Film Scoring Masters, Piano Masters, Composition Competition
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What's the difference between an MFA and MA?
An MFA (Master of Fine Arts), alongside a PhD, is considered to be a terminal degree (especially in the United States) whereas an MA (Master of Arts) is considered to be a stepping stone to doctoral study.
There are so many Masters programs in Film Scoring out there these days. Why choose the Film Scoring Academy of Europe?
Simply put, we offer the most comprehensive recording portfolio opportunities of any of the world's film scoring masters degree programs. Our faculty have an extensive history in education and industry practice.
Does the European Academy of Fine Arts provide financial aid?
At the moment, the European Academy of Fine Arts does not provide institutional financial aid, but grants four (4) merit-based scholarships of €5,000 to deserving students as determined by the admissions board, two (2) merit-based scholarships of €2,500 to deserving students who participate in the Film Scoring Summer Program and wish to transition into the MFA Programme, and one (1) merit-based scholarship of €2,500 to one of the Top 10 Finalists of the Oticons Faculty International Film Music Competition.
Who are the musicians that play on the recording sessions?
The European Academy of Fine Arts partners with the European Recording Orchestra (ERO) for all recording sessions.
I'm from the USA; how can I apply for Financial Aid through FAFSA?
Accepted students from the United States will be given individual support on how to apply for financial aid via the FAFSA. If you have an immediate question on this subject, please email us at info@eafa.iamu.edu
Do I need to stay in Sofia for Semester 3 (Major Project), or can I go home?
Student presence in the coursework Semesters 1 and 2 is required, but not required for Semester 3, which means you can go home (or anywhere!) to complete your Major Project. All submissions for the Major Project can be sent remotely. You do have the option of staying in Sofia for Semester 3, if you wish.
Is Sofia a nice place to live?
Sofia is a beautiful place to live! The cuisine is lovely, it is home to an incredible amount of culture, and its proximity to other countries and wonderful cities throughout Eastern Europe is a major plus. If you are not familiar with the Bulgarian traditions in music, you should definitely do some research! We're proud to call this lovely city our home.
Do I need a Visa to participate in an MFA at the European Academy of Fine Arts?
Students coming from within the EU will not need a student Visa. They'll simply enter the country and apply for a residence permit after they arrive.
What is the Film Scoring Summer Program?
The Film Scoring Summer Program is a 3.5 week film scoring summer course with 4 recording sessions, 4-star hotel accommodation, and 5 days with Christopher Young, all in the beach town of Varna, Bulgaria.
How do I prove Music Theory Proficiency?
Simply submit copies of all degrees and/or certifications in music that you have achieved with your application, and detail their level of study in Music Theory.
If I'm accepted, do I need to apply for the Scholarships?
No. All accepted students (who meet the deposit requirements for each scholarship) are automatically considered by the Admissions Board for the scholarships. No extra applications are necessary.
Explanation of Educational Hierarchy
European Academy of Fine Arts, Sofia is an Instructional Site of Irish American University, oferring a 1) Master of Fine Arts in Music for Motion Pictures and Contemporary Media at the Film Scoring Academy of Europe and 2) MFA in Piano Performance, Recording and Contemporary Career Development at The Piano Academy.
When is the application deadline?
The Admissions Board will review applications and issue admissions decisions every month. The application portal will close as soon as the MFA programme has reached capacity with accepted and enrolled candidates. There is no application deadline, but composers are advised to submit an application as soon as they are able, in order to avoid the risk of losing an opportunity to be selected for the 2020 MFA class.