Master of Digital Media Webinars - Q&A

Q: I'm currently in my final year of a bachelor's degree (graduating in June 2025). Am I eligible to apply?
A: Yes, so long as your degree is conferred before the program starts. As you apply, simply upload your unofficial transcripts to date, and if an offer is presented, it will be conditional on receipt of your final, official transcript. 

Q: Roughly how many pieces of work should we provide in our samples of work? Do we require an individual summary for each piece, or can the summary be in one document?
A: It depends, but generally, less is more. Focus on sharing your best works and those that highlight the skills you want to bring to and develop in the program. Each piece you include requires context to help us understand the work and your process. You can provide this context in one overall summary for all your works or include individual summaries for each piece. Either way, ensure that each work is clearly explained and provides enough detail for us to understand its relevance.

Q: How competitive is the program? What is the acceptance rate?
A: Please see answer here.

Q: Are there any scholarships or funding opportunities for the program?
A: Please see answer here.

Q: I will graduate from a Canadian university in April 2025, and I am a permanent resident of Canada. Do I still need to submit proof of English proficiency?
A: If you do complete your degree before MDM begins you would meet language requirements. As for Canadian PR, please see answer here. 

Q: Is the GPA requirement cumulative or based on the last two years?
A: It can be either. Generally we work to assess you based on courses relevant to the MDM. For more information on how we assess transcripts, please see answer here. 

Q: As there’s roughly a month and a half left until the applications are due, how much time would you recommend we give our references to complete their recommendations?
A: It's a good idea to politely ask your references to write their recommendation as soon as they are able. To help them write an effective reference, provide clear guidance on what the program is looking for and highlight key areas they can focus on, such as your skills, abilities, work ethic, and potential fit for the program. If you do not see their reference submitted within two weeks of your initial request, check in with them with a polite reminder. You can gently stress the importance of the recommendation and let them know the deadline is nearing. To help maintain the relationship and acknowledge the time they took to write your reference, remember to thank them once the reference has been submitted.

Q: What is the typical age profile of the cohort? For students with substantial experience, what kinds of roles have they pursued after completing the program?
A: Our cohorts include students from all ages and stages of life. Most of our students have completed their undergraduate degree within the last five years, but we also welcome many mature students with varied years of professional experience. For students with substantial professional experience, after completing MDM, we often see them secure more senior-level roles in the industries where they already have expertise. Generally, students returning to a field they have experience in tend to transition quickly into senior positions. However, for those entering a new industry where they lack prior experience, they typically start in more junior roles but progress to higher-level positions much faster due to the knowledge and experience gained from the program.

Q: I'm currently in my final year of a bachelor's degree, and my college is in America. Do I still need to provide proof of English proficiency since I haven't graduated yet?
A: Completing your bachelor's degree before applying is not required to meet either the academic or English language requirements. However, if you are offered admission to the MDM program, it will be conditional on the successful completion of your bachelor's degree. Since you are completing your degree at an institution in America, you meet the English language proficiency requirement and do not need to provide additional proof.

Q: I completed a 2+2 program for my undergraduate degree, spending two years in China and two years in the UK. However, my degree was awarded by the UK institution only. Do I still need to take an English language proficiency test? Additionally, I attended high school in Canada.
A: This is a unique situation and would require further assessment. It is possible you would meet English language requirements, but an assessment would only take place once you have submitted your application. In situations like yours where there is not a simple answer, we generally suggest booking an English test so that you would have results before admissions close in the case where SFU determines you do not meet English requirements.  

Q: I am currently working two jobs for two different digital advertising agencies. My first role is Creative Manager (remote), and my second is Art Director. Which of these should I focus on to improve my chances of acceptance?
A: Both of these roles are impressive and valuable, and focusing on one over the other would not necessarily improve your chances of acceptance. We are primarily looking to understand your experience in digital media and how it aligns with the program. Our best advice is to craft a cohesive narrative of your experiences, highlighting all relevant skills and accomplishments across both roles. Use your CV and Letter of Intent to showcase how these experiences have shaped your expertise and prepared you for MDM.

