Film Scholarships for College

Film Scholarships, Costs & ROI Snapshot

This snapshot pulls from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and planning tools to show how many scholarships are available for Film majors, the total dollars listed, and how early-career pay compares to typical college costs.

Scholarships in Our Database

We currently list 9 active scholarships tied to Film programs, sourced from professional groups, nonprofits, and private sponsors. New awards are added regularly.

Total Scholarship Dollars Listed

The scholarships currently listed total approximately $40,000 in advertised award value. Many programs offer renewable or variable awards, so available funding may be higher over time.

Early-Career Pay & ROI

Early-career median pay for Film graduates is about $60,000 per year. We estimate a typical 4-year net college cost around $108,584.

That means first-year earnings are roughly 55% of total college cost, with an estimated payback period of 1.8 years (before taxes and living expenses).

Film Scholarships to Apply for Now (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best Film scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

Southeast Emmy® Scholarship Program

The Southeast Emmy® Scholarship Program is an education support initiative offered through the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Southeast Chapter to assist students pursuing careers in television, media, communications, journalism, broadcast production, or related creative fields. This

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Application Time: High (113 min)
2

The Adobe Creativity Scholarship

The Adobe Creativity Scholarship is a global initiative by Adobe to support young creatives — artists, designers, filmmakers, storytellers, social-impact advocates — who intend to pursue higher education in creative fields. The program recognizes that creativity can be a powerful

Award: $25,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (83 min)
3

The One Club for Creativity Young Ones Student Awards

The Young Ones Student Awards, administered by The One Club for Creativity, is a prestigious global competition for students and recent graduates in advertising, design, digital communication, typography, motion/film craft, and related creative disciplines. Rather than a traditional cash scholarship,

Award: Varies Deadline: February Est. Application Time: Med (38 min)
4

Make-Up Designory Partner School Scholarship

The Make-Up Designory Partner School Scholarship supports students attending official MUD Studio or MUD Partner Schools who are preparing for careers in professional makeup artistry. This scholarship is designed to encourage aspiring makeup artists, estheticians, and beauty-industry students who demonstrate

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Med (88 min)
5

NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship, part of the NAACP Inspire Initiatives, provides financial support to outstanding students pursuing undergraduate degrees. This scholarship advances equity in educational opportunities and celebrates students pursuing careers in the visual and performing arts. All

Award: $2,000 Deadline: April Est. Application Time: Low (13 min)
6

Anthony Quinn Foundation Scholarships

The Anthony Quinn Foundation Scholarship Program is designed to provide financial assistance to high school students who are passionate about the arts and wish to attend pre-college or summer intensive arts education programs. This scholarship honors the legacy of the

Award: $3,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (38 min)
7

YoungArts Scholarship

YoungArts provides support to young artists through various grants and awards, aiming to identify exceptional talent and invest in their lifelong creative development. The primary competition is open to artists in disciplines such as Classical Music, Dance, Design Arts, Film,

Award: $100 Deadline: October Est. Application Time: Med (38 min)
8

The NAACP Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP Society Awards Scholarship is a competitive undergraduate scholarship offered through the NAACP Inspire Initiatives to support Black students and students of color who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and a strong interest in the visual and performing arts.

Award: $1,000 Deadline: June Est. Application Time: Low (28 min)
9

KODAK Student Scholarship Program

The KODAK Student Scholarship Program is a prestigious international award designed to recognize and support emerging filmmakers at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Focused specifically on students studying film, film production or cinematography, this scholarship honors exceptional creativity, technical ability

Award: $1,000 Deadline: May Est. Application Time: Low (13 min)
Article Read Time Is 5 Mins

Expert Answers to the Most Asked Film Scholarship Questions

Scholarship Opportunities for Aspiring Filmmakers and Storytellers

Students pursuing a degree in film studies, production, screenwriting, cinematography, or digital media have access to a wide range of scholarships and grants. These awards are designed to nurture creative talent, reduce educational costs, and open professional doors within the film and entertainment industries. Whether you dream of becoming a director, screenwriter, or cinematographer, film scholarships can provide both financial support and valuable industry connections.

Tip: Many film scholarships look for creativity, originality, and storytelling potential — so your portfolio, essay, and recommendations can be just as important as your GPA.

What Is the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Scholarship?

