Musical Theatre Acceptance Rates: How Selective Is Every BFA Program? (2026)
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A Chorus Line
In this article
- Ultra Selective Programs
- Highly Selective Programs
- Selective Programs
- Moderately Selective & More Accessible Programs
- Additional BFA MT Programs
- Acceptance Rates by School: The Full Program Table
- Why University Acceptance Rate Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
- School-Specific Acceptance Rate FAQs
- How to Build a Balanced Audition List
- About This Data
Getting into an ultra-selective or high-selective (aka top) BFA Musical Theatre program can feel like it's tougher than getting into an Ivy League school. For the Class of 2030, Carnegie Mellon has 13 MT majors and the University of Michigan has 25 MT majors. It's generally known within the coaching community that Carnegie does not accept more people than whom they hope to attend. If someone says no, they then just go off of their waitlist. So there's a yield factor here, which you can read about here.
Below, we’ve organized dozens of BFA MT programs from most to least selective. This isn’t a ranking of quality. It’s a transparency tool to help you build a balanced audition list. Click any school to see full audition requirements and deadlines on stageready.
How to read the numbers on this page: the school-wide admit rate shown on each card below is the university’s overall academic acceptance rate, pulled from federal data. It is not the acceptance rate of the musical theatre program, which is almost always far lower at audition-based schools. Wherever a blurb cites a program-level number, we label it a "program acceptance rate." More on this in the section "Why University Acceptance Rate Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story" near the bottom of this page.
Ultra Selective Programs
These are the hardest BFA Musical Theatre programs to get into. Class sizes are on the smaller side, competition is fierce, and most require a prescreen video before you get an audition slot. If you’re auditioning for these, make sure you have a balanced list that includes programs further down this page.
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon is widely considered the most selective BFA MT program in the country. Very small class size, and the program itself is far more competitive than the university’s already-low academic acceptance rate shown on this card. Prescreen required.
University of Michigan
Michigan’s program is legendary. Ultra selective with a medium-sized class at a public university, which means in-state tuition is a major advantage. Prescreen required.
Pennsylvania State University
Penn State’s program is one of the most competitive in the country despite the university’s much higher overall acceptance rate. The BFA MT class admits roughly 12 students per year. Prescreen required.
Texas State University
Don’t let the high university acceptance rate fool you. Texas State’s BFA MT program admits just 12-14 students per year and consistently produces Broadway talent. Prescreen required.
University of Cincinnati College - Conservatory of Music
CCM is a powerhouse, admitting 15-20 students from over 1,000 applicants (about a 5% program acceptance rate). One of the best values for elite MT training at a public university. Prescreen required.
Free account. Track deadlines, compare programs.
Highly Selective Programs
The next tier down, but still extremely competitive. These programs typically admit 15-30 students per class from hundreds of auditions. Many are conservatory-style training embedded within larger universities. Most require prescreens.
University of Southern California
USC’s BFA MT program within the School of Dramatic Arts is highly selective, admitting about 14 students per year. The university itself is also one of the most academically competitive in the country. Prescreen required.
Syracuse University
Syracuse’s program in the Setnor School of Music is highly selective with a medium-sized class. Located in central New York with strong industry connections. Prescreen required.
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Boston Conservatory at Berklee runs a highly selective, conservatory-focused program with a large class in the heart of Boston. Prescreen required.
Elon University
Elon’s highly selective program admits 16-20 students from over 1,000 applicants (under a 2% program acceptance rate). Known for strong industry showcases in North Carolina. Prescreen required.
Emerson College
Emerson in Boston is highly selective with a small class. The urban campus gives students direct access to Boston’s professional theatre scene. Prescreen required.
Florida State University
Florida State is highly selective with a very small class at one of the most affordable prices on this list ($11K average net). Public university tuition is a huge advantage. Prescreen required.
Indiana University - Bloomington
Indiana University admits 12-15 students per year into a highly selective program housed within one of the country’s top music schools. Public tuition makes it excellent value. Prescreen required.