Q: Does the Pre-MDM program require the same level of English test scores?
A: Pre-MDM English requirements are lower than MDM. Academic requirements and required items are the same as MDM. More information on Pre-MDM can be found here. 

Q: Is Duolingo acceptable as proof of English language proficiency?
A: Duolingo test scores are not accepted as proof of English language proficiency for the MDM or Pre-MDM programs. While it is listed as an accepted test by SFU, it’s important to note that each SFU graduate program sets its own standards for acceptable English proficiency tests. As our programs are heavily focused on communication, both written and verbal, strong English skills are essential for success. For this reason, we prioritize IELTS and TOEFL as they are the most comprehensive and reliable measures of English language proficiency. If you are still waiting on an official test score or have not yet completed your degree, Duolingo can be submitted as an unofficial indicator, but it cannot replace an official score from an accepted test. 

Q: How does this program compare with the Master of Interactive Arts and Technology at SFU's SIAT?
A: The Master of Interactive Arts and Technology (MIAT) focuses on individual, research-based study, whereas MDM is collaborative, applied study. MIAT awards a Master of Arts (MA) degree and MDM awards a Master of Digital Media (MDM) degree. MDM provides real projects with real clients to provide experiences similar to what you will find working in industry. Throughout your studies, we support you in career growth so that you are able to find meaningful work upon graduation. As a result, 96% of MDM graduates find work within one year of graduating.  

Q: What are the job opportunities for international students after the program? How many previous international students are employed in BC?
A: From the application stage to alumni, we provide tailored support at every stage of your journey, including mentorship, career guidance, and connections to opportunities that help you achieve your goals and grow in your industry. 96% of MDM graduates, including international students, find work within one year of graduating. As CDM is a designated learning institution (through SFU), you may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) after you graduate. Many graduates choose to stay in Canada and to work thanks to the PGWP. Many also find employment in their home countries, taking back the skills and learnings from MDM and applying them to meaningful work.  

Q: When I ask my professors to write reference letters, they may mention "UBC Master's degree" instead of CDM. Is that okay when reviewing my application?
A: That is fine. What is most important is that they clearly indicate how you will be a good fit for the program and how the program will support your growth. 

Q: Are there opportunities to work with EA Games?
A: We many alumni working at or previously have worked at EA. Our faculty and staff also have professional connections with EA. If your intention is to work at EA, we can certainly help open up communication opportunities with these connections. 

Q: Can the short essay be an excerpt from an essay we’ve written during our undergraduate studies?
A: The short formal essay is entirely up to you in terms of format and topic, and we intentionally leave this open-ended as part of the application. We want to see how you write and gain insight into your interests. You’re welcome to submit a past work or create something new for this. There’s no penalty if your references aren’t perfectly formatted or if you choose not to include them—it’s all about showcasing your writing and ideas.

Q: How can the MDM program apply to someone with a degree in photography whose goal is to teach at the post-secondary level and continue with fine arts and commercial/marketing projects?
A: Since the program doesn’t focus heavily on photography, we recommend you explore our projects and courses to see how your skills in visual storytelling, design, and management could be applied in broader digital media contexts. Tailor your application to highlight skills you have and are eager to expand within the program. Also, ensure your personal goals align with what the MDM program offers, as this will strengthen both your application and your experience in the program. 

If you are planning to teach after MDM, you’ll have the credentials needed to teach at the college level, which can open doors in academia and provide additional avenues for creative work.

Q: What’s the mode of learning (in-person, hybrid, or online)?
A: Both MDM and Pre-MDM are full-time and in-person. We have one intake each year in September.

Q: Are the classes held at UBC?
A: Classes are held at the Centre for Digital Media, our own purpose-built campus in Vancouver, Canada. 

