About The ISA and our Purpose
What do you mean when you say “We make Heroes”?
Do you want the short answer or the long one?  The short answer is that we help people walk ‘the heroes path’ and train to become an inspirational human, to themselves and others.  Our students become the best they can be, they go on to have a great work ethic and can be a valued and loved member of any crew or unit they work with, and they also play the heroes or heroic roles in the entertainment content they work and perform in.

The long answer goes back to our founding of The ISA and our belief that Stunt Performers and Action Actors require better recognition for the unique type of work they do, and the immense amount of training and skill that goes into being able to do that.   If we took a classic action film, removed every minute that had stunt professionals working in front of or coordinating things behind the cameras, and then watched the film, it would be about 4 minutes long and not very good.   Yet traditionally Stunt people were hidden away from view and not openly recognised or rewarded (even within the industry) for the huge risks they take and their essential role in making action content so compelling. While we recognise the contribution of everyone involved in making great films, TV, shows and content, we stand up for the real heroes of action & stunt, the Stunt unit, co-ordinators and performers. They are our heroes, and here at The ISA we train them, assist them, condition them and help them prepare to do what they do … be a Hero to themselves and others.
What makes the ISA unique? Are you different from other Stunt Schools?
The ISA Vocational School located in Norway is an Academy for the Performing Arts that specialises in Stunt Training and Action Acting, it is the first of its kind in the world. The people who founded, coordinate, coach, instruct at the academy know that in the world of Stunt and Action Acting, to establish yourself, create and sustain success, and ensure you live and work in a way that keeps your mind, body and bank balance healthy …. well, this takes a lot more than knowing how to do a couple of stunts.

The ISA's Diploma Course isn’t a quick workshop or a few weeks of classes to experience a discipline, it is a gateway into a career in Stunts and Action. We help you prepare your mind, body, lifestyle and develop the core skills you need for a successful career. It's our aim that students leave us as ‘Work Ready Experts’.

So, The ISA is different to many Schools because we are a regulated vocational school, the only Stunt School or Stunt Academy to offer an accredited Diploma and we deliver all our courses and educational programmes to the highest Standards, in-line with Schools, Academy, Colleges and University throughout Europe. This is very different to training with individual performers for a few days or taking a few weekend courses offered by different businesses or groups. 
Are your diplomas and qualifications recognised within the industry?
A problem within the entertainment industry historically is there has been a lack of formal training, standards and regulation with regards to Stunt & Action performance. There are great experts and great work, but there’s also been a lot of unskilled people without expertise accepting or creating too much risk. This is a problem for productions, backers and especially performers. We are continually working within the industry to assess what it needs, to evolve and develop our courses and training to suit this, and to create new standards that are suitable for wider adoption. Standards that are made with the Stunt Industry, for the Stunt Industry. A Diploma never guarantees you a job, but it does demonstrate you’ve had over 1695 hours of study and training at a world-class academy and gained certification in various disciplines, showing you can work to high standards.
How many stunt schools are there in the world?
We don’t keep track of this but there are many places you can find training. Many state they are schools or academies but they are not regulated and their courses are not accredited. Some are purpose built training centres and others are individuals who rent gyms or halls. The ISA Vocational School in Norway is an established and regulated school that delivers an accredited Diploma course, and as far as we know we are still the first and only school to achieve this in the world.
Why should I choose The ISA for my stunt qualification?
We are not aware of anywhere else you can gain a formal academic qualification in Stunt Performance and Action Acting. There are places that offer certificates, these are not formal qualifications. This doesn't mean they don't have some value or purpose but they shouldn't be confused with formal academic study and qualifications.
Can I do both stunts and acting after graduating?
Yes you can. Our students tend to be the crossover between Stunt-orientated people who know they will need basic acting abilities to be successful or Actors who want to be able to undertake action roles and know they need to train and develop skills here. Increasingly roles require both Stunt and Acting experience and abilities
Can I work everywhere in the world after graduating?
Yes you can. There is plenty of work to be found, globally, for good, talented and hard-working people. Our course sets you up to begin in the global industry and is not specific to one particular region or continent. In many cases studying with us in Norway will mean you graduate at a level where your skills, standards and working methods may be above the standards or methods used in some regions. We will also help you learn how to evaluate and select work, and also when to step back and say “No, this isn’t being done right”. This should be an advantage to you in your career, wherever it takes you in this world
Is it easy to get work after the education/ course?
Yes and no, this really is 100% down to the individual asking the question. If you are willing to commit, focus, master your disciplines, work hard and be an enjoyable and professional person to work with, there is plenty of work to be found all over the world and the demand and types of opportunities available are increasing. If you think the world owes you, you won’t put in some effort, you don’t take work seriously or you are not a good team-player, you might struggle. Nothing in life is guaranteed but we have seen people do very well and we know there is plenty of opportunity for more people to do well too.
Where can I work after I have qualified?
There are so many different types of work and opportunities that this is not easy to answer. During your study you will learn skills and disciplines that would be relevant in Stunts, Film, TV, Social Content, Live Action, Theatre, Motion Capture / CGI / Gaming, and many more.
I am female and want to study stunts, Can I? Where do I start?
Yes you can! We are very passionate about promoting equality in our industry and we do not select or prioritise students based on gender. There is a huge demand for women to fill roles in our industry and there is absolutely no barrier to women joining us or participating in any of the activities we provide. Each year around half of our students are female and they are just as capable as males in all aspects of study, training and performance. The only area we see a gender-based advantage is often women have had better levels of flexibility which provides them with an advantage and a degree more injury protection in certain activities.
How is this school connected to the industry?
The ISA is very well connected, globally, in Film, TV, Live Entertainments and the worlds of Stunt and Action. We’ve been doing this a long time, our team are all established professionals and at the top of their game, and we are also actively involved in casting, production, coordination and R&D. Like any university, we are a hub for talent and exist to develop, improve and raise quality and standards, then share that into the talents and industry we are built for
Who are the course instructors?
Our instructors, coaches and teachers are all expert in their fields, many are also ISA Graduates which makes them very familiar with our courses, training methods and what it's like to study with us. In some cases you may find we have paired them up to make the best of their skill sets and how they can overlap. For example, while studying with our Parkour Coach you would also be taught by our Flexibility Instructor and probably have guidance from our Head Coach who looks at Conditioning and how people are approaching their training to get the best possible results from it. Many are established names already working actively in Stunt, Film, TV, Acting & Live Action
What is Student Life like at The ISA?
When you study at The ISA we live and work together as a unit, on Location in Norway, for 1 year. Here we work and operate as working professionals together while we study all the disciplines, sub-disciplines and side skills that make a human do well. Around that we help you into the habits and ways that will ensure that when you leave us you have grown capable and are ready to live a successful, happy, independent life.   For some students it’s the first time living away from the family home and that is a big adjustment, so we help them through that. For others they’re changing careers and feeling the pressures of needing to plan financially, set realistic targets and make life work, so we help them understand that. In some cases students have struggled because highly energetic and creative people sometimes do, or previous schools and environments didn’t understand them as people and that can cause anxiety and challenge our belief or warp our perception of our-self, so we coach and mentor to help people re-establish a positive view and self image and channel their talents and energies into a career and lifestyle that makes the best of who they are, what they do and what they truly can be.