Ithaca College
Ithaca College runs a highly selective MT program admitting 18-20 students per year. Located in the Finger Lakes region of New York with a roughly 3% program acceptance rate. Prescreen required.
Missouri State University
Missouri State is a hidden powerhouse. Highly selective with a small class at extremely affordable public tuition. Strong track record of placing graduates in professional work. Prescreen required.
Montclair State University
Montclair State is highly selective with a small class, just outside NYC. One of the best public university values for MT in the Northeast. Prescreen required.
University of Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s highly selective program takes a very small class. The university has deep roots in musical theatre, and the original Broadway production of Oklahoma! was based on an OU alumnus’s work. Prescreen required.
Pace University
Pace’s highly selective program in downtown Manhattan gives students unparalleled access to the Broadway industry. Medium class size. Prescreen required.
Point Park University
Point Park in Pittsburgh’s cultural district is highly selective with a medium class. Don’t let the sky-high university acceptance rate mislead you. The conservatory is a different story. Prescreen required.
Rider University
Rider’s Westminster College of the Arts runs a highly selective BFA MT, admitting about 26-30 from over 1,000 auditionees (roughly a 3% program acceptance rate). Prescreen required.
Shenandoah Conservatory
Shenandoah Conservatory admits about 18 students per year with less than a 3% program acceptance rate. Conservatory training with a liberal arts foundation in Virginia. Prescreen required.
Webster University
Webster’s Conservatory of Theatre Arts in St. Louis has an approximately 8% program acceptance rate, making it one of the most selective on this list. Small class, conservatory-style training. No prescreen required.
Belmont University
Belmont in Nashville is highly selective with a small class. The growing Nashville theatre scene offers increasing professional opportunities. No prescreen required.
Free account. Track deadlines, compare programs.
Selective Programs
These programs are competitive but more accessible than the tiers above. You’ll still need a strong audition, but class sizes tend to be a bit larger and acceptance rates are higher. Many of these are excellent training programs that fly under the radar.
Brenau University
Brenau’s selective MT program in Gainesville, GA offers small classes and personalized training. No prescreen required, so everyone auditions.
Columbia College Chicago
Columbia College Chicago is selective, located in the heart of Chicago’s theatre district. Prescreen required.
SUNY Fredonia
SUNY Fredonia is selective with a small class at New York public tuition. A solid SUNY option for MT. Prescreen required.
Millikin University
Millikin in Decatur, IL is selective with a small class. Prescreen required.
Northeastern University – New York City
Marymount Manhattan is selective with a larger class than most BFA programs. The Manhattan location provides direct access to NYC’s theatre industry. No prescreen required.
Molloy University / CAP21
Molloy University / CAP21 is selective with a medium class size. Located on Long Island with strong ties to NYC casting. Prescreen required.
Nazareth University
Nazareth University in Rochester is selective with a medium-sized class. A smaller program that offers personalized attention. Prescreen required.
Ohio Northern University
Ohio Northern is selective with a small class. A small-campus experience in rural Ohio with focused training. Prescreen required.
Temple University
Temple in Philadelphia is selective with a small class. Urban campus with access to Philly’s professional theatre scene. Prescreen required.
The Catholic University of America
Catholic University in Washington, DC is selective with a small class of about 20 per year. Strong alumni network and proximity to DC’s theatre community. Prescreen required.
University of Utah
University of Utah is selective with a small class at public university tuition in Salt Lake City. No prescreen required.
West Virginia University
West Virginia University is selective with a small class at an affordable price ($16K average net). Excellent public university value. No prescreen required.
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic admits a new BFA MT cohort of about 10 students every other year, so timing your application matters. One of the lowest average net prices on this list at about $9K. Prescreen required.
Illinois Wesleyan University
Illinois Wesleyan’s selective program features a very small class at a private liberal arts school in Bloomington, IL. Strong alumni network. Prescreen required.
