| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
The DAVE School (Digital Animation & Visual Effects School) is a specialized institution focused on 3D animation, visual effects (VFX), game production, and digital arts. It is known for hands-on training and industry connections, preparing students for careers in film, television, gaming, and virtual production.
Address: 2500 Universal Studios Plaza, Orlando, Florida, USA
Located inside Universal Studios Florida, providing students with a real-world entertainment industry environment.
Program Name |
Duration |
Mode |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Visual Effects Production |
3 Years |
On-Campus & Online |
|
Bachelor of Science in Game Production |
3 Years |
Online |
|
Diploma in Visual Effects Production |
12 Months |
On-Campus & Online |
|
Diploma in Virtual Production |
12 Months |
On-Campus & Online |
Industry-Focused Training – Hands-on experience with real-world projects.
Taught by Industry Professionals – Faculty includes Hollywood VFX artists & animators.
Located at Universal Studios – Unique learning environment inside a major film studio.
Strong Job Placement Support – Graduates work at Marvel, Disney, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and major game studios.
Flexible Learning – On-campus & online programs available.
Diploma Programs: ~$35,000 – $40,000 (1 year)
Bachelor’s Degree Programs: ~$85,000 – $90,000 (3 years)
Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans available
Graduates work in films, gaming, and television with top companies like:
Hollywood Studios: Marvel, Disney, ILM, Warner Bros.
Gaming Studios: EA, Activision, Ubisoft, Rockstar Games
TV & Streaming: Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime
Program Name |
Duration |
Mode |
Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Visual Effects Production |
3 Years |
On-Campus & Online |
3D Animation, Compositing, Character Rigging, Motion Capture |
|
Bachelor of Science in Game Production |
3 Years |
Online |
Game Design, Unity & Unreal Engine, 3D Modeling, Game Development |
|
Diploma in Visual Effects Production |
12 Months |
On-Campus & Online |
CGI, Compositing, Lighting, Rendering, Motion Tracking |
|
Diploma in Virtual Production |
12 Months |
On-Campus & Online |
Real-Time Rendering, Virtual Cinematography, Green Screen FX, VR/AR |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Visual Effects Production |
3 Years |
$28,000 – $30,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Game Production |
3 Years |
$28,000 – $30,000 |
Bachelor’s Degree Programs (On-Campus & Online)
B.S. in Visual Effects Production
B.S. in Game Production
Diploma Programs (On-Campus & Online)
Diploma in Visual Effects Production
Diploma in Virtual Production
Academic Requirements
High school diploma (or equivalent) for bachelor's programs
No GRE or SAT required
English Proficiency (for non-native speakers)
TOEFL iBT: 70+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 95+
Application Process
Apply online at.
Submit academic transcripts (translated into English)
Provide English proficiency scores (if applicable)
Submit a portfolio (optional but recommended for competitive applicants)
Pay application fee (if required)
Receive admission decision and I-20 form for visa application
Strong industry connections with Marvel, Disney, ILM, and major game studios.
Portfolio-based training to prepare students for real-world projects.
Internships & networking opportunities with top VFX and gaming companies.
Alumni work at top studios like Ubisoft, EA, and Netflix.
Location: The DAVE School is inside Universal Studios Florida, giving students access to real-world studio environments.
Housing: No on-campus dorms, but many students live in off-campus apartments in Orlando.
Student Activities: Film screenings, gaming tournaments, studio visits, and networking events.
Transportation: Public buses, biking, and car rentals are popular among students.
1 Choose Your Program
Bachelor’s Degree Programs (3 Years, Online & On-Campus)
B.S. in Visual Effects Production
B.S. in Game Production
Diploma Programs (12 Months, Online & On-Campus)
Diploma in Visual Effects Production
Diploma in Virtual Production
2 Check Eligibility Requirements
General Requirements (For All Applicants)
High school diploma (or equivalent)
No SAT or ACT required
Portfolio (optional but recommended) for competitive programs
English proficiency (for international students)
Additional Requirements for International Students
TOEFL iBT: 70+ / IELTS: 6.0+ / Duolingo English Test: 95+
I-20 form & F-1 visa application (after acceptance)
3 Submit Online Application
Apply through the official website: N/A
Application Requirements:
Personal details & academic history
Portfolio (if available)
English proficiency test scores (for non-native speakers)
Application fee (if applicable)
4 Admission Review & Decision
Processing Time: Usually 2-4 weeks after submission.
