FAQs

Do I have to audition or submit a portfolio with my application?

No, we don’t require auditions, portfolios, or reels to apply. We believe college is the place to discover your passion, try new things, hone your skills, and develop a body of work to take into the real world after graduation. If you already have a reel and want to submit a web link with your application, it’s completely optional. However, if you want to apply for a Columbia College Hollywood Scholarship you may be required to submit a portfolio, video, or creative sample of your work as part of your scholarship application.

Can I choose more than one Emphasis for my BFA program?

No, you can only choose one Emphasis, but you’re free to choose from a wide variety of elective courses in other areas.

Is Columbia College Hollywood accredited?

Yes. Columbia College Hollywood is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Do I need to take the ACT or SAT to apply?

No. We don’t require you to submit test scores with your application, but we recommend submitting them anyway. If you achieved high scores on your SAT, ACT, or AP exams, you may be eligible for course credit.

Do I have to wait until the Fall quarter to enroll as a Freshman?

No, you can start your college career at the beginning of any academic quarter: Fall (October), Winter (January), Spring (April), or Summer (July). Click here for the current academic calendar.

What kind of financial aid is available?

Our Financial Aid Office can assist you in finding the best combination of federal and state financial aid programs to help finance your college education. Private scholarships and alternative loan programs are also available.  Click here for additional information on financial aid.

What are the admission requirements for international students?

International applications have the same requirements as U.S. nationals with two additional requirements: a minimum TOEFL score of 550 and a statement of financial support to the Columbia College Hollywood Admissions Office. Click here for a detailed list of requirements for international students.

Can I transfer credits from another school?

Yes. There is no minimum transfer credit requirement. All transfer credits are subject to prior review and approval. Click here for more information on transferring credits.

I live out of state and can’t make it to an Open House. Is there another way to schedule a visit?

Yes! There are two ways to visit us. f you can’t attend a quarterly Open House, you can request a private tour. Just call us at (800) 785-0585 or email us at admissions@columbiacollege.edu.

What kind of housing is available?

Columbia College Hollywood students can take advantage of several student housing options within ¼ mile of the Columbia College campus. Click here for more information on student housing.

How close is the campus to Hollywood?

Our campus is located in the West San Fernando area of Los Angeles, north of the Hollywood Hills.  We’re 15 miles from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and many major studios and production facilities are even closer.

Can I apply for internships with entertainment industry companies while I’m a student?

Yes! An internship is one of the best ways to build industry relationships and gain practical experience that you’ll be able to include on your resume. Most students can begin applying for Internships that earn college credit in their junior year.

How will a liberal arts degree help me in a creative career?

A liberal arts degree program provides a foundation of critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication skills that best prepares you to be a resilient, agile, lifelong storyteller, ready to build your own future career doing what you love.

What is the Admissions Review Committee looking for in my application?

The Committee is looking for a complete application, including your official high school transcripts and all other required documents, submitted on time. When you write your personal essay, express yourself, describe your creative and academic goals, then proofread carefully for grammar and punctuation errors. Ask teachers, counselors, or employers who really know you to write letters of recommendation. Finally, during your admissions interview, let your individuality shine so your Admissions Counselor can see how you’ll contribute something unique to the Columbia College Hollywood community.

Can I sit in on a class?

Yes! Contact your Admissions Counselor directly to coordinate a campus visit.