Otterbein University
Otterbein’s selective program in Westerville, OH has a very small class and strong alumni connections to NYC. Prescreen required.
Roosevelt University / CCPA
Roosevelt’s CCPA (Chicago College of Performing Arts) is selective, located in downtown Chicago with strong industry ties. Prescreen required.
California State University - Chico
CSU Chico is selective with a small class at California public tuition. One of the few CSU campuses with a BFA MT. Prescreen required.
University of Hartford
The Hartt School at University of Hartford is selective with a medium class. Well-regarded conservatory training in Connecticut. Prescreen required.
Long Island University Post
LIU Post is selective with a large class (about 35 per year) on Long Island. Close to NYC with access to professional opportunities. No prescreen required.
Northern Michigan University
Northern Michigan is selective with a small class. A well-kept secret in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with no prescreen required, so everyone gets to audition.
Free account. Track deadlines, compare programs.
Moderately Selective & More Accessible Programs
These programs offer solid BFA Musical Theatre training with a more accessible admissions process. They’re strong options for students building a balanced audition list, and several offer outstanding value.
Emory & Henry University
Emory & Henry in rural Virginia is moderately selective with a small class. A smaller school offering personalized training. Prescreen required.
University of Northern Colorado
University of Northern Colorado is moderately selective with a small class at affordable public tuition. No prescreen required, so everyone gets an audition.
Catawba College
Catawba College in Salisbury, NC is moderately selective with a small class. A private college with a strong MT tradition. Prescreen required.
University at Buffalo
SUNY Buffalo is moderately selective with a small class at public university tuition. One of the stronger MT programs in the SUNY system. No prescreen required.
Central Michigan University
Central Michigan is moderately selective with a small class at affordable public tuition. A well-kept secret among MT students. No prescreen required.
Stephens College
Stephens College in Columbia, MO is moderately selective with a small class. One of the few women’s colleges with a strong MT program. No prescreen required.
Free account. Track deadlines, compare programs.
Additional BFA MT Programs
These programs offer BFA Musical Theatre training but don’t publish detailed selectiveness or class size data. Many are newer programs or schools where the BFA MT is a smaller part of a larger department. They’re worth investigating. Less data doesn’t mean less quality.
University of California - Irvine
UC Irvine stands out: no prescreen AND no audition required. Admission is based on academic application and supplemental materials. A rare path to a BFA MT at a top public university.
Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts is a dedicated arts conservatory in Seattle with small classes. No prescreen required.
Drake University
Drake in Des Moines features very small class sizes. A strong Midwest training program. No prescreen required.
Northern Kentucky University
At about $8K average net price, Northern Kentucky is one of the most affordable BFA MT programs in the country. No prescreen required.
Young Harris College
Young Harris College in the North Georgia mountains offers a BFA MT. No prescreen required.
Western Illinois University
Western Illinois at about $13K net price is one of the most affordable options. No prescreen required.
Morgan State University
Morgan State, an HBCU in Baltimore, is one of very few HBCUs offering a BFA in Musical Theatre. No prescreen required.
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State in Texas offers BFA MT at affordable public tuition. No prescreen required.
Oakland University
Oakland University in Rochester Hills, MI offers BFA MT at Michigan public tuition. No prescreen required.
Seton Hill University
Seton Hill near Pittsburgh offers BFA MT with no prescreen. Close to the city’s growing theatre scene.
Kent State University
Kent State in Ohio offers a BFA MT at public university tuition. No prescreen required.
SUNY Cortland
SUNY Cortland offers BFA MT training at New York public tuition. No prescreen required.
University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
UW-Stevens Point offers BFA MT at Wisconsin public tuition. No prescreen required.
Free account. Track deadlines, compare programs.
