Eager applicants face strong competition - only 75 out of about 4,500 will get into the Beijing Film Academy.

However, graduating from these schools does not guarantee stardom.

Shi Hang, a senior scriptwriter and graduate of Central Academy of Drama, recalls that many of his alumni who majored in acting ended up in totally unrelated businesses. He says students and parents should have a more sensible attitude toward the profession.

"Passion helps you realize your dream, but fantasy cannot," he says.

"This is a tough road, and a risky gamble. Only a few at the top of the pyramid can become superstars. Most of these aspirants will be disappointed."

Damien Lu, PhD and professor at the School of Theatre, Film and Television at UCLA, agrees.

"Acting is a highly competitive business everywhere in the world, so many talented people would not get a chance to act," he writes in an e-mail response to China Daily.

One who tries to make acting a career in the United States does not have to go to certain schools, he adds, but needs to be a self-disciplined and determined learner.

"School degrees are not required, although in some instances it can help, not because of the degree itself but because of the specialized training one receives," he writes.

"Being an actor is like being an athlete, one is always in training to hone one's craft, like an athlete training for the Olympics."

Contact the writers at [email protected] and [email protected].

	Slides: Competition for spots in arts programs
	Slides: Home away from home for art applicants

A safe home away from home for young aspiring actresses

Li Yanping wore black fur and exquisite makeup in the chilling Beijing wind, waiting by the gate of the Central Academy of Drama for her daughter, who was inside taking an exam. More...

Path to stardom starts with an exam

The tough testing process is for high school hopefuls who want to get on a university course that will set them on a path to becoming actors, TV presenters, musicians, dancers and painters. Competition is fierce and the chances of success are slim, with experts warning that even those who are accepted face a struggle to find regular work after graduation. More...

No cosmetic surgery for budding actors

The performance institute of Beijing Film Academy plans to ban candidates who have undergone cosmetic surgery or have tattoos from enrollment. Many people are in favor of the institute's decision, saying plastic surgery is against the principle of fairness and justice. More...

Screening culture  

Our inner child revealed

Girl power goes big screen

Dance documentary attracts continuous attention

A real story forgotten, a reel story remembered