(15-minute read)
This guide is crafted to provide aspiring students and their parents with essential insights into the top 10 universities in the USA renowned for their exceptional undergraduate programs in acting and theater performance. From the rigorous training at Juilliard School to the liberal arts approach at Brown University, each institution offers unique opportunities to hone skills, build a repertoire, and prepare for a career in the performing arts. Delve into the specifics of program details and criteria tailored to international students, as you navigate your academic aspirations with clarity and precision.
Program Overview
● Program: Acting
● Program Length: 4 Years
● Credential: Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
● Options: Undergraduate (B.F.A.)
● Location Offered: New York, NY
Program Details
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree at Juilliard includes 18 credits in the Liberal Arts Department. The program provides rigorous training in movement, voice, the Alexander Technique, and other core aspects of acting. The focus is on developing imaginative, physical, and vocal capacities, enabling students to apply their skills to a diverse dramatic repertoire. Students are evaluated quarterly by the faculty to ensure continuous progress and artistic growth.
Training and Evaluation:
● Standards: High self-discipline and commitment are required.
● Evaluation: Quarterly evaluations by faculty after each rehearsal or
performance project
● Feedback: Ongoing in class, through individual conferences, and quarterly reviews.
Actor Training Program:
● Core Aspects: Movement, voice, Alexander Technique, and other acting fundamentals.
● Repertoire: Diverse dramatic repertoire in rehearsal and production.
● Class Size: 18 students per year (8-10 undergraduates, 8-10 graduates).
● First Year Entry:
○ High school diploma or equivalent.
○ English language fluency.
○ No specific courses, GPAs, standardized test scores, or class rankings required.
● Eligibility:
○ High school diploma or equivalent.
○ English language fluency.
○Opportunity to reapply if denied admission (up to four unsuccessful attempts).
● Academic Requirements:
○ No specific courses or GPAs required, but academic record and essay are evaluated.
○ Specific requirements for homeschooled applicants and non-native English speakers.
Criteria for Acceptance:
● Qualities:
○ Readiness for intensive work.
○ Potential for growth in body, voice, and imagination.
○ Ability to connect with characters.
○ Curiosity, stamina, openness, and risk-taking.
○ Generosity of spirit for ensemble work.
○ Sense of humor, language, rhythm, and concentration.
○ Commitment to an acting career.
Admission Information
● Application Process:
○ Online application through Juilliard Admissions Account.
○Submission of required materials (essay, transcripts, recommendations, resume, photograph).
● Audition Process:
○ Four memorized monologues (two heightened text, two contemporary).
○ Part of a song (16 bars) to sing a cappella.
○ Scheduling via an online system after application submission.
Essay Requirements:
● Length: 1-2 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font.
● Content: Why you have chosen to become an actor, your artistic goals, and
Juilliard's role in your career pursuit.
● Originality: Must be your own work, without assistance from others or AI.
Transcript Requirements:
● Official Transcripts: Sent directly from school to Juilliard.
● Unofficial Transcripts: Uploaded by the applicant, not sufficient for admission.
● International Students: Transcripts in original language and certified translation
required.
Recommendations:
● Letters: Two required, one from a teacher or theater professional familiar with your
work.
Resume:
● Content: Education and experience related to acting.
● Format: 1-2 pages, PDF or DOC format.
Photograph:
● Requirement: Headshot or photograph, professional quality not necessary.
Program Overview
● Program: Acting
● Program Length: 4 Years
● Credential: Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
● Options: Undergraduate (B.F.A.)
● Location Offered: New York, NY
Institute of Performing Arts
Intense professional training in acting, dance, musical theatre, directing, and theatrical production is offered at the Institute of Performing Arts. Additionally, the Department of Performance Studies provides an innovative approach to the study of the history, theory, and practice of human performance.
Drama (BFA)
Tisch Drama is dedicated to giving students the artistic and intellectual know-how for a successful life in the performing arts, exposing students to different approaches to acting, musical theatre, production, design, theatrical management, and directing. The program trains thinking artists who have the skills to ask questions, find answers, tell stories, and engage creatively, intellectually, and professionally.
First Year Entry:
● Eligibility: Completion of pre-university education equivalent to U.S. 12th Grade
before arriving at NYU.
