FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT THE SCHOOL
APPLICATION PROCESS
ABOUT PROJECT BASED LEARNING
COMING TO CANADA TO STUDY
- What paperwork do I need to come to Canada and take your program?
- Can I work while studying in Canada?
- Can I work in Canada once I’ve finished the program?
- What might cause a Job Offer Validation or Work Permit application to be denied?
- Will you help find a job in Canada?
- Will I need a car?
- What is the weather like?
- I’m worried about my English. Can I study English in Canada before coming to Lost Boys?
- What about health/medical insurance?
About the School
Q. What is the story behind the name?
A. In 1904, author J.M. Barrie wrote the enchanting tale of Peter Pan, an ageless boy who leads a misfit band of youths in an alternate reality. He called that band of youths the Lost Boys.
At Lost Boys Studios | School of Visual Effects, we are building on our original vision that started with Lost Boys Studios in 1997. We learned that new technologies would always be changing the face of production, and instead chose to invest in creativity, the only factor that could be relied upon to carry us towards the future, whatever it may be. Keeping heirarchy and politics to a minimum, we took great pride in functioning as a collective, giving the opportunity for all to be heard and all ideas voiced without judgment. We were a band of artists that strongly believed that the work is more of a culture choice than a career.
At Lost Boys Studios, we are proud to continue that vision.
Q. Our Mission
A. To provide expert visual effects training resulting in employable artists with a professional-looking portfolio, competent in their craft and knowledgeable of the working pipeline of a studio.
To create an atmosphere of awareness and curiosity which leads to investigation, problem-solving and invention, the hallmarks of successful artists with lifelong learning skills.
Applying to Lost Boys Studios | School of Visual Effects
Q. What should I include in my portfolio?
A. We would like to see 6 -10 pieces of your best, most experimental or most creative artwork. Art can be completed in any medium: computer-based applications, film or video, graphic design, flash, traditional artwork including drawing, painting, sculpture, etc. and photography. Your portfolio pieces can range from a simple pencil sketch to a full 3D render.
Q. What does Tuition include?
A. Tuition includes: Individually-assigned production level VFX workstation including dual LCD monitors, access to filming gear and related on-set VFX equipment; costumes and basic props for live-action shoots; job placement assistance; lab maintenance; graduation celebration; training completion fund insurance and other related services.
Students should supply: personal headphones, external hard drive or personal computer for backups
Q. Can I get a Student Loan to attend Lost Boys?
A. Please refer to the Payment Methods section of the website for links to major Canadian banks that offer Student Lines of Credit. Lost Boys Learning is an Accredited Private Career Training Institution in BC and Federal and/or Provincial students loans may be available for eligible students.
About Project-Based Learning
Q. What is Project-Based Learning?
A. Project-Based Learning is a technique which enables the students to explore and grasp concepts and methods within a simulated production pipeline. We tackle production-style projects right from the beginning of Term 1. The projects are carefully designed to meet the student’s skill levels and also to introduce all the necessary concepts and techniques in Live Action, 3D and Compositing for Visual Effects.
Q. Can I work on my own projects?
A. Students are encouraged to work on their own projects, alongside the assigned projects, as time permits. This way, each student can explore various areas of interest, share their findings, get feedback on personal styles and have a creative outlet for their own ideas. In Term 2 students will complete personal projects as part of the curriculum.
Coming to Canada to Study
Q. What paperwork do I need to come to Canada and take your program?
A. You will need a Study Visa and possibly a Temporary Resident Visa, depending on which country you are coming from. Everyone needs a Study Visa for any program of study in Canada longer than six months. Please refer to the Canadian Immigration website before applying to find out your requirements. The Canadian Consulate is quite thorough in examining Study Permit requests, and while most students coming to Canada will have the intent to try to get a Work Permit and stay in Canada, there are specific guidelines in how you approach this when interviewing for your Study Permit.
Q. Can I work while studying in Canada?
A. Canadian Immigration laws do not allow international students to work while they are a student.
Q. Can I work in Canada once I’ve finished the program?
A. There are three steps to gaining employment in Canada: 1) find a company who will offer you a job, 2) have the company complete a Job Offer Validation with the local Human Resources division of the government, and 3) be approved for a Work Permit which typically be for a duration of one year (renewable).
Q. What might cause a Job Offer Validation or Work Permit application to be denied?
A. If there are many other people applying for the same job or similarly qualified Canadians available and the company hiring cannot prove sufficient job search and specific need to hire you, you may be denied. Qualities that MAY help an application are previous work experience (preferably related) and previous college or university studies.
Q. Will you help find a job in Canada?
A. At Lost Boys we will be knowledgeable about the companies hiring, and help you to determine your strengths and goals in order to produce a demo reel that could get you hired in Canada or elsewhere. We will use our extensive network of industry connections to make personal recommendations for you. It is not easy and there are no guarantees – you have to work hard to make your demo reel, learn about the industry, and practice your interviewing skills.
Q. Will I need a car?
A. There is a public transit system that comes within a few blocks of our school. A car would be fun for exploring the area and weekend day trips, but you can certainly get around by walking, bus or even a bicycle — pick up a used bike or a new cheap one for about $100.
Q. What is the weather like?
A. We are fortunate to live in some of the mildest weather in Canada. That said, it still gets a bit cold in the winter but not often below 0 (zero) °C. Expect some snow in the winter, rain and wind in the spring, and warmer summer temperatures May through September.
Q. I’m worried about my English. Can I study English in Canada before coming to Lost Boys?
A. Yes, there are many ESL schools in Vancouver. You could spend a month prior to your studies brushing up your English skills and enjoying the city.
Q. What about health/medical insurance?
A. It is highly recommended that any foreign student acquire student travel health insurance through their travel agency or through a company such as Ingle International or Student Sure. After 3 months of residency in Canada you will register for the BC Medical Services Plan. All coverage is approximately $60/month.