Acceptance Rates by School: The Full Program Table
Looking for a specific school? Since programs almost never publish true acceptance rates, this table shows the verifiable stats for every musical theatre program we track — the selectiveness tier, class size, and whether a prescreen is required. Click any school for full audition requirements, deadlines, and costs.
| School | Program | Selectiveness | Class Size | Prescreen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abilene Christian University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Adrian College (MI) | BM Vocal Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| AMDA - Los Angeles (CA) | BFA Music Theatre | — | Small | No |
| AMDA - Los Angeles (CA) | BFA Performing Arts & Content Creation — Music Theatre & Content Creation | — | — | No |
| American University (DC) | BA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Anderson University (SC) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Arcadia University (PA) | BFA Acting — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Arizona State University (AZ) | BM Performance — Music Theatre | Selective | — | No |
| Arkansas State University (AR) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Arts Educational Schools London (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | Large | No |
| Ashland University (OH) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Athens State University (AL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Auburn University (AL) | BFA Music Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Augustana College (IL) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Austin Peay State University (TN) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | Small | No |
| Averett University (VA) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Avila University (MO) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Azusa Pacific University (CA) | BFA Acting for the Stage and Screen — Musical Theater Emphasis | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Baldwin Wallace University (OH) | BM Music Theatre | Highly Selective | Medium | No |
| Ball State University (IN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre Option | Highly Selective | Medium | No |
| Baylor University (TX) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Belmont University (TN) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Belmont University (TN) | BM Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Biola University (CA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Bird College (England) | BA (Hons) Professional Dance and Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Boston Conservatory at Berklee (MA) | BFA Theater: Musical Theater | Highly Selective | Large | Yes |
| Bowling Green State University (OH) | BAC Theatre — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Brenau University (GA) | BFA Dance — Jazz/Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Brenau University (GA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | No |
| Brevard College (NC) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Brevard College (NC) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Butler University (IN) | BA Theatre — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| California Baptist University (CA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| California State University - Chico (CA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| California State University - Fullerton (CA) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| California State University - San Bernardino (CA) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| California State University - Stanislaus (CA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Campbellsville University (KY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Carnegie Mellon University (PA) | BFA Drama — Music Theater | Ultra Selective | Small | Yes |
| Carroll University (WI) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Carthage College (WI) | BA Music: Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Carthage College (WI) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Catawba College (NC) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | Yes |
| Centenary University (NJ) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Central College (IA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Central Michigan University (MI) | BFA Music Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Central Washington University (WA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| Chadron State College (NE) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre Option | — | — | No |
| Charleston Southern University (SC) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Christopher Newport University (VA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Circle in the Square Theatre School (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| Coastal Carolina University (SC) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Codarts Rotterdam (South Holland) | BM Music Theatre | — | Very Small | Yes |
| Coker University (SC) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| College of the Ozarks (MO) | BA Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Colorado Mesa University (CO) | BFA Theatre Arts — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Colorado State University (CO) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Columbia College Chicago (IL) | BA Musical Theatre | — | Medium | No |
| Columbia College Chicago (IL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Converse University (SC) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Cornish College of the Arts (WA) | BFA Musical Theater | — | Small | No |
| Creighton University (NE) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Culver-Stockton College (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Cumberland University (TN) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| CUNY City College (NY) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Dean College (MA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | — | No |
| DeSales University (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Drake University (IA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Very Small | No |
| Drake University (IA) | BM Applied Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| East Carolina University (NC) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| East Stroudsburg University (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| East Tennessee State University (TN) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| East Texas Baptist University (TX) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Eastern Illinois University (IL) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Eastern Michigan University (MI) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Eastern University (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Eckerd College (FL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | — | Yes |
| Elmhurst University (IL) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Elon University (NC) | BFA Music Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Emerson College (MA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Emil Dale Academy (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Emory & Henry University (VA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | Yes |
