I'm applying for transfer to NYU...?

Question

And I want to go to Tisch Film and TV, but have little in my portfolio in that area. I have a very strong fine arts portfolio, however; should I apply for fine arts instead and possibly shift to Film and TV?

Answer 1

It's a good question. NYU's studio art program is part of its Steinhardt School, while its film and tv program is part of the Tisch School. I understand that, although admissions to all of NYU is highly competitive, the admissions to Tisch are cut throat, and of course, since their film and tv program is in the top 5 internationally, it 's especially difficult to get in to.

My friends who've attended NYU have told me (so this is hearsay) that transferring into Tisch from within NYU is extremely difficult. You need to have a heart-to-heart with a transfer admissions counsellor at NYU about whether or not your plan is possible. Can you enter as studio art and then change your major to one in the Tisch school? What would you need to do in order to do that? Is it easy, or hard, or impossible?

Also, ask them if the Tisch film and tv program's portfolio requirements are the same for transfers as they are for freshmen. If they really are the same as for freshmen, then you can submit your current artwork, and you should be fine. Their website, for transfers, says that you can submit your non-film artwork. I suspect that, if that's true, and your artwork is really strong, then you may be just fine.

If, however, they do want you to have film, and if it's impossible to change majors into Tisch once you are in, then your next step is to get yourself some film experience, asap. If you can wait until summer, then NYU has a very strong summer program, with a lot of very intense offerings in this field. You'd definitely come out of there with a portfolio piece. But can you wait that long?

If you are in NY, I'd suggest that you take a continuing education class at NYU in this field, right now. Classes just started this week, so it's not too late. I'll link, below.

If you are not in NY, you can check to see if any decent film schools near you offer short courses.

But hopefully, you can apply directly to Tisch with the portfolio you have right now. Again, talk to admissions - ideally in person, with your portfolio in hand.

Answer 2

yes. you should apply to the fine arts area and enhance your portfolio, then go to the film and tv area, because NYU is a great school and they may not let you in with a portfolio that shows that you are inexperienced in the are in which you are trying to transfer.