design programs. It’s a hub for performers aiming to break into China’s booming TV and film industries. The school offers English-taught Master’s programs in film studies.
How to Get In:
- Submit an audition tape or portfolio (theater/film work).
- Provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+).
- Annual tuition: Up to $7,200 for international students.
Interesting Fact: STA’s alumni have won over 100 national acting awards.
Website: sta.edu.cn
4. Communication University of China (CUC)
CUC ranks among Asia’s top 10 schools for cinematography. Located in Beijing, it specializes in media, broadcasting, and film production. The university’s state-of-the-art studios and industry partnerships provide hands-on experience.
How to Get In:
- Submit a creative portfolio (short films, scripts, or media projects).
- Demonstrate Mandarin proficiency (HSK 5 for Chinese-taught programs).
- Annual tuition: Up to $6,000 for international students.
Interesting Fact: CUC collaborates with major networks like CCTV and Hunan TV.
Website: en.cuc.edu.cn
5. Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) – Academy of Film
HKBU’s Academy of Film stands out for its bilingual (English/Cantonese) programs and global outlook. It offers degrees in screenwriting, directing, and digital media, blending Eastern and Western cinematic traditions.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (films, scripts, or storyboards).
- IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 79+ for English programs.
- Annual tuition: Up to $15,000 for international students.
Interesting Fact: HKBU’s film graduates have won awards at Cannes and Berlin Film Festivals.
Website: af.hkbu.edu.hk
6. Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA)
HKAPA’s School of Film and Television focuses on practical training, offering access to advanced studios and equipment. Its Bachelor of Fine Arts program covers directing, editing, and production design.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (short films, screenplays, or visual art).
- Attend an interview (in-person or virtual).
- Annual tuition: Up to $12,000 for international students.
Interesting Fact: HKAPA is one of Asia’s few schools with Dolby Atmos-certified sound studios.
Website: hkapa.edu
7. Communication University of Zhejiang
The Communication University of Zhejiang is a top choice for broadcasting and media studies. Its programs emphasize documentary filmmaking and TV production with strong ties to provincial networks.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (media projects, writing samples).
- HSK 4+ for Chinese programs.
- Annual tuition: Up to $4,500 for international students.
Interesting Fact: The school campus includes a mock TV station for student training.
Website: cuz.edu.cn
8. Meishi Film Academy (Chongqing University)
Established in 2000, Meishi combines academic rigor with industry mentorship. It offers programs in film directing, screenwriting, and cinematography, with part-time faculty from China’s A-list directors.
How to Get In:
- Submit a creative portfolio (short films or scripts).
- Attend an interview (mandatory for international applicants).
- Annual tuition: Up to $5,000 for international students.
Interesting Fact: The academy’s dean, Zhang Guoli, is a celebrated actor-director.
Website: msfilm.cqu.edu.cn
9. Beijing Normal University – School of Art and Media
This school blends film studies with digital media and animation. Its interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration between filmmakers, designers, and technologists.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (films, animations, or multimedia projects).
- IELTS 6.0+ or HSK 5+.
- Annual tuition: Up to $7,500 for international students.
Interesting Fact: The school ranks 10th in Asia for cinematography research.
Website: art.bnu.edu.cn
10. Shanghai University – Shanghai Film Academy
Established in 2015, this academy focuses on emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and 3D filmmaking. It’s ideal for students interested in experimental and digital cinema.
How to Get In:
- Submit a portfolio (films, VR projects, or digital art).
- IELTS 6.0+ or HSK 4+.
- Annual tuition: Up to $6,500 for international students.
Interesting Fact: The academy partners with Shanghai International Film Festival for student internships.
Website: sfa.shu.edu.cn
Conclusion
China’s film schools offer a gateway to one of the world’s most dynamic entertainment markets. Whether you’re drawn to Beijing’s cinematic legacy or Hong Kong’s global flair, these institutions provide the tools to turn your passion into a career. For more details, visit the schools’ websites or check scholarship portals like China Scholarships. Lights, camera, action! Your future in film starts here!
Don’t forget that you can explore options like the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) or university-specific grants.
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