| Evangel University (MO) | BA Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Falmouth University (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Five Towns College (NY) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Florida Atlantic University (FL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Florida Atlantic University (FL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Florida International University (FL) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Florida International University (FL) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Florida Southern College (FL) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Florida State University (FL) | BFA Music Theatre | Highly Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Florida State University (FL) | BM Music Theatre | Highly Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Fort Lewis College (CO) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Friends University (KS) | BA Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| George Mason University (VA) | BFA Theater — Musical Theater Performance | Moderately Selective | Small | Yes |
| Greensboro College (NC) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Guildford School of Acting (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Hardin-Simmons University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Heidelberg University (OH) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Howard University (DC) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Illinois Wesleyan University (IL) | BFA Music Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Indiana University - Bloomington (IN) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Indiana University - South Bend (IN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Institute of the Arts Barcelona (Catalonia) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| International College of Musical Theatre (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | Yes |
| Iowa State University (IA) | BA Performing Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts (England) | BA (Hons) Acting — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Ithaca College (NY) | BFA Dance and Choreography for Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Ithaca College (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| James Madison University (VA) | BA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | No |
| James Madison University (VA) | BM Music — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Kansas State University (KS) | BM Applied Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Kansas Wesleyan University (KS) | BA Theatre Arts — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Kean University (NJ) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre Option | — | — | No |
| Kennesaw State University (GA) | BA Theatre and Performance Studies — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Kent State University (OH) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| LaGrange College (GA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Laine Theatre Arts (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Lancaster Bible College (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Lee University (TN) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre Emphasis | — | — | No |
| Leeds Conservatoire (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Liberty University (VA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Lindenwood University (MO) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre Emphasis | — | — | No |
| Lipscomb University (TN) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Very Small | No |
| Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (England) | BA (Hons) Acting — Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| London Studio Centre (England) | BA (Hons) Professional Dance Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| London Studio Centre (England) | BA (Hons) Professional Performance (Top Up) — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Long Island University Post (NY) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Large | No |
| Louisiana Christian University (LA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Loyola University New Orleans (LA) | BA Theatre Arts and Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Lycoming College (PA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Lynn University (FL) | BFA Drama — Musical Theater Performance | — | — | Yes |
| MacEwan University (AB) | BFA Music Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Madonna University (MI) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Manhattan School of Music (NY) | BM Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Manhattanville University (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Marietta College (OH) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Mars Hill University (NC) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Marywood University (PA) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| McPherson College (KS) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre Emphasis | — | — | No |
| Meredith College (NC) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Messiah University (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver (CO) | BFA Theatre — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| MidAmerica Nazarene University (KS) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Middle Tennessee State University (TN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Midwestern State University (TX) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Milligan University (TN) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Millikin University (IL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Minnesota State University - Mankato (MN) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Missouri Baptist University (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Missouri Baptist University (MO) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Missouri Southern State University (MO) | BM Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Missouri State University (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Molloy University / CAP21 (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Monmouth College (IL) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Monmouth University (NJ) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Montclair State University (NJ) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Morgan State University (MD) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts (England) | BA (Hons) Performance — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | No |
| MPAA - Momentum Performing Arts Academy (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Performance | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Murray State University (KY) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Nazareth University (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University (NE) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| New Jersey City University (NJ) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| New Mexico State University (NM) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| New World School of the Arts (FL) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| New York University (NY) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Large | Yes |
| New York University (NY) | BM Vocal Performance — Music Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| North Central College (IL) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| North Dakota State University (ND) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| North Greenville University (SC) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Northeastern University – New York City (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Large | No |
| Northern Kentucky University (KY) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Northern Michigan University (MI) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | No |
| Northwestern State University (LA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Northwestern University (IL) | BA Theatre — Music Theatre Certificate | — | — | No |
