REGISTRATION FORM

Next course dates: Start August 2024 and graduate June 2025

See ISA Students in action!
These short sequences were all fully concepted, choreographed, filmed and edited by ISA students during the 1st Semester of their Diploma Course, using the training, methods, equipment and locations provided to by The ISA in Norway. 

1. Overview:

THE ISA DIPLOMA IN STUNT PERFORMANCE & ACTION ACTING:
​YOUR GATEWAY TO A PROFESSIONAL CAREER IN STUNTS & ACTION

Welcome to The International Stunt Academy's flagship program—the Diploma in Stunt Performance and Action Acting. As the world's first and only accredited course in the field, we offer an unrivaled, holistic training experience that will not only equip you with the skills but also with the mindset needed to excel in Film, TV, and Live Action.
Quick Facts:
  • Location: The ISA, Norway
  • Duration: 11 months, full-time residential
  • Age Requirement: 19-40 years
  • Academic Schedule: August to June, with breaks during Autumn, Christmas, Winter, and Easter
  • Course Fees: NOK 110,000 (Pay 100% at start or 2x50% instalments at the start of each semester)
  • Accommodation: NOK 5,000 per month for a private single room with ensuite washroom (sink, shower & toilet). This includes all your bills (Heating, electricity, water and WiFi), plus 24/7 access to all our Gyms and Training Rooms
Curriculum Highlights:
​Our action-packed curriculum is a blend of academic study of our field and craft plus practical work, covering:
  • Stunt Training & Safety Coordination
  • Action Acting and Film / Stage Combat
  • Martial Arts & Fight Choreography
  • Weapons Handling and Parkour Skills
  • Film Making & Editing / Action Editing
  • Career Planning, Networking & Entrepreneurship
  • Teamwork & Communication Skills
  • Live Action and Film Projects to build your professional profile, portfolio and Stunt / Acting / Demo Reels 
​Admission Requirements:
This course is designed for aspiring performers aged 19 and above, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our program is tailor-made for individuals committed to making a mark in Stunt Performance and Action Acting. Register for an audition, and let's kickstart your journey to a fulfilling career.
Certifications and Accolades:
​Graduates gain a formal accredited Diploma in Stunt Performance & Action Acting plus 60 ECTS points and numerous specialised certifications, such as Health & Safety, Weapons Handling, and more. These not only make you 'Work Ready' but also count towards higher academic achievements and certifications later in your career.
5 Steps to becoming a Professional Stunt Performer:
  1. Complete our Application Form at the bottom of this page
  2. Attend a Live or Digital interview and audition
  3. Apply for your Funding and a Student Visa (via the UDI website) if needed
  4. Make your first payment (Course fee + rent) by August 1st
  5. Pack your bags and move to Norway to come and train with The ISA! :)

Info ABOUT THE ISA DIPLOMA IN
​STUNT PERFORMANCE AND ACTION ACTING

Why Choose The International Stunt Academy for your training?
The ISA has been operating for 11 years and in 2018 we were awarded the incredible honour of becoming the world’s first and only accredited educational institution, specialised in Stunts and Action Acting, globally. With over a decade of expertise, our rigorous academic approach sets us apart in an industry that is filled with expensive short cuts, short courses, imitations or good training that doesn't teach you good career skills.
How many hours of training do I get?
Our 1 year Diploma Course offers a minimum of 1550 accredited training hours, but because our Diploma Students live and train with us here at The Academy, alongside our Stunt Team and Guest Instructors, you gain full access to our facilities and experts all year long.

This enables you to easily gain in excess of 1,800 training hours or more. Also, if you want to join our Open Gym sessions, come to evening classes or weekend activities, or join other short courses during our holidays, they're all open to you.
There are many options for you maximise your study of acting and stunt training at The ISA, which is only possible because we are way more than just a 'stunt school'.

​There is always something happening at The ISA and Students always get to hang out or join in.  This is unique in the world of Stunt and Action training Courses, and this is why we are still the first and only accredited Stunt Academy anywhere in the world.
Quality vs Quantity: Why we keep our classes small
Some courses and facilities boast of their large numbers of students. That might seem impressive until you consider what that really means for students. Does a ratio of 1 Instructor to 30+ Students actually give you quality time, personal focus and a customised experience? Also how long are the queues for equipment and what does this mean in terms of 'attempts per hour' in your classes.

