MoPA: A Renowned Animation Film School

Founded over 20 years ago, MoPA trains well-rounded artists each year who are capable of mastering the entire process of creating a 3D animated film — from writing and storyboarding to modeling, rigging, rendering, editing, and post-production.

The school offers a five-year program recognized by the French State, awarding the Expert in 3D Design, Production, and Animation degree (equivalent to a Master’s level, RNCP Level 7). This degree certifies a high level of artistic and technical expertise sought after by top studios in France and around the world. Starting this year, MoPA also offers a three-year Stop Motion program, leading to an RNCP Level 6 qualification focused on directing and production careers in this field.

MoPA’s graduation films are regularly selected for some of the most prestigious international animation festivals, such as the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, SIGGRAPH, and the Student Academy Awards — a testament to the students’ excellence and creativity.

 

 

A Progressive and Comprehensive Pathway

Before joining the 3D Animation orStop Motion programs, MoPA offers an art preparatory class open to high school graduates from all streams.

This preparatory year allows students to:

• Strengthen the fundamentals of drawing, perspective, composition, anatomy, and color;

• Develop a solid artistic and cinematic culture;

• Learn the basics of animation, visual storytelling, and narrative techniques;

• Build a strong portfolio to apply for the first year of the 3D program.

It’s an excellent entry point for motivated high school graduates who want to consolidate their skills before specializing.

At MoPA, the training pathway is designed to guide students from beginner level all the way to producing a professional short film:

Students are mentored by animation film professionals from major studios such as Illumination, DreamWorks, Mikros, and Fortiche, ensuring training that closely reflects the industry’s standards.

 

Main Selection Steps

Admission to MoPA is possible right after high school, either via Parcoursup for the first year of the 3D Animation program, or directly through our dedicated platform for theart preparatory class and the first year of the Stop Motion program (outside Parcoursup).

Parallel admissions for the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year are also handled directly via our dedicated platform.

Main Selection Steps:

• Online application (via Parcoursup or the MoPA website)

• Art portfolio: observational drawings, sketches, personal work, digital projects…

• Assigned project (for the 3D Animation program) or additional exercises (for the preparatory class or Stop Motion program) to complete at home

• Interview/presentation of the assigned project or motivation with the jury, to evaluate artistic potential and motivation

MoPA values the personality and artistic universe of each applicant.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Start building your portfolio in high school: observational drawings, characters, environments, sketches…

• Explore free software like Blender, Krita, TVPaint to get started with digital creation

• Develop your visual culture: film, art, video games, photography, comics, architecture…

• Showcase what makes you unique: perspective, storytelling skills, graphic style

 

A School Focused on the Professional and International World

MoPA maintains strong ties with international animation studios. Students complete internships in their final years, which greatly facilitates professional integration.

MoPA graduates now work at some of the world’s top studios:
Pixar, DreamWorks, Illumination, Framestore, Ubisoft, Mikros Animation, Fortiche Production, and many more.

Through a solid network of partners, MoPA students also have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad.

 

 

Why Choose MoPA?

• An international reputation and a curriculum recognized by the French State

• A comprehensive, career-oriented program

• Teaching focused on creativity and collaboration

• Modern facilities in Arles, at the heart of an inspiring artistic environment

• Graduation films awarded every year at festivals around the world

 

 

In Summary

Joining MoPA, a leading animation film school in France, means choosing a demanding, exciting, and forward-looking education.
If you are curious, imaginative, and ready to commit, MoPA is the first step toward your future career!

Learn more about :

Preparatory Year

3D Animation program

Stop Motion Program

Admission procedures

Meet us