| Nova Southeastern University (FL) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Oakland University (MI) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Oberlin College & Conservatory (OH) | BM Music Theater | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Ohio Northern University (OH) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Ohio University (OH) | BFA Performance — Musical Theater | Selective | Small | No |
| Oklahoma City University (OK) | BM Music Theater | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Oklahoma State University (OK) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Very Small | Yes |
| Otterbein University (OH) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Ouachita Baptist University (AR) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Ouachita Baptist University (AR) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Pace University (NY) | BFA Musical Theater | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Pacific Lutheran University (WA) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Pennsylvania State University (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Ultra Selective | Small | Yes |
| Pennsylvania Western University (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Pepperdine University (CA) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Performers College (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Performers College (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre and Dance | — | — | No |
| Piedmont University (GA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Plymouth State University (NH) | BA Theatre Arts — Music Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Point Park University (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Providence College (RI) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Providence College (RI) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Purdue University - Fort Wayne (IN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Reinhardt University (GA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Rhode Island College (RI) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Rider University (NJ) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Rider University (NJ) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Rochester Christian University (MI) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Rockford University (IL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Rollins College (FL) | BA Theatre Arts and Dance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Roosevelt University / CCPA (IL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Rowan University (NJ) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (England) | BA Acting — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (Scotland) | BA Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (Wales) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Russell Sage College (NY) | BS Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Rutgers University - Camden (NJ) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Sacred Heart University (CT) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Salem State University (MA) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Salve Regina University (RI) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Sam Houston State University (TX) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Samford University (AL) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| San Diego State University (CA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | Very Small | No |
| Seattle University (WA) | BFA Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Seton Hill University (PA) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Seton Hill University (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Shenandoah Conservatory (VA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Shenandoah Conservatory (VA) | BM Musical Theatre Accompanying | — | — | No |
| Sheridan College (ON) | BFA Music Theatre Performance | Highly Selective | — | No |
| Shorter University (GA) | BFA Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Slippery Rock University (PA) | BFA Acting — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| Southeast Missouri State University (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Small | No |
| Southern Arkansas University Main Campus (AR) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Southern Illinois University Carbondale (IL) | BFA Musical Theater | Selective | Small | No |
| Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (IL) | BM Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Southern Methodist University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Southern Utah University (UT) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| St. Mary's College of Maryland (MD) | BA Performing Arts — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Stephen F. Austin State University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Stephens College (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Sterling College (KS) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| SUNY Binghamton (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| SUNY Cortland (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| SUNY Fredonia (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| SUNY Geneseo (NY) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| SUNY Geneseo (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| SUNY Oswego (NY) | BA Theatre — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| Syracuse University (NY) | BFA Musical Theater | Highly Selective | Medium | Yes |
| Tarleton State University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Tarleton State University (TX) | BM Music — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Taylor University (IN) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Temple University (PA) | BFA Musical Theater | Selective | Small | Yes |
| Tennessee Technological University (TN) | BM Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Texas Christian University (TX) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| Texas State University (TX) | BFA Musical Theatre | Ultra Selective | Small | Yes |
| Texas Tech University (TX) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Texas Wesleyan University (TX) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Texas Woman's University (TX) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| The Catholic University of America (DC) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| The New School (NY) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts (CT) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | No |
| The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts (CT) | BFA Musical Theatre Dance | Selective | — | No |
| The University of Tampa (FL) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Small | No |
| The University of Texas - Arlington (TX) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| The University of Texas - El Paso (TX) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| Tulane University (LA) | BFA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University at Buffalo (NY) | BFA Music Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| University of Alabama (AL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Alabama - Birmingham (AL) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | Very Small | Yes |
| University of California - Irvine (CA) | BFA Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of California - Los Angeles (CA) | BA Theater — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| University of Central Florida (FL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Central Missouri (MO) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Central Oklahoma (OK) | BM Musical Theatre | — | Small | Yes |
