FAQ Page

General School FAQ 

What is Cestar Collège - Syn Studio?

Founded in 2007, Cestar Collège - Syn Studio is a Montreal-based art school specializing in illustration and concept art training. Since its inception, our school's mission has been to provide students of all backgrounds with an affordable, high-quality education to help them jumpstart a career in the creative industry.

We support artists at every skill level, from drawing fundamentals to professional-level concept art training.

What is Cestar Collège?

Syn Studio is a proud member of Cestar Collège, a private Canadian college group. To learn more about our institutional network, please visit the official Cestar Collège website.

Who are our instructors?

Our instructors are top-tier industry professionals recognized for their award-winning work in major video games, blockbuster films, high-profile comic books, and fine arts.

You can learn more about their backgrounds and see their work on our Instructor Profiles page.

What are your school policies?

You can review our School Policies, Privacy Policy and Code of Conduct, and cancellation policies on our dedicated School Policies page.

General Art Classes FAQ 

What kinds of classes do you offer?

At Syn Studio, we provide high-quality artistic training focused on developing technical skills in traditional drawing, illustration, and concept art. Guided by industry professionals, you will learn to navigate the creative process and build intentional designs that communicate clear concepts to your audience.

Our beginner-level classes focus on mastering fundamentals like realism, anatomy, and perspective. As you advance, our courses shift toward conceptual and fantastical subjects. There is something to learn at every stage of your artistic journey.

How long are these classes?

Most of our courses run for 10 weeks, unless noted otherwise. Weekly class sessions last between 2 and 3 hours*, depending on the number of enrolled students. We also recommend planning for an additional 3 hours of homework per class each week.

*With the exception of Pre-Recorded classes which follow a different format (see below).

Will I receive a certificate after completing a class?

Because our individual classes and modules are independent and unaccredited, they do not include government-recognized diplomas. However, we do issue a custom digital course completion certificate to verify your studies. These are sent via email within a month of your final class.

In what languages are your classes offered?

Most of our classes are offered in English. While some of our teachers may be able to offer a limited amount of English-to-French translation, our core material remains in English.

If a class is fully taught in French, it will be explicitly stated on that specific class page.

What are the minimum age requirements for registering in a class?

Students must be 14 years old or older in order to enroll. Please be advised that our classes may contain artistic nudity for anatomical study.

What prerequisites do I need in order to attend art classes?

Since these classes are unaccredited, there are no formal educational or legal prerequisites. You only need to meet the minimum age requirement and the artistic skill level required for your chosen course.

You can review the specific skill recommendations in the Prerequisites and Minimum Artistic Skills Required sections on each class page, which feature artwork examples representing the baseline skill needed before enrolling.

I have no portfolio / I am a beginner artist! Can I still sign up for classes?

Of course! If this is the case, it is strongly recommended that you first pursue our Foundations of Drawing class as a means of building foundational skills so you can pursue more advanced classes in following terms.

Similarly, if you wish to pursue any of our digital classes and you have little to no prior experience in this subject, we strongly recommend first enrolling in Intro to Digital Painting, which will teach the basic concepts of digital painting and serve as an introduction to Adobe Photoshop.

After taking these classes, you may be interested in signing up for our Intensive Fundamentals Modules, which can help new artists further develop essential art skills. These classes have been pre-selected and grouped for optimal progression so students can be introduced to key theories and practices that build on each other from one term to the next.

How do I determine which classes are suitable for me?

We strongly recommend reviewing the prerequisites listed on each course page. If you are still unsure which class fits your current skill level, we are happy to guide you. Simply email examples of your recent artwork to [email protected] for a personalized recommendation.

Do I have to take all of the classes in order and follow their level requirements?

No. The designations (like Level 1 or Level 2) simply indicate the technical difficulty and baseline knowledge required to fully benefit from the class. While higher levels indicate advanced material, this is not a rigid step-by-step curriculum. You are welcome to mix levels in the same term as long as you meet the artistic skill prerequisites.

If you want a quick assessment, send your portfolio to [email protected].

Why have the class selections changed from previous terms?

Our class roster rotates every term to provide a wider variety of topics. While Foundations of Drawing and Intro to Digital Painting are available every term, our advanced classes alternate.

You can view our tentative schedule up to four terms in advance by exploring the seasonal selections under the Our Classes Menu, as well as the list found on our All Classes page. You can enroll in these future classes early to lock in your spot, even if the exact weekly schedule is still being finalized.

What are early registration discounts?

Spots in our classes are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis, so we recommend that students enroll as early as possible.