Q: Are you able to focus on sports media in special topics?
A: While we don’t offer a dedicated course specifically in sports media, our electives are designed to be flexible and adaptable to a variety of student interests. Electives change based on each cohort's goals, and while they’re generally focused on broader skills and topics, they’re meant to support your personal and professional objectives. Additionally, you have the option to take courses at our academic partner institutions, depending on availability and scheduling, which may provide further opportunities to explore areas relevant to sports media.

Q: I started my application but wasn’t prompted to pay the application fee. Isn’t that the first thing I should do?
A: In the first stage of the application, you’ll enter your personal information and education details. Once you complete these sections, you’ll see a "Submit" button at the end of the list, which will prompt you to pay the application fee. After payment is processed, the second stage of the application will open, where you can upload all required documents and provide your references. For more information, please review SFU's support page here.

Q: Are there scholarship opportunities for this program?
A: Please see answer here.

Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: Please see our Tuition and Fees page.

Q: What criteria are used to determine financial aid for international students? Is there anything specific we should include in our application regarding this?
A: Financial aid decisions are based on a combination of factors, including financial need, the overall strength of your application, and the relevance of your skillset to the program. We’ll reach out to discuss your individual needs, as financial need is a primary consideration. Make sure your application clearly highlights your skills, goals, and unique contributions to the program, as this will also play a role in the decision-making process.

Q: I plan to include a Unity game in my portfolio, where I am responsible for the game design. Should I submit a video of the gameplay or a compressed file of the game?
A: If your primary role was game design, submitting a gameplay video along with any design-related working files (such as documentation, assets, or sketches) is ideal. This helps us understand your involvement and design process. If you also contributed to coding, including the game files would be valuable so we can review your technical skills as well. Overall, please make sure it’s clear what your specific role was and walk us through your process (using your Sample of Work Summary).

Q: What do you prefer to see in the portfolio: strong technical skills or thoughtful reflections on the program?
A: Both are important. We want to see strong technical skills that highlight your main strengths and the abilities you plan to use in the program. At the same time, thoughtful reflections are key; these should outline your creative process, the purpose and goals behind each project, your specific role, and the insights you've gained. A balanced portfolio that demonstrates both technical competence and reflective thinking will give us a fuller picture of your potential as a student in the program.

Q: Can international students in this program apply for a work permit for their partners?
A: Yes, partners are eligible for open work permits for the duration of your study permit. 

Q: Would you please explain what IDEA-X is? When can we take it, and will it help me become more qualified? My background is in industrial engineering, but I haven’t worked in the industry. I know about project management, but I’m not sure what to include in my portfolio.
A: We don’t currently offer IDEA-X, but if you’re interested in building your soft skills, improving your English communication, and adjusting to life in Vancouver, you may want to consider the Pre-MDM program. Pre-MDM is designed to help students strengthen these foundational skills and become better prepared for the MDM program. This could be a good fit for you as you explore ways to enhance your portfolio and demonstrate your potential for success in the program.

Q: What would make a “good/strong” reference letter?
A:  A strong reference letter should come from someone who knows you well in a professional or academic setting and can speak in detail about your skills, abilities, and potential. Ideally, your referee should highlight your strengths in areas such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and leadership, as well as your ability to excel in a dynamic, team-based environment. Generally, the letter should be specific versus general.

Q: You mentioned that we can submit a previously written piece for the short essay requirement, can that written piece be something we’ve written for a class in undergrad?
A:  Yes, the essay can be something you wrote previously and does not need to be specifically written for the MDM application. 

Q: What counts as “having had significant formal training and relevant professional experience?
A:  There is no specific metric or set amount of time that qualifies as "significant". It will depend on a number of factors and be different for every applicant. What matters is that your training or experience has been continuous, meaning you’ve held the role or developed the skill over a sustained, continuous period. It should be long enough to demonstrate clear growth and development in your abilities.