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Scholarship—awarded by the same organization that presents the Oscars—supports emerging filmmakers pursuing professional education in film.

  • Open to undergraduate and graduate students in accredited film production or screenwriting programs.
  • Scholarship amounts typically range from $5,000 to $10,000.
  • Applicants must submit a portfolio or reel showcasing their creative achievements.

This highly competitive award helps promising students gain national recognition and financial support for their film education.

What Is the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Scholarship?

The NAB Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in film, media production, or broadcasting. It’s ideal for students interested in producing or directing content for television, radio, or online media.

  • Applicants must be enrolled in a film, television, or media production program.
  • Requires an essay outlining career goals within the media or broadcasting industry.
  • Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year.

Tip: Applicants with prior experience in student media, broadcasting clubs, or internships often stand out in the selection process.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Film?

Yes, several scholarships are dedicated to supporting women pursuing careers in film, television, and media. These awards help promote gender equity and leadership across creative and technical film disciplines.

  • Women in Film Foundation Scholarship: Supports women excelling in film production, directing, or screenwriting programs.
  • Alliance for Women in Media Foundation Scholarship: Provides funding and professional development for female students studying media, film, or communications.

These scholarships encourage women to take on key creative and leadership roles in an industry where representation continues to grow.

What Is the Sundance Institute Scholarship?

The Sundance Institute Scholarship nurtures independent filmmakers by combining financial assistance with mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities.

  • Open to students and independent filmmakers developing narrative or documentary projects.
  • Applicants submit a project proposal, treatment, or screenplay excerpt.
  • Winners gain funding support and access to Sundance’s extensive professional network.

This scholarship is perfect for students passionate about independent storytelling and socially impactful film projects.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Film?

Yes, several scholarships and competitions are available for high school seniors who plan to major in film, media arts, or visual storytelling.

  • YoungArts Cinematic Arts Scholarship: Recognizes high school students demonstrating exceptional talent in film direction or production.
  • National Young Filmmaker Scholarship: Supports students who submit outstanding short films or video projects as part of their applications.

Tip: Participate in student film festivals, submit your work to online competitions, and build a portfolio early — these experiences strengthen both college and scholarship applications.

What Is the Television Academy Foundation Scholarship?

The Television Academy Foundation Scholarship—offered by the organization behind the Emmy Awards—supports students planning careers in television, film, or digital media production.

  • Open to undergraduate students enrolled in film, TV, or media programs.
  • Requires submission of a creative reel or short film and a statement of purpose.
  • Award amounts range from $2,000 to $10,000.

Recipients also gain access to networking opportunities and mentorship from television professionals.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Film Students?

Yes, major entertainment companies and streaming platforms sponsor scholarships and fellowships for film students—often focusing on inclusion, diversity, and creative innovation.

  • HBO Access Writing Fellowship: Offers mentorship and funding for emerging screenwriters from underrepresented backgrounds.
  • Warner Bros. Entertainment Scholarship: Supports film production, animation, and screenwriting students, with internship opportunities available.
  • Netflix Creative Equity Scholarship: Funds students from historically excluded communities studying film or media arts.

Tip: Many corporate programs combine funding with practical experience — applying early can also give you priority consideration for internships.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Film Majors?

Top film schools and universities offer exclusive awards for their students, often based on academic achievement, creative merit, or demonstrated need.

  • University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts: Provides need- and merit-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate filmmakers.
  • New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts: Offers awards for excellence in directing, producing, and screenwriting, including the Tisch Future Filmmakers Scholarship.
  • Chapman University Dodge College of Film and Media Arts: Provides multiple scholarships for creative talent, including production and post-production students.

Contact your school’s financial aid or film department for internal award details — some are not listed publicly.

How to Apply for Film Scholarships

Film scholarships often emphasize creativity, originality, and personal storytelling. To improve your chances:

  • Develop a Strong Portfolio: Include short films, scripts, or reels that reflect your unique creative vision.
  • Write a Compelling Personal Statement: Share your journey, influences, and goals in film.
  • Seek Professional References: Ask mentors, professors, or film professionals who can speak to your passion and technical skills.
  • Stay Organized: Track deadlines, required materials, and eligibility criteria using a spreadsheet or calendar.

Tip: Apply broadly—combining school-specific, national, and corporate scholarships can help you build a full financial package for your degree.