If I don't take drama in high school, can I still attend a film school? Any tips about getting into NYU?

I'm currently taking the IB diploma with two sciences. I did not select drama as one of my courses, and I am seriously considering going to NYU mostly for the film program. Seeing as I have no credentials in theatre, will I still be able to attend film school? I am also taking english higher in an attempt to add more to the non-science courses. Also, any tips about getting into NYU?|||Try doing extra-curricular film-related work. Almost any aspect of drama/theatre/film will help you to get in. The problem is that most people you will be up against for admittance will have already spent 2-4 years involved in film/theatre to some degree. Most will have a portfolio that they will submit or at least a theatre/film resume. You need to be able to compete with these candidates for a spot - and it is very competitive.





Now, when you say film, are you talking technical/directing or acting? If you are going for the tech side, see if you can work behind the scenes at a local theatre. There are many community theatres around that have students working and/or acting in them. Also, if you have a local tv station in your area, see if they accept high school interns; some will only handle college interns, but it is worth a shot. If you are interested in the acting side, look into theatre workshops in your area; local libraries or community centers have stuff of the sort (usually free or very low priced - don't go to something that charges you an arm and a leg - those are scams). You can also audition for school plays and musicals. Also try auditioning for community theatre or any open casting calls.





If you are only interested in the tech side, I still encourage you to dabble in a bit of acting; it will actually improve your tech abilities. Many film majors (future directors and screen play writers) take acting courses so that they can see the actors perspective and will therefore be able to do their job better. The same can be said for actors - it's is great when they do the behind the scenes and tech work to see it from a different perspective. It makes each person appreciate the other so much more and work together more harmoniously (from personal experience). Also, by doing a bit of both it will show a general interest in different aspect of the film/theatre industry.