Every individual who wants to be creative and is highly enthusiastic about the world of cinema always dreams of becoming an actor.
Mastering the skill of being an actor requires certain methods that people who are pursuing this acting field need to learn.
Most people of today’s generation think that making a YouTube video for the sake of likes and subscriptions or creating a reel or a TikTok video that would recognize them as actors is mishandling the creative field like acting.
Acting requires a lot of practice and focus to be able to act in front of an audience. It is an art that comes when one understands the basics of acting.
To gain a better understanding, this raises the question of how to become an actor.
To become an actor, we have simplified the Top 15 Best Acting Institutes in India, where students who want to understand and upgrade their skills with the best-grade curriculum in the field of acting can join them and take a first step towards the art of cinema.
Top 15 Best Acting Institutes in India 2024
1. National School Of Drama (NSD)
National School of Drama comes first in the list of the top 15 best acting institutes in India. The school was established by Sangeet Natak Akademi in 1965. This institute comes under the Government of India, which makes it less expensive compared to other private acting institutes. NSD is the oldest acting academy in Delhi and is famous overall in India.
The institute has had many of its graduates go on to make a big impact in Bollywood with their acting talents. Actors who graduated from the National School of Drama include Anupam Kher, the late Satish Kaushik, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Manoj Vajpayee, Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, the late Irrfan Khan, Pankaj Tripathi, and the list goes on. NSD plays an important role if a person wants to become a creative artist.
The courses which are taught at National School of Drama are given below:
| Acting | Dramatic Literature |
| Advance Acting | Advance Direction |
| Online Acting Essentials | Editing |
| Modeling | Advance Editing |
| Yoga | Cinematography |
| Online Film Making | |
| Script Writing | |
| Screenplay and Direction |
Contact Details
Address: National School of Drama, Bahawalpur House, 1, Bhagwandas Road, New Delhi – 110001
Email: nationalschoolofdrama@gmail.com
Phone: 011-23389402
Website: www.nsd.gov.in
2. Film & Television Institute of India (FTII)
Our second on the list is the Film & Television Institute of India. FTII was initially set up at Prabhat Studio in 1960. Later, the Television Training Wing, which was operating in New Delhi, moved to Pune in 1974 and became a full-fledged educational institution overseen by the Government of India. FTII has played a significant role in bringing good talents from various fields like acting, directing, cinematography, and more into Bollywood.
The list of artists who graduated from the Film & Television Institute of India includes Naseeruddin Shah, Rajkumar Rao, Shabana Azmi, Rajkumar Hirani, and many more. The list of accomplished alumni goes on. Actors who wish to pursue acting or any other field can get enriching knowledge here from well-versed teachers.
The courses which are taught at Film & Television Institute of India are given below:
| Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Direction and Screenplay Writing | Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Sound Recording and Sound Design | Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Editing |
| Two Year Post Graduate Diploma in Acting | One Year Post Graduate Certificate Course in Video Editing | Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Art Direction and Production Design |
| Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Cinematography | Classical India Drama | One Year Post Graduate Diploma in Feature Film Screenplay Writing |
| One Year Post Graduate Certificate Course in Sound Recording and TV Engineering | One Year Post Graduate Certificate Course in Sound Recording and TV Engineering | One Year Post Graduate Certificate Course in TV Direction |
| Three Year Post Graduate Diploma in Editing | One Year Post Graduate Diploma in Feature Film Screenplay Writing |
Contact Details
Address: Film and Television Institute of India, Law College Road, Pune – 411004, Maharashtra
Phone: 020-25580000
Office: academicoffice@ftiindia.com, academicsftii@gmail.com
Short Courses: shortcourse@ftiindia.com
Website: www.ftiindia.com
Important Fact: FTII is also a member of the International Liaison Centre of Schools of Cinema and Television (CILECT), one of the world’s leading schools of film and television.
3. Whistling Woods International (WWI)
Next up on our list is Whistling Woods International, a famous institute established in 2006 by the Indian filmmaker, Subhash Ghai. This institute offers a range of courses covering cinematography, digital sound, dancing, and comprehensive education in both the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking, media, and entertainment.