The ISA isn’t just a Stunt School. You’re here 24/7 and so are we and our gyms, training facilities and equipment. Together for 1 year we live and breath Stunt and action acting and all the lifestyle and training needed to become established and ready to make a life of that.
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To be or act as a hero, first you have to become your own hero. Learn to be your best self, and to maintain that through all sorts of situations.

That’s why the ISA is different. It is a career-oriented university, where we make heroes.

If we are not for you, that’s ok. If we are, join us.
Do you have any success stories from past students?
Yes, many of our past students have left us and gone into professional work in Stunt Performance and Action Acting. We always remind our students that individual success is dictated by individual effort. Nothing is promised, guaranteed or certain. We have seen good people not put the effort into marketing themselves or turning up for Auditions and they have not done well. We have also seen people stick to the programme, make sure they have good content and market themselves well and go straight from Study with us to working in big productions.
What's the difference between a stunt performer and an action actor?
Good question! The simple answer is that today, these 2 disciplines overlap so much it is hard to say. Actors who want to work in Action-oriented roles need to have a grounding in Stunt work. Stunt performers who want to work in roles that are Acting-orientated (Film, TV, Character work in live events, etc, etc) need to understand how to act and sell their stunts to the camera or audience. The lines are very blurred today and that’s why our course combines both of these disciplines and develops you to be confident and competent in both. This gives you a good foundation to build a career upon. If you decide you want to star in a Marvel Film, acting talent is going to be vital for you. If you want to be a body double, for someone who’s doing that, you’ll have to be able to work with scripts and know how to act Stunts.
Is The ISA actually a school and is an ISA Diploma a formal qualification?
Yes, The International Stunt Academy in Norway is unique in being an established and regulated Vocational School for the Performing Arts sector that specialises in Stunts and Action. Our Diploma Course is accredited by NOKUT (the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education, which is an independent expert body of the Ministry of Education and Research). The ISA Diploma in Stunt Performance and Action Acting is a formal academic qualification and completing this course awards a Diploma and 60 ECTS Study points (which are recognised throughout the EU).
I would like to know more about The ISA Hollywood Stunt Classes & Network
That’s a broad question but people are often curious about this. Each year, shortly before graduation, we offer our Diploma students the opportunity to come with us on a trip to LA. Here we train, meet other Stunt Teams and Units, introduce them to their on-screen heroes and help them start to network and make fantastic connections in the US industry. It’s a chance to kick-start and boost your network and also experience how other cultures and regions work.  The Trip is an add-on to the standard diploma course and students work with us to tailor the trip to their desires and needs so each year it is slightly different.
How does this course help me in my career?
A problem the Stunt and Action Content industry faces globally is there has traditionally been a complete lack of standards and standardisation of training. Being a ‘stunt performer’ means everything and nothing. It does not guarantee you understand fire stunts and safety, or that you know how to land a high fall correctly, even if you are willing to turn up and ‘have a go’. Our course is specially designed to give you strong foundations in all the core disciplines a good all-round Stunt & Action professional will need, so you can have many options open to you. During your course you can also explore and develop specialisms and focus on the type of work you want to be known for, meaning you leave us with a Demo Reel and promotional materials to help you move in that direction. Something many overlook is that there is also a difference between knowing how to perform a stunt and marketing / managing yourself as a freelance professional within the entertainment industry. Our course also teaches you the skills you need to Live, Work and Promote yourself as a Stunt & Action specialist.
Is this a mental and physically challenging education/ course?
Yes. To take on a 1-year Diploma and dedicate ourselves to study and training is a challenge. It’s a good challenge, a positive challenge and a challenge you will get a lot of help and support with. This isn’t the military, relax, but don’t assume it's all going to be easy either.  Something people often fail to consider is how much of a mental challenge a course like this can be. To get yourself up, ready, look after yourself and train well for a year requires good mental discipline and a good routine. There are times you will be tired, muscles will ache, or there might be an activity you have to work harder at to perfect it, that is a challenge. But the rewards and good feelings you’ll get from doing your best are huge too.
Does everyone qualify?
Everyone who finishes the course receives a final grade and a Diploma which demonstrates they have completed the Study hours required to Graduate. Not everyone gets an A.  If you fail to attend classes or act in a way that requires us to remove you from classes (Unsafe practice, disrespect to others and our facilities, putting self or others at risk) then you could find you are unable to complete your course.  This has not been a problem before as our students are committed and take their course, and safety, seriously, but there are ways you can fail. 
How do I know if a career in Stunt Performance & Action Acting is the right path for me?
We won’t sell this to you, but if you feel the calling and want a career that is active, interesting, challenging, exciting, varied and takes you all over the world, this might be for you. Talk to us and we can help you assess your decision, but only you can make your choice. If you’re ready to walk the Heroes Path, we’re ready to help you take your first steps along it
Can you create custom courses or deliver bespoke training?
Yes, we offer private lessons and training, we can develop and tailor custom courses to suit the needs of individuals and groups and we also offer short courses throughout the year that target specific stunts or disciplines. If you can’t see what you need, please email us to discuss your requirements and we’ll let you know if we can help
What’s your favourite colour?
Orange. Or success. And we know success isn’t a colour but it probably should be and if it was it would be orange, like the wings on our logo
Why do I need to provide a Doctors Certificate / Letter and Travel and Medical Insurance certificates before I can begin study at The ISA?
It is a legal requirement that all students provide a letter from their GP / Doctor that they are certified as physically fit and able to participate in strenuous activities.
What should my Doctors Letter / Certificate cover, so I can tell my Doctor what I need from them?
The course requires you to be able to train physically to a high level and perform a variety of physical tasks that include lifting, jumping, falling and strenuous cardiovascular exercises
What level of Travel and Medical insurance do I need to have in place before I Study at The ISA?
You should have full medical and travel insurance for the duration of your time in Norway and we require copies of your certificates when you register with us on the first day of your course. We hold these on file for you in case of emergency and if needed we can pass these to relevant authorities for you
Does your (The ISA’s) insurance cover me against accidents or injury if I am visiting or attending events or activities?
No. We do not provide cover or indemnify you against accidents, losses or injury you cause to others. The ISA is fully insured for the purpose of providing the training and courses we offer. This insurance relates to The Academy, its equipment and its employees.
What happens if I lose or damage an item of ISA property or equipment
Any damages or losses must be paid for in full, and in some cases there may also be a case for some compensation to cover replacement, shipping or loss of use / rental of a replacement
Can I come and work for you?
Yes, possibly. If you are interested in Teaching, Instructing or Mentoring You can send us your CV and Demo reel. After you qualify, if you want to continue working with The Academy we can discuss that and how it might work. We do also provide casting and production services so there might be opportunities there. First we need to know you.
What do I need to do to move to Norway?
To Study at the ISA, if you are not resident in a Nordic Country, you must apply for a Student Visa. If you are moving from within a Nordic country you must report to relevant authorities that you are moving to the School’s address. It is IMPORTANT you register or apply for your visa as soon as possible, these things can take time to process so don’t wait to get your papers in order.

