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Cinema and Media Arts Application Process

We provide a home for creative students who are willing to have their talents expanded and their faith stretched. We encourage you to read the information below, complete the application as soon as possible and schedule a visit to Biola and our Production Center. Admission to Biola University's cinema and media arts major is highly competitive and a well thought out application is advised. All students seeking admission to cinema and media arts must submit the separate cinema and media arts application to the department as well as your Biola University application.

Submit Your Application

 

Steps to Apply

Step 1: Apply to Biola University (This should be done concurrently with your CMA application.)

Step 2: Apply to Cinema and Media Arts by the application deadlines located at the bottom of this page.

  • If applying to production or screenwriting emphasis, please be sure to include links to work samples in application
  • Attach or mail letters of recommendations.

Step 3: Receive notification of admission to Biola University.

Step 4: Receive notification of admission to the CMA major.

 

Application Deadlines

Deadline Type Apply By
Early Action November 30
Regular March 1

Notification of Acceptance

The full CMA department faculty will prayerfully review your application. Notification of application status for the cinema and media arts major will be mailed to you. At that time, you will be notified of your acceptance, placement on a waiting list or denial of admission. If you agree to be placed on a waiting list you will receive final notification of your status soon after the first of May.

Acceptance of Admission Offer

If you are admitted into the cinema and media arts major, you must confirm your acceptance of this offer by May 1st and meet all enrollment and deposit requirements of Biola University. Failure to confirm acceptance will forfeit your admission to the cinema and media arts department.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the application to Biola University the same as the application to the CMA major?

No. The CMA application is separate from and in addition to your application to Biola University.

If I am accepted to Biola, does that automatically guarantee my acceptance into the CMA major?

No. Admission to the CMA major is separate from but contingent upon your admission to Biola University. Admission to Biola University does not guarantee admission into the CMA major.

When will my application be considered for acceptance into the CMA major?

The CMA program will not process an application until the applicant has first been admitted to Biola University. After that, the full program participates in prayerfully reviewing your application for acceptance.

Should I submit my application to the CMA major at the same time as my application to Biola?

Yes. We suggest you submit your application to the CMA major at the same time you submit your application to Biola.

Do I need extensive media experience to be accepted into the CMA major?

Please be assured that extensive media experience is not a prerequisite for admission into the CMA major. We are interested in students who have demonstrated academic success, leadership ability, creative thinking, problem-solving, dreaming and incredible character but experience is helpful.

Should I include samples of my work?

Yes. Depending on emphasis of interest, a writing sample or production reel is expected. While not required, you may submit more than one example of your work however, quantity does not always equal quality, so submit only your best work.

What equipment should I own?

CMA students are encouraged to purchase a computer with video editing software. While students may purchase other professional grade equipment for personal use, it is not a requirement of the major. Contact the department for specific equipment and software recommendations.

Do you accept transfer students?

Yes. For more information, please contact the department directly.

What if I have additional questions?

If you have any questions about the status of your application, please contact the department directly.

 

Contact Information

If you have any questions about the status of your application, please call the CMA Office at 562-777-4052 or email us at cma@biola.edu or write to:

Acceptance Committee
Cinema and Media Arts Department
Biola University
13800 Biola Avenue
La Mirada, CA 90639

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