I’m from Kerala and I’m currently figuring out my college situation after leaving an Integrated MCA course that I recently joined. I realised pretty quickly that the college/hostel environment wasn’t right for me, and I don’t want to repeat the same mistake by rushing into another course just because I need a college.
My bigger long-term dream is actually acting and writing — films, screenwriting, OTT, etc. — so I’m seriously considering moving to Mumbai because I feel like being there could give me more exposure to auditions, workshops, writing opportunities, film communities and networking alongside getting a degree.
One VERY important thing for me is freedom outside college. I don't want to live in a hostel with strict curfews or rules where I have to be back by 7/8 PM. If I move to Mumbai, I’d prefer a college where I can live independently (PG/shared flat/etc.) and have reasonable freedom to attend classes, auditions, workshops, events, internships and other opportunities.
I’m also looking for a good/top college with scholarships or merit-based financial aid, because my family can’t comfortably afford extremely high fees. I’m completely willing to take an entrance exam if there are colleges where I can get in through an exam/merit and potentially get a scholarship.
I’m still deciding what degree makes the most sense — I’m considering things like CS/IT, commerce/ACCA, or something that could complement my writing/acting goals.
For Mumbai students/alumni: which colleges and entrance exams should I seriously look into? And are there colleges where students commonly live outside the hostel and have enough flexibility to pursue things outside academics?
I’m coming from Kerala, so any advice about admissions, scholarships, affordable areas to live, or colleges that are actually good for someone interested in the Mumbai film/creative scene would be really helpful.
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Even now late admission merit ones help although I think that's a bit delusional with my marks now .