● Academic Requirements: No specific courses or GPAs required, but academic record and essay are evaluated.
Complete the Common Application Online:
○ Personal email address.
○ Contact information for a school representative to complete the Common
Application School Report.
○ Contact information for one recommender.
○ Nonrefundable application fee (fee waiver available for eligible students).
Submit Necessary Documents:
○ Standardized test scores (optional for the upcoming application term).
○ Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR).
○ Audition or portfolio for specific artistic programs.
○ English language testing if applicable.
○ Records of all college work for which you have received academic credit.
○ Common Application Mid-Year Report with updated academic record if available.
Essay Requirements:
1-2 pages, double-spaced, 12-point font.
Content: Why you have chosen to become an actor, your artistic goals, and NYU's role in your career pursuit.
Must be your own work.
Transcript Requirements:
Official or unofficial transcripts sent directly to NYU.
Recommendations:
● Two letters, one from a teacher or theatre professional familiar with your work.
Resume:
● Education and experience related to acting.
● 1-2 pages, PDF or DOC format.
Photograph:
● Headshot or photograph, professional quality not necessary.
Audition Process
Monologues:
○ Two contrasting monologues (both contemporary) presented in English.
○ Each monologue must be under 90 seconds in length and from published plays.
○ Props and costumes are not permitted.
Conversation:
○ Opportunity to converse with your evaluator before or after presenting
your monologues.
What to Bring:
○ Photograph and résumé (both digital and physical copies).
Session Times:
○ Reserve either a morning or afternoon session (approximately 3.5 hours).
Overview: The BFA in Acting for Stage and Screen integrates classical theatre foundations with modern training, emphasizing on-camera techniques, voice-over skills, and more. It culminates in professional development and networking opportunities in Hollywood, setting a new standard for acting programs.
Curriculum: Candidates must complete a thorough theatre curriculum and general education courses. The USC Core and General Education Program require eight courses in six Core Literacies, two courses in Global Perspectives, and two courses in writing.
How to Apply:
● Common Application: Submit the Common Application with USC-specific questions and additional materials, including the USC Supplemental Application.
● SlideRoom Application: Submit a headshot, resume, two personal images with captions, a letter of recommendation, essay responses, pre-screen audition monologues, a 90-second personality video, and a non-refundable audition fee.
Audition Requirements:
● Monologues: Prepare one classical and one contemporary monologue, each no longer than 90 seconds.
● Filming Guidelines: Separate videos for each monologue, with clear picture and audio. Classical monologue should be a full-body shot; contemporary should be a close-up.
Overview: The USC BFA in Musical Theatre Program embraces diversity and educates performers from all backgrounds, integrating classical methodologies with contemporary performance. The program's location in an international arts center helps students develop unique identities and prepares them for entrepreneurial and media challenges.
Curriculum: Candidates must complete a comprehensive theater curriculum and general education courses, including eight Core Literacies, two Global Perspectives courses, and two writing courses.
How to Apply:
● Common Application: Submit the Common Application with USC-specific questions and additional materials.
●SlideRoom Application: Submit a headshot, resume, two personal images with captions, a letter of recommendation, essay responses, pre-screen audition materials (acting, dance, and vocal performance videos), a 90-second personality video, and a non-refundable audition fee.
Audition Requirements:
● Acting: Prepare one classical and one contemporary monologue, each no longer than 90 seconds.
● Dance: Prepare two dances in different styles/forms, each no longer than 60 seconds.
● Music: Prepare two contrasting musical theater selections, each up to 32 bars.
● Filming Guidelines: Separate videos for each performance, with clear picture and audio. Monologues and vocal performances should follow specified framing and attire guidelines.
Application Checklist:
Complete the Common Application.
(Optional) Submit official test scores.
Submit transcripts.
Submit letters of recommendation.
Submit portfolio, resume, and additional writing samples.
Submit fall grades.
Complete application affirmations.
International Applicants: International applicants must follow the same application steps, providing official academic records, external examination results, and affirmations of application authenticity.
Admission Expectations: International qualifications must meet the standards of U.S. applicants. External examination results or predicted results are required.