Students are also required to register at the local police station and tax office, which is normal for anyone moving to Norway. Once these matters are taken care of you just need to get ready to move here for 1 academic year (from Summer to Summer). You also need to ensure you are able to finance your time here.
I lost my Diploma, can I get another one issued?
All graduates are issued 1 physical diploma at graduation. If you want additional copies or Diplomas issued in other languages we can provide these. There is an administration fee of NOK 1,500 per Diploma / copy
What's the difference between and actor and an 'Action actor'
An action actor is a type of actor who specializes in performing physically demanding stunts and fight scenes in film and television. They often have extensive training in martial arts, gymnastics, and other physical disciplines, and are known for performing dangerous and high-intensity stunts.
Can you guarantee me a job at the end of my education?
At The International Stunt Academy, we are committed to providing our students with the tools, resources, and guidance they need to succeed in their careers. While our program can open doors and show students the path to success, it is important to note that ultimately, it is up to the individual student to put in the necessary work, time, and effort to develop their skills and achieve their goals.
We take pride in our hands-on, project-based approach to education, which is designed to give students the practical experience and skills they need to excel in their careers. However, we cannot do the work for them. It is essential that students take ownership of their learning and development, and invest the necessary time and effort to hone their craft and build their professional network.
We want our students to be accountable and responsible for their own success, which means understanding that their success is ultimately in their own hands. We encourage all students to approach their studies with professionalism, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow. While we cannot guarantee jobs, we are confident that our program can equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field, provided they are willing to put in the effort and professionalism required.
In summary, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible education and training, and our program can pave the way for a student to achieve success in their chosen field. However, it is up to each individual student to take ownership of their learning and development, and put in the necessary work and effort to achieve their goals.
Is it realistic to think I can get work as a stunt person or stunt actor in film, TV or Live shows if I cannot act a character, read a few lines confidently or convincingly when asked, and I don't attend any auditions?
It is unlikely that you will be able to find work as a stunt person or stunt actor in film, TV, or live shows if you cannot act a character, read a few lines convincingly, and don't attend any auditions. While the primary role of a stunt performer is to execute physical actions and stunts, some level of acting skill is often required, especially if you're doubling for an actor or playing a minor character.

Additionally, auditions are a crucial part of the process for obtaining work in the entertainment industry. By not attending auditions, you limit your opportunities to showcase your abilities and make valuable connections with directors, producers, and other industry professionals.

