Want to pursue theatre but not sure where to start? As with all applications for any type of school, drama school requires you to simply be you. You must put your best foot forward, but you must also answer the question: why do I want to go to drama school? And remember, drama school is not just for aspiring actors. You can pursue, acting, playwrighting, directing, and creative technologies at drama school!

As an aspiring actor, you must follow these basic steps for application:

Pre-Screen Most reputable drama schools require a pre-screen. This will typically be a video sent to your school of choice before you apply. The pre-screen shows off your talent and helps admissions offices determine if they want to further their consideration of your application. Colleges will decide who is worth inviting to auