Published: March 9, 2026
New York, New York, USA
One of the most prestigious film schools in the world, known for training Oscar-winning directors and industry leaders.
Quick facts
Degree types: BFA in Film & Television; BS/BFA dual degree; Master of Fine Arts (Graduate Film)
Teaching focus: Production-heavy, with strong emphasis on industry-level equipment and hands-on filmmaking
Language of instruction: English
Accepts visiting/exchange students: Limited (Cinema Studies and Open Arts Curriculum for exchange students)
Approximate tuition per year: Undergrad ~$99,366 (total cost of attendance on/off campus); Graduate rates vary
Typical cohort size: Approximately 50-60 first-year undergraduate film students per year
What this school is known for
NYU Tisch is famous for producing Oscar-winning directors like Martin Scorsese and Oliver Stone. The school provides one of the largest collections of professional filmmaking equipment on the East Coast. Students have access to broadcast-quality cameras, edit suites, sound stages, and a new virtual production center at Industry City.
Programs offered
BFA in Film & Television (undergraduate)
BS/BFA dual degree (undergraduate)
MFA in Film (graduate)
Specializations available: Directing, Screenwriting, Cinematography, Producing, Editing, Animation
Teaching approach
Tisch is heavily production-focused. You start making films from day one, not just watching them or studying theory. First-year students work on multiple short film projects using professional gear. Class sizes are small, and you get direct feedback from working filmmakers and industry professionals. The school emphasizes learning by doing rather than just sitting in lectures.
Equipment and facilities
Full inventory of cinema cameras, professional lighting kits, and grip equipment
Two sound stages with custom set-building capabilities
Multiple digital imaging labs with Adobe Creative Suite software
Professional editing suites and color correction facilities
Black and white darkrooms for film photography
Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center at Industry City (opened 2024)
Industry connections
Tisch alumni have won 13 Oscars and many more Emmy Awards. Notable directors include Martin Scorsese (Taxi Driver, Goodfellas), Oliver Stone (Wall Street, Platoon), Vince Gilligan (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul), and Shaka King (Judas and the Black Messiah). Recent graduates like Elegance Bratton (The Inspection) and Emma Seligman (Shiva Baby) are winning awards at Sundance and independent film festivals. The school has strong relationships with major studios, networks, and production companies in New York and Los Angeles.
Admissions
Acceptance rate: Approximately 13% (highly selective)
Required: Portfolio of creative work (shorts, photography, scripts, or artwork), application essay, transcripts, and standardized test scores
Interview: Highly encouraged for selected applicants
GPA and test scores: Important, but portfolio quality is the main factor
Cost
Tuition and fees (2024-2025): Approximately $59,890 per year
Total cost of attendance: ~$99,366 per year (includes housing, meals, books, personal expenses)
International students: Same tuition as domestic students
Financial aid: NYU covers full demonstrated need for undergraduates from families earning under $100,000 per year
Living in New York City adds significant costs beyond tuition (housing, food, transport)
For visiting and exchange students
International exchange students can study Cinema Studies and take limited coursework through the Open Arts Curriculum. Full Film & Television major coursework is restricted to NYU-enrolled students. Study abroad options exist for enrolled NYU students in locations like Abu Dhabi, London, Berlin, Prague, and other cities. The Global Pathways Scholarship provides up to $4,000 per semester for study abroad.
Who this school is best for
Tisch is best for students who are serious about making films professionally and can afford a top-tier education in an expensive city. You need a strong portfolio to get in, and you should be ready to work hard in a competitive, fast-paced environment. It is ideal if you want hands-on production experience from day one and are interested in a school with strong industry connections.
