The Cost of Film School beyond Tuition
Several prospective filmmakers prefer to go to a traditional film school just like that provided by the University of Southern California; The School of Cinematic Art. Traditional film schools such as this will not be free however, so before you’ll apply you need to be made aware of the associated costs.
The tuition itself can be quite expensive, USC for instance charges a tuition of $20,192.00 for 12 to 18 units per semester.
Along with the tuition, you’ll find mandatory fees that are incurred just like any university. Some include: A $65.00 non-refundable application fee. USC also charges a $300.00 non-refundable commitment fee. This can be to show how serious you happen to be to go to the college. For the plus side however, is the fact that this commitment fee is going to be put on your tuition.
New students must pay a $150.00 orientation fee. Health Services fees are assessed at $236.00. Not just that, but Student medical insurance costs $426.00.
Programming fees are $56.50 per semester, and Student Services fees are $18.50. USC also charges each student $8.00 per semester for the Norman H. Topping Student Aid program.
The fees always accumulate.
Until you walk to college, rather than go anywhere, you’ll likely need to pay for parking. The greatest charge for parking is $414.00 per semester, the cheapest $301.50.
Laboratory fees run from $5.00 to $500.00. Next include a student ID card at $18.00. Let’s talk housing next. The common rent for any residence halls arrives at $6,420.00 per semester. You will save several bucks by renting an on campus apartment. That may still run you $5670.00.
Until now, the extra fees and charges go to $8612.00. This does not even start to cover the expense of actually having your hands dirt setting up a student film. Additionally you must keep in mind that come of such fees are assessed each semester you attend school.
Suppose you don’t have a home in Southern California. You’ll want to pay to relocate to go film school at USC.
Please be aware which we don’t intend any disrespect for the University of Southern California. It is a fine school, and there happen to be several excellent graduates through the School of Cinematic Arts. This post is meant to give on a realistic view of the costs which may be incurred in attending an established film school USC just actually is one of the most well known.
If you’ve got the need to join the ranks of George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, as well as others famous filmmakers who have graduated from a traditional film school, plus the cost doesn’t turn you into blanch, then by all means, apply. Just be conscious of the additional costs beyond tuition.