Whistling Woods has an edge in acting courses, providing students with top-notch education under the guidance of qualified and experienced instructors, along with promising placement opportunities. The institute is committed to delivering state-of-the-art education in film, communication, and the creative arts.
Their curriculum is thoughtfully divided into four key components: Filmmaking, Actor’s Studio, Media and Communication, and Visual Communication and Design. Additionally, they offer courses in Fashion Design, Animation & Game Design, and Music.
The list of artists who graduated from Whistling Woods includes Ahana Kumra, Sahil Vaid, Anil Mange and more. Actors who wish to pursue acting or any other field can get a step closer from here. Whistling Woods is considered to be the best drama school when compared with other acting schools in India.
The courses which are taught at Whisling Woods International are given below:
| Filmmaking |
| Actor’s Studio |
| Media and Communication |
| Visual Communication and Design |
| Fashion Design |
| Animation & Game Design |
| Music |
Contact Details
Whistling Woods International – Filmcity Complex, Goregaon (East),
Mumbai-400065, Maharashtra, India.
For Admission Related Queries:
Phone: +91 8451803850 / +91 8451803851 / +91 8451803852 / +91 8454886604
Email: admissions@whistlingwoods.net
For Placements & Internships:
Phone: +91-22-62716227 / 62716181
Email: placements@whistlingwoods.net
For General Enquiries:
Phone: +91-22-62716070
Important fact – The school was first ranked among the leading schools in the year 2010 by the Hollywood Reporter.
4. Institute of Creative Excellence (ICE)
Next up on our list of the top 15 best acting institutes in India is ICE (Institute of Creative Excellence), founded by Ekta Kapoor in 2010. ICE has its main branches in Mumbai and Delhi and stands out as one of the leading acting schools in the country.
The institute is known for its commitment to quality education, excellent instructors, and cutting-edge technology used in filmmaking, media, and entertainment.
With a presence in over 10 centers across the country, ICE holds the title of the largest network in media and entertainment education and one of the top rated acting schools in India..
ICE’s curriculum is structured into three components: the School of Acting, the Academy in Filmmaking, and the Supporting Arts Academy.
The acting course offers hands-on experience by taking students to real film sets, complemented by guest lectures from industry experts. ICE goes beyond education by providing placement assistance throughout your tenure at the institute.
The institute’s widespread presence in the industry emphasizes the value it brings to aspiring students in the dynamic field of media and entertainment.
If you’re looking to make a mark in this industry, ICE is certainly an institute worth considering.
The courses which are taught at the Institute of Creative Excellence are given below:
| Acting | Dramatic Literature |
| Advance Acting | Advance Direction |
| Online Acting Essentials | Editing |
| Modeling | Advance Editing |
| Yoga | Cinematography |
| Online Film Making | |
| Script Writing | |
| Screenplay and Direction |
The main campus is located at Andheri (East), Mumbai, and various admission centers are located in major cities like Delhi, Pune, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jabalpur, Patna, Chandigarh, Bhubaneshwar.
Contact Details
Address: Joshi Building, Gate No.4, 1st Floor, Opp. 55 Corporate Avenue, Near Gurukripa Hotel, Saki Vihar Road, Andheri (East) Mumbai-400072
Tel:+91 80100 78601
Website: www.theiceinstitute.com
Important fact – ICE has been rated among “The 10 Best Media & Mass Communication Institute for 2018″ by Knowledge Review magazine.
5. Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI)
The fourth spot on our list goes to the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, established back in 1995. It’s named after India’s influential director, Satyajit Ray, making it one of the oldest film schools in the country.
The institute offers a variety of courses covering film and television production, cinematography, direction, screenplay writing, editing, sound recording, animation, and more.
This institute stands out for its amazing facilities, providing a platform for creative learning. It’s a place where actors and filmmakers can explore innovative ways of artistic expression.
The institute’s curriculum covers a wide range of aspects related to electronic and digital media, including management, writing, producing, and cinematography.