Q: What is the best way to connect with the alumni network?
A: MDM alumni are quite active on LinkedIn and typically willing to talk to prospective MDM applicants. There are also conversations happening on our social media and you can join the conversations there. You can see a full list of all of our alumni here.  

Q: Is it possible to edit/remove uploaded materials? 
A: Yes, you can upload new materials up until the application deadline. However, once you’ve completed your application, avoid further edits. There's no way to remove items, but you can upload new versions of items. While the system may not directly show that a new item has been uploaded, rest assured that we will see the most recent version in your record when we review your application. If you’d like to confirm that your updates were received, or to have us clear specific files, feel free to reach out to us.

Q: Are the accepted applicants funded for tuition?
A: We do not offer fully funded study but we do have a number of scholarship and funding opportunities (please see here). Additionally, we offer student housing on campus at below market rates to help support your studies.

Q: I graduated high school with an Associate's Degree, then I transferred those credits to my Bachelor's degree. I would need to include both academic records in my application, correct?
A: Correct, you will need to include all transcripts from any academic institutions you’ve attended and listed in your application. Since you transferred credits from your Associate’s Degree toward your Bachelor's Degree, we require transcripts from both. This applies to any institution that contributed to your transfer credits—if you attended more than one, we’ll need transcripts from each.

Q: The references I want to contact can speak to my character, technical aptitude, reliability, and how I work with others, but they would be talking about work I've done that I would not have my application portfolio as it would make my portfolio too broad. How should I handle this?
A: The references do not need to have specific knowledge of the works in your portfolio. What’s most important is that the referees can affirm the skills and abilities you’ve demonstrated, and speak to why you’d be a strong fit for the program. While your referees don't need to discuss your portfolio pieces directly, they should be able to reinforce the key qualities you’re highlighting in your application—whether it’s your technical aptitude, creativity, collaboration, or leadership skills. For example, if your portfolio focuses on game design, a referee who hasn’t worked with you in that field can still provide valuable insight by discussing your ability to learn quickly, solve complex problems, or contribute effectively to a team. The goal is for them to give specific, relevant examples that show you have the potential to thrive in the program, even if the context of their experience with you doesn’t match your portfolio exactly.

Q: For a sample work, can you submit a radio work if you work for a radio station?
A: Yes, you can submit radio work. If it’s a group project, make sure to clearly indicate your specific role and contributions. For longer pieces, provide context by highlighting key sections and explaining why they are important. Be sure to focus on how the work demonstrates skills relevant to the projects you’ll take on in the program and aligns with what you hope to achieve during your studies.

Q: About the transcripts again. You said you need to see every transcript, but for example I took a diploma on  animation, but I'm applying as a designer. Do I still need to add it to the application?
A: You will need to include all transcripts from any academic institutions you’ve attended and listed in your application, regardless of the skillset you identify as with your application. 

Q: If my portfolio is mostly in Spanish, can I use it anyways with english subtitles?
A: Yes, you can submit your portfolio even if it’s mostly in Spanish. Since English is the language of instruction for the MDM program, we are able to review materials in English. If you have pieces in other languages, that’s perfectly fine—just be sure to add English subtitles, translate key sections, or provide detailed descriptions (in English) to help us fully understand your work. Keep in mind, if we’re unable to read the relevant parts, we won’t be able to fully evaluate your submission.

Q: Do you offer funding? If yes, what types of funding are available for international students?
A: A list of scholarships can be found here. Students are eligible for need based bursaries from SFU. We also encourage seeking out scholarships provided by your home country or regional scholarships such as Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program.

Q: Students can hold multiple scholarships. Can a student receive multiple scholarships from the provided list?
A: Students are automatically considered for MDM Scholarships as part of the application process. There are no specific application forms aside from OUTtv Scholarship and Pat Hibbitts Scholarship.

Q: Who can I check with to see if my bachelor’s degree is recognized before applying?
A: SFU does not pre-qualify degrees; it's up to the student to review requirements and assess their qualification. Upon applying for the program, an assessment will be made. You can start by asking your university if your degree is credited as only accredited degrees are accepted. Applicants can also refer to SFU's International Requirements here to identify requirements / grade conversions per country. 