The discount for a given term ends 2 months before the start of that term. For example, if the Fall term starts on September 28th, discounts for that term will be offered up until July 28th. The start dates of our terms are listed on our homepage. Registering in advance offers you a discount of up to $100 CAD. Discounts are only available up until the specified date; once a discount is no longer shown on the website, it cannot be claimed.

Our website displays classes that will be offered in upcoming terms. Please note that for later terms, some classes may not have their schedules disclosed right away; however, registration is still possible.

If an announced class time does not work for you and you request a refund, the cancellation fee will only be waived if, at the time of your registration, the class schedule had not yet been announced on the website.

How do I sign up for classes?

If you wish to sign up for individual classes, you simply need to visit any of the class pages listed under “Our Classes” in our website’s header menu.

From there, click on the thumbnail of the class that you are interested in. Once on that class page, you can click on “Register Now” after selecting your desired class time and term from the drop-down menu (if multiple options are available). This will add the class to your cart.

After you have added all of your desired classes, you must click on “Complete your Enrollment” on our cart page in order to proceed to payment and checkout. You will then have the option to pay with either a credit card or a Visa debit card.

Can I sign up for multiple individual classes in one term?

Yes, if you are looking to participate in multiple classes, you may enroll in up to 5 classes per term. If you wish to enroll in 3 or more of our Intensive Fundamentals Modules classes, please consult section 5 of the FAQ to learn more about this process.

What will my schedule look like?

Your schedule depends entirely on which specific classes you select and how many you take. We recommend checking the individual time slots listed on each class page to plan your weekly routine before registering.

Can I maintain a part-time or full-time job while attending classes?

It is possible, though it requires good time management. Each class requires 2 to 3 hours of weekly instructional time, plus an estimated 3 hours of independent homework. While managing 1 or 2 classes alongside a job is highly doable, taking 3 to 5 classes simultaneously mimics a full-time academic workload.

Can I register for more than one term?

Yes. Because we display multiple upcoming terms on our website simultaneously, you are welcome to plan ahead and register for classes across different terms in a single checkout session.

How can I pay with PayPal?

To pay via PayPal, please email us at [email protected] with the list of classes you want to purchase. Our team will manually generate a custom PayPal invoice to finalize your enrollment.

Do your classes still qualify for the Canada Training Credit?

No. Due to updated government regulations, our individual classes no longer qualify for the Canada Training Credit (CTC) because they are offered on a private, independent basis. For official details on credit qualifications, please review the guidelines on the Government of Canada CTC Page.

Do you offer grants or scholarships?

Because our individual classes are unaccredited and private, they do not qualify for provincial student loans or bursaries through the government of Quebec. If you are applying from another province or country, we encourage you to research local private educational funding options.

Syn Studio does not offer internal scholarships or financial aid. We are also unable to accept direct third-party payments. Any funding, such as a bank loan or line of credit, must be issued directly to you.

The class I wanted to take is now full! What can I do?

To preserve an intimate learning environment and ensure every student gets direct feedback from the instructor, seats are strictly limited. Once a class sells out, the purchase options are hidden.

If your preferred class is full, go to that specific course page and click "Notify me when this class becomes available." If a spot opens up before the second week of the term, we will email you immediately.

You can also sign up for our newsletter to get early access to future term registration launches.

Can you reserve a spot in a class for me?

We cannot hold or reserve seats without payment. To secure your spot, you must complete the checkout process. If you want to ensure you don't miss out on upcoming terms, subscribe to our newsletter to receive an alert the moment new seasonal registration opens.

Onsite Classes and offerings FAQ

Do you offer onsite classes and where can I find them? 

Our list of available onsite classes can be found on this page of our website.

What do you offer in your onsite classes?

Our individual onsite classes take place at our school in Montreal. Each weekly session runs for 2 to 3 hours and features a live instructor who provides real-time demonstrations, answers your questions, and gives personalized feedback on your assignments.

We also offer 10% discounts for residents in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood.

Do you have live figure drawing sessions?

Yes! We host live figure drawing sessions once a month on Friday nights. Check our Figure Drawing page to see upcoming dates and book your spot.

Do you offer short workshops?

Yes! We sometimes offer workshops on a variety of topics. These can take place onsite at our school, or as field trips to various destinations in Montreal. You can consult the Workshops and Events section of our website to see what is on offer.

Online Classes FAQ

What do you offer in your online classes?