Program Overview
● Program: Acting
● Program Length: 3 Years (minimum 2 years on rare occasions)
● Credential: Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.), Certificate in Drama
● Location Offered: New Haven, CT
Admission Criteria
General Admission
● Bachelor’s Degree: Not required for admission. An undergraduate degree in any subject is acceptable.
● Certificate in Drama: Available for students without a bachelor’s degree; must have been out of high school for at least five years by audition date. The certificate can be converted to an M.F.A. upon completion of a bachelor’s degree.
● Application Type: Online
● Website: apply.drama.yale.edu
● Application Opening Date: September 1
● Required Materials: Resume, photograph, statement of purpose, application fee.
Academic transcripts and three letters of recommendation may be submitted later.
● Audition Requirements: Two contrasting monologues, each 2-2.5 minutes in length,
fully memorized and in English. Additional pieces may be requested.
Program Details
The Acting program at Yale School of Drama admits talented and committed individuals from diverse backgrounds who exhibit lively intelligence, strong imagination, collaborative spirit, and a physical and vocal instrument capable of development and transformation. The program prepares students for professional acting careers through rigorous classroom training and interdisciplinary production opportunities. Emphasizing anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices, the curriculum aims to foster a just, joyful, and liberated profession. Graduates are equipped to work across a wide range of genres and venues.
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
● Degree Awarded By: President and Fellows of Yale University
● Residency Requirement: Three years, with rare exceptions reducing to a minimum of
two years.
● Areas of Study: Acting, Design, Directing, Dramaturgy and Dramatic Criticism,
Playwriting, Stage Management, Technical Design and Production, Theater Management
Certificate in Drama
● Eligibility: Students without an undergraduate degree from an accredited college.
● Requirements: Same three-year program and training as M.F.A. students.
● Conversion: Certificate can be converted to an M.F.A. upon completion of an accredited bachelor’s degree.
Additional Information
● Admissions Focus: Individuality, potential for a theater career, expressive and trainable instruments, imagination, emotional access, and collaborative spirit.
● International Students: Eligible with a four-year bachelor’s degree or international equivalent. Three-year degrees may qualify for the Certificate in Drama.
Program Overview
● Program: Acting and Music Theater Option
● Program Length: 4 Years
● Credential: Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
● Location Offered: Pittsburgh, PA
General Admission
● Application Type: Common Application and Supplementary Material Application
● Common Application Opening Date: August 1
● Supplementary Material Application Platform: Acceptd (https://app.getacceptd.com/cmudrama)
Pre-Screening Requirements
● For Acting and Acting/Music Theater: Pre-screening videos required.
Complete the pre-screening process to be invited to audition or interview.
● Pre-Screening Submission: Upload resume, headshot, and pre-screening
videos through Acceptd between September 1 and December 1.
● Pre-Screening Guidelines:
○ Two contrasting monologues (60-90 seconds each)
■ One contemporary monologue (post-1950), filmed in a close-up shot.
■ One classical monologue (pre-1950), filmed in a full-body shot.
○ For Music Theater, two contrasting songs (60-90 seconds each)
■ One song before 1970 (either up-tempo or ballad)
■ One song after 1970 contrasting the first.
○ Sing to musical accompaniment (live or pre-recorded), no a cappella singing.
Curriculum
Core Curriculum
● Acting
● Voice and Speech
● Movement
● Advanced classes in singing and
dance for Music Theater students.
● Classes on business aspects
of the profession
Specialized Training
● Yearly progression through four distinct phases of learning
● Senior year introduction to theater making, on-camera work, and larger roles on
main stage productions.
● Opportunities for hands-on learning and collaborative projects
● Study abroad options in the senior year's first semester.
Opportunities
● Study Abroad: Options in international conservatories such as NIDA (Sydney), Moscow Art Theatre, Drama Centre (London), and approved schools in France, South Africa, China, and South Korea.
● Partnerships: Collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, ASCAP, and Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera (CLO) for new musical works, with workshops led by alumni like Stephen Schwartz.
● Showcase: Performances before industry professionals in New York, LA, and Pittsburgh.
Program Details
The School of Drama Acting and Music Theater Option is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the professional workforce through a rigorous conservatory training program within a university setting. Students follow a four-year sequence-based program leading to a B.F.A. in Drama. The faculty comprises working theater professionals dedicated to teaching high standards of discipline, quality, and professional ethics.