​If you're serious about pursuing a career as a stunt person or stunt actor, consider taking acting classes and attending auditions to improve your chances of success. You should also focus on developing a wide range of physical skills and techniques, such as martial arts, gymnastics, parkour, and other specialized disciplines relevant to the type of stunts you want to perform. Networking with professionals in the industry and building a portfolio of your work can also help you get your foot in the door.

About our Courses
How much does this course cost? 
See our Courses page for details of costs. In most cases you should budget to cover the Course cost, the Accommodation cost (not included in your course) and to cover your expenses (Food, travel, clothing, kit, etc)
Can foreign students study at The ISA?
Yes! We are the International Stunt Academy. We are based in Norway but more than 50% of our students are international and we have had people come to train with us from all over the world. Our teachers are international too.  English is our shared language so you do need to have a basic ability in order to understand the classes and to engage with your fellow students.
How old do I have to be to start at the ISA
The typical age range for our students is 19-35 years. The minimum age to study and train with us is 19 years, although you can apply and audition if you are 18, for a place that starts after your 19th Birthday. This limit is dictated by the legal requirements of us being a Higher Education Academy, we’re sorry but we can’t accept anyone younger for a Diploma. Younger people can come on short courses or camps.
Do I have to be super-fit and athletic to apply?
No, when you study with us our training programme will take you from a basic level of fitness and flexibility to becoming a superhero. You do need to be fit enough to start but we don’t expect people to start at the level they will graduate at. We do advise you’re able to do things like sit-ups, pull-ups and run a minimum of 5k
Do I need to have prior experience in stunt work to study with you?
No. Our courses are open to everyone, including beginners. It doesn’t matter if you want help to get started with the basics or you have some experience already and wish to build upon and improve your current level experience, both are ok. Many of our Students have no experience and see our course as a good way to train up, gain the skills they need and learn the essentials to become ready to start their career in Stunt Performance and Action Acting.
When does school start?
See our ‘Courses’ page for the specific dates of each course.  Our main Diploma course starts every August
Can I Study Part time or do shorter courses to fit around my work? 
Yes you can. From 2023 we are going to offer part-time study (1 week on, 1 week off), which will enable you to complete a Diploma over 2 years (Part-Time) instead of 1 year (Full-Time).   The course price and overall costs are the same for both Part-Time and Full-Time. For a Part-Time course you will still be living at the academy during your study weeks so your accommodation and food costs must also be considered.
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If you study Part-Time some of your classes you may include Full-Time students, but your development and progression will be slower than theirs so you may be doing the basic activities while others have moved onto the more advanced activities. Remember that it takes time to get the basics right and it is important you do not try to progress too fast or leap ahead into things you have not yet been trained and conditioned to attempt.

Unless the study days overlap, Full-Time and Part-time students are allowed to take our short courses alongside your main course. So if you’re studying all week you can’t do a 1-week course at the same time but you could do a weekend course or join a course that happens during a school break when our Diploma Classes have paused.
I can’t study with you for a whole year or don’t want to do the full course, can I just study for one module or subject?
Yes. We can take students in for specific modules. Because we run some elements of courses alongside modules, for safety reasons there might eb some activities you can only watch but cannot participate in (for example, you cannot join the High Fall training days later in the year if you didn’t do the early part of that module)
I just want to try a fire stunt / fall / rappelling / train for a SWAT role, can I?
Yes!  We can arrange 121 training sessions for individuals, put on short courses to help units or groups prep or run pre-vis. Also, because our Diploma course runs all year, we can add people to specific modules as we run them.  If you want to try something, learn something or get better at something, talk to us.
Do you provide short courses?
Yes we do. We can develop bespoke training and courses for you if you’re preparing for a role or want to work on a certain skill or stunt. Throughout the year we also offer short courses, weekend workshops and ‘taster’ experiences. Keep an eye on our Courses and Events pages or follow us on Instagram for latest info.
How many credits do I get for completing my Diploma?
Our Diploma gains you 60 ECTS points
Am I guaranteed to have a job at the end of your courses?
Our Courses help people to prepare and gather the skills needed to market themselves and find work in our Industry(s). You’re guaranteed that if you work hard, pay attention and apply yourself to being the best you can, we’ll put you in a better position to get the roles or work you seek, and we do network our students to our global database of contacts. Sadly, nobody’s guaranteed a job in our industry and we always remind people that we’re all also only as good as our last audition or role. Those who work hard work well. People who expect too much or have unrealistic expectations of themselves and the world of professional Stunts and Acting might struggle with the realities of what’s required
Is it dangerous to work with stunts?
Yes and no. We are not in the danger business, we are in the safety business. We work to take something that is dangerous and manage risks so that it becomes safe to perform the stunt, repeatedly.   There is always risk, and if people do not work professionally, maintain awareness and coordinate everything perfectly, there is a danger someone could be hurt
How much work can I get after I graduate?
As much as you are willing to work for. If you put in the effort there is a huge industry, globally, that is constantly searching for talent. If you sit at home, wait for the phone to ring and take no action to become a known and wanted professional that others love working with … well, the phone probably won’t ring.  We can never promise you work and you shouldn’t ever assume it will come to find you.
What sort of income can stunt people earn professionally?
This is not a simple question to answer. Different countries also have different rules and rates of pay. Higher paid Stunt / Acton actors can earn up to and above US$250,000 a year. People who are starting out or don’t put in the work won’t see that sort of income. In our industry it is down to the effort you put in, your skills and disciplines and how well you market yourself. The good news is we teach you all this, with a view to you leaving ready to start finding work and qualified to the basic standards in order to do so
I have a medical diagnosis, physical limitation or a condition that I have to manage. Can I join a program at The ISA?
Talk to us. Many of our students have had some form of diagnosis or health condition to manage. In most cases it does not impact their ability to study or do well. In some cases it required a little bit of help or adaptation. If you are physically fit and capable then you probably won’t have any issues. If you have a condition such as ADHD this certainly is not a barrier either. If you have a condition that means physical training or endurance activities would put your health at risk then we would suggest that a career of doing this might not be ideal. Whatever your condition or concern is, talk to us. We will be happy to advise you
Tertiary Vocational education
Tertiary vocational programmes are programmes of vocational study that build on upper secondary education or equivalent prior learning and work experience. No Higher Education Entrance Qualification is required. Tertiary vocational programmes vary in length, but they do have a scope corresponding to between six months and three years of study.

