What Admissions Committees Actually Look For
Beyond the checklist
Music: prepared program covering specified repertoire (varies by instrument and institution); often includes sight-reading, ear tests, and music theory
Theater: prepared monologues (classical and contemporary); some schools require movement or improvization workshops
Dance: audition class in relevant technique, often across a full day with group and individual elements
Formal Requirements
Bachelor's Programs
- High school diploma
- Audition demonstrating musical ability
- Music theory knowledge
- English proficiency
- Previous music education
Master's Programs
- Bachelor's degree in music
- High-level audition
- Portfolio of work for composition
- English proficiency
- Interview
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not researching the specific audition requirements of each institution — they vary significantly
Under-preparing technically while focusing on expressiveness — selectors assess both
Applying to too few programs — auditions are unpredictable and a wider application pool reduces risk
Application Timeline
Array
Array
Array
Find Programs with Leonardo
Tell Leonardo exactly what you're looking for and get personalized recommendations in seconds.
Try asking:
Back to Music & Performing Arts
See the full overview, all specializations, and more