How to Apply
● Application Requirements:
○ Submit both the Common Application and Supplementary Material Application by
December 1.
○ Complete pre-screening videos for Acting and Acting/Music Theater options.
● Audition/Interview Scheduling:
○ Registration for audition and interview dates will be available through
the Acceptd portal.
○ Pre-screening results determine invitations to audition or interview.
Audition Guidelines
● Acting Audition:
○ Perform two contrasting monologues (same as or different from pre-screening).
○ One classical monologue (pre-1950, heightened language).
○ One contemporary piece (post-1950).
○ Monologues should be within the natural age range (teens and 20s).
○ Be prepared to perform a third monologue if asked.
● Music Theater Audition:
○ Perform two contrasting monologues and two contrasting songs.
○ Monologues and songs should follow the same pre-screening guidelines.
○ Sing to musical accompaniment (live or pre-recorded).
For further details and to apply, visit the Common Application website (http://www.commonapp.org) and the Acceptd portal (https://app.getacceptd.com/cmudrama).
Film, Television & Digital Media (BA)
The undergraduate Film program at UCLA is designed to provide students with both a comprehensive scholarly understanding of cinema and practical experience in various aspects of film, television, and digital media. The curriculum seamlessly integrates the historical, critical, and theoretical study of cinema with top-tier professional training, emphasizing the role of emerging technologies in modern filmmaking.
The Department of Film, Television, and Digital Media offers extensive training in moving image art and technology, drawing inspiration from iconic film and TV masterpieces. While technology is a crucial tool, it is not the ultimate goal; the emphasis is on its importance within the cinematic landscape.
Program Structure:
● First and Second Year: Students focus on foundational courses.
● Junior Year: Students explore film, TV, and digital media production, developing a variety of craft skills.
● Senior Year: Students choose a concentration, culminating in a professional internship.
Students in the Film program are not allowed to switch to the Theater major. Applications are accepted from both freshmen and transfer students, and all specialized courses require instructor approval. Continuation in specific emphases is at the faculty's discretion based on performance and participation.
Requirements:
● Complete a minimum of 180 units, including University, School of Theater, Film, and
Television, and FTVDM department requirements.
● At least 64 of the 180 units must be upper-division courses (numbered 100 through
199).
● The Film and Television B.A. is a four-year degree, including seven preparation courses
and the major courses.
● Transfer students complete preparatory courses during their junior and senior years
and are expected to graduate within six quarters (two years).
● Transfer students may petition to use non-UCLA college courses towards major
preparation requirements where appropriate.
● Must be in high school or have graduated but not yet enrolled in a regular session at a college or university.
● The program consists of two years of general college studies followed by two years of major coursework.
● UC Application: Complete the University of California Application for Undergraduate
Admission online between October 1 and November 30, 2024. Indicate Film and
Television as the first choice major.
● Supplemental Application: Complete the undergraduate FTVDM supplemental
application online by December 7, 2024. This includes a $35 fee and requires creating
an account with Acceptd.
Supplemental Materials:
● Personal Essay: Summarize your background, creative interests, academic and
professional goals.
● Life Challenge Essay: Describe a significant challenge and steps taken to overcome it.
● Writing Sample: Submit a critical essay (3 pages max) or creative writing (5 pages
max).
● Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from individuals who know you well
(teachers, employers, etc.).
Financial Information:
● UCLA does not award scholarships or financial aid to international undergraduates.
Proof of sufficient funds for educational and living expenses is required.
● Medical insurance is mandatory for international students on non-immigrant visas.
For more information about applying, including important dates and deadlines, visit the UCLA Undergraduate Admission website.
Major in Theatre
Program Overview
● Program: Theatre
● Program Length: 4 Years
● Credential: Bachelor Degree
● Options: Major
● Campus: Evanston, Illinois
● Completed application through Early Decision or Regular Decision
● High school transcript and letters of recommendation
● Optional standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)
Program Details
The Theatre program at Northwestern University nurtures the development of highly skilled theater artists—designers, actors, playwrights, dancers, and directors—by combining performance capabilities with comprehensive knowledge of theater literature and theory. Students engage in studies and practice in acting, voice, movement, dance, directing, design, stage production, playwriting, dramaturgy, theater history, literature, and criticism. The program focuses on developing analytical skills, research, writing, group discussion, oral presentation, performance, and production.
