Immerse yourself in a full year of hands-on filmmaking training in the heart of Tuscany. This intensive program covers directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, and film production, guided by experienced industry professionals.
Collaborate on real film projects, build your portfolio, and gain the skills needed to kickstart your creative career. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our international community offers a unique cultural experience.
No prior experience required—just passion and a desire to learn by doing. Graduates have the opportunity to continue into the second year of our three-year advanced program (taught in Italian).
Next Year This Time You’re a Filmmaker!
Location: Lucca, Tuscany
Language: English
Start Date: November 2026
Program Overview
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Master Your Craft
Embark on a transformative journey into the world of filmmaking with our intensive one-year program. Designed for aspiring filmmakers, this course offers comprehensive, hands-on training across all facets of film production.
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Learn All Aspects
From screenwriting and directing to cinematography and post-production, gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in each discipline.
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Find Your True Role
Explore various roles within the filmmaking process to discover your passion and specialize in your chosen field.
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Work Hands-On with Mentors
Learn directly from active industry professionals who bring real-world insights and guidance to your educational experience.
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International Hub
Join a global community of creatives in Lucca, Tuscany, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.
First semester: the foundation of filmmaking
The IFAS One Year Filmmaking Program is an intensive, full-time educational experience designed for international students who wish to acquire a solid and comprehensive foundation in contemporary filmmaking within a professional and practice-oriented environment.
The program runs from November to June, for a total duration of approximately eight months, including short academic breaks. Classes are held Monday to Friday, with an average attendance of four hours per day, and participation is mandatory. Students are required to attend at least 70% of the scheduled hours for each subject in order to be admitted to the corresponding examinations.
The educational model of IFAS is strongly practice-based: approximately 80% of the program is dedicated to practical activities, while 20% focuses on theoretical foundations. Throughout the year, students actively work on multiple projects and are required to experience all the key professional roles involved in a film production, fostering both technical competence and collaborative awareness.
Second semester: the craft and specialization
During the One Year Filmmaking Program, students are introduced to ten core disciplines, providing a broad and transversal understanding of the filmmaking process:
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Film Direction
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Screenwriting
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Cinematography (with a focus on lighting, cameras and lenses)
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Filmmaking (equipment and on-set technical practice)
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Editing
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Post-Production
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Creative Production
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Economic and Executive Production
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Film History (international perspective)
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Audio and Sound for Film
A distinctive feature of the One Year Filmmaking Program is its role as an orientation and self-assessment year. While many students enter the academy with a clear idea of their desired career, the first year allows them to explore different roles in depth and to understand which professional path best suits their skills and inclinations.
Curriculum Highlights
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Directing & Screenwriting: Develop storytelling techniques, scriptwriting skills, and directorial vision.
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Cinematography & Lighting: Master camera operations, lighting setups, and visual composition.
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Editing & Post-Production: Learn industry-standard editing software and post-production workflows.
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Production Management: Understand budgeting, scheduling, and the logistics of film production.
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Sound Design & Music: Explore audio recording, sound editing, and integrating music into film.
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Acting for Directors: Gain insights into working with actors to elicit compelling performances.
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Portfolio Development: Create a diverse portfolio showcasing your skills across various film projects.
From day one, students are immersed in practical filmmaking activities. Collaborate on multiple short films, participate in workshops, and engage in real-world projects that mirror industry practices. This experiential learning approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the film industry.
Taylor M., 2024 Student
"The summer school was a life-changing experience. I learned more in one month than I ever expected, and the connections I made will last a lifetime."
Melissa L., 2025 Student
"The program gave me the tools I needed to step into the film industry with confidence. The hands-on projects and mentorship were incredible."
Lucia S., 2024 Student
"What an amazing course! I learned so much and met wonderful people!"
Meet your teachers
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How to Apply
The application process for the IFAS Programs is designed to be accessible, transparent, and focused on understanding the candidate’s motivation and potential.
Please be aware we have limited availability ad cannot accept all requests.
Step 1 — Submission of application materials
Candidates are invited to submit their application by sending a CV, a motivational letter and a portfolio. Previous professional experience in filmmaking is not required: the portfolio may include any creative work that reflects the applicant’s interests, vision, or artistic sensibility.
Step 2 — Admission interview
After reviewing the submitted materials, the IFAS team will contact the candidate to schedule an online interview. The purpose of this conversation is to better understand the applicant’s background, motivation, and goals, and to assess their suitability for the program.
Step 3 — Admission decision
Within one week of the interview, the candidate will receive a formal response regarding their admission. If accepted, they will be invited to complete the official enrollment procedure, by filling the downloadable application form.
Visa support (for non-EU residents)
For admitted candidates requiring a student visa, IFAS provides full support by issuing all the necessary official documentation for the visa application process, including the formal admission letter and related certificates. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to independently verify processing times and specific requirements with the relevant Italian consulate or embassy, as visa timelines may vary depending on the country of origin.
Fees, Scholarships, Application
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
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Discounted Tuition:
for scholarship recipients
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Theme for 2026:
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To be defined
Submission Options:
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Short Film (max 90 sec)
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Screenplay (up to 5 pages)
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Deadline: September 12, 2026.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
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Optional Housing Package:
€4,000 (full duration)
Includes private room and shared common areas
Convictus Rooms: on-site assistance, welcome support, utilities included.
Accommodation is subject to availability.
HOW TO APPLY
1 — Submit your materials
Send us:
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Your CV, portfolio, motivational letter
by email to:
international@accademiacinematoscana.it
2 — Interview with the IFAS team
After reviewing your materials, we will invite you to an online interview.
3 — Admission decision
The IFAS committee will evaluate your application and you will receive a final decision by email. In case of acceptance, you will receive your official admission confirmation.
4 — Application Form (after the interview)
Fill the Application Form and upload:
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A copy of your ID or passport
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The payment receipt for your deposit
Join the adventure
We look forward to welcoming you to an extraordinary experience in filmmaking and acting.
See yourself here? Get in touch!
See ACT International in Action
Watch the behind the scenes and one of the short films created by our students at the IFAS 2025 Summer Course! We are so proud of them!