| University of Chichester (England) | BA (Hons) Music with Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Chichester (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Chichester (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| University of Chichester (England) | BA Teaching of Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Cincinnati College - Conservatory of Music (OH) | BFA Musical Theatre | Ultra Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Colorado - Boulder (CO) | BM Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Dayton (OH) | BA Theatre, Dance and Performance Technology — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Delaware (DE) | BA Theatre Studies — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Florida (FL) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| University of Greater Manchester (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Greater Manchester (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (Top-Up) | — | — | No |
| University of Hartford (CT) | BFA Music Theatre | Selective | Medium | Yes |
| University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (HI) | BA Music — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| University of Huddersfield (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Iowa (IA) | BA Theatre Arts — Music Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Mary Washington (VA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Memphis (TN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Miami (FL) | BFA Theatre Arts — Comprehensive Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Michigan (MI) | BFA Musical Theatre | Ultra Selective | Medium | Yes |
| University of Michigan - Flint (MI) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Michigan - Flint (MI) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Minnesota Duluth (MN) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Mobile (AL) | BFA Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Montana (MT) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre Performance | — | — | No |
| University of Montevallo (AL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Mount Union (OH) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha (NE) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Nevada, Reno (NV) | BA Musical Theatre | — | Small | No |
| University of New Hampshire (NH) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| University of North Carolina - Greensboro (NC) | BFA Drama — Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke (NC) | BM Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of North Dakota (ND) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Northern Colorado (CO) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| University of Northwestern - St Paul (MN) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Oklahoma (OK) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| University of Portland (OR) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Rochester (NY) | BA Music — Musical Theater Emphasis | — | — | No |
| University of South Carolina - Columbia (SC) | BA Music — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of South Dakota (SD) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of South Florida (FL) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Southern California (CA) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | Yes |
| University of Southern Maine (ME) | BM Music Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of St Thomas (TX) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Utah (UT) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | No |
| University of West Florida (FL) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of West London (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Winchester (England) | BA (Hons) Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (WI) | BFA Theatre Performance — Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| University of Wisconsin - Parkside (WI) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point (WI) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| University of Wyoming (WY) | BFA Theatre and Dance — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Urdang Academy (England) | BA (Hons) Professional Dance and Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Utah State University (UT) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Utah Valley University (UT) | BFA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Selective | — | Yes |
| Valdosta State University (GA) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Medium | No |
| Vanguard University of Southern California (CA) | BA Theatre Arts — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | — | No |
| Vermont State University (VT) | BA Theater Arts — Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Virginia Commonwealth University (VA) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | No |
| Viterbo University (WI) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| Washburn University (KS) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Washington College (MD) | BA Music — Performance and Musical Theater | — | — | No |
| Weber State University (UT) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Webster University (MO) | BFA Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | No |
| West Chester University (PA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| West Texas A&M University (TX) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | Yes |
| West Virginia University (WV) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | Small | No |
| West Virginia Wesleyan College (WV) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Western Carolina University (NC) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | Selective | Very Small | Yes |
| Western Connecticut State University (CT) | BFA Musical Theatre | Moderately Selective | Small | Yes |
| Western Illinois University (IL) | BFA Musical Theatre | Selective | — | No |
| Western Kentucky University (KY) | BFA Performing Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Western Michigan University (MI) | BFA Music Theatre Performance | Moderately Selective | Small | Yes |
| Wichita State University (KS) | BFA Performing Arts — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Wilkes University (PA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Willamette University (OR) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| William Carey University (MS) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| William Jessup University (CA) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Winthrop University (SC) | BA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Wright State University (OH) | BFA Acting — Musical Theatre | Highly Selective | Small | No |
| Xavier University (OH) | BA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Young Harris College (GA) | BFA Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
| Youngstown State University (OH) | BFA Theatre — Musical Theatre | — | — | No |
Pulled live from the stageready program database and updated automatically. A dash means the school hasn’t published that stat or we haven’t verified it yet.
Why University Acceptance Rate Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story
One of the biggest misconceptions in college theatre is equating a university’s overall acceptance rate with how hard it is to get into the BFA program. They are completely different numbers.
Texas State University has an 89% overall acceptance rate. Their BFA Musical Theatre program? Ultra selective, one of the five most competitive in the country. Point Park accepts about 97% of university applicants but runs a highly selective conservatory. Missouri State (91% acceptance rate) is also highly selective at the program level.
The reverse can be true too. UC Irvine has a roughly 29% university acceptance rate, but their BFA MT requires no audition at all.
Always look at the program-level selectiveness, not the university’s overall rate. That’s the number that matters for your audition list.
