Eager applicants face strong competition - only 75 out of about 4,500 will get into the Beijing Film Academy.

However, graduating from these schools does not guarantee stardom.

Shi Hang, a senior scriptwriter and graduate of Central Academy of Drama, recalls that many of his alumni who majored in acting ended up in totally unrelated businesses. He says students and parents should have a more sensible attitude toward the profession.

"Passion helps you realize your dream, but fantasy cannot," he says.

"This is a tough road, and a risky gamble. Only a few at the top of the pyramid can become superstars. Most of these aspirants will be disappointed."

Damien Lu, PhD and professor at the School of Theatre, Film and Television at UCLA, agrees.

"Acting is a highly competitive business everywhere in the world, so many talented people would not get a chance to act," he writes in an e-mail response to China Daily.

One who tries to make acting a career in the United States does not have to go to certain schools, he adds, but needs to be a self-disciplined and determined learner.

"School degrees are not required, although in some instances it can help, not because of the degree itself but because of the specialized training one receives," he writes.

"Being an actor is like being an athlete, one is always in training to hone one's craft, like an athlete training for the Olympics."

Contact the writers at liuw@chinadaily.com.cn and hanbingbin@chinadaily.com.cn.