Directing

Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the Directing Program, faculty, facilities, curriculum and view student work.

Please note that you must complete all Admissions Requirements as well as the audition or portfolio requirements to be considered for admission.


Portfolio Guidelines (MFA)

Select applicants to this program will be contacted for a personal interview based on a review of their application and portfolio materials. In addition to a portfolio, all applicants must submit a résumé and three letters of recommendation from professionals who know your work.

MFA Directing Program applicants should submit a portfolio containing video documentation; our application system accepts videos that are directly uploaded, as well as YouTube and Vimeo links. Portfolios must be submitted to our online portfolio site. Video links or portfolios will not be accepted via email.

It is highly unusual for an applicant to be accepted into the program without such documentation. Applicants are strongly urged to submit their application and portfolio materials on or before the Preferred Deadline in order to allow for thorough review and, if selected by the Head of Directing, a personal interview. The Office of Admissions will contact all applicants who are selected for an interview.

Applicants should submit video materials that best represent their work, whether this be excerpts from various shows or full length production documentation.

Artist Statement

An artist statement is very important in the admissions process and should answer the following three questions:

  • What issues and concerns inform your artmaking practice?
  • Why are you applying to your program at CalArts?
  • What are your artistic goals?