Students can participate in up to forty productions annually at the Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts and numerous student productions across campus. The faculty includes professionals in various theater disciplines, offering students mentorship and practical industry insights.
Graduates of the program pursue successful careers in theater, television, and film or leverage their theater education in fields like law, teaching, business, performance coaching, and sales and marketing.
Theater majors can focus on one of the following areas:
● Acting
● Design and Stage Management
● Music Theatre
● Playwriting
Acting
The acting curriculum is a three-year developmental sequence starting sophomore year, focusing on:
● First Year: Actor as Creator and Communicator
● Second Year: Actor as Humanist Storyteller
● Third Year: Actor as Artist Citizen
Design and Stage Management Courses cover scenery, costume, lighting, sound, and makeup design, taught by faculty and MFA design students. Stage management training includes hands-on experience with mainstage productions.
Music Theatre Students may audition for the Musical Theatre Certificate program, which includes voice lessons, priority in dance class registration, and training in music theatre and audition techniques.
Playwriting Courses and opportunities include introductory classes, specialized classes, the Playwriting Sequence, and the Playwriting Module. Guest artists regularly contribute to workshops and panels.
Courses and Requirements
● Major Requirements: 12 courses, including 4 introductory Theatre courses, 1 production
course, and 8 advanced courses.
● Additional Requirements: Distribution requirements, elective requirements, and writing
proficiency.
● Honors in Theatre: Available to majors with a record of academic achievement,
involving a senior year project in any theatre discipline.
● Application Process: Early Decision or Regular Decision during the final year of
secondary school.
● Standardized Test Scores: Optional for 2024–25 admissions cycle.
● Letters of Recommendation: Two required—one from a high school counsellor and
one from a core subject teacher.
● Personal Statement and Supplemental Essays: Required with specific prompts to
understand applicants' experiences and perspectives.
● Activity Chart: Detailed account of extracurricular involvement.
● Interviews: Optional alumni interviews, available based on geography and availability.
Program Description: Designed to train talented and purposeful students for the physical and mental demands of theater, the program focuses on developing acting, voice, movement, and stage combat skills while also providing a solid liberal arts education.
Curriculum:
● Requires a minimum of 122 credits.
● Coursework is 67% within SMTD and 33% within the liberal arts.
● Performance training includes basic action/objective principles, improvisation,
classical and contemporary theater, collaboration, and ensemble work.
● Graduation from an accredited high school.
● GPA of 3.0 or better, with consideration of 12th-grade course grades.
● Standardized test scores optional.
General High School Curriculum Requirements:
● Four years of English plus 12 other year-long courses.
● Credits in music, theatre, and/or dance recommended.
Standardized Testing (Optional):
● ACT/SAT scores optional for 2025 application cycle.
● Minimum ACT of 24 or SAT of 1180 recommended if submitted.
Application Requirements
Applicants must have completed the Common Application, created an Artistic Profile, and been invited for an audition. If already a U-M student, submit the online cross-campus transfer application instead of the Common Application, and include the Artistic Profile.
● Resumé and Photo: Upload a resumé including previous theater experience, training, dance or music background, and roles performed. Include a photo with a good likeness of yourself.
● Pre-screening Requirements: Upload to your SMTD Artistic Profile:
○ Two (2) monologue videos: contrasting in style and emotional range, not exceeding a
combined total of four minutes.
○ “Why Acting?” video: 60-90 second face-to-the-camera video answering why you want
to pursue a career in acting.
○ Short essay: 1-2 page double-spaced essay answering “Why Michigan?” or “Why
Theatre at Michigan?”
● Optional: 1-3 additional videos or YouTube links of recent acting.
● British Columbia:
○ Complete a full load of academic courses each year, including provincially examinable
English 12.
● Ontario:
○ Minimum of five Grade 12 U courses, including Grade 12 U English leading to the OSSD.
○ Applications typically submitted during the senior year.
○ No advanced standing credit for Grade 12 U/UC coursework.