There are both public and private vocational schools. The ISA is a private vocational school. Among other things, the authorities offer publicly funded technical and maritime programmes as well as health and social work programmes. Private providers offer many different programmes in the areas of creative, commercial, service, media, multimedia and ICT studies. Tertiary vocational education is intended as an alternative to higher education that imparts knowledge and skills that are directly applicable in the workplace.
Tertiary vocational programmes must be accredited by NOKUT. Such approval entitles students to financial support from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). See an overview of Vocational Schools here (only in Norwegian).
what is the difference between our 1 year Diploma course and our short courses. Which ones are accredited and can certifications add up to a Diploma?
The ISA offers courses internationally. We offer a variety of courses at The International Stunt Academy in Norway and also works with affiliated trainers and facilities internationally. Located in Norway is our NOKUT accredited Fagskole (vocational school). This is our premiere location and here we offer our 1 year course which results in a Diploma and 60 ECTS points. This course is accredited by NOKUT.

The ISA also offers short courses in Norway and at our other locations around the world. Our short courses are developed tot eh same high standards, overseen by us and operated by ISA approved trainers who have received formal training and proven they are capable of meeting the highest standards. ISA Short result in a 'Certificate of Completion' or a 'Certificate of Competency'. Currently these are not accredited courses and do not generate ECTS points. These certificates demonstrate that you have received and completed formal training from The ISA, using the same methods of training, evaluation and keeping the same high standards used for our Diploma education programme.  

It is important to highlight that an ISA Diploma or Certification does not guarantee anyone a job, but these are evidence that you have received formal training, worked to very high standards and completed your courses safely and successfully. 

About our culture and student life at The ISA
I don’t speak Norwegian, is this a problem?
No. Half our students and many of our staff do not speak Norwegian either. This is an International Academy and we feed people into a global industry. English is our primary language for teaching and socialising. Many people improve their language skills while they are with us because they are mixing with different cultures and if you’d like to learn some Norwegian while you are here you certainly get the opportunity to do that
What Language do you all use
We teach and communicate in English as a shared language. This reflects the Global industries we feed talent into.
Where are my classmates from?
We can’t say, each class / year is different, but based on 10 years of delivering education and courses we can say they will be an international group of interesting people who are a lot of fun to live, work and train with
Can I do work while studying?
Yes, you are allowed to take on paid work during your study. This is for you to decide upon and manage. You cannot take on work that would cause you to miss classes during weekdays though.
Where do I live if I move to Norway?
We have dedicated accommodation within The Academy. It’s a 15 second walk from your room to your classes. All students have their own room with a small toilet / shower en-suite. We share kitchens and lounges
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes you can. There are restrictions on weapons (see the separate questions about these). But we recommend all students have their own pads and equipment by the time they graduate. If you don’t know what you need, that’s ok. We have a class to help you understand that and to start with you can borrow our kit for classes. We have all you need to get started and will provide all the info you need when the time is right. Relax
Is food included in the course?
No. Food is not included in your course price and we do not offer cooked meals. All students live at The ISA in self-catering accommodation and must buy and prepare their own food.
When do we have breaks?
Each Semester we have 1 week break (Fall break plus Spring break). There are also breaks for Christmas and Public holidays. During the breaks there are no classes and teachers are not available but you are still welcome to stay in accommodation and use our facilities if you want to
Can I see the Northern Lights there?
Yes, when the conditions are right
What does a regular day look like?
Wake early, warm up and have a good breakfast, chat with fellow students and teachers about the day ahead, then we have 2 classes (9-12 and 1-4) with a lunch break in the middle, after that you have self study time which you can use as you need, and our facilities are there for you to make use of.
Do I have to live at The ISA during my studies?
Our 1-year Diploma in Stunt Performance and Action Acting is a residential course - we all live and work together as a Stunt Family. Unless you are buying a property down the road or staying at the nearest hotel you do need to live on-location with us for the duration of your course. You are free to travel away at weekends and during holidays
What is the student accommodation like and what is included?
You can see photos of our accommodation on the facilities pages of this website. Each student gets their own room with a single bed, small en-suite shower / toilet room, a desk and some storage space. There are shared lounges and kitchens.  The accommodation cost includes heating, electricity and wifi
What is there to do in the local area?
Go to the Gym. Go to Classes, Go to the Kitchen. Go to bed. Eat, sleep, train repeat! (we’re joking, while we work and train hard there are also nice walks in nature, swimming in the lake and lots of healthy outdoors activities available. There’s also lots of activities a short drive or train trip from The ISA. No there isn’t a bar at The Academy, or nearby. We are dedicated to peak fitness, not partying hard.
Is alcohol allowed or consumed at The Academy?
The ISA in Norway is a higher education facility for people of adult age. In Norway the legal drinking age is 18 years. This means all our students are adults and we will treat you as one, but we also expect you to behave like one while on our premises or enrolled as a student. We advise against drinking alcohol for health and fitness reasons but we appreciate different people and cultures have their own views and ways. Light consumption of low-strength alcohol is permitted on our premises, such as beer or wine, at the weekend or at a party. We do not recommend drinking strong spirits and are against excessive drinking / drunken behaviour that causes problems. After alcohol has been consumed people are not allowed to use any of our training facilities or equipment and we place a 2am curfew on drinking or parties at the weekends. Our rules are in place because we do not want drinking to affect your health or the safety of yourself and others at The ISA. We encourage adults to make their own decisions so our primary rule on this is “be responsible and self-regulate”, so we never have to have a conversation about negative conduct. Also, to be clear the use of non-prescription illegal substances and drugs is strictly banned and if you are in possession of them / suspected to be in possession of them we are obliged to act. We are aware that other nations may have more relaxed laws for certain drugs but at The ISA the laws of Norway apply.
What if I need healthcare during my stay in Norway?
If you go through with UDI/tax office when you arrive here then, you will be appointed a local doctor/GP during your time here. This is done by the Norwegian government.
I have special dietary needs or food allergies, what should I know before I visit The ISA
We have experience with students, visitors and employees needing to manage dietary preferences or allergies. We will always try to accommodate your needs but we make no assurances. This is because all our facilities are all shared and most of the people living and working here will eat things like dairy, gluten, nuts and other foods that may contain allergens. For this reason we recognise there is a constant cross-contamination risk for allergens within our facilities and we can never say or guarantee that any surfaces within our facilities can be considered allergy-safe.

