University of South Carolina - Columbia
Test-OptionalGreek Life
Select Program
Program Characteristics
No Prescreen
Audition Required
No Interview
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required
Program Highlights
PROGRAM
•Bachelor of Music in Performance for voice offered through the USC School of Music
•Nationally recognized School of Music with reputation for artistic excellence
TRAINING & PERFORMANCE
•Performance opportunities include recitals, choral ensembles, chamber groups, opera scenes, and fully staged productions
•Opera at USC features productions with undergraduates in principal roles
•In Schools Opera Educational Outreach program connects with Midlands communities
•Six choral ensembles with active performance schedules and international touring
FACULTY
•Voice faculty with wide range of professional experience including NYC Philharmonic, Washington Opera, and international venues
GRADUATE PATHWAYS
•Prepares for MM or DMA programs in graduate school
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atCommon App
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Early ActionOct 15, 2025
Regular DecisionDec 1, 2025
Fee
$65Waiver
Program AppApplication
Auditions
School of Music Audition Day (all areas)Dec 6, 2025
School of Music Audition Day (except Jazz, Music Industry Studies, Viola)Jan 24, 2026
School of Music Audition Day (all areas)Jan 31, 2026
School of Music Audition Day — Final (all areas)Feb 14, 2026
Audition Requirements
Songs
THREE MEMORIZED SELECTIONS in contrasting style
•Examples: selections from "Twenty-Four Italian Songs and Arias" or "The First/Second Book of SATB Solos" compiled by Joan Boytim
•One music theater piece is also permissible
•One selection must be in a foreign language
•No pop songs allowed
ACCOMPANIMENT
•Staff pianist provided on audition day
•No a cappella (unaccompanied) singing allowed
•Must provide staff pianist with sheet music at time of audition
SKILLS ASSESSMENT
•Aural skills will be tested
•Sight-singing will be tested
Good to Know
APPLICATION PROCESS
•Submit university application to USC first
•Complete the Music Application (opens September, accessible 24 hours after university app submission)
•Register for audition date via the Academics tab in the USC Admissions portal
•Register as soon as possible — do not wait for USC acceptance before registering
ELIGIBILITY
•Fall enrollment only
•Transfer students must audition by February 14 for fall music admission and scholarships
•Music minors not required to audition unless seeking scholarships or private study credit
What's The Process
AUDITION FORMAT
•In-person auditions at the USC School of Music
•Audition day features open house with Q&A, tours, and student interactions
•Opportunity to meet faculty and current students
VIRTUAL EXCEPTION
•Applicants living 500+ miles from Columbia, SC with extenuating circumstances may request a video audition
•Requests must be sent to Associate Director Jennifer Mitchell at jmitchell@mozart.sc.edu
•In-person audition is strongly preferred
CONTACT
•Auditions: Jennifer Mitchell, jmitchell@mozart.sc.edu, 803-777-4281
•Enrollment: Jennifer Jablonski, jjablonski@mozart.sc.edu, 803-777-6614
Scholarship Info
MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS
•All auditions serve as both admission and scholarship auditions
•All applicants automatically reviewed for available USC music scholarships
•May complete an audition on a secondary instrument for additional scholarship consideration
Program info updated Today
Academic School Information
3.69
Avg GPA (W)
61%
Admit Rate
78%
Grad Rate
28,113
Enrollment
$62,177
Earnings
10yr after
In-State Tuition
$12,688
before aid
Out-of-State Tuition
$34,934
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$24,532
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$14,421
Family Income $30k - $48k$17,602
Family Income $48k - $75k$22,744
Family Income $75k - $110k$26,936
Family Income $110k+$29,493
