Welcome International Students
Our campuses are located in Toronto, one of the most liveable and multicultural cities in the world. An ideal location for those looking to launch themselves in the booming entertainment industry, and ranked among the top 5 places to live and work as a filmmaker in 2023 by MovieMaker magazine.
Over 20,000 students from all corners of the globe have passed through Toronto Film School on their journey towards a creative career. Join this community of connected, confident, savvy peers as you learn directly from industry leaders inside and outside the classroom. Build your own network of creatives. And enjoy being part of a top film school with a global footprint, recognized by QS World University Rankings, Princeton Review, CourseCompare, and other authorities.
International Partnerships
Toronto Film School has entered into some exciting partnerships with leading creative schools overseas.
Beijing Film Academy
Beijing Film Academy (BFA) is China’s only film academy, and the largest in Asia. Over 70 years, some of China’s most famous directors have graduated from the school. Today, the BFA collaborates with Toronto Film School on student and faculty exchanges, visits, and workshops.
Learn MoreShanghai Theatre Company
Established in 1945, the Shanghai Theatre Company (STC) is a public university dedicated to education in the dramatic arts. After completing a year at the STC, students have the opportunity to continue their career development in Canada through a Toronto Film School diploma program. This would be followed by entry into Yorkville University’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program—with a specialization in project management, or Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA).
Recruitment InformationPathways
Degree Pathway
Complement your TFS diploma with a Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA) degree. Earn in as few as 15 months
Learn MoreESL Pathway Program
In advance of your enrolment, improve your English and learn the differences in academic culture. 12 weeks (each level)
Learn More
International Admission Requirements
In order to apply to Toronto Film School, you must:
Submit a completed application form.
Pay the (non-refundable) application fee of $100 (or $500 for film production)*.
Submit original or notarized post-secondary transcripts (in English or notarized translation required).
Provide proof of citizenship and photo ID.
Provide proof of fluency in English if English is not your native language.
Submit the requirements for your program of choice.
Send a copy of your passport.
Upon acceptance, you will need to sign an acceptance form and pay a tuition deposit.
*Please note that the application fee will be deducted from your tuition total, once you’ve started the program. Upon receipt of the above, your application will be reviewed.
Helpful Resources
Canadian Study Permit and Visa Requirements
Non-residents will need to apply for a study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
To receive an Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) letter for your study permit application, you will need to pay a tuition deposit of $7,000 for 18-month diploma programs, or $6,000 for 12-month diploma programs. This fee may be waived if:
- You show proof of deposit and registration in an ESL school in Canada.
- You have an active study permit currently used for another educational institution in Canada.
You may also be required to obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This process could take some time, so applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as they have received their Letter of Acceptance, and should not book their airline ticket until they have received it.
If you meet the academic requirements of your chosen program, you will be issued a Preliminary Letter of Acceptance (PLOA).
If you are unable to obtain a student visa to enter Canada, you will be entitled to a refund (as long as you give us written notification before half of the program is over).
For more information, please contact us at enrolment@torontofilmschool.ca with your questions.
Health Insurance
It is required by law that international students have private health coverage in order to begin classes. Students will be automatically enrolled in the “Explore Canada” plan, provided by Study Insured, or alternatively they can provide proof of their own insurance for the duration of their studies. International students should bring a copy of their medical and immunization records.
Banking
We recommend that you open a Canadian bank account to allow easy access to your money, this can be done in advance of your arrival. Here is a list of the major banks in Canada with many accessible branches:
Student Housing
Although Toronto Film School does not have housing on campus, we can provide you with a list of rental services and homestay accommodations.
Your Checklist
Original Toronto Film School Letter of Acceptance
Official Study Permit
Temporary Resident Visa (if required)
Valid passport and/or official government-issued identification (with photo)
Proof of sufficient funds (such as a bank statement)
Major credit card (such as Visa or Mastercard)
Driver’s license or international driver’s license (if you plan to drive)
Medical and immunization records
Proof of health insurance
We recommend you copy all your documents before you come to Toronto. For more information, please contact us at enrolment@torontofilmschool.ca.