University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA•PrivateCityLarge (20,817 students)
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Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
Highly Selective
Under 12 Students
90% Audition / 10% Academics
Key Info
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Application Deadlines
December 1, 2025
University Application(Common Application)December 1, 2025
Audition Dates
Callback Weekend - Mid-February 2026
Note: Virtual option available for those unable to attend in person
Good to Know
Must list BFA Musical Theatre as first-choice major on Common Application
Application Fee
AUDITION FEE: $40
Prescreen Requirements
Songs
•Two selections from musical theatre repertoire that contrast in style and decade
•Each cut up to 32 bars but not exceeding 60 seconds
•Must be memorized
•One 32-bar cut from published musical theatre canon (Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sondheim, Bernstein, etc.)
•Second 32-bar cut may be from musical theatre canon or published contemporary piece from any genre (Schwartz, Larson, Jason Robert Brown, etc.)
•Choose songs that fit comfortably within your vocal range
•Each cut should have emotional arch with clear objective
Monologues
•One classical monologue (written before 1900)
•One contemporary monologue (written after 1900)
•Each piece no longer than 90 seconds
•Must be memorized and performed in context of entire play
•Both from published plays
•Characters suitable to natural age range (not limited to personal gender identity)
•No accents or dialects - use natural voice
Dance
•Two separately filmed dances
•Each piece no longer than 60 seconds
•Only feature the applicant
•Choose two different styles from: ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, hip hop, ballroom, freestyle, traditional dance, or musical theatre choreography
•One video should demonstrate technique, strength, flexibility, accuracy
•Other video should demonstrate artistry, musicality, individual movement quality
Wildcard / Special Skill
"Who are you?" video (90 seconds):
•Showcase your personality
•NO monologues, cover songs, or dancing
•Not considered an audition piece—shows who you are beyond performance
Additional Materials
•Current picture or headshot
•Resume (performance activities including drama, dance, vocal)
•Letter of recommendation from drama teacher/coach
•Video essay questions (90 seconds each)
•'Who are you?' video (90 seconds, no monologues/songs/dancing)
Video Specifications
•Each piece filmed separately
•Well-lit area with minimal background distractions
•Clear, understandable audio
•Monologue slate: Name, play title, playwright's name
•Song slate: Name, song title, show name
•Contemporary monologue: Close-up framing (head to chest)
•Classical monologue: Full body shot
•Dance: Full body in view at all times
•Current and original recordings
•Dress as for in-person audition, no costumes
•Appropriate dance attire for each style
What Happens After Prescreen (If Invited)
•Prescreen decisions communicated mid-January via email
•Invited applicants attend Callback Weekend in mid-February
•Virtual option available for invitees unable to attend in person
•When possible, work with skilled accompanist for songs (digital tracks acceptable)
Program Highlights
•Top-ranked USC School of Dramatic Arts
•Located in Los Angeles, city synonymous with artistic innovation
•Conservatory environment within major research university
•Close-knit, supportive environment
•Access to professional experience initiatives
Program info updated 2 days ago
Academic School Information
10%
Admit Rate
92%
Grad Rate
20,817
Enrollment
$92,498
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$68,237
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$31,927
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$15,470
Family Income $30k - $48k$13,692
Family Income $48k - $75k$18,993
Family Income $75k - $110k$29,865
Family Income $110k+$56,347