We do not offer dedicated fridges or kitchens for people with allergies, but it might be possible to make special arrangements in some cases so please talk to us if you need this for medical reasons (We will require a letter from your Doctor that also gives guidance to on what the issue is that you need to manage).
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Our policy is that every person must own their own health and needs and take their own steps to manage these and avoid problems.

If your allergies are so serious that studying with us would put you at serious risk then we cannot assure you there won’t be a risk and you must decide what is right for you.
Can I bring my pet to The ISA when I visit or study?
No. We’re sorry but students cannot bring pets to live with them at The ISA. Our facilities are not suited to this, the law prevents Dogs being kept within the student rooms / lounge / school building, and there are H&S / Animal Welfare concerns with keeping animals here, including the weather. We do have to consider the impact of things like fur, additional cleaning, waste, smells and allergies on our facilities and to the other students too 
If I want to have visitors or guests can they come and can they stay the night?
No. Students are not permitted to have overnight visitors in their accommodation. This is a matter of Fire Safety regulations and also to be fair to all.
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We do have Guest / AirBNB accommodation but this is currently being renovated. When it is available your visitor / guest will be able to rent a room by the night. Guests are welcome on the day (just not in classes) and they can stay nearby. There is a small hotel 5-minutes drive from The Academy and many AirBNB options available nearby also.  If you wish to give your guest a tour please notify our Admin team in advance so we can approve this and help give them a nice tour of the academy.
Can I use your computer / printer?
We have a small printer all students can plug into. If there is an emergency you can ask our Admin team to help you print an official document or letter. Otherwise students must provide their own equipment. Students cannot use administrative computers and the editing facilities are not for general use - Our Mac Park is there for content creation, nothing else.
Can I bring Weapons to The ISA?
The answer to this is split into 2 categories … PROP training weapons vs ACTUAL weapons. We are a Stunt Academy and the action sequences and weapons used are props. This is not a place real weapons are needed.

Students are allowed to bring and possess their own props. These must be safely stored and any replica fire-arms must be kept locked in your room or our storage.

If students wish to they can join our Basic Weapons Handling and Safe Use course which certifies students to be allowed to use Archery, throwable knives and axes or Airsoft/Airgun, but only in permitted areas and during certain hours and always with an instructor monitoring you. 

Any weaponry (including props) must be declared upon arrival and if requested by us, checked in and stored in our own store. 

To be clear live cartridge firing guns or live ammo are never permitted on our property.
It is permitted for a student to own and keep a small knife or tool for personal use in the forest.

Where we allow rifles / guns the maximum calibre and type is .177 spring loaded single-shot airgun. Anything larger calibre or that is magazine-fed is not allowed to be stored by students and you need to make special arrangements for us to store this while it is on our land.  

To clarify regarding archery equipment, Bow & Arrow is permitted but Crossbows are not.
Will my possessions be safe on-site and do you cover any losses or damage if something happens to them?
The ISA is a place where trust is essential and we keep very high levels of trust amongst ourselves and our students. Together, we are a family that lives and works together. To do this we have to put our lives in each other’s hands and we must show huge respect to everyone and everything around us at all times. Normally, The ISA is a very safe place to keep your things.  However, we strongly advise you take out the relevant insurance (Travel insurance, damage cover, etc) to cover your own possessions and that you ensure you are responsible for them and taking the right measures to protect them at all times.  We have not historically had an issue with thefts or damage to property but if these do occur our insurance does not cover your personal possessions or losses and we accept no liability for what happens while they’re in your care here. If you have items of high value you probably should keep those at home or talk to us and maybe we can arrange for storage here. Everything else is in shared accommodation and spaces that it could be possible for someone to enter if they really wanted to.
Do you have a medical team onsite? What happens if I am sick or injured?
We have first aid and medically experienced people on staff and where they feel it is appropriate, they may choose ‘in the moment’ to offer their assistance informally (not representing The Academy). It is important for all students and visitors to understand that The ISA does not provide Medical Advice, Medical Treatment or Emergency Services. Students are 100% responsible for identifying, managing and caring for any sickness or injuries. In an emergency you must always seek medical advice or call for a paramedic. We will of course help to manage emergency situations and if we think we can offer support we may try to advise you on how best to handle non-emergency matters. If we do this it is only individuals commenting based on their own life experiences, they are not your doctor, nurse, mum / dad or qualified medical experts.
If I am struggling with my course, being away from home, hitting a barrier in training or worried about my physical health or mental health, is there someone I can speak to about this?
Yes, you can talk to any of our team. Our head Coach and Coordinator is also specifically on hand to help Students be the best they can be and to assist them with any challenges they bump into while studying with us.