At the ISA we keep our classes small, and often have multiple qualified coaches and instructors in our classes. 

​Everyone here will know your name, your background, your individual style and your personal training needs.
We do this because of one thing that matters most ... Quality. At The ISA you will receive more than 2x the training hours of any other course available in the world, in a shorter and more intensive period of time, with a more personalised training experience. All delivered within a fully accredited Academy, Facility and Course / Curriculum. This is how we can pack so Action, Value and Quality into your Diploma, and its why ISA graduates final grades, skills, knowledge and reputations speak loudly.  

It is for this reason we can say The ISA is setup to accelerate your learning, development and entry into a professional career. 
Why is The ISA unique? ... Government Accreditation + Global Recognition
Don’t be misled by entities calling themselves "schools" or "academies." At The ISA, we are the industry’s only accredited institution, backed by NOKUT (The Norwegian Government Agency for Quality Assurance in Education). That means our Diploma is not just a certificate, it's a globally-recognised academic qualification. Additionally, our Diploma graduates receive 60 ECTS credits that can be transferred within the EU, and in some cases beyond. This enables our graduates to combine their qualification here with other studies to further pursue higher education and qualifications such as BA, Masters, etc.
The ISA Diploma: More Than Just Physical Training ... Career Training!
Our Diploma is a well-rounded education, tailored for success in the action genre of the entertainment industry. Beyond mastering stunts or developing general acting skills, our course covers essential career-building skills like communication, teamwork, self-promotion, and business studies. This comprehensive training ensures you graduate as a ‘Work Ready Expert,' setup for success and  ready to begin a long and happy career in Film, TV, and Live Action.
A Truly International Course: Designed for Global Mobility
Now more than ever people are choosing to work, travel or live internationally. In the world of acting and stunt performance, this is even more important. This course and all the resources are exclusively in English, the shared language of the global industry, which helps you to become ready for a global career. Our curriculum also incorporates best practices from around the world, equipping you to be a versatile professional capable of success in any region.
The ISA Experience: Train with the Best
Enroll at The ISA, and immerse yourself in an intensive one-year program led by a mix of qualified instructors, specialised in their fields, and industry veterans. Here, you'll not just learn; you'll live and breathe stunts and action acting, preparing for a fulfilling career like nowhere else.
Norway's heritage as the Flagship for Educational Excellence: Career-Orientated Education That Really Works!
Norway is renowned for its high educational standards and progressive, practical teaching methods. At The ISA, we uphold these ideals, ensuring that our curriculum and teaching techniques are not just about teaching you how to do a trick, everything is engineered and geared towards your future success in your chosen field.
A Proud Member of Erasmus+
In addition to our accreditations, The ISA is a proud member of Erasmus+, further broadening your academic and career horizons.
Unmatched Curriculum: Exclusive to The ISA and ISA Students. ​
Every aspect of our course, from the curriculum to the training equipment, is designed in-house and rigorously tested at our HQ in Norway. Rest assured, you won’t find another program like it anywhere in the world.
The Final Word
The ISA's one-year, intensive, career-oriented course is the pinnacle of academic and practical training in the Global Stunt Industry. Join us to train, live, and work with the best in the business, and set yourself on the path to an exceptional career in Stunts and Action Acting.

If you want to jump into becoming a world-class professional, join The ISA and sign up today.

