Guildhall School of Music & Drama
Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
Selective
Under 12 Students
University App Required
Program Highlights
NEW PROGRAMME
•Brand-new degree launched September 2025 with a dedicated Performance Design Studio
•3-year degree focusing on stage design, contemporary performance, and collaborative design for theatre
TRAINING & CURRICULUM
•Year 1: Fundamentals of stage design studio practice plus taster courses in lighting, sound, video, scenic art, prop making, and stage management
•Year 2: Realisation skills through major studio projects and Guildhall productions
•Year 3: Lead your own performance design projects and design public-facing events
•Shared modules with BA Production Arts for cross-disciplinary learning
INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS
•Partnerships with Royal Opera House, National Theatre, Treatment Studio, and Punchdrunk
•Programme designed with input from leading industry practitioners
CAREER PATHWAYS
•Graduates pursue careers as set/costume designers, creative directors, lighting designers, and visual designers
•Work across theatre, immersive experiences, site-specific installations, live music events, and festivals
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadline
Application Deadline (all programmes)Jan 14, 2026
Program AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadline
Application DeadlineJan 14, 2026
Audition
Interview Period (London — February 2026)Feb 1, 2026
Interview Requirements
PORTFOLIO (details sent after application)
•Prepare work relevant to performance design
•Specific requirements provided after application submission
Good to Know
Apply via Guildhall's own application portal (not UCAS). Applications open 30 September 2025, close 4:30 PM London time on 14 January 2026. No application fee. New programme launched September 2025.
What's The Process
INTERVIEW FORMAT
•Half-day interview (morning or afternoon) at the School in London
•Opportunity to see the new Performance Design Studio and meet teaching staff
INTERVIEW DATES
•February 2026
PORTFOLIO
•Prepare a portfolio of work relevant to performance design
•Specific portfolio details sent after application submission
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
•Online interview available if unable to travel to London
•Choosing online does not impact how your application is considered
•In-person attendance encouraged to visit the School
Scholarship Info
GUILDHALL SCHOLARSHIPS
•Wide range of scholarships available regardless of domicile
•Awards cover full or partial tuition fees, and may include maintenance support
•All students who accept a place can apply — details provided after accepting an offer
ACCESS BURSARY (UK Students)
•Available to UK undergraduates from eligible underrepresented backgrounds
Program info updated 1 week ago
