Tuition
Invest in your future
Students at the Cherokee Film Institute are immersed in a one-of-a-kind film school experience. Alongside learning the fundamentals of the film and media industry, aspiring filmmakers will develop a deeper understanding of how to honor and preserve culture through storytelling. While rooted in the Cherokee perspective, the program welcomes students of all backgrounds who are passionate about the power of film to share diverse voices. Our courses equip every student with the tools to succeed in the film and media industry while nurturing the next generation of storytellers within Cherokee Nation.
Tuition Tiers & Rates
Rates listed below are for 40 credit hours and students are required to complete 120 hours for certification. Each class is equivalent to 40 hours. To see a full list of courses, please visit our courses page.
Standard Rate:
For 40 credit hours
Citizens of Other Federally Recognized Tribes:
For 40 credit hours
Cherokee Nation Citizens:
For 40 credit hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request tuition assistance?
In applicable situations, CFI Leadership is available by appointment to discuss tuition assistance or to help connect you with other resources.
Are there any additional costs beyond tuition?
At this time, there are no additional costs beyond tuition.
Is there an application fee?
No, there is currently no application fee.
When is payment due?
Tuition for each course is collected at the time of registration. CFI leadership will be available by appointment to discuss financial assistance if necessary.
Are payment plans available?
At this time, students in need of financial assistance should meet with CFI leadership to explore options. Payment is generally due in full at the time of registration.
How do I pay my tuition?
Tuition is collected at the time of registration. Payments will be collected through our secure online payment portal.
Can I get a refund if I withdraw from the program?
If a participant is unable to attend the course for which they have registered, they will only receive a refund if they request it within the first two weeks of the course and have not attended any of the sessions. Refunds will not be issued if a participant fails the course, does not meet the attendance policy or gets dismissed from the program due to inappropriate conduct (to be decided on by CFI leadership). To discuss a refund due to a withdrawal, please contact hello@cherokeefilminstitute.com.
Are there any external scholarships or funding options available?
At this time, there are not any outside scholarship or financial aid options available.
Ready to join Cherokee Film Institute, but still have tuition-related questions?
Contact hello@cherokeefilminstitute.com for more information.