If accepted, students receive an acceptance letter and enrollment instructions.
International students receive an I-20 form for F-1 visa application.
5 Tuition Payment & Enrollment
Confirm enrollment by paying the tuition deposit.
Discuss payment plans, scholarships, or financial aid options (if applicable).
6 Visa Process (For International Students Only)
After Receiving I-20 Form:
Pay SEVIS Fee ($350) at
Schedule F-1 Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy.
Gather required documents:
Passport
I-20 Form
Proof of Financial Support
Acceptance Letter from The DAVE School
Attend Visa Interview & Approval Process.
7 Prepare for Arrival & Orientation
Arrange housing & transportation (no on-campus housing, off-campus apartments available).
Attend student orientation before classes start.
Set up student accounts & software access (Maya, Unreal Engine, Houdini, etc.).
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
Apply by June – July |
Bachelor's & Diploma Programs |
|
Spring (January Start) |
Apply by October – November |
Bachelor's & Diploma Programs |
|
Summer (May Start) |
Apply by March – April |
Bachelor's & Diploma Programs |
Since DAVE School has rolling admissions, students are encouraged to apply at least 3-6 months before their preferred intake to secure a spot.
Educational Requirements:
High school diploma (or equivalent)
No SAT/ACT required
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 70+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 95+
Portfolio: (Optional but recommended)
Educational Requirements:
High school diploma (or equivalent)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 70+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 95+
Portfolio: (Not required but preferred for competitive applicants)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
DAVE School Merit Scholarship |
High academic achievement, strong portfolio |
Up to $5,000 |
Available for bachelor’s & diploma students |
|
Industry Partner Scholarship |
Students with exceptional skills in animation, VFX, or game production |
($2,000 – $10,000) |
Sponsored by industry companies like Unreal Engine, Autodesk |
|
Need-Based Financial Assistance |
Demonstrated financial need |
N/A |
Requires FAFSA for U.S. students |
|
Veterans & Military Scholarship |
U.S. military veterans or active-duty members |
Covers partial tuition |
GI Bill® & Yellow Ribbon Program accepted |
|
Women in Animation & Game Design Scholarship |
Female students pursuing careers in animation or gaming |
Up to $5,000 |
Encourages diversity in the industry |
|
DAVE School Alumni Scholarship |
Family members of DAVE School graduates |
Up to $2,500 |
Available for immediate family members of alumni |
|
Private & External Scholarships |
Open to all students |
N/A |
Students can apply for outside scholarships from organizations like The Rookies, Animation Guild |
Facility/Service |
Description |
Estimated Cost (USD per Month/Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Inside Universal Studios Florida, Orlando |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not available (students live off-campus) |
N/A |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Shared, 2-3 students per unit) |
Common among students, includes basic amenities |
$700 – $1,200 per month |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Private, 1-bedroom) |
More privacy, higher cost |
$1,500 – $2,200 per month |
|
Student Housing Communities |
Apartment complexes catering to students near campus |
$900 – $1,500 per month |
|
Homestay (For International Students) |
Living with a host family, includes meals |
$1,000 – $1,500 per month |
|
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet, etc.) |
Additional cost for off-campus living |
$100 – $200 per month |
|
Food & Dining |
Nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and meal prep |
$300 – $600 per month |
|
Transportation |
Public buses, biking, or car rentals |
$50 – $150 per month |
|
Health & Wellness Services |
Health insurance required for international students |
$1,200 – $2,000 per year |
Since The DAVE School is inside Universal Studios Florida, students get a studio-like learning experience rather than a typical college campus. This allows for hands-on training in a professional setting, surrounded by the entertainment industry.
Students work on real-world projects using industry-standard software like Maya, Unreal Engine, Houdini, and Nuke. They also collaborate with classmates on animated shorts, VFX sequences, and game prototypes, mimicking actual production studios.
There are no on-campus dorms, so students live in off-campus apartments in Orlando, usually in shared housing with classmates. Popular areas include MetroWest, Millenia, and Dr. Phillips, which are close to campus and offer affordable rent.
Students have access to various restaurants, fast food spots, and grocery stores nearby. Many students cook at home, while others enjoy dining at CityWalk Orlando, which has restaurants like Hard Rock Café, Voodoo Doughnut, and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Industry Guest Speakers – Students get to meet and learn from VFX, animation, and game industry professionals.