○ Up to 30 credits of advanced standing possible for completion of a three-year CAAT
program; no credit for one- or two-year programs.
● Quebec:
○ Apply for first-year admission while enrolled in the first year of a College
d’enseignement General et Professionnel (CEGEP).
○ Must be enrolled in twelve academic courses (excluding physical education).
○ High level of academic achievement required.
○ Graduates of a full academic CEGEP program (two or three years) may apply with
advanced standing, limited to 30 credit hours.
● All Other Provinces:
○ Completion of secondary school program and high academic achievement (often top
10% of class).
○ Applications generally made during the senior year.
Live Online or In-Person Audition/Interview Requirements
Students advancing to this stage will meet theater faculty for a live audition and discussion of background and goals.
● Performance: Prepare two contrasting monologues, not exceeding four minutes total, incorporating physical movement in at least one selection. Be prepared for adjustments or a conversation about your piece.
●Group Meeting: Discuss school, curriculum, and performance opportunities with faculty.
Recording Tips
● Maintain appropriate distances and backgrounds as specified for pre-screening and live auditions.
Audition Tips
● Be punctual, physically and vocally warmed up, relaxed, and focused.
● Dress comfortably yet professionally.
● Demonstrate talent and potential with simplicity, directness, and honesty.
● Degree Type: Undergraduate
● Formats: In-person
● Availability: Full-time
● Location: On-campus, Boston, MA
● The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting at Boston University College of Fine Arts
prepares students for careers in theater, film, and television.
● Emphasizes development of imagination, intellect, and acting technique to create
diverse roles in various styles.
● Two-Part Application:
1. Academic Review with Boston University
2. Artistic Review with the School of Theatre
● Both parts must be completed for admission consideration.
● Applications are via the Common App.
● Artistic Review is conducted through the Acceptd platform after receiving BU ID.
● Prescreen Requirements:
○ For Performance Core applicants: Two contrasting self-tape monologues.
● Additional Requirements:
○ Resume detailing academic and artistic achievements.
○ Optional supplemental materials include letters of recommendation and artistic
samples.
○ Submission via Acceptd platform with a submission fee.
Program Overview: At Brown University, undergraduates engage deeply in theater, dance, and performance-based work across campus, fostering a vibrant creative community. The Theatre Arts and Performance Studies (TAPS) concentration offers three distinct tracks: Theatre Arts, Performance Studies, and Dance. Students collaborate with faculty to tailor their academic journey, ensuring a curriculum that aligns with their artistic interests and career goals.
Auditions and Portfolio Reviews: Auditions and portfolio reviews are not required for prospective TAPS students. The department does not review materials sent directly and advises against submitting them. All activities and opportunities within TAPS are accessible to accepted Brown students.
● TAPS 0030: Introduction to Acting and Directing
● TAPS 0100: Playwriting 1
● TAPS 0200: Playwriting 2
● TAPS 0250: Introduction to Technical Theatre and Production
● TAPS 0310: Beginning Modern Dance
● TAPS 0800N: The Semiotics of the Broadway Musical
● TAPS 1100: Stage Management
● TAPS 1343: Ballet III (Intermediate/Advanced Ballet)
Curriculum Highlights - Spring 2025:
● TAPS 0030: Introduction to Acting and Directing (offered both semesters)
● TAPS 0320: Dance Composition
● TAPS 0700: Introduction to Theatre, Dance and Performance
Application Process: Prospective students should begin by creating an account on the Common Application website. Ensure to add Brown University to your list of colleges and complete the necessary sections, including Brown-specific questions and essays. Application deadlines are November 1 for Early Decision and January 3 for Regular Decision.
For further details, visit the Brown Applicant Portal after submitting your application. Applicants are encouraged to refrain from sending additional materials unless specifically invited to do so.
In summary, these top 10 universities in the USA offer exceptional undergraduate programs in acting and theater, each with unique strengths and opportunities. By understanding their specific requirements and offerings, you can strategically plan your path towards a fulfilling career in the performing arts. Whether you aim to hone your skills in rigorous training environments like Juilliard or benefit from industry connections at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, these institutions provide the foundation for aspiring actors and theater professionals to thrive and succeed.
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