Do you want to pursue a career in film but don’t know where to start? Worried about which subjects to take at A level? There are several things which you can do to kick start your career and improve your chances of getting onto a film degree course; continue reading to find out more!
Your UCAS application is complete and you have decided what potential universities you would like to attend. Now what? The end of your A level studies is near and you are passionate about the film industry and what you can contribute to it. The adventures which university can offer are an exciting prospect but there are a few specific steps which need to be taken to ensure your place on a film degree course.
Firstly, depending on the university, entry requirements will vary with an average of 260-300 UCAS points (or equivalent Level 3 qualifications) needed, alongside A level English and a minimum of a grade C in GCSE English. Each university you apply to will state the UCAS points required to be a successful candidate. Usually, if you do not get the results you expect, there is the option of ‘clearing’ where left over places can be applied to by those who unfortunately did not attain the grades they had hoped for.
Although English is one of the main subjects required, other subjects such as IT, Media or Business studies will enhance your general film-related knowledge as a whole. Remember; do not just rely on your A level studies. Carry out your own research and discover how some of the most famous film-makers made their way into the industry. There are several different routes to achieving your goals.
If your application is successful, you will most likely be offered an interview prior to being offered a place. You may be expected to demonstrate previous experience which you have attained, for example contributing to school plays. Show some initiative! Although work experience isn’t imperative, universities look for unique applicants who can talk passionately about why they love film so much. This may include technical knowledge with reference to cameras, lighting and video editing or a familiarity of networking with awareness of marketing a film successfully within the industry itself.
Not sure where to start? Gain some video editing work experience here! Ask yourself this: can you talk passionately about at least two of your favourite films? Secondly, how are you going to talk avidly about your love of film if you have no experience to base it on? You will be earning major brownie points if you can boast about volunteering at a local film festival, for example. If you get the chance, say yes! It can only go in your favour.
It’s so easy now to make videos and edit them using free software available online. Make a couple of short videos to show your skills or even just to gain experience and add a little something to your portfolio to show the University you’re applying to.
Rest assured, you will not be expected to know everything there is about the film industry. This is the reason why you’re about to embark upon a degree course in the subject; so that your knowledge of film can flourish and so that your mind can be opened and your horizons broadened.
Make sure you are prepared, because even though the two years of A level studies are a challenging process, you are about to enter a whole new level of higher education. Be excited but cautious!
Do you feel ready? The rest of your career awaits you so embrace your talents and pursue life to the best of your ability.
This post has been written by undergraduate student Chloe, who has experienced the UCAS application process and knows all too well the dos and don’ts of how to get into uni!
photo credit: Dr. RawheaD via photopin cc