Networking Events & Career Fairs – The school regularly hosts recruiters from major studios like Marvel, Disney, and ILM.
Student Clubs & Game Jams – Many students participate in game development competitions and animation challenges.
Theme Park Perks – Being inside Universal Studios, students can enjoy attractions, ride discounts, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Students can access gyms, yoga studios, and fitness centers in Orlando.
Health insurance is required for international students.
The school provides mental health and career counseling services.
Public buses and Uber/Lyft are commonly used.
Some students bike or rent cars for easier commuting.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is 20 minutes away, making travel convenient for international students.
Internships & Industry Partnerships – The school connects students with studios, game companies, and production houses.
Strong Graduate Success – Alumni have worked on major films, TV shows, and video games.
Portfolio Development – Every student graduates with a professional portfolio to showcase their work to potential employers.
High Employment Rate – Over 70-80% of graduates secure jobs in the film, gaming, and VFX industries.
Strong Industry Partnerships – Alumni work at Marvel, Disney, ILM, Netflix, EA, Ubisoft, Sony, and Warner Bros.
Real-World Production Training – Students work on live projects, preparing them for studio environments.
Dedicated Career Services Team – The school provides resume help, interview prep, and portfolio reviews.
Networking & Job Fairs – Students get direct access to hiring managers and recruiters from leading studios.
Bachelor of Science in Visual Effects Production
Placement Rate: ~80% within 6 months of graduation
Top Employers: Marvel Studios, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Warner Bros, Pixar
Common Roles: VFX Artist, 3D Modeler, Motion Graphics Designer, Compositor
Average Salary: $50,000 – $90,000
Bachelor of Science in Game Production
Placement Rate: ~75% within 6 months of graduation
Top Employers: EA Sports, Ubisoft, Activision, Rockstar Games, Naughty Dog
Common Roles: Game Designer, 3D Environment Artist, Level Designer, Technical Artist
Average Salary: $55,000 – $100,000
Diploma in Visual Effects Production
Placement Rate: ~70%
Top Employers: Netflix, DreamWorks, Sony Pictures, HBO
Common Roles: Compositor, 3D Generalist, Lighting Artist, Digital Matte Painter
Average Salary: $45,000 – $85,000
Diploma in Virtual Production
Placement Rate: ~75%
Top Employers: Lucasfilm, Epic Games, Unreal Engine, Disney+
Common Roles: Virtual Production Specialist, VR/AR Developer, Digital Set Designer
Average Salary: $55,000 – $95,000
Film & TV Studios:
Marvel Studios
Disney Animation
Industrial Light & Magic (ILM)
Warner Bros. Pictures
Pixar Animation Studios
Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video
Gaming Studios:
Ubisoft, Rockstar Games, Activision, EA Sports
Naughty Dog, Insomniac Games, Epic Games
Tech & VR Companies:
Unreal Engine, Unity Technologies, Oculus VR, Apple, Google
Career Services Team – Helps students with resume building, interview preparation, and job applications.
Industry Networking Events – Direct access to hiring managers and recruiters from top studios.
Portfolio Development – Students build a professional portfolio as part of their coursework.
Internship & Freelance Opportunities – Some students get internships before graduation, leading to full-time jobs.
The DAVE School has a high acceptance rate since it is a career-focused, specialized institution that prioritizes passion, creativity, and technical skills over strict academic requirements.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 80-90%
Most applicants who meet the basic eligibility criteria are accepted, especially if they demonstrate strong interest in VFX, animation, or game production.
No SAT/ACT Required – Admission is based on educational background and creative potential.
Portfolio Submission (Optional but Recommended) – A strong portfolio can improve chances, especially for competitive applicants.
Basic Academic Requirements – A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
English Proficiency (For International Students) – TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores may be required.
Address:
The DAVE School
2500 Universal Studios Plaza,
Soundstage 25, Orlando, Florida, 32819, USA
Location Details:
Inside Universal Studios Florida, providing a real-world studio environment.
Located in Orlando’s entertainment and media hub, surrounded by major film, animation, and game production companies.
Close to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and other major attractions, offering plenty of networking and job opportunities.
30-minute drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO), making it convenient for international students.