Q: If I’m a PR, but have a diploma from a Canadian private institution, do I still need a language test?
A: Please see answer here.

Q: With the newest immigration regulations, are international students now required to request an attestation letter to attend this master?
A: We're still waiting on final confirmation but it is likely you will require a provincial attestation letter (PAL). PALs will likely be delivered after an offer has been presented, accepted, and deposit paid. 

Q: What's the interview about? I mean is this a personal interview or some sort of portfolio interview?
A: The interview provides additional context to your application and allows the admissions committee to meet you. During the interview, you'll be asked questions to provide context to your application. Be prepared to discuss anything mentioned in your application, and have your preferred digital tools (e.g., Photoshop, Unity, ZBrush, etc.) open, as the committee may request to see your work process. Before the interview concludes, and if time permits, you will have an opportunity to ask us questions.

Q: Hi I was just wondering if you could go into detail regarding the portfolio review and the short essay. 
A: The short formal essay is approximately two pages of original, written work on topic related to digital media. The format and topic are very much up to you. We're looking to see how you write and what your interests are. You won't be penalized if you don’t have references or if your references aren't perfectly sourced so it's really up to you. How we review the portfolio varies from candidate to candidate. Generally, we're looking to see what skillset you have, what you want to do in the program, how focused and clear your application is, and at what level your works are.  

Q: What percentage of students who apply would you say receive an acceptance to the program?
A: Please see answer here.

Q: I’m a performance student and I want to change my profession to digital media. I wonder if it will be adequate if I only have digital drawing in my portfolio? Can I also put in my performance work in the portfolio?
A: Please see answer here. In addition, if you have informally (outside of an academic setting) developed digital media skills, this is ok. We're looking to see what digital media skills you have developed and what skills you want ot use in the program. Be as clear as you can what your skillset is in your application.  

Q: Am I eligible if I don't have any background of coding?
A: Coding knowledge is not required to apply for the program. However, if you're applying as a developer, we would expect you to have coding skills relevant to that role.

Q: I have both education & work experience in print media, is this program suitable for a student like me?
A: Graphic designers, including those with print media experience, are integral to the program and are needed on all projects. MDM can help you expand and adapt those skills to a digital context.

Q: If I’m graduating February 2025 can I apply with my official grades from university?
A: Yes, you are note required to have completed your degree before applying for MDM but you must have it completed by the time MDM begins. Simply apply with your unofficial transcript to date, and if an offer is presented it will be conditional on SFU receiving your final, official transcript before the start of class. 
 

Q: For countries with other grading scales, not A, B, C..., do you base it on the grade conversion guide provided? Or do you have one yourselves?
A: SFU uses a 4.33 grading system. For the application, you manually enter your GPA so it will be on you to convert. SFU will double check the conversion if/when an offer is presented. SFU has a resource page here that shows the grading systems based on the country. This will provide a range of where you need to be based on your grading system. 

Q: I have been living in Vancouver for the last 2 years and I don’t have access to my university to ask them to send  the seal transcripts. Is the WES approval acceptable?
A: We are setup with WES and this can be used in the application stage as your unofficial transcript. SFU may allow WES verification for transcripts but it is best to check in with the the SFU Grad Studies team at gradstdy@sfu.ca. Please keep in mind that official transcripts are only required if an offer is presented.

Q: When is the final deadline for providing the language test? Is it possible to get conditional admission?
A: If your situation requires a language test (more on language requirements can be found here) language test scores are a required in order to begin your review. Conditional offers are not presented in cases where no language score is presented. We do realize there may be a unique situation that is delaying your language test results, and ask you reach out to us directly to explain your situation. 

