Kean University
Test-OptionalGreek LifeLGBTQ+ Affirming
Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
Audition Required
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required
Program Highlights
PROGRAM RECOGNITION
•NAST-accredited (National Association of Schools of Theatre) since 1995
•Recognized by Backstage as one of New Jersey's top acting programs
TRAINING & OPPORTUNITIES
•Triple-threat training: acting, singing, and dance integrated throughout the curriculum
•6 semesters of private voice studio lessons
•7 dance courses spanning multiple styles
•Work with Premiere Stages, Kean's AEA company in residence
•Performance opportunities alongside Broadway artists
LOCATION & ACCESS
•30 minutes from NYC by train — access to Broadway and professional theatre
•Master classes with Tony Award-winning artists
•Study abroad option in London
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
PriorityApr 30, 2026
Rolling
Fee
$75Waiver
Program AppApplication
Auditions
On-Campus AuditionNov 22, 2025
On-Campus AuditionJan 24, 2026
On-Campus AuditionFeb 28, 2026
On-Campus AuditionMar 21, 2026
Audition Requirements
Songs
TWO CONTRASTING SONGS
•Prepare two songs that demonstrate range and versatility
•Bring your own recorded accompaniment or your own accompanist — no accompanist provided
•Notify the department when scheduling if bringing a live accompanist
Monologues
ONE MONOLOGUE
•Prepare one monologue to contrast with your song selections
•Choose age-appropriate material from a published play
•Should demonstrate acting ability and range
Dance
DANCE AUDITION
•Choreography will be sent by the department prior to your audition date
•Be prepared to learn and perform the provided combination
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Additional Materials
WRITING SAMPLE (required)
•Completed on-site in approximately 15 minutes
•Rubric with evaluation criteria sent in advance
•Assesses readiness for college-level research and writing in theatre
RESUME (recommended)
•Include theatre, music, and dance experience and training
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Complete Kean University application via Common App or kean.edu
•Schedule and complete audition separately
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
•Minimum GPA requirements for major courses
•Capstone course requires B- or better
ENROLLMENT
•Rolling admissions with April 30 priority deadline
•Fall enrollment
What's The Process
AUDITION FORMAT
•Four components: songs, monologue, dance, and interview
•Audition followed by a 5-6 minute interview
•Interview questions sent in advance to allow preparation
•Writing sample completed on-site before or after audition
SCHEDULING
•Call 908-737-4420 or email theatre@kean.edu to schedule
•A specific time will be assigned after scheduling
•Confirmation email sent once appointment is set
VIRTUAL OPTION
•Out-of-state applicants may submit auditions virtually
•NJ residents and current Kean students attend in person
ACCOMPANIMENT
•No accompanist provided — bring your own accompanist or recorded accompaniment
•Notify the department when scheduling about your accompaniment choice
Program info updated Today
Academic School Information
3.20
Avg GPA (W)
76%
Admit Rate
45%
Grad Rate
11,433
Enrollment
$57,237
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$14,299
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$22,446
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$12,447
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$7,374
Family Income $30k - $48k$7,859
Family Income $48k - $75k$12,136
Family Income $75k - $110k$20,146
Family Income $110k+$20,110