School-Specific Acceptance Rate FAQs
What is Carnegie Mellon’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
Carnegie Mellon doesn’t publish an official acceptance rate for its Music Theater option, which lives inside the BFA Drama program. stageready classifies it as ultra-selective: entering cohorts are small (recent classes have been around 13 music theater majors) and admission runs through a prescreen and audition. The university’s roughly 12% overall acceptance rate is a separate number that doesn’t describe the drama audition process.
How hard is it to get into University of Michigan musical theatre?
Michigan’s BFA Musical Theatre is ultra-selective, with a prescreen, an audition, and an entering class of roughly 25 in recent years. The university’s ~16% overall acceptance rate applies to general admission — the BFA audition process is far more competitive than that number suggests.
What is Penn State’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
Penn State doesn’t publish a program acceptance rate. Its BFA Musical Theatre is ultra-selective with a small entering class and a required prescreen. Penn State admits about 61% of applicants university-wide, but that number has nothing to do with the BFA audition.
What is Texas State’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
Texas State’s BFA Musical Theatre is ultra-selective — one of the most competitive audition pools in the country — with a small class and a required prescreen. The university admits roughly 89% of applicants overall, which makes it the classic example of why a university acceptance rate tells you nothing about a BFA program.
How selective is CCM musical theatre?
CCM’s BFA Musical Theatre at the University of Cincinnati is ultra-selective, with a small entering class and a required prescreen. The university’s ~85% overall acceptance rate doesn’t reflect the conservatory’s audition process.
What is Pace University’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
Pace doesn’t publish a program-level rate. Its BFA Musical Theater is highly selective with a required prescreen, though its entering class is medium-sized — larger than many peer BFA programs. Pace admits about 76% of applicants university-wide.
What is Point Park’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
Point Park’s BFA Musical Theatre is highly selective with a required prescreen and a medium-sized entering class. The university admits about 97% of applicants overall — another case where the university number and the audition are completely different games.
Is USC musical theatre hard to get into?
Yes — twice over. USC’s BFA Musical Theatre is highly selective with a small class and a required prescreen, and USC itself admits only about 10% of applicants, so candidates clear both a competitive university admission and a competitive audition.
Does Belmont musical theatre require a prescreen?
No. Belmont’s BFA Musical Theatre is highly selective with a small entering class, but there’s no prescreen round — candidates audition directly. Belmont admits about 95% of applicants university-wide; the program’s audition is the real gate.
What is Roosevelt CCPA’s musical theatre acceptance rate?
The Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University doesn’t publish a program rate. Its BFA Musical Theatre sits in the selective tier with a small entering class and a required prescreen. Roosevelt’s ~97% university acceptance rate doesn’t describe the CCPA audition.
How to Build a Balanced Audition List
Most college counselors and coaches recommend auditioning for 12-20 programs with a mix of selectiveness levels:
- 4-6 reach schools from the Ultra or Highly Selective tiers
- 6-8 target schools from the Selective tier
- 3-5 likely schools from the Moderately Selective or More Accessible tiers
Factor in cost, location, training style, and whether you prefer a conservatory or university environment. And don’t skip a school just because it isn’t on a “top ten” list. Some of the best training in the country happens at programs you’ve never heard of.
Click any school above to see its full profile on stageready, including audition requirements, deadlines, prescreen details, and program highlights.
Once your list is set, the next fixed points are the dates: our 2026–27 musical theatre audition deadlines tracker lists every confirmed prescreen and application deadline, school by school, and updates automatically as programs announce.
About This Data
Selectiveness tiers are based on program-level audition data, class sizes, and published statistics, not university acceptance rates. We categorize programs as Ultra Selective, Highly Selective, Selective, or Moderately Selective based on how many students audition relative to class size, publicly available acceptance data, and program reputation among audition coaches.
Class sizes reflect the typical entering BFA MT cohort. “Very small” means roughly 6-12, “small” is 12-24, “medium” is 24-40, and “large” is 40+.
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