City Cinema

City Cinema is a highly competitive program with a rigorous selection process driven by our unique financial model. Thanks to generous institutional funding, we’re proud to offer full scholarships to all enrolled students, making our industry-leading arts education accessible to talented young artists from all backgrounds.

City Cinema is committed to amplifying voices from underserved communities, but we welcome students from all backgrounds. Applicants must be current high school students, from the fall semester of freshman year to the spring semester of senior year, and our admissions team will prioritize applications from students from historically underserved communities who attend public or charter high schools in the five boroughs of New York City.

No. Our introductory courses, Film Launch and Actor’s Lab, are designed for students at any level, including complete beginners.

Semester classes run for 12 weeks and meet on Saturdays or Sundays from 11am to 6pm. Summer intensives run for 3 weeks, Monday through Friday. All classes meet at our Manhattan campus at 440 Lafayette Street near Astor Place.

Early Decision: November 15. Regular Decision: December 15. Final Decision: January 15. Classes begin January 23, 2027.