We say and believe that “It is ok to not be ok” sometimes. Everyone struggles at some point too. The best thing is to speak up early.  Our courses can be challenging at times. Living and working together away from our homes can be disruptive or leave us having to learn how to look after ourselves in a new way. Also, throughout a year life can randomly throw us new challenges. It's ok. Your private conversations with our team will stay private. Talk to us and if we can help we will.
What do I do if I get sick during the course?
If you are unwell and unable to attend class you must email the Academy Administrator and notify them. If you need advice or assistance we can help. If you are very unwell we recommend you see a doctor (covered by your travel insurance or visa) or seek medical attention.
I would like some nutritional advice / I am struggling with my food / dietary intake, can you help me?
Yes we can. We are happy to review your dietary intake and training regime and recommend changes that will help your mind and body perform at their best. We don’t have a set nutritional regime for all students to follow because everyone is different and not everyone needs this, but there are some basic recommendations and we can always help with simple recipes, advice on supplements and also how to adapt your diet as the seasons change and the course progresses. We’re here to help you set yourself up for success, so don’t be afraid to ask for help and use the resources you have available to you.
Are there some extracurricular activities available at The Academy or locally?
Yes. If you are visiting or studying with us most of our facilities are available to you 24hrs a day. In addition, many of our teachers and instructors will consider some extra classes or 121 time if requested. We also have facilities for Archery, Knife / Axe Throwing and Archery, sometimes shooting too.  There are many options if you like to walk or hike. You can swim in the lake most of the year. In winter we have cross country ski and ice skating on the lake. There are also options for fishing, watersports, Parkour Parks, Swimming, Paintballing, Trampoline and many other activities. Talk to us about what you like to do and we probably know where you can do it.

About Grants, Loans and Payments
How can I pay for my course, is there funding / international funding available?
Nordic students can get a scholarship and students loans from:
Norway- Lanekassen 
Denmark - SU
Finland - Kela
Island - The Island student loan fund
Sweden - CSN

(Apply early)

Because The ISA is an accredited school Students coming from other countries might be able to access loans, grants or scholarships for study.
If I come to study and then I change my mind and decide to leave, can I have a refund?
If you exit the course during August (First 2 weeks) refunds may be available. After September course fees are non-refundable
Is it possible to get a job while in school?
Yes, but that is all up to you, and it probably requires that you either have your own car or access to a car to use. Our advice would be to have an open resume and deliver it to local establishments. Show yourself and that you're interested. 
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But in order to work in Norway you either need a study visa and as a part of that you will get what you need to get paid here. Most scholarship/grants/loans requires that you can testify to apart of a school/class, that we of course help with.

Where can international students find funding to study abroad?
There are several ways for students to seek funding for study abroad, including:
  1. Scholarships: Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for study abroad programs. These scholarships may be based on financial need, academic merit, or a specific area of study.
  2. Grants: Some organizations and government agencies offer grants for study abroad programs, which do not need to be repaid. These grants may be based on financial need, academic merit, or a specific area of study.
  3. Financial aid: Students may be able to use financial aid they receive from their home institution to help pay for a study abroad program. It's important to check with the financial aid office to see what can be applied towards the program
  4. Work-study: Some study abroad programs may offer work-study opportunities, which allow students to earn money while they study abroad.
  5. Personal loans: students can also explore personal loans options as well
It's important to research and apply for funding opportunities as early as possible, as many scholarships and grants have deadlines well in advance of the study abroad program start date.

How to apply and questions about our Application, Audition and Acceptance processes
How do I apply to study at The ISA?
Please use the online forms to apply for our Auditions and Courses. All students must attend an audition to secure a place, at the Audition you take part in a Physical Assessment and an Acting Assessment. This gives us the chance to see where you are at, understand how you react to instruction and also for us all to get to know each other a little. As long as you you are able to participate successfully, and we can see no problems that would prevent you from doing well or participating in activities you’re likely to be accepted and allocated a place to study with us.
What does it cost to study with you?
For Course and accommodation prices please see the individual course descriptions in our ‘Courses’ page. Many courses are also listed in our ‘Shop’ page (Both pages are on this website). Where there are additional packages and extras you can purchase as an ‘add-on’ to your course those are listed there also. If you cannot see what you are looking for please message us and we’ll be happy to advise you or discuss what you’re looking for
What do I have to prepare for the audition?
Get yourself fit, work on flexibility and good movement, relax. We don’t expect you to arrive here with the levels of fitness, strength, or abilities you will graduate with. But you do need to be able to undergo fitness and range of movement tests. It’s also a good idea to read some scripts and practice your acting and self-expression if this is new to you.
What happens at my ISA audition?
The Audition contains a Physical Assessment and an Acting Assessment. Both are designed to help us see where you are at, how well you can take and follow instruction and where you will best benefit from our experience and training. You can expect to do some pull ups, tumbling, falling onto mats, have a chance to show off your physical skills or talents, and also to do some script reads and acting tests. It’s a fun day and we all audition together so this is also a nice time to meet future classmates and get to know our team.