The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute has produced some accomplished alumni, such as Namrata Rao and Kanu Behl. These individuals serve as inspiring examples of the institute’s impact on nurturing talent in the world of cinema.
The courses which are taught at Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute are given below:
| Acting | Producing for Electronic and Digital Media |
| Direction and Screenplay Writing | Cinematography for Electronic and Digital Media |
| Sound Recording and Design | Editing for Electronic and Digital Media |
| Film and Television Production | Sound for Electronic and Digital Media |
| Animation Cinema | |
| Electronic and Digital Media | |
| Electronic and Digital Media Management | |
| Writing for Electronic and Digital Media |
Contact Details
Address: Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, E.M.Byepass Road, P.O. Panchasayar, Kolkata-700094
Email: contact@srfti.ac.in
Phone: 033-2432 8355/8356/9300
Fax: 033-2432-0723/9436
Website: www.srfti.ac.in
6. Barry John Acting Studio (BJAS)
Barry John Acting Studio is fifth on the list as one of the top 15 acting institutes in India. The institute was established in 1999 in Noida which was later migrated to Saket. With excessive demand from students and other units, it was shifted to Mumbai.
The founder and director of this institute was Barry John. The institute works under a nonprofit organization that aims to spread knowledge of theatrical and media arts through education.
The institute provides various courses for people who want to make a career in acting. Courses such as the Diploma in Filmmaking, BJAS Certificate in Acting, Full Time Certificate Course, and BJAS Young Actors Club.
The alumni of the institute include Freida Pinto, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Richa Chadda, who were among the initial students in Mumbai.
The institute also influence extends to shaping the careers of actors such as Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor, Rana Daggubati, and numerous others. These alumni have gone on to make their mark in both films and television serials.
The courses which are taught at Barry John Acting Studio are given below:
| Diploma in Film Acting |
| Film Making Courses |
| Certificate in Acting |
Contact Details
Delhi Address: BJAS Delhi Studio, 32 Ring Road, First Floor, Lajpat Nagar IV, New Delhi-110024
Phone: +91 9716114466, 011-40578451
E-Mail: enquiries@bjas.in
Website: www.bjas.in
Mumbai Address: BJAS Mumbai Studio, 301 Nanak Chambers, Opp. Cinepolis New Link Road, Andheri West
Mumbai-400053
Phone: +91 9967977966, 022-26742192
Email: enquiries@bjas.in
Website: www.bjas.in
7. Gulshan Kumar Film & Television Institute of India (GKFTII)
Next on the list is the Gulshan Kumar Film & Television Institute of India. The institute is famous for providing quality education in the fields of filmmaking and television.
With high-quality management and experienced knowledge providers, GKFTII makes itself a different place from its peers. Learners who want to learn acting and become professionals can apply to this institute.
They also provide students with assured internship programs and continuous placement assistance. The world-class campus with the state-of-the-art infrastructure of GKFTII is located in Film City which is a hub of TV and Media Industry.
It’s a huge and impressive building, along with all its modern facilities and high-quality equipment, production studios, well-equipped labs, and library, providing a complete professional environment to the student.
The courses which are taught at Gulshan Kumar Film & Television Institute of India are given below:
| Acting for Film and Television | One Year Integrated Diploma in Film and Television Technology |
| Camera & Lighting Techniques | One Year Camera & Lighting Techniques |
| Video Editing and Sound Recording | |
| Production Direction & Screenplay Writing | |
| Sound Designing | |
| Still Photography & Journalism |
Contact Details
Mob: +91 8447903923
Email: info@gkftii.com
Website: www.gkftii.com
8. R.K Films & Media Academy (RKFMA)
R.K Films & Media Academy can be a good choice for people looking to make a future in acting. This media and acting institute, established in the capital city, has earned the top spot among India’s best acting schools according to numerous well-known publications.
The academy offers quality education with outstanding teachers and modern facilities. One standout feature is their focus on bringing in experienced industry professionals to mentor students.
If you’re keen on pursuing acting, you can apply for their Diploma course in Acting and Modeling, covering television, films, theatre, and drama.