Our standard online classes are conducted via live-streamed video lectures and demonstrations led by our teachers. During these live classes, students are able to interact with instructors by asking questions in real time via live chat or microphone audio.

Every live stream is recorded and uploaded online, giving you the flexibility to review the material whenever you need. If you ever miss a live session, you can still submit homework online and receive teacher feedback in the following class.

What are your “Pre-Recorded classes with Live feedback”?

Some of our classes are available in a special pre-recorded format. This format features pre-recorded videos that cover theory and demonstrations following a set course curriculum. Individual class recordings are uploaded a week before their corresponding live feedback session.

These live sessions happen once per week so students have the opportunity to ask teachers questions regarding the pre-recorded material or their homework. These live feedback sessions are smaller than our other classes, containing a maximum of 10 students. Live feedback sessions are also recorded so students can watch them later at their own pace. Students also have access to Moodle to ask their teacher questions, which will then be answered during the live class.

What are “Video Access Only” classes?

Some of our classes are available in a special “Video Access Only” format. Students purchasing Video Access Only will only access pre-recorded class content. While students will not receive direct feedback from the teacher, they will have full access to the lectures, lessons, assignments, brush packs, and any additional free materials that the instructor includes in their lessons.

What if my personal schedule does not align with the class’ schedule, or I think I might miss a few lessons?

Don't worry if you have to miss a class or live in a vastly different time zone. Each live-streamed class is recorded and then uploaded to a private showcase within 48 hours. You can submit your assignments ahead of time, and your instructor will still critique your work during the live class.

How long will I have access to my class recordings?

Students will have access to their class recordings for an additional 3 months after their term has ended. They will, however, have permanent access to their class Moodle pages indefinitely so they may look back at posts and comments.

I am an international student outside of Canada; can I still sign up for online classes?

Yes, our online classes can be accessed worldwide! As long as you have a stable internet connection and personal computer, you can participate fully. Since class assignments can be submitted at any point before the start of your next class, you will receive feedback on submitted assignments whether you join the live streams or rely entirely on recordings due to time zone differences.

Intensive Modules FAQ

What are Intensive Modules?

Our Intensive Modules are curated packages of courses grouped by skill level and subject. They are designed to accelerate your artistic growth and help you master essential skills.

What are Intensive Fundamentals Modules?

The Intensive Fundamentals Modules are a selection of classes designed to help you build a strong admission portfolio or to simply grow on your personal artistic journey.

They are divided into two groups:

Module I - Art Fundamentals includes:

• Digital Painting I
• Gestures and Figure Drawing
• Light Shadow and Value
• Perspective and Space
• Analytical Drawing

Module II - Concept Art Fundamentals includes:

• Blender Fundamentals
• Character Design Fundamentals
• Digital Painting II - Colour and Light
• Environment Design Fundamentals
• Visual Communication Fundamental

Do I have to take the Intensive Fundamentals Modules if I want to apply for your AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program?

While not mandatory, enrolling in Module I: Art Fundamentals is highly recommended if you want to apply to our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program.

If you have not yet mastered the skills covered in these classes elsewhere, taking them will help you build the high-caliber portfolio required for admission into the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program, as well as other competitive programs in illustration and fine arts. As a whole, they will also strengthen your artistic foundation whether you are looking to improve your own skills for personal growth or attain professional goals.

What are the other Intensive Modules?

We are constantly innovating. New advanced modules are currently in active development and will be announced soon.

Are these modules' classes offered online or onsite?

Presently, the Intensive Modules are only offered online, but we will begin to offer them both online and onsite starting in Summer 2027.

How do I sign up for Intensive Modules?

From the Intensive Modules page, you will find two options to register for classes:

• Option 1: Direct Registration (Register for the module of your choice and select your classes directly.)
• Option 2: Guided Path (If you are unsure of your level or need help reaching specific goals, let our experts guide you.)

Can I take a single class from the Intensive Module on its own?

Yes, every class from each of our modules can be enrolled in individually. That being said, taking three or more classes which are part of the same module offers additional benefits, such as reduced class prices and discounts on our Professional Artist Reviews.

AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) Program FAQ 

When do I send in my application?

The dates to send in your application will be updated in the Admission Dates and Tuition section of our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program page.

How do I submit my application?

Once you review the details of our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program, visit our Program Application Process Page for a complete step-by-step breakdown.