2. Course Structure:

Semester 1
  • Induction & Familiarisation
  • Risk Assessment, Advanced Nutrition and Basic Training
  • Body Movement & Essential Stunt Techniques
  • Weapons & Combat Training and Choreography
  • Action Acting Workshops
  • Film Making & Editing
Semester 2
  • Advanced Stunt Techniques and Practice
  • Film Making
  • Acting Classes & Workshops
  • Career & Entrepreneurial Classes
  • High Falls
  • Vehicle Stunts
  • Optional LA Study Trip 
  • Final Exams
What does a typical day or a typical week at The ISA look like?
A typical day:
  • Use our Gyms and Facilities Morning and Evening to warm up, workout, stretch or train
  • Classes run from 9am-5pm with regular breaks and 1 hour for lunch
  • Before classes and in the evenings you have "Self Study Time". This is your time to practice, train, research or create your own stunts and films. We do not dictate how you use this time. 
  • "Open Gym" starts from 5pm and we open up all our facilities for everyone to train, including our Stunt Team and Guests. Often there's the chance to watch, practice or join the activities
  • Evening Workshops and Additional Classes cover Action Acting, Parkour and Martial arts
A typical week
  • Stunt Weeks: In Stunt Weeks we focus on studying 1 skill per day. The morning explores the method and process, assessing risks and practicing technique. In the afternoon. adding acting and scene work in the afternoon
  • Short modules: Some weeks we study a specific sub discipline such as sword, knife or firearms, often working towards developing a choreography or scene based around this. At the end of the week students film and edit material that goes into their social profiles and Stunt Reel / Acting Reel
  • Film Weeks: In ISA Film Weeks students have a set theme and work as a group to create a short film / acted sequence. We then have a screening on the Friday evening to watch the final piece. 

3. Learning Outcomes  

DISCOVER THE MANY BENEFITS OF A SPECIALISED VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
Vocational education programs are work/Career-oriented education programs. This education program is approved and accredited by NOKUT, the Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education. NOKUT is an independent agency under the Ministry of Education and Research and the approval authority for all tertiary education, including vocational education.

NOKUT's purpose is to ensure and promote the quality of higher education and vocational education by supervising and stimulating the development of education at Norwegian universities, colleges, and vocational schools. (www.nokut.no)LEARNING

LEARNING OUTCOMES
A student who has completed a Norwegian Vocational Diploma Level Qualification will have gained and demonstrated their competency for professional work in each of the key learning outcomes, defined as Knowledge, Skills, and General Competence

(To find out more click to expand the boxes below)​
1. Knowledge
The Graduate: 
  • Has knowledge of conveying the discipline of stunts and its working practices using various methods, concepts, tools, and processes applied within the field. Through this knowledge, the student should be able to acquire communication skills with other professionals such as directors, instructors, stunt coordinators, choreographers, and their direction, instructions, and concepts.
  • Has insight into relevant regulations in health, environment, and safety, standards, and terminology used in the industry, as well as agreements and quality requirements for the various industry sectors in the profession.
  • Possesses industry knowledge and an understanding of the professional opportunities within the field of stunt work.
  • Can update their professional knowledge as an Action Actor through information searches and practical acquisition and participation in forums, courses, and seminars where industry knowledge is exchanged and conveyed.
  • Understands the importance of their own industry/profession in a societal and value creation perspective as an Action Actor. They can update their professional knowledge and, as an entrepreneur, establish and develop their own practice and activities.​
2. Skills
The Graduate: 
  • Can apply professional knowledge to practical and theoretical issues in the practice of stunts.
  • Can employ relevant professional tools, techniques, and forms of expression, reflect on their own professional practice, adjust it under guidance, and develop, discuss, and apply their creative abilities in practical work.
  • Can find information and professional material relevant to a professional issue through evaluating and referring to information and material related to the field of stunts. The candidate should also be able to illuminate issues and make informed choices.
  • Can assess a situation, identify professional issues, and determine the need for implementing measures through health, environment, and safety, risk analysis, and safe job analysis (SJA).
3. General CompEtencies
The Graduate: 
  • Understands the ethical principles of the profession and industry in the field of stunts and acting.
  • Has developed an ethical attitude in the practice of the profession by acting humbly, ethically, and in solidarity in interactions with colleagues in the stunt industry and other relevant workplaces.
  • Can perform work according to the needs and desires of the client / studio / production company.
  • Can build relationships with peers across disciplines and with external target groups. The candidate can perform various tasks in the Action Actor profession of varying durations. As an Action Actor, they have the ability to perform tasks both in a team and independently.
  • Can develop work methods and services relevant to the practice as an Action Actor.​