This academy is a promising path for those looking to step into the world of acting and make their mark.
The courses which are taught at R.K Films & Media Academy are given below:
| Short Term Courses(Less than 1 Year) | Apple FCP Video Editing | Diploma in Film Arts & Editing |
| Diploma Film Acting(6 Months) | Sound Editing Using Sound Forge | Filmmaking & Video Production |
| Certificate for Acting & Fashion Modeling for Ramp & Print (3 Months) | Print & Broadcast Journalism | Short – Courses at Delhi University’s Centers & Colleges |
| Diploma of Mass Communication-Print Media Journalism(1 Year) | Diploma in Film Arts & Animation | RKFMA Mass Communication & Journalism Courses |
| Films & TV Video Editing(6 Months) | Films & Media Communications | Mass Communication & Media Journalism Professional Courses |
| Non-Linear Editing Course(3 Months) | PG Diploma in Mass Communication | 2 and 3 Year Courses |
Contact Details
Address: RKFMA, 8A/8, W.E.A., Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110 005
Phone: +91-9312237583, +91-9312231374, +91-9310047775, +91-9958880223, 011-45064241
E-Mail: info@rkfma.com
Website: www.rkfma.com
9. Zee Institute of Media Arts (ZIMA)
Moving down our list, let’s explore the Zee Institute of Media Arts (ZIMA). This institute is one of the leading names in India’s media and entertainment sector.
ZIMA specializes in a range of courses for people who have creative aspirations, including Film Making, Direction, Voicing & TV Presentation, Screenwriting, Ad Filmmaking, Cinematography, Sound Recording, Editing, and most importantly, Acting.
For being a leader in over a decade, providing a nurturing environment for aspiring individuals. The institute is backed by a team of experienced professionals who are not only skilled teachers but also well-versed in the technological aspects that enhance the artistic journey of their students.
ZIMA with its strong network in the industry. Over the years, it has built valuable partnerships with major players such as MTV, Rajshri Productions, Sony, Starplus, Times Now, and many more.
This ensures that students at ZIMA not only receive theoretical knowledge but also benefit from real-world insights and opportunities.
ZIMA offers a variety of courses to fuel your creative aspirations. It’s a hub where education meets industry collaboration, providing a solid foundation for those looking to make a mark in the dynamic field of media and entertainment.
The courses which are taught at Zee Institute of Media Arts are given below:
| TV Journalism | Sound Engineering | Screen Writing |
| Direction | Electronic Music Programming | Autodesk Flame Premium |
| Film Making | Film Sound Designing | |
| Cinematography | Acting | |
| Editing | Voice & TV Presentation | |
| Audio Engineering | Film & TV Production |
Contact Details
Address: ZIMA, Grandeur, 503 & 504, 5th Floor, Opp. Gundecha Symphony, Veera Desai Road Extn, Andheri West, Mumbai– 400053
Phone: 022-26302937/38, +91-9167165716, +91-9833574578
E-Mail: zima.connect@zeelearn.com
Website: www.zimainstitute.com
10. Asian Institute of film and television (AIFT)
AAFT is an institute that provides education in media and arts. Established in 1993, AAFT is an institute with over 30 years of experience, providing quality education in media and arts.
Offering a multitude range of courses in Cinema, Journalism and Mass Communication, Performing Arts, Photography, Advertising, and more, AAFT stands out as a leader in providing a comprehensive education in various creative fields.
With a dynamic infrastructure and innovative facilities, the institute is committed to offering students a hands-on experience in the industry. Regular workshops and masterclasses conducted by professionals further contribute to enhancing students’ clarity in their chosen fields.
The reason AAFT is one of the top 15 acting institutes in India is its ability to offer multiple courses under one roof, providing students with a holistic education.
The institute has established connections with large production houses in India like Yashraj Films, PVR, Dharma Productions, Bhansali Productions, Disney+Hotstar, among others, offering promising placement opportunities to its students.
The success stories of AAFT alumni, including names like Arjun Kapoor, Luv Ranjan, and Aradhana Jagota, highlight the institute’s impact on shaping successful careers in the industry.
