IAFT has a mandate to teach international production standards. The school instructs students how to make films for a worldwide market. Since English is the language most commonly used in this international industry, IAFT enforces an English-only policy. All projects, films, videos, plays, and other media material submitted for a grade are required to be produced entirely in English. In addition, enrollment at IAFT requires written English competency (at least TOEFL 550) and verifiable conversational abilities. Multiple or non-English languages may be used for non-fiction documentaries with universal appeal but the narration and/or voice over should be in English. The non-English sound bites, up sounds and interview portions should have English subtitles. IAFT will allow the creation and the production of non-English content but students will need to rent gear and facilities in order to do so. All work will be subject to the normal grading process.

2. Are there any limitations on content for student projects?

Other than the English-only policy and a few restrictions to comply with local laws and decency standards, IAFT’s students are allowed free and unfettered creativity in their projects and are encouraged to experiment. While we prefer students to work within international standards and conditions, IAFT does its best not to limit free expression and even encourages thoughtful and enlightened storytelling. We generally respect our mentors’ discretion in the classroom. However, under extremely rare instances, the academic department reserves the right to withdraw projects from IAFT support.

3. What is the ratio of theoretical classes to hands-on experience?

IAFT’s main goal is to prepare students for a professional career in filmmaking or acting; therefore, we primarily focus on skills that will be used exclusively in the rigors of the craft and art of today’s and tomorrow’s filmmakers and actors. Theory and classroom setting are necessary for introduction to this form of art. However, for film, the core of the program consists of students picking up a camera, positioning lights, using sound gear correctly and being stationed at an editing suite to produce student projects as soon as is possible and appropriate.

4. Will I be learning how to light and shoot with a film camera or digital video camera?

IAFT’s classroom instruction will primarily focus on digital video filmmaking. Video allows for maximum experimentation and flexibility, while keeping production costs to a reasonable level. There will be some exposure to film cameras during the one-year immersion program as well as for short-term workshops, but the primary medium for all student work and practice will be digital video cameras.

5. Is IAFT accredited?

IAFT is accredited under the Republic of the Philippines’ Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA).

6. Will IAFT help me get a Special Study Permit and other immigration requirements?

Under normal circumstances, IAFT will assist students in acquiring a Special Study Permit and other immigration requirements.

7. Upon graduation, will I get a certificate or diploma?

A diploma will be presented upon completion of the One-Year Immersion Program for Filmmaking, and certificates will be presented to participants for attending lectures, professional trainings, workshops and seminars.

8. Will I work with a single mentor to produce my student projects or will there be more than one at any given time?

At IAFT, you will meet and learn from working film/acting professionals with years of production experience from various film capitals around the world. These professionals give priceless, real-world experience in a hands-on work environment. Mentors from these various locations will inspire, enlighten and teach students, allowing them to be exposed to the freshest attitudes and latest filmmaking/acting techniques.

9. Will IAFT help me find a job after graduation?

Since we are focused on offering real world simulation of the techniques of production, we can reasonably assure students that the exposure to working professionals will definitely boost their chances finding work in a notoriously competitive industry. However, we can in no way promise that students will automatically find work after graduation. IAFT’s parent company, Bigfoot Entertainment, does produce full length features and will, on occasion, hire graduating students or allow work-study positions. IAFT agrees to prepare its students for the job market and to assist in job research and referrals

10. Will I be able to use my student work for my professional showreel?

Yes, IAFT grants students the non-exclusive license to utilize media produced within the year of study for non-commercial purposes only. The said media, however, must display an IAFT logo and web address immediately prior to and offer each display.

Of course, parents may visit classes at any time. It is preferable, however, that there is prior notice to Academics so that class scheduling and activities don’t conflict.

12. What other expenses are there excluding tuition and housing?

Rent, food, transportation, filming expendables and copying costs are normally borne by students. In addition, students are required to purchase their own external hard drive for use in the editing suite. Typical price, depending on the size, is approximately USD 300 to USD 500 (PHP 15,000 to PHP 25,000).

For foreign students, additional expenses would include Special Study Permit processing fees and Visa extension fees.

13. Are banks, ATMs, shopping, and grocery stores easily accessible from IAFT?

There are restaurants, shops, several ATMs, and a grocery store within a 10-minute ‘jeepney’ or taxi ride from IAFT.

14. What is there to do in Cebu after class?

Beach and resort exploring, island-hopping, snorkeling and scuba diving (including classes for full certification), nightlife and various Filipino cultural pursuits.

15. Are there any similar schools like yours in other countries? If so, then how would you distinguish your school?

A main distinction is the fact that our mentors are highly-respected and enthusiastic film industry professionals who come to IAFT for concise and empowering stints, basically taking carefully scheduled sabbaticals from their real-world filmmaking projects. This keeps instruction fresh and their skills and technologies up-to-date.

We are the only school that offers students the chance to work in real film production.

16. How competitive is your tuition?

At present, we proudly offer rates that are less than one quarter the cost of similar film school tuition in the U.S. and other western countries.

17. Is the Philippines dangerous? What about terrorism?

The headline grabbing counterterrorism activities of the Philippine and American militaries occur much further south in and around the Muslim portions of Mindanao. Cebu is a bustling city which is for the most part a peaceful and a hospitable place. Common sense care regarding valuables and security needs to be taken when away from IAFT’s secure campus.