Program
No PrescreenAudition RequiredInterview RequiredIn-Person OnlyUniversity App Required
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
Audition Required
Interview Required
University App Required
Program Highlights
DISTINGUISHED FACULTY
•World-renowned bass-baritone Dr. Simon Estes serves as F. Wendell Miller Distinguished Artist in Residence
•Private coaching sessions with Dr. Estes available to all voice majors
TRAINING & PERFORMANCE
•Intimate, in-depth vocal curriculum for individual artistic development
•Weekly seminar and division performances
•Guest artist master classes — past artists include Sherrill Milnes, Morris Robinson, Martin Katz, Molly Fillmore
ENSEMBLES & OPERA
•Auditioned operas and musicals through ISU Opera Studio
•ISU Choral ensemble participation
•Opportunities to sing with the ISU Symphony Orchestra
ACCREDITATION
•NASM-accredited (National Association of Schools of Music)
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
PriorityMar 1, 2026
Rolling
Domestic Fee
$55
International Fee
$65
Program AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Auditions
Music Major Auditions (Day 1)Feb 19, 2026
Music Major Auditions (Day 2)Feb 20, 2026
Music Major Auditions (Day 3)Feb 21, 2026
Audition Requirements
Songs
TWO SONGS/ARIAS IN CONTRASTING STYLES
•Preferably one selection in English
•Both selections must be memorized
•Accompanist provided by the department — send music through OneApp application
•May bring your own accompanist if preferred
Good to Know
APPLICATION STEPS
•Apply for admission to Iowa State University via Common App or ISU direct application
•Submit separate Music Major Application form
•Complete ISU OneApp scholarship application
•Reserve audition time slot for February 19-21, 2026
ELIGIBILITY
•Must demonstrate performance skills appropriate for college-level instruction
•Diagnostic exams in music theory may be required upon acceptance
What's The Process
AUDITION FORMAT
•In-person audition on campus at the Department of Music and Theatre
•Audition includes vocal performance, sight singing, tonal memory assessment, and interview
AUDITION DATES
•February 19-21, 2026
•Contact musicinfo@iastate.edu if unavailable for scheduled dates
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
•Music Theory Diagnostic Exam administered on the first day of classes
•Contact: Chad Sonka, casonka@iastate.edu (voice audition questions)
•General inquiries: musicinfo@iastate.edu
Scholarship Info
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS
•Scholarship consideration included in audition process
•Complete ISU OneApp scholarship application for additional eligibility
Program info updated 7h ago
DISTINGUISHED FACULTY
•World-renowned bass-baritone Dr. Simon Estes serves as F. Wendell Miller Distinguished Artist in Residence
•Private coaching sessions with Dr. Estes available to all voice majors
TRAINING & PERFORMANCE
•Intimate, in-depth vocal curriculum for individual artistic development
•Weekly seminar and division performances
•Guest artist master classes — past artists include Sherrill Milnes, Morris Robinson, Martin Katz, Molly Fillmore
ENSEMBLES & OPERA
•Auditioned operas and musicals through ISU Opera Studio
•ISU Choral ensemble participation
•Opportunities to sing with the ISU Symphony Orchestra
ACCREDITATION
•NASM-accredited (National Association of Schools of Music)
Updated 7h ago
Academic School Information
3.75
Avg GPA (W)
89%
Admit Rate
75%
Grad Rate
25,367
Enrollment
$63,386
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$10,787
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$28,881
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$18,589
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.
Family Income $0 - $30k$10,582
Family Income $30k - $48k$11,506
Family Income $48k - $75k$15,463
Family Income $75k - $110k$19,605
Family Income $110k+$22,496