Q: The CDM website says that a sample of work summary is about 250-500 words. Is that word amount per portfolio piece or as a summary of the whole portfolio? 
A: The word count is a suggested limit versus required limit. Please be reasonable and aim to keep your copy close to the limit, but be sure to include the right amount of information so that we're able to understand the works, your role, and your process.

Q: Can I still apply for other programs at UBC or SFU if I apply for MDM?
A: You are able to apply for other programs at the same time. If an offer for MDM and another program is presented, you would have to choose one to attend.

Q: Who owns the copyright of the project after grads? Are we able to build on it in our career? Does every teammate have the right to the IP and work result?
A: For client projects, the client owns the IP. Clients are encouraged to allow students to showcase their work as this is basis of why we do projects. As projects and clients range, you may be able to negotiate usage / expansion of the project after it has finished. If you pursue a venture project, you are your own client effectively and have ownership of your project.  

Q: I just started my 4th year at SFU, and the MDM application is due January next year. Since I won’t have completed my degree and upper level credits, should I apply for the Fall 2026 cohort, while working on my portfolio?
A: You can apply for MDM if you have not yet completed your degree, so long as the program is finished and the credential awarded before MDM starts. For the unofficial transcript required as part of the application process, simply upload your transcript to date.

Q: I’ve been in Canada for 10 years, 7 as a PR - both studying and working. Do I still need to do an English test?
A: SFU may require a language test for Canadian Permanent Residents. As you apply, the application system will note if you meet language requirements. It will take into account your citizenship and where you obtained your degree to make an assessment. If you are noted as requiring a language test, or if you are unsure, it's always best to book and take a language test. The best way to check is to apply and then you can reach out to SFU and admissions@thecdm.ca to talk about your specific case if follow-up is required. 

Q: The beginning of the application includes a section to enter research keywords, what exactly must be entered here?
A: This is not required for MDM. SFU uses a shared application system and so some elements are relevant to other graduate programs. Review the requirements here, and on the status page in the application system to ensure you have submitted all required material.

Q: By which point I should apply to study permit if I got an offer?
A: Study permit processing takes time and so we suggest starting as soon as you are presented an offer. If you have the means, we also encourage consulting an immigration laywer as they can help you navigate the application process.

Q:  Do samples of work have to be strictly involved with digital media or could they be works not in the form of digital media but related to my goals and objectives that I would like to gain from and contribute to MDM program? 
A: How you put together your sample of work is up to you and part of how we assess you. Generally, we encourage you to put in your best pieces and pieces that showcase your skills and the skills you plan to use in MDM. Have a look at our projects to understand the work you'll be doing and build your portfolio showcasing skills that will be useful in the program, and that you plan to use in the program. 

Q: If my current grade doesn’t meet the admission requirements, is there any extra steps I need to take when applying?
A: You can use your Letter of Intent or a supporting document to explain why your grades are lower than required to help us understand if there were any challenges of conditions that contributed to the lower grades. Being below the minimum requirements would mean the rest of your application would need to make up for the lower grades so be sure to put extra time and effort into your application materials. For more information about requirements based on the country in which you received your degree, please review this SFU resource. 

Q: I’m an international student and am interested in MDM. Can I apply or do I have to take the Pre-MDM?
A: MDM is open to both domestic and international students; Pre-MDM is not required in order to take MDM. If however you would like to improve your English communication and take preparatory versions of the MDM projects, Pre-MDM is an excellent choice. Pre-MDM is a technical communication program designed for future digital media professionals and serves as a qualifying program for MDM. Students who complete Pre-MDM are presented an offer for MDM. For more on Pre-MDM please visit the program page or join an upcoming information session. 
 

Q: I have a background in 3D modeling, and I’m wondering whether it's beneficial to highlight my use of current AI drawing and modeling tools (such as Midjourney) in my process. Should I showcase these skills in my portfolio, or would it be better to avoid including them in my portfolio pieces?
A: The use of AI is acceptable as long as you clearly outline which assets were AI-generated and explain why and how you integrated them into the project. It’s also helpful to mention in your work summary or any accompanying written document why these AI tools are valuable to your creative process.

