Cornish College of the Arts
Test-OptionalFaith-Based
Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
Audition Required
No Interview
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required
Program Highlights
TRAINING
•Rigorous daily physical practices rotating between contemporary, modern, ballet, jazz, West African, street styles, hip hop, authentic jazz, global forms, and somatics
•Emphasis on anatomically sound technique fostering long-term well-being
•Small class sizes with close faculty mentorship from active practitioners
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
•Student-led productions, dynamic concerts, and site-specific works
•Performances created by faculty and renowned guest choreographers
•Professional studios, performance venues, motion capture labs, and digital media centers
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
•Entrepreneurship training: resume/CV design, grant writing, concert production
•Internships and community partnerships in Seattle's thriving arts scene
•Guidance on career options and personal artistic goal-setting
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionNov 15, 2025
Regular DecisionJan 15, 2026
Rolling
Fee
$60Waiver
Program AppApplication
Auditions
On-Campus AuditionJan 31, 2026
On-Campus AuditionFeb 28, 2026
Audition Requirements
Dance
TWO CHOREOGRAPHED SOLOS in two different styles, approx 2 min each
•Example styles: contemporary, modern, jazz, ballet, African traditions, street styles, hip hop, folklorico, Butoh, Spanish, Balkan, Bharata Natyam, and more
•Each solo should demonstrate your skill and connection to the form
IMPROVISATION, 2-3 min
•Explore variations of time (slow, fast, stillness)
•Explore shifts in space (level changes, direction, traveling)
•Explore varied qualities (textures and dynamics)
•May incorporate any style or blend of styles
•Music of your choice or no music
OPTIONAL CHOREOGRAPHIC WORK
•One sample of your own choreography, up to 5 min
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Submission Specifications
FRAMING
•Full-body shot — entire body visible throughout
ATTIRE
•Wear clothing that allows clear visibility of body movement (style is your choice)
LIGHTING
•Avoid being backlit — ensure you are clearly visible
Additional Materials
ARTIST STATEMENT (required)
•Submit via Redhawk Admissions Portal
ARTS RECOMMENDATION (required)
•One recommendation from a teacher who can speak to your artistic or performing talents
-Separate from the general teacher and counselor recommendations required by Seattle University
Good to Know
AUDITION SUBMISSION
•All recorded materials uploaded to Redhawk Admissions Portal "Portfolio" section
•Portal credentials sent within a few days of Common App submission
•Submit Portfolio Certification Form when materials are complete — portfolio will not be reviewed without it
ENROLLMENT
•Fall and January start dates available
What's The Process
AUDITION OPTIONS
•In-person on campus
•Recorded audition uploaded to Redhawk Admissions Portal
RECORDED FORMAT
•Upload two choreographed solos, one improvisation, and optional choreographic work to "Portfolio" section of Redhawk Admissions Portal
TIMELINES
•Early Action: submit recorded audition before November 20
•Regular Decision: applications due January 15
•After January 15: rolling admission pending space availability
Scholarship Info
CORNISH SCHOLARSHIPS
•Admitted students are automatically considered — no separate application required
•Both merit-based and need-based aid available
•Cornish awards over $3.5 million in scholarships annually
•98% of admitted students receive funding assistance
•Both U.S. citizens and international students are eligible
Program info updated Today
Academic School Information
70%
Admit Rate
52%
Grad Rate
480
Enrollment
$33,696
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$39,913
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$39,060
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$28,155
Family Income $30k - $48k$30,948
Family Income $48k - $75k$36,693
Family Income $75k - $110k$40,853
Family Income $110k+$44,405
