Frequently asked questions
If you can't find an answer to your question, contact us using the form bellow.
Admission
Who is the program suitable for?
Preliminary Program –Foundations in Digital Arts:
The program is suitable for young people and aspiring artists who want to acquire knowledge and skills in fundamental disciplines of traditional art (Perspective, Composition, Color Theory, Anatomy), which they can later apply to digital art and 3D modeling.
2-Year Programs:
Our 2-year programs are the ideal choice for those who wish to pursue a professional career in the gaming and creative industries. The requirements are to be at least 18 years old and to have completed high school.
What is the application and admission process?
The application process consists of three steps: filling out an application form, attending a personal meeting and completing a practical task*. More information about the requirements, process and deadlines can be found on the Admissions page.
*The third step does not apply to the preliminary program Foundations in Digital Arts.
What should my portfolio include?
For Concept Art and 3D Art Programs:
5–7 pieces in a digital format relevant to the program you’re applying for. For Concept Art and 3D Modeling: The works can be created traditionally using a drawing or sculpting technique and photographed. However, it is recommended to submit digitally created works through software.
For Game Design Program:
You can submit projects made in Unreal Engine, Unity, or other software, as well as a text document describing mechanics, gameplay, story, world or characters for a game.
For Programming Program:
You can provide a GitHub profile and certificates or descriptions of completed programming courses.
What should I prepare for the interview?
Preliminary Program – Foundations in Digital Arts:
During the personal meeting, we would like to determine your goals and development plans. A portfolio is not required.
2-Year Programs:
The interview is a personal meeting where we’d like to learn about your goals and plans for development. You should bring a portfolio or other materials that showcase your skills in the specific field you wish to pursue.
What are the requirements for English proficiency?
- Test certificate: We accept the following tests and required scores: Duolingo (100), IELTS Academic (5.5), TOEFL (72-92), Cambridge (B1 Upper Intermediate (FCE).
- University studies in English: If you have studied English at university, please submit your diploma and academic transcript for evaluation.
- English-speaking school: Provide a document proving your education at an English-speaking school.
- Native English speaker: If English is your native language, this should be evident from your documents or by providing a copy of your passport.
What are the application deadlines?
Current information about the application deadlines for the preliminary program and the 2-year programs at ARC Academy can be found HERE.
Is prior experience required?
Preliminary Program – Fundations in Digital Arts:
The program is designed to meet the needs of complete beginners. However, if you already have some experience in traditional or digital drawing, the program will help you expand and build upon your skills.
2-Year Programs:
These programs are designed for individuals seeking professional training and development in the gaming and creative industries. They are suitable for those with basic knowledge and a portfolio who want to deepen and refine their skills and prepare for successful industry careers.
What does the one-time application fee include?
The administrative fee is a one-time payment that covers the processing of your application documents, a personal meeting, and guidance on portfolio preparation. The fee is non-refundable.
When is the tuition fee due?
The annual tuition fee is paid in two installments – before the start of each academic year. The first installment is due during the admission process, and the remaining balance must be paid one month before the start of the academic year (September).
How does the "Refer a Friend" admission option work?
If you refer a friend who enrolls at ARC Academy, both of you will receive a 5% discount on the annual tuition fee. The discount is applied after successful enrollment and payment confirmation.
How can I sign up for a free consultation?
You can sign up for a free consultation with the ARC team by filling out the following contact form. After submitting the form, you will receive an automatic email where you can select a convenient date and time for the meeting.
Scholarships
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes. The main form of assistance are our annual scholarship competitions. The scholarships cover between 30–50% of the tuition fee for the first year at the Academy or the entire fee for the preliminary program, “Foundations in Digital Arts”.
Can I apply for a scholarship or loan?
Once a year, we organize a scholarship competition in partnership with leading industry companies. This is a great opportunity for talented and motivated candidates to receive financial support for their education.
Additionally, we offer partial scholarships, which you can apply for by submitting a short motivation letter on the “Scholarships” page.
Education
How long does the education last?
Preliminary Program – Foundation in Digital Arts:
6 months, divided into two modules.
2-Year Programs:
2 years, divided into four semesters.
What is the difference between online and in-person learning for the 2-year programs?
The difference lies in the location, not the content. The in-person program is conducted on the ARC Academy campus in Sofia, while the online version is entirely remote and accessible from anywhere.
What is the workload in the programs?
Preliminary Program – Foundations in Digital Arts:
The program is designed to accommodate students’ schedules. There are 2 sessions per week – each lasting 120 minutes: one on a weekday (Tuesday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM) and one during the weekend (Saturday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM).
2-Year Programs:
The workload varies by semester, but there are no more than 5 lectures per week. Each lecture lasts 2 hours and takes place between 5:00 PM and 9:30 PM, typically across three days a week. Additionally, you should allocate time for independent work and task completion.
What softwares do you use during education?
Preliminary Program – Foundation in Digital Arts:
For Digital Drawing classes, we use Adobe Photoshop and for 3D Modeling, we use Blender.
2-Year Programs:
Depending on the program, students use Adobe Photoshop, Blender, Unreal Engine, ZBrush and Adobe Substance Painter. The campus is equipped with computers and necessary software, while remote students must obtain these tools themselves. Most of the softwares are free and others are available with significant student discounts.
What are the device requirements?
Your device must meet the following minimum requirements: Windows 10 or macOS 12 operating system, with at least 8 GB of RAM (for both operating systems).
What personal equipment will I need?
A computer or laptop is sufficient, but if you’re enrolled in an art program or the preparatory course, we recommend having a graphics tablet.
What if I cannot attend a lecture?
All lectures are recorded and available for online viewing. This way, you won’t miss any material and can catch up on assignments.
What accreditation will I receive?
Preliminary Program – Foundations in Digital Arts:
Successful graduates of the program receive a certificate for completing the preparatory program, “Foundations in Digital Arts.”
*Those who are 18 or older can apply for a “Certificate of Professional Training” from the Ministry of Education.
2-Year Programs:
Students who complete our programs receive a certificate recognized by game studios. Additionally ARC Academy is a part of the professional development center of the Ministry of Education and each student receives a state-recognized Certificate of Professional Training.
Does the Academy assist students in securing a job after completing the 2-year programs?
The Academy maintains close relationships with the leading game studios in Bulgaria. Our lecturers are industry professionals, allowing students to build a valuable network during their studies. Thanks to their talent and efforts, many of our graduates secure jobs at these studios after completing their education.
Open Days
Do you organise Open Day?
We organise Open Days where you can tour our facilities, learn more about the training and programs we offer and speak with lecturers and students at the Academy. You can find current information about upcoming Open Days HERE.
Can I attend the student graduation event?
Absolutely! The event is open to everyone. You’ll have the opportunity to see the projects which our students have completed during their first and second years of study, enjoy their art exhibition and even play the video games they’ve created.