How To Apply -
BFA in Screenwriting

Admission to the Faculty of Fine Arts at York University is based on both academic and artistic criteria. The University sets academic admission standards, while artistic admissibility is assessed locally in each Fine Arts department.

Admission to the BFA in Screenwriting is highly competitive. We are looking for committed writers excited by the possibilities of collaborative moving image storytelling.

The application process for this program involves the following steps:


1. Apply to York University

Students currently enrolled full-time in an Ontario secondary school apply through their guidance office.

All other candidates, including international applicants, may get an application from the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

International applicants are also encouraged to visit York University's website for international students.

Deadline to submit your application to the University: February  1, 2012.

2. Apply Online to the BFA in Screenwriting

Once you have received your York ID number, you must complete an online supplemental application for the BFA in Screenwriting and pay a $50 evaluation fee (payable by VISA, American Express or MasterCard).

Your online application for the BFA in Screenwriting will include submission of a writing portfolio. This should consist of your strongest creative writing (prose, poetry, playwriting, screenwriting). The portfolio should be 8 to 12 pages in length, double-spaced, and comprise no more than three separate pieces of writing. The portfolio should be uploaded as a single file in .doc, .rtf, .pdf, or .txt format. Please include your name and York ID on each page of your portfolio.

Note: If you are also applying to the BFA in Production you must complete a second online application for that program.

Deadline to submit your Supplemental Application: February 15, 2012.

3. Reference Letters

Along with the online supplemental application, two letters of reference are required. Letters should be from current or past teachers or others who are familiar with your work. References from friends or family are not appropriate. The best references come from referees who are able to speak knowledgably and specifically about your creative and academic strengths.

Letters of reference may be submitted online.

Submission deadline for reference letters: February 15, 2012.

4. On-campus Evaluation

Your complete application, along with your most recent available grades, will be reviewed by faculty in the Department of Film. Based on the results of this review, selected applicants will be invited for an on-campus interview on Saturday, March 17, 2012. Please keep this day free!

Applicants will be notified of their status after March 17, 2012.

Note: Applicants who reside more than 300 KM from York University will be given the option of participating in a telephone interview


Additional Program Information:

Do you have more questions about the undergraduate application/audition procedure? Need to know more about your next steps? Ask finearts@yorku.ca

You can also contact us at:

Department of Film
224 Centre for Film and Theatre
York University
4700 Keele St.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M3J 1P3
Tel: 416-736-5149
Fax: 416-736-5710
film@yorku.ca