4. Careers & Work Opportunities for ISA graduates

Stunt and Acting Careers
Stunt Performer for Film, TV and Live Shows
The most popular and straightforward career path is to progress into working as an independent performer in the vibrant and international world of work of performing Stunts and Stunt Acting roles for Film, TV and Live productions.
Become an Action Actor
This blends traditional Stunt Work and Acting into the unique discipline of Action Acting - someone who can both Act well and also safely perform their own Stunts. Think of actors like Tom Cruise who has become famous for this unique specialism.
Work as Coordinator
Start your path towards Creating, Overseeing and Organising Stunts for Film & TV productions.
Develop as a Stunt / Fight Choreographer
Designing and Choreographing fight or action sequences is central to your studies at The ISA so after graduation you will be well skilled in this area and how to develop amazing Choreo's and train others to deliver them. 
Build Skills as a Second Unit Director
Often responsible for shooting the action scenes in movies, Second Unit Directors really benefit from solid experience in many aspects of Stunts and Action, and how they are planned, risk assessed, performed, filmed and edited. All of these skills are part of our Diploma course.
Specialised Stunt Performers
While many dream of working with Stunts. Not everyone is trained and ready to begin specialising in some of the more niche and unique Stunt Disciplines such as Fire Stunts, Weapons Work, Vehicle Stunts or High Falls. You'll graduate with the training to start a career in any of these areas
Working as ​Safety Crew
As part of your study you'll learn and qualify in many aspects of safety that apply to all productions and many other workplaces.
Start an International Career
Film, TV and Live Entertainments is a Global business and the skills, practices, methods and standards you'll train in at The ISA are designed to be globally portable, with Safety Standards set at the highest end of the industry. Join us and we'll prepare you for an International Career.
Other Great Career Opportunities ​
Parkour Instructor:
Parkour is one of the Stunt Disciplines you'll study at The ISA and here you'll learn that with a unique twist.  The ability to navigate spaces and perform creatively for Stunt Work will set you up to become a very unique Parkour Trainer / Instructor
Personal Trainer or Fitness Consultant:
Training, Fitness, Training Disciplines and Advanced Nutrition are a huge part of The ISA experience. Your studies, training and qualification will make you very well suited to personal training, or perhaps even specialised stunt-based fitness regimes.
Managing a Gym, Activity or Climbing Centre
Through your qualification you will be well skilled in many aspects of how to ensure safety and quality in any activity / activity orientated business
Martial Arts Work
Stunt work often involves a strong foundation in various martial arts.
Health & Safety Inspector / Advisor
Your understanding of physical limits and safety measures could make you invaluable in a corporate or construction setting.
Risk Assessor
Especially for companies that deal with physically demanding activities, like adventure sports companies
Coordinator for Film/TV:
Designing and delivering physical challenges and activities that are not only fun but also safe.
Team Building & Live Events
A qualification in Stunts and Action Acting opens up pathways to a word of exciting and diverse career opportunities where  all the valuable life skills, team skills and specialist training gained at The ISA can give you a real competitive edge.  

5. FUNDING AND FINANCIAL AID: MAKING YOUR STUNT AND ACTING DREAMS A REALITY

At The International Stunt Academy, we understand that the path to becoming a professional in stunt performance and action acting is an investment, both in time and money.  Because The ISA is an Accredited Academy for The Performing Arts students can usually apply for part or full funding to study with us and gain their Diploma. In many cases, students are able to completely fund their education at ISA for little to no cost.
Funding For Nordic Students:
For Norwegian Students
Lånekassen (The Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund)
As an accredited academy, The ISA is recognised by Lånekassen, allowing Norwegian students to apply for educational loans and grants. These funds can cover your course fee, accommodation, and even some lifestyle costs.
​
How to Apply: Visit the Lånekassen website to begin your application process.
For Swedish Students​
CSN (Centrala studiestödsnämnden)
Swedish students can seek financial assistance through CSN, which offers both grants and loans for higher education.

​How to Apply: Head over to the CSN website to explore your options and apply.
For Icelandic Students
LÍN (Icelandic Student Loan Fund)
Students from Iceland can explore funding options through LÍN, which provides educational loans that cover tuition, accommodation, and additional costs.
How to Apply: Check out the LÍN website for more information on applying.
For Danish Students
SU (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte)
Danish citizens may qualify for the state educational support program, commonly known as SU, when studying at ISA.