Q: Are internships paid?
A: Yes. You are required to secure a form of paid employment related to your studies. This can be traditional employment, freelance work, or even a continuation of your Venture Project. The term is designed to provide career support, so you don’t need to have a position secured beforehand; the term can be spent preparing for and searching for work. More information can be found here.

Q: The admission requirements mention a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. I have a 2-year diploma with 120 credits. Would I be eligible to apply?
A: Applicants without a bachelor’s degree are assessed on multiple factors, including course credits and work experience. Since this varies by applicant, eligibility will be determined individually after an application is submitted. We cannot pre-assess applicants, so eligibility can only be confirmed after reviewing your full application. If you believe you have substantial education and work experience, you should consider applying.

Q: What is the acceptance rate?
A: Approximately 20% of applicants are shortlisted for interviews, with about 15% receiving an offer of admission.

Q: Is participating in preparatory programs helpful for my application to the Master of Digital Media program? When is the best time to take this course—after I get into the Master’s program, or before I apply?
A: The Pre-MDM program is an excellent option for those looking to improve their English communication skills for digital media while engaging in preparatory versions of MDM projects. Accepted Pre-MDM students are considered qualifying students for the MDM program, and upon completing Pre-MDM, you are offered admission into MDM.

Q: Since this is a collaboration between different universities, do we have access to UBC and BCIT campuses, such as their libraries?
A: While you study, you are considered SFU students (SFU is the designated program administrator), granting you full access to SFU facilities and services. Limited access to UBC, BCIT, and ECUAD facilities may be available with pre-approval.

Q: Who is eligible to serve as a referee? Are there any restrictions on who can provide references?
A: Professional references are required and can be either academic or work-related. A minimum of three references is needed.

Q: What qualities are you looking for in an illustrator? I do a lot of editorial work; would you prefer to see more storyboards or animation skills in my portfolio?
A: How you structure your sample work and overall application is part of how we assess you. We generally recommend including work that showcases your skills and those you plan to use in the MDM program. Review our projects to understand the type of work you’ll be doing and to envision yourself on a team. Build your application to highlight the skills and roles you intend to bring into the program. The better we understand your strengths and interests, the better we can assess how you’ll fit into the cohort. We encourage you to craft your application as a coherent narrative that tells us who you are, how you’ll contribute, and what you hope to gain from the program. Successful applicants typically have a well-defined story and path.

Q: I have been a professional graphic designer with about ten years of work experience. Am I eligible to apply?
A: Graphic designers play an integral role in project teams. If you meet the academic requirements and have a digital media-related portfolio, you may consider applying. We are unable to pre-assess applicants, so eligibility will only be determined after an application is submitted.

Q: I have a Fine Art degree from [removed for privacy], and in my school, 70% (First Class) is considered an 'A' in a CWA grading system. My final grade is 70.26%. How does this meet your 76% threshold?
A: A guideline of international credential requirements by country can be found here using the drop down list on the right. We assess the entire application package, so if your undergraduate grades are below the requirement, we may still consider you if the rest of your application is strong. However, being below the minimum threshold means the rest of your application would need to compensate, so put extra time and effort into your materials. If you’re shortlisted and receive an offer, it will likely come with an academic condition requiring you to meet a certain CGPA in your first term.

Q: What kind of co-ops or jobs do MDM students get? What happens if we can’t find a job for the final term? What kind of support do we receive to find a job?
A: Your final term is Supported Career Exploration. During this term, you will pursue full-time work or other professional development opportunities. CDM does not place students directly in positions but provides support in preparing your application materials (like portfolio and resume), connecting you with industry contacts, and offering interview preparation. Students typically find work in their areas of specialization, so job opportunities vary from student to student. It’s okay if you don’t have a job secured by the start of the term; you’ll focus on preparing your application and searching for work under faculty guidance. Approximately 60% of students continue in the jobs they secured during their internships, with 96% employed within a year of graduating. More information is available here.

