10 Best Film Schools in the UK (2025)
Here are the best film schools in the UK for local and international students! Learn how to apply, fees, and alumni success stories.
The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious film schools, offering world-class education, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections. Whether you dream of becoming the next Christopher Nolan or Greta Gerwig, these institutions provide the perfect launchpad for your career in filmmaking. Here’s a detailed guide to the 10 best film schools in the UK, including how to get into each one and what makes them stand out.
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1. National Film and Television School (NFTS)
Location: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
Website: NFTS Official Website
The NFTS is widely regarded as the best film school in the UK and ranks in the top 10 globally. It offers over 30 master’s, diploma, and certificate programs in filmmaking, animation, and digital effects. The school boasts an impressive alumni list, including Lynne Ramsay and Ruby Abbiss.
How to Get In:
- Acceptance rate: 3%
- Requirements: A high school degree, proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL), and a portfolio or showreel.
- Process: Applicants must attend an interview and participate in weeklong seminars.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £6,000 to £26,000 per year.
- Scholarships: BAFTA scholarships are available.
2. London Film School (LFS)
Location: Covent Garden, London
Website: LFS Official Website
Founded in 1956, LFS is one of the oldest film schools in the world. It offers postgraduate programs in filmmaking, screenwriting, and international film business. Over 60% of its students are international, making it a diverse and multicultural hub.
How to Get In:
- Acceptance rate: 41%
- Requirements: A bachelor’s degree, a portfolio, and English proficiency.
- Process: Submit a showreel and attend an interview.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £666 to £11,183 per year.
- Alumni: Michael Mann and Julian Doyle.
3. MetFilm School
Location: London and Leeds
Website: MetFilm School Official Website
MetFilm School is known for its practical approach to filmmaking. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in screen acting, cinematography, and post-production. The school’s headquarters at Ealing Studios have been the filming location for classics like Notting Hill and The Ladykillers.
How to Get In:
- Acceptance rate: 82%
- Requirements: A high school diploma and a portfolio.
- Process: Attend an interview and submit a creative project.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £26,500 to £42,750 per year.
- Alumni: Nick Rowland (Calm with Horses).
4. Goldsmiths, University of London (The Screen School)
Location: New Cross, London
Website: Goldsmiths Official Website
Goldsmiths focuses on film production rather than acting. It offers an MA in filmmaking with specializations in cinematography, directing, and sound recording. The school is known for its innovative approach and purpose-built media facilities.
How to Get In:
- Acceptance rate: 41%
- Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and a portfolio.
- Process: Submit a written proposal and attend an interview.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £16,000 to £22,220 per year.
- Alumni: Sam Taylor-Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey).
5. London Film Academy (LFA)
Location: Fulham, London
Website: LFA Official Website
LFA offers certificate, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses in filmmaking, screenwriting, and cinematography. It has contributed to major productions like Mission Impossible 8 and The Crown.
How to Get In:
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Requirements: A high school diploma and English proficiency.
- Process: Submit a portfolio and attend an interview.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £18,750 to £21,750 per year.
- Alumni: Mat Whitecross (Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams).
6. University of Westminster
Location: London
Website: University of Westminster Official Website
The University of Westminster offers a BA in Film and TV production, emphasizing group work and practical training. It has produced notable alumni like Christopher Nolan (Oppenheimer).
How to Get In:
- Requirements: A high school diploma and English proficiency.
- Process: Submit a portfolio and attend an interview.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £12,500 to £16,000 per year.
- Facilities: Two soundstages and a TV studio.
7. Ravensbourne University
Location: Greenwich Peninsula, London
Website: Ravensbourne Official Website
Ravensbourne offers courses in digital film production, screenwriting, and editing. It takes a holistic approach, combining film production with industry knowledge.
How to Get In:
- Requirements: A high school diploma and a portfolio.
- Process: Attend an interview and submit a creative project.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £12,000 to £25,000 per year.
- Alumni: Tom Harper (Peaky Blinders).
8. Bournemouth Film School
Location: Bournemouth
Website: Bournemouth Film School Official Website
Bournemouth Film School is known for its creative risks and top-notch studios. It offers courses in film production, television production, and cinematography.
How to Get In:
- Requirements: A high school diploma and a portfolio.
- Process: Submit a creative project and attend an interview.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £15,750 to £16,750 per year.
- Alumni: Edgar Wright (The World’s End).
9. Young Film Academy (YFA)
Location: London
Website: Young Film Academy Official Website
The Young Film Academy (YFA) is one of the UK’s leading providers of film education for young people. It offers courses, workshops, and summer camps for aspiring filmmakers aged 8–18. YFA focuses on hands-on learning, allowing students to write, direct, and edit their own short films.
How to Get In:
- Requirements: No formal qualifications are needed, but a passion for filmmaking is essential.
- Process: Enroll in a course or workshop directly through their website.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: Vary depending on the program (e.g., £500 for a weekend workshop).
- Alumni: Many YFA students have gone on to study at top film schools like NFTS and LFS.
10. University of the Arts London (UAL)
Location: London
Website: UAL Official Website
UAL offers a BA in Film and Television, focusing on creativity, technical skills, and career preparation. It is one of the most prestigious arts universities in the world.
How to Get In:
- Requirements: A high school diploma and a portfolio.
- Process: Attend an interview and submit a creative project.
Interesting Stats:
- Fees: £28,570 per year.
- Alumni: Numerous award-winning filmmakers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right film school is a crucial step in your filmmaking journey. Each of these institutions offers unique opportunities, from hands-on training to networking with industry professionals. Whether you’re an aspiring director, screenwriter, or cinematographer, the UK’s film schools provide the tools and connections you need to succeed.
For more information, visit the official websites of these schools or reach out to their admissions teams. Your dream career in filmmaking is just an application away!
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