With its rich history, commitment to excellence, and influential alumni, AAFT continues to be a premier choice for those seeking a quality education in media and arts.
The courses which are taught at Asian Institute of film and television are given below:
| B.Sc. in Cinema + Graduate Level Diploma in Cinema | B.A. (Hons) Film Production | MSc in Cinema + Post Production | MSc in Multimedia + Post Graduate Diploma in Multimedia |
| B.Sc. in Mass Communication + Graduate Level Diploma in Mass Communication | B.Sc. International Journalism | MSc in Cinema + Post Graduate Diploma in Cinema | MA Film Production |
| B.Sc. in Electronic Media + Graduate Level Diploma in Electronic Media | PGD in Media and Entertainment | MSc in Cinema + Sound Recording | Diploma in Acting for Film and Television |
| BBA + Media and Entertainment | Post Graduate Diploma in Print and Photo Journalism | MSc in Cinema + Direction | Acting and Presentation |
| B.A. (Hons) Film and TV Screenwriting | Post Graduate Diploma in TV Journalism and Communication | MSc in Cinema + Post Graduate Diploma in Electronic Media | Diploma in Visual Communication |
| B.Sc. in Multimedia Production + Graduate Diploma in Multimedia | Post Graduate Diploma in Film & TV Production | MSc in Mass Communication + Post Graduate Diploma in Mass Communication | Screenplay Writing |
Contact Details
Address: Marwah Studios Complex, FC-14/15, Sector-16A, Noida Film City, Uttar Pradesh
Phone: 0120-4831100
Website: www.aaft.com
11. Craft for Research in Art of Film and Television (CRAFT)
Craft for Research in Art of Film and Television (CRAFT) is on the list of the top 15 acting institutes in India. The institute is a non-profit organization that was established in the year 2006 in Delhi. With an enriching experience of more than 15 years, the institute offers various creative fields such as Radio Jockey, Cinematography, creative writing, Film Direction, and so on.
CRAFT’s six-month Acting and Modeling course is a gem for those passionate about acting. It adds a layer of skill and knowledge to the world of acting.
Notably, the institute’s strength lies in its faculty—educators who have graduated from the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD), one of India’s top acting schools. The guest artists such as Sanjay Mishra have been associated with the institute.
The courses which are taught at Craft for Research in Art of Film and Television are given below:
| Acting & Modeling |
| TV Journalism & News Reading |
| Direction & Script Writing |
| Radio Jockey |
| English Journalism |
| Wedding Planning |
| YouTube Film Making |
Contact Details:
Address: B-11. Qutab Institutional Area . New Delhi – 110016. India.
Email: www.craftfilmschool.com
Tel: 98 99 25 11 33 / 44 / 55
12. Ramesh Sippy Academy of Cinema and Entertainment (RSACE)
The Ramesh Sippy Academy of Cinema and Entertainment (RSACE) stands out as one of the finest acting institutes in India, founded by the renowned director and producer, Ramesh Sippy.
Established in 2017, this institute is affiliated with the University of Mumbai and holds accreditation from the Garware Institute of Career Education and Development.
RSACE offers a diverse range of degree and diploma courses covering Film Art, Animation, VFX, and screenwriting. Additionally, it provides certificate courses in various areas like Acting, Photography, Cinematography, Sound Design, Production Design, and more.
Talking about the acting course at the institute. They provide 3 months acting course which has 36 sessions. The Part-Time Acting Course at RSACE, is an unique course which is designed by rich leaders in the field of Film Making such as Lee Strasber, Meisner, Michael Chekov.
As it is affiliated with the University of Mumbai, the classes are held there. The institute also provides 100% placement assistance after the completion of the course.
It is a hub for learning and honing your skills. With a strong foundation in both theory and practical training, this institute creates a way for aspiring individuals to flourish in the world of cinema and entertainment.