Q: I have management and finance experience, and many of my projects involve confidential information. Is it okay to showcase small images, like project timelines, without disclosing documentation?
A: Any information shared in your application is confidential, so we recommend asking your employer if you can share parts of your work solely for admissions review. If you’re unable to share project details but still want to showcase the work, find creative ways to do so. For instance, if you wish to show a project timeline to demonstrate your management skills, you can leave out identifying details. Managers should be resourceful in demonstrating their process, tools, and management style. Consider providing a written explanation to connect the dots and give the admissions committee the context they need to assess your skills and process.

Q: Is educational background or qualification more important than significant professional experience?
A: We review the entire application since no two applicants are the same. If you’re a recent graduate with limited work experience, we might focus more on your portfolio and grades. If you have significant work experience, we may weigh that and your portfolio more heavily than your academic record. It depends on how you present your application. We encourage you to tell a story through your application that helps us picture you as a student in the program.

Q: I noticed we need to submit a sample of work. Could you provide more details on what types of work are expected?
A: We cannot specify what items or how you should structure your sample of work, as this will be unique to your experience. In general, showcase your best work and the skills you intend to apply in the program. Less is more—focus your selection to clearly demonstrate your skill set and how you’ll contribute to the program. Include brief summaries explaining the context of your projects: why you took on the project, your process, what you learned, and the outcomes.

Q: I’m a programmer, and most of my relevant work is company property, so I can’t share the source code. Is it okay to just provide a detailed explanation instead?
A: For technical projects, we need to see your code—at least 100 lines is recommended. It’s up to you to decide what to share and how to present it. Any information you share is confidential, so we suggest asking your employer if you can include parts of your work for admissions review. If that’s not possible, consider alternative ways to demonstrate your skills, such as providing code snippets, building a new project that showcases your abilities, or selecting a different project you can share. Be sure to add information on your role, goals, and project outcomes in a summary document.

Q: What is the process of team formation for industry projects? Do the teams change between project terms?
A: Faculty and staff collaborate to place you on project teams that align with your goals and with individuals you’re comfortable working with. Teams change between project terms to maximize your cross-disciplinary communication skills.

Q: Are there full scholarship opportunities for international students? When will entrance scholarships be granted or announced?
A: The full list of scholarships is available here. We encourage students to seek out external awards. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.  

Q: I’m a game designer and have contributed to projects in different departments (game design, project management, art, etc.). Should my portfolio focus on these different areas, or would it be better to focus on game design specifically?
A: We cannot specifically direct how you should structure your Sample of Work and overall application. However, if you’ve worked across multiple departments, it’s important to clarify your specific role(s) and contributions to each project. Highlight how your experience aligns with the skills you plan to use in the MDM program. Be sure to clearly communicate what your core skills are and what you intend to focus on in MDM.

Q: Will the CDM Apartments be able to accommodate families if I plan to bring mine with me?
A: The CDM Apartments offer single or double occupancy suites. More information can be found here. For family-friendly housing, SFU provides the following options: Family Housing at SFU. Additionally, students with families may explore private rental options outside of these resources.

Q: I’m expected to graduate in the summer of 2026. When should I apply—one year in advance or after I receive my diploma?
A: Your degree must be completed and officially awarded before enrolling in classes. Typically, this means finishing your program in the summer so that your degree is conferred before the program starts in the fall. Applications for MDM open one year prior to the program’s start date.

Q: If I were to list this degree on my resume, should I mention UBC, SFU, BCIT, or Emily Carr?
A: We recommend listing Centre for Digital Media as your degree-granting institution. Some graduates also choose to highlight the program’s unique partnership with these institutions, but the choice is yours.

Q: Can I access the video recording of the webinar?
A: A follow-up email with a link to the recording will be sent to everyone who registered for the webinar. You can also join one of our upcoming webinars to catch up on anything you might have missed and to ask additional questions.