​How to Apply: Information and applications are available at the SU website.
For Finnish Students
Kela (Social Insurance Institution of Finland)
Finnish students can apply for student financial aid through Kela for studies abroad, including grants and government-guaranteed student loans.

​How to Apply: Visit Kela’s website for more details.
​Students from Greenland and the Faroe Islands
Special arrangements often exist for students from Greenland and the Faroe Islands, and it's worth exploring local governmental bodies for education grants or subsidies.
Additional Links and Resources
  1. Nordic Council Scholarships: Look into scholarships provided by the Nordic Council for students studying in other Nordic countries. 
    Click here for more info about Nordic Council Scholarships
  2. Local and Regional Grants: Don’t overlook local community organizations or councils that might offer grants for educational endeavors abroad.
    Click to learn more from Study in Norway and their Scholarships and Grants​
Funding For International Students:
National Educational Loans and Grants
Depending on your home country, you may be eligible for educational loans or grants to study abroad.
National Film Bodies
Consider applying for financial aid from your National Film Board or other Film / TV / Cinema focused governmental or enterprise funding bodies. Often they have funds in place to support performers or those entering the industry.
Scholarships for the Performing Arts
Many countries offer scholarships specifically for the arts; this can be a great avenue for partial or full funding.
Overseas Study Grants
Some countries provide grants for students looking to study abroad.
Because The ISA is an accredited academy and our Diploma gains 60 ECTS credits many International Students can apply for transferrable grants or loans from their home country's educational funding authorities enabling them to study
​with us. The ISA is also a member of Erasmus+ 
Additional Funding Ideas:
Crowdfunding
Platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe can allow you to raise small amounts of money from a large number of people. Make sure to create a compelling story to inspire potential donors.
Corporate Sponsorships
Reach out to companies related to film, stunts, or performing arts for sponsorship. In return, you can offer to promote them during your coursework or future projects.
Local Community Grants
Many local organisations and community groups can offer small grants for educational endeavours.
Freelancers & Digital Nomads
With classes and personal time that are well structured and consistent throughout the year its easy to use existing skills to complete online / remote work or take freelance opportunities while you study, to subsidise your education
Further Resources:

6. Further Benefits of Training with The ISA

Discover Your Inner Warrior in Norway
The Viking Spirit
Train at The ISA and connect with the valor and spirit of the Vikings—a culture renowned for their fearlessness and tenacity. Our expert instructors integrate the Viking ethos to develop discipline, resilience, and a formidable warrior mindset.

Norway’s Mesmerising Landscape
Situated amidst Norway’s lush forests and serene lakes, The ISA provides a tranquil backdrop for intense training. Utilize your free time for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Endurance, Survival Skills, and More
Our training goes beyond stunts and acting; from survival skills in wilderness to obstacle course training, we ensure you’re prepared for the dynamic challenges of the stunt industry.

A Thriving Community
From Day 1, you’re part of a family—a community that shares common dreams, struggles, and victories. The bonds you form here will not just make your training enjoyable but will also serve as a valuable network for your professional future.
​
Additional Resources
Why Choose The ISA?
Here at The ISA, we offer a unique combination of world-class training, an accredited curriculum, and an inspiring cultural and natural environment. Set in the rugged terrains and rich Viking history of Norway, we provide a truly unmatched and immersive experience for budding Stunt Performers and Action Actors.

Welcome to The ISA way, get ready for the journey of a lifetime!

Are you Ready for Action?

Learn something New:
​Read our Blog

Questions: Check our FAQ

7. ​The ISA Application Process: JOIN US TODAY!

"OK, I want to join"
To join us please complete the Application Form (see below).  Remember to add some videos or links to show us who you are and what you can do! ​
"I've sent the application, what happens next?"
After you have sent in your application we will contact you by email within 1 week via email to book your audition / interview. This can be face-to-face at The ISA or a video call. 
​
Please contact us if you haven't heard back after 5 working days (sometimes email will go to a spam/junk folder).  ​
You will receive a decision within 1 week
If your interview is successful we will contact you by email and offer you one of the following places:
  1. Offer of an Unconditional Place
    If you are offered an unconditional place, start preparing, keep up your training and we'll see you in August!  
  2. Offer of a Conditional Place
    ​    If you are offered a conditional place then we will hold a place for you but we will ask you to demonstrate something, this might be showing us a little more of what you can do or perhaps there's another reason, such as you have a funding issue to resolve. 
  3. Offer of a Standby Place
    If the course is full we do accept people for Standby Places. Sometimes Conditional places don't  Students have to withdraw just before our course starts, so if the course is full we can put you on our list for a standby place. if you have a standby place you should stay ready through August.
Apply below and you could be joining The ISA Class of 24/25
to gain your ISA Diploma in Stunt Performance and Action Acting, ready to kickstart your Professional Career in The exciting world of TV, Film & Live Entertainments next year!

