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Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
Audition Required
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
Highly Selective
12-24 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
•Performance Core program for BFA Acting and Theatre Arts-Performance majors
•Students don't select specific major until end of freshman year
•Auditions 1,000-1,300 applicants yearly
•Emphasis on artistic maturity, communal perspective, and curiosity
•#20 best colleges for performing arts in America (2022 Niche rankings)
•#35 best drama & theatre arts schools (2022 College Factual)
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
Early DecisionNov 2, 2026
Early Decision IIJan 5, 2027
Regular DecisionJan 5, 2027
Fee
$80Waiver
Program AppApplication
Apply atAcceptd
Deadlines
Early Decision INov 1, 2025
Early Decision IIDec 1, 2025
Regular DecisionDec 1, 2025
TransferMar 15, 2026
Auditions
Virtual Audition (Early Decision I)Nov 8–9, 2025
Virtual Callback (Early Decision II)Jan 10–11, 2026
Virtual AuditionJan 17–18, 2026
NYC AuditionJan 23–25, 2026
Fee
$35
Prescreen Requirements
Monologues
TWO CONTRASTING ONE-MINUTE CONTEMPORARY MONOLOGUES
•Each piece should not exceed one minute
•Verbal introduction at beginning: your name, title of piece or play, and name of playwright (not counted against your time)
MONOLOGUE ONE (standard):
•Framing: Medium shot (mid-torso to top of head)
•Plain wall or background with clear, directed lighting
•May sit or stand; place scene partner just off to side of camera lens or above it
MONOLOGUE TWO (site-specific with secondary activity):
•Filmed in a unique location outside of a neutral background
•Film in one continuous shot (no editing)
•May have someone hold camera and follow you around
•Show your vision for the piece — there is no wrong way to do this
NOTE:
•Students interested in Theatre Arts major should also include a recorded or written explanation of their experience and interest in studying Theatre Arts beyond performing
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Additional Materials
REQUIRED MATERIALS:
•RESUME (academic, professional, artistic achievements)
•HEADSHOT
OPTIONAL MATERIALS:
•LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
•Artistic snapshot: directing portfolio excerpt, writing sample, or 16 bars of song
•Writing prompt response: 300-500 words on 'If you could invite an audience to watch your work, who would it be and why?'
Good to Know
Must complete both Common App and Acceptd applications - submit Common App first to obtain BU ID, then apply through Acceptd
What's The Process
PRESCREEN:
•Submit prescreen materials through Acceptd
•ED1 applicants automatically receive callback link after Acceptd submission
•ED2 and Regular Decision applicants notified by mid-January for callbacks
•Transfer applicants notified with scheduling details
LIVE AUDITION:
•Callbacks scheduled through Acceptd platform messaging system
•ED1 virtual audition: November 8 & 9, 2025
•ED2 live virtual callbacks: January 10-11, 2026
•Regular Decision: Virtual January 17 & 18; NYC January 23-25; Virtual January 31 & February 1; Boston February 7 & 8
•Transfer live virtual audition: March 21-22, 2026
•Artistic Review conducted either virtually or in person
Program info updated 1 week ago
Academic School Information
3.90
Avg GPA
11%
Admit Rate
89%
Grad Rate
17,850
Enrollment
$83,238
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$65,168
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$26,996
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$11,453
Family Income $30k - $48k$11,167
Family Income $48k - $75k$13,639
Family Income $75k - $110k$25,501
Family Income $110k+$48,018
