HOW TO APPLY
Please follow these guidelines when submitting your application.
Deadline Overview
- The program accepts applications until all positions are filled, but for best consideration apply by December 11, 2026.
- The Extended Deadline for applications is January, 2026.
- Each cohort begins early June. Fall and Spring semester starts are not available.
Application Status
- Applicants will be notified by February 2026 (or shortly after their extended application deadline) if they are selected for an interview.
Program Timeline
Early June: Classes begin for Summer Thru-Session (June-July)
Mid-August: Classes begin for Year 1 Fall semester (August-December)
Early January: Classes begin for Year 1 Spring semester (January-April)
May-July: No classes offered for rising Year 2 students; students are welcome to find internships, work, or prepare for thesis projects
Mid-August: Classes begin for Year 2 Fall semester (August-December)
Early January: Classes begin for Year 2 Spring semester (January-April)
May: No classes offered; Year 2 thesis postproduction with thesis committees
August: Graduation
FAQ: Applying to MFA Film at UGA
Can I apply to the MFA Film program without having film undergraduate degree?
An undergraduate film degree is not required to apply to the MFA Film program. However, experience working on film sets will help students going through the program as it is production-heavy.
Could I get my application fee waived?
The MFA Film program currently does not offer any application fee waivers.
Are there financial aid or assistantships offered by the MFA Film program?
The program currently does not provide assistantships or scholarships. However, UGA has graduate assistantship positions available across the campus. The Graduate School also offers scholarships and fellowships. Please reach out to the Office of Student Financial Aid for more information.
Where does the program take place? Does tuition cover lodging?
The MFA Film program takes place on the main campus of University of Georgia in Athens, GA and Studio Production Learning Center for two years. While the residency in Athens is not required, it is highly recommended to meet the demands of rigorous academic and production requirements.
Housing cost is not covered by tuition and fees. Students are responsible for securing their own housing. Read about Athens housing: Off-campus Living Guide & On-campus housing
Do you accept any transfer students from another MFA program?
The MFA Film program currently does not accept transfer MFA students.
Contact Us
Considering Applying?
This is the first dual-college graduate program at the University of Georgia. It is offered to students at a tuition rate comparable to other graduate programs at UGA, making it one of the most affordable programs of its caliber in the country.
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