The courses which are taught at Ramesh Sippy Academy of Cinema and Entertainment are given below:
| Bachelor in Film Production & Management |
| Bachelor in Film Art |
| Bachelor in Screen Writing |
| Bachelor in Animation |
| Bachelor in Visual Effects |
Contact Details
Address: Ramesh Sippy Academy of Cinema & Entertainment, Garware Institute of Career Education & Development, University of Mumbai, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E), Mumbai-400098
Phone: 022-26530269, +91-9920223144, +91-9322141141
E-Mail: info@rsace.edu.in
Website: www.rsace.edu.in
13. Anupam Kher's Actor Prepares (AP)
Anupam Kher’s Actor Prepares is a well-respected drama institute located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Established by the renowned Indian actor Anupam Kher in 2005, it has gained global recognition and is highly regarded by famous actors. The institute specializes in providing workshops and programs in writing and acting.
Some of the prominent programs offered by Actor Prepares include a diploma in acting, weekend workshops, and a weekend acting course. What sets this acting school apart is its unique approach—it delves into the real-life experiences of actors while on the job, offering valuable insights and success tips.
Anupam Kher, a highly successful actor himself, provides individual guidance and counseling throughout the program. Despite being based in Mumbai, Actor Prepares extends its reach by hosting weekly workshops and children’s courses in major cities across India.
Additionally, the academy has expanded globally, with a fully operational branch in the UK.
The courses which are taught at Anupam Kher’s Actor Prepares are given below:
| Diploma Programme in Acting |
| Part-Time Certificate Course on Acting & Dancing |
| Weekend Workshop on Acting and Dancing |
| Four-Months Weekend Programme in Acting and Dancing |
| Diploma in Script Writing |
Contact Details
Address: Andheri: Actor Prepares, A Mukti Trust Initiative, Mukti Building, 5th Floor, 141 Model Town, Behind Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, Four Bungalows, Andheri West, Mumbai–400053
Juhu: Actor Prepares, 1st Floor, Film Industry Welfare Trust House, Near S.N.D.T College, Next to Ajivasan Hall, Juhu Road, Santacruz West, Mumbai–400049
Phone: +91 9167233342 , +918080801761
E-Mail: info@actorprepares.net
Website: www.actorprepares.net
14. Roshan Taneja School of Acting (RTSA)
Roshan Taneja School of Acting is one of the oldest acting institutes in India. The late, Professor Roshan Taneja, founder & head of Department of Acting at FTII in Pune. Established in 1976, Roshan Taneja started this institute in Mumbai.
The institute provides an acting program, which is a 4-month comprehensive diploma course, and other crash courses in acting.
The institute has produced famous actors and are proud alumni of this institute. Actors such as Anil Kapoor, Nassurrudin Shah, Aamir Khan, Rani Mukherjee, and many more.
The courses which are taught at Roshan Taneja School of Acting are given below:
Contact Details
Address: Bungalow No. 29, S.V.P. Nagar, Near Versova Telephone Exchange, MHADA Andheri (W), Mumbai 400053.
Email: info@roshantaneja.com rohit@roshantaneja.com
Tel: 8898012356
Website: www.roshantaneja.com
15. Delhi Film Institute (DFI)
The last on the list of Top 15 Best Acting Institutes in India is the Delhi Film Institute, which was founded in 2005 and has top-notch facilities for students. It has earned a noteworthy reputation among its peers by keeping up with the latest resources and technology to meet the evolving demands of the film and media industry.
For the first time, the institute is offering a comprehensive course covering various facets of Film-Making, Mass Communication, Advertisement, and Journalism, providing students with a well-rounded education in these fields.
The courses which are taught at Delhi Film Institute are given below:
| B.A. in Mass communication, Advertisement and Journalism |
| M.A. in Mass communication, Advertisement and Journalism |
| P.G. Diploma in Mass communication, Advertisement and Journalism |
Contact Details
Address: Delhi Film Insititute, E-73, South Extension, Part-I, New Delhi, South Ex 1, Delhi, Delhi-110049
Phone: 011-41648672
E-Mail: info@delhifilminstitute.com
Website: www.delhifilminstitute.com
This blog explores the top 15 best acting institutes in India, making it a must-read for film enthusiasts and those aspiring to step into the world of acting.
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