Students filming

How to Apply

There are two ways you can apply to Television and Film Arts (TFA):

Early Action

November 1, 2026—EARLY ACTION DEADLINE

This process allows students to receive their decision earlier than regular admission. Students applying as early action candidates must submit all TFA documents, including the Common or SUNY application, by November 1, 2026, with a decision being made by December 1, 2026. *

Regular Admission

February 1, 2027—REGULAR ADMISSION DEADLINE 

Students applying to TFA under regular admission will have until February 1, 2027, to submit all TFA documents, including the Common or SUNY application, with a decision being made by March 1, 2027. *

*Students accepted to the Television and Film Arts program have until May 1, 2027, to commit to Buffalo State.

Applying to Television and Film Arts requires you to complete TWO applications, one for admission to the university, and the other for admission to Television and Film Arts.

Applying to Buffalo State

1

Apply Through Undergraduate Admissions

Prospective undergraduate students interested in entering the Television and Film Arts program at Buffalo State must apply through the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

Apply now

On the SUNY website: select Buffalo State

In the curriculum menu: select "Television and Film Arts"

Contact Us

Admission to the Television and Film Arts program is competitive and limited to approximately 20 students each year. 

Questions? Contact TFA Director, Jeffrey Hirschberg, hirschjn@buffalostate.edu

Applying to the TFA Program

1

TFA Personal Statement

Complete the Personal Statement

2

TFA Creative Sample

Upload Your Creative Sample

Note: You may submit ONE screenplay / short story or ONE short film.