You can choose between two portfolio application pathways:

• Option 1: Paid Application with Portfolio Review ($25 CAD) – A professional concept artist thoroughly critiques your portfolio. If your skills meet our entry standards, you will receive a pre-acceptance letter. If your portfolio isn't quite there yet, the artist will pinpoint exact areas for growth and suggest specific prep classes to help you get ready.
• Option 2: Free Application without Portfolio Review – Our admissions manager evaluates your portfolio. You will receive an email either confirming your pre-acceptance or letting you know that your application was declined. You are welcome to strengthen your work and resubmit whenever you are ready.

What certificate do I obtain from the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program?

The certificate given is an Attestation d'études collégiales (AEC), (Attestation of College Studies in English), and it is an internationally recognized professional certification.

As an international student, am I eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit after I complete my studies?

No. Due to regulatory updates by the Québec government, graduates of AEC programs, including our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program, are no longer eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

In what language are the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program’s classes taught?

All classes in our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program are taught in English.

How many hours per day do the classes last and how many days per week?

Each term will normally have 4 or 5 classes per week. Classes are typically 3 to 5 hours long, and classes can be scheduled any day of the week.

Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?

The school itself does not provide financial aid. You can look into student loan programs and bursaries from your home country; however, keep in mind that we are not able to accept funds from a third party, so any loans you qualify for will need to be disbursed directly to you.

Do I need a student visa to attend the school’s AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program?

Any student who is not a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident, or Naturalized Canadian Citizen will need to apply for a CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) and a Canadian Study Permit to be able to attend the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program. If accepted into the program, we will help guide you through the application process.

Is IELTS mandatory for the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program?

No, Syn Studio does not require a formal IELTS score for entry into our AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program. Instead, once your portfolio passes the initial review, we will host a live video interview via Zoom with top applicants to ensure your English proficiency is strong enough to fully understand the curriculum.

Please note, however, that immigration officers may still independently request an official IELTS exam score when processing your Canadian Study Permit.

What are the minimum age requirements for the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program?

Students should be at least 18 years old by the time they begin their first term of the AEC - Concept Art (NTL.1V) program.

Technical Requirements FAQ

What are the technical requirements for your online courses?

Our live online sessions are hosted entirely via Zoom. If you are taking a digital art course, you will also need a pressure-sensitive drawing tablet and a compatible digital art application.

While our curriculum is natively built for Adobe Photoshop, you may use alternative software like Procreate, Krita, or Clip Studio Paint. However, please note that our instructors can only provide technical troubleshooting for the specific software assigned to their course.

What are the minimum hardware requirements?

As Adobe Photoshop releases updates, the minimum hardware requirements needed to run Photoshop smoothly also change. Please consult their website to ensure that your hardware is up to date.

Do I have to use Photoshop?

Our digital classes are explicitly designed around Photoshop features, shortcuts, and brush engines. While alternative apps like Krita or Clip Studio Paint can be used, you will be responsible for translating the instructor's tool usage to your chosen software.

The only exception is Intro to Digital Painting, which strictly requires the desktop version of Adobe Photoshop since software onboarding is a core part of the curriculum.

How do I acquire Photoshop?

If you need to purchase a license, we recommend subscribing to the Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan. This package includes full access to Photoshop and Lightroom, and it is significantly more affordable than purchasing a standalone Photoshop subscription.

What graphics tablets do you recommend?

You do not need an expensive setup to start learning. While Wacom tablets remain the studio standard, excellent budget-friendly alternatives exist from brands such as Huion and XP-Pen.

There are two main types of tablets:

• Drawing tablets: These are screenless, highly affordable, durable, and perfect for both beginners and professionals. They must be hooked up to a computer or laptop with a monitor in order to see what is being drawn, so they may take some time to get used to.
• Display tablets: These allow you to draw directly onto a built-in screen monitor. They offer great precision but are more expensive and are sometimes less portable.

We highly encourage checking recent hardware reviews to find a tablet model that best fits your workspace and budget before your first day of class.

Can I use an iPad Pro?

Because our school prepares artists for top-tier film and video game studio environments, we prioritize the desktop industry standards: a PC or Mac laptop/desktop paired with a dedicated graphics tablet.

If you do not own a computer, an iPad Pro running the mobile version of Photoshop is an acceptable secondary option for introductory courses like Intro to Digital Painting. However, please keep the following in mind:

• The mobile app lacks advanced desktop features required for our higher-level classes.
• Our instructors cannot provide technical support for iOS interfaces or iPad-specific apps like Procreate.

Alternative Setup: If you already own a computer but lack a graphics tablet, you can use screen-mirroring apps like Astropad, Air Display, or Splashtop Personal to turn your iPad into a fully functional pressure-sensitive desktop drawing tablet.