    8. Application Form

    1. Contact Information
    2. Add a headshot and profile shot
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    3. Add your CV to show us your educational / work history 
    Max file size: 20MB
    4. Add your videos
    Max file size: 20MB
    Max file size: 20MB
    5. Tell us about yourself and your motivations
    Well done. If you have completed all the boxes above you are ready to send in your application.
    ​Next step: Someone from The ISA will contact you to schedule your interview. (Please remember to check Spam / Junk folders)

    "Ready? Let's do this ... Lights, Camera, ACTION!"

How to Create a great Self-Tape for your audition:   A Step-By-Step Guide

Why do Applicants need to make a Self-Tape (audition tape) to apply to train at The ISA?
We are not testing your film making skills. A Self-Tape helps us to see, hear and understand who you are. By watching you present yourself and talk about your background we are helped to get to know you a little better and understand how we can help you train for your professional career. 

By making a Self-Tape you are also showing you are serious and committed. Self-Tapes, headshots and body shots are something stunt actors have to send out when auditioning for work / roles, so if an applicant cannot make the effort to produce 2 simple photographs and a very short video of them talking into their phone camera, it does indicate they dream of being a professional stunt actor but aren't ready take their career seriously, yet. We all want to work in the movies, but the truth is only a small percentage of people will put the work in to make that dream a reality.

If you haven't done this before, or feel nervous, self-conscious or shy, relax. This isn't a job interview, we aren't rating your makeup and nobody needs to wear a suit. Just pull out your phone, sit down, take a deep breath and then smile, press record, say hello and tell us something about yourself.

The guide below gives you more useful info and tips...
Introduction
​The journey to becoming a professional stunt performer or action actor starts with a compelling self-tape. This has become an integral part of the industry's audition process, offering you the opportunity to showcase your skills remotely. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to create an impactful self-tape that paves your way to the International Stunt Academy.
What is a Self-Tape?
​A self-tape is a video audition where you introduce yourself and exhibit your performance skills. These videos are often the first step in the casting process, allowing directors to shortlist candidates for in-person auditions. While professional services are available, you can easily produce a self-tape at home. Remember, the goal is to spotlight your performing abilities, not your filmmaking prowess.
Components of an ISA Audition Self-Tape
​Your self-tape for the ISA should comprise the following segments:
  • Introduction: Your name, age, where you were born, and where you live now
  • Background: A quick overview of your educational or work history (its ok if you haven't been an actor or performer before)
  • Why do you want to join The ISA?: Tell us about what is motivating you to apply to the International Stunt Academy
  • Team Spirit: Tell us why you think you would be a good person to have in our next student stunt team?
  • Career Ambitions: What are your dreams or goals after graduating from The ISA? 
Add any additional showcase material, even if it is short or not professionally filmed (phone videos / social media clips are ok) 
Feel free to add more content that shows you off. Show us what you can do, let us see you in action. Have some fun and show off. 

Note: You can also add links into your application so we can view online videos or social media profiles that showcase your talents. 
Final Notes
​Creating a self-tape is an essential skill that you'll use throughout your career. While our course will guide you in developing a professional-grade self-tape and demo reel, mastering the basics now can give you a significant edge in your ISA application process.
For more tips and advice, check out these helpful articles created by other leaders in our field:
  1. Masterclass article on Self Tapes 
  2. Backstage: How to create the perfect self tape​
  3. SAG-AFTRA: Casting Directors tips on Self Taping
Ready to kickstart your journey at The ISA? Follow our guide, create and submit your self-tape, and take the first step towards a fulfilling and dynamic career in stunts and action acting.