Before you join us:
​What to pack and how to prepare
Do you have parking onsite and can I bring my car if I am studying with you?
Yes we have parking for guests and students. Spaces are limited and for Students there is a fee to park / store your vehicle here for the year. A spare key must remain at The Academy if you are away from the site so that in emergency situations we are able to move your car. All vehicles brought to The ISA must have passed all relevant safety checks and be in correct condition as stated under Norwegian Law, you must also hold a Norwegian or International driving permit, even if the laws of your own country are set to a lesser standard, we are in Norway so the laws of this country take precedence
Are there any essentials I should packing for my study at The ISA
Cold gel pack for, physio tape, knee, ankle or wrist supports if you have had previous injuries in these locations. Ibuprofen. Supplements.
What clothes should I pack to come and study and train with you?
Indoor and outdoor shoes (we don’t wear our outdoor shoes inside training rooms here). Some slides / sandals / flip flops are worth packing too.  

Gym / fitness training clothes (minimum 1-week supply). We train hard, sometimes our gear gets muddy or wet. Sometimes we want to put on something fresh after lunch. We don’t always have time to wash and dry clothes overnight either. Imagine you were in the gym for 5 days, all day … You must ensure you pack enough training gear to have fresh clothing for 5 days. 

Warm clothes for winter. We strongly advise you to have wool base-layer / thermal underwear, good weather-proof outer layers and some waterproof shoes / boots. Winter here is different to most countries. Norwegian Winters are cold and we do so -30C and snow that stays around for weeks.  It's lovely to go walk and hike in the mountains when it's like that but not if you’re wet, cold or lacking insulation.  

Gloves, scarf and hat are essentials

Summers are hot and dry so bring light summer clothes and consider sun protection

Swimming gear is useful.

In addition to clothes you must pack your own joint supports (ankle, knee and wrist – you’ll know what you need) and a cold pack for the moments where you twist an ankle or bang a knee … it will happen
​What is the weather like in Summer and Winter?
Norway has distinct seasons. Summers are long and consistently hot, with a strong UV index. Expect a warm mid-20’s with short burn times.  Winters are beautiful but may be more extreme than you are used to. In the winter season we have less daylight, lots of snow / ice and it is normal to see -20C or lower. Some people find the adjustment to the darker days in Winter to be harder than others but we have tips to help you adjust and enjoy Norwegian Winter! Spring and Autumn are mild, expect to see some wind and rain as the seasons change over.
What advice can you give me to help me prepare for study at The ISA? Is there anything I can do to help get myself ready?
Yes. Discipline is your best friend at The ISA and we have 3 main “Go to” habits that are really good to establish and get comfy with:

​“Go to the Kitchen”.  Make sure you know how to cook quick and simple healthy meals, and get used to eating a larger breakfast, early. A lighter lunch at 12 (we train in the afternoon so you don’t want to feel weighed down by a heavy meal) and a very nutritious evening meal that’s full of protein.

“Go to the Gym”.  Get used to getting up early, stretching and improving your flexibility, then train for core strength, explosive power, good agility and great balance
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“Go to bed”.  Many people come here and find their sleep is disrupted for a while or they need to find a good routine. It’s a new environment, you’re surrounded by new faces and there’s lots of stimulation. Good sleep is vital for a sharp mind and also for your body’s recovery. Also in the industry, we all have to get up early for crew calls. Invest time in establishing a good sleep routine that sees you in bed before midnight, up before 7 and consistently sleeping peacefully

Visiting The ISA
How do I get to The ISA?
You can get here by either car or train. If coming by train you will need to get a taxi from Skarnes Station to The ISA. If driving here SatNav / GPS will easily guide you to our door
How do I get to you and what transport links are available?
Our nearest Airport is OSLO Gardermoen. Our nearest rail station is Skarnes. From the airport to Skarnes station takes around 1 hour by train, changing trains at either Oslo Sentrum or Lillestrom. There is no bus service from Skarnes to The ISA. Taxis are available from Skarnes. We do not offer a pickup / dropoff service but there’s often someone travelling past so sometimes we can arrange a lift.  You can drive to the Academy and we have a dedicated car park that is free to use for our guests and students.
If I need a taxi, who can I call?
The local Taxi number is 62961265
Can I visit or stay if I am in the area?
We do often have accommodation available. If you’re in the industry and passing through then let us know. If you are seeking a holiday in a beautiful area or like a touch of adventure then we have AirBNB rentals and facilities and experiences you can try.
Do you offer accommodation for events or holidays?
Yes, we do offer some accommodation via AirBnB and our guests also have access to our gyms while they stay here. When people visit for short courses or weekend activities there is an add-on option to enable you to stay with us overnight
Are your facilities wheelchair accessible?
Our main building has wheelchair access to the lower floor (fitness) and the ground floor (gym, canteen and classrooms). The upper floor is only accessible via stairs. Our accommodation block is not wheelchair accessible. We will of course be happy to assist you if you need help but our buildings were not constructed to facilitate easy wheelchair access to all areas

Want to use our venue for film or event use?
Can I hire your facilities or rooms privately for events or filming?
Yes, you can see our Facilities page for more details and some of our facilities are bookable through the online shop
Can I rent equipment from you?
Yes, we have a large range of stunt, film and staging equipment for hire. See the ‘Equipment Rentals’ section in our shop (link). If we don’t have what you need there, email us. Not all of our equipment is listed