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Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, ILPrivateCity
Faith-BasedTest-OptionalGreek Life

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Program Characteristics

No Prescreen
Scholarship Audition
Scholarship Interview
In-Person Only
University App Required

Program Highlights

ACCREDITATION & AFFILIATIONS

One of 8 NAST-accredited institutions in Illinois — the only one in the Chicago metropolitan area
Member of the League of Chicago Theatres and Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

BA emphasis on liberal arts — interdisciplinary study in the formation of adaptable, well-rounded theatre artists
Curriculum covers performance, directing, design, technology, management, dramaturgy, and literature

FACULTY & INDUSTRY ACCESS

Full-time faculty of 8 professional actors, directors, dramaturges, and designers
Internship and apprenticeship opportunities at professional Chicago theatres

PRODUCTIONS

Active production season of faculty-directed plays and musicals
Student-led work including original writing, devising, and experimental projects

Key Info

University App

Apply atCommon App
Deadlines
PriorityDec 1, 2025
Rolling

Program App

Audition
Scholarship Audition/Interview (In-Person Only)Feb 14, 2026

Audition Requirements

Optional audition for scholarship consideration — not required for program admission.
Monologues

TWO CONTRASTING SELECTIONS, 3 min total

Performers prepare 2 contrasting pieces totaling 3 minutes
One selection may be a musical selection
No accompaniment provided — bring a speaker or amplifier with sound file on your phone
-If using a newer iPhone, bring the appropriate adapter
No props or costumes permitted
Wildcard / Special Skill
N/A
Additional Materials

DESIGNERS & TECHNICIANS

Bring evidence of your work for a portfolio interview
Suitable material: photographs, prompt books, sketches, technical drawings

APPLICATION MATERIALS

Upload HEADSHOT and RESUME to your Submittable application
No need to bring physical copies to in-person audition

Good to Know

APPLICATION PORTAL

Submit scholarship audition application via Submittable
Apply to Loyola University Chicago prior to audition date — scholarship is contingent upon university admission

ELIGIBILITY

Open to incoming first-year and transfer students
No application fee for the audition or university admission

What's The Process

ADMISSION

No audition is required to declare the Theatre major
Once accepted to the university, declare the Theatre major or minor through advising

SCHOLARSHIP AUDITION

John T. Trahey Theatre Scholarship — renewable, for incoming first-year and transfer students
Must complete Submittable application and attend in-person audition on February 14, 2026
No additional audition dates available

SCHEDULE OF THE DAY

9:00 AM — Check-in
9:30 AM — Welcome to the Department of Fine and Performing Arts
10:00 AM — Theatre Program Orientation
11:00 AM — Auditions/Interviews begin

ATTIRE

Wear comfortable clothing — formal wear is not required

LOCATION

Mundelein Center for the Fine and Performing Arts
1020 W. Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60660

Scholarship Info

JOHN T. TRAHEY THEATRE SCHOLARSHIP

Renewable scholarship for incoming first-year and transfer students
Requires Submittable application and in-person audition/interview on February 14, 2026
Performers: 2 contrasting selections totaling 3 minutes (1 may be musical)
Designers/Technicians: portfolio interview with evidence of work
Program info updated 2 days ago

Academic School Information

3.91
Avg GPA (W)
81%
Admit Rate
74%
Grad Rate
11,576
Enrollment
$71,530
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$51,716
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$35,196
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$28,666
Family Income $30k - $48k$29,489
Family Income $48k - $75k$32,527
Family Income $75k - $110k$36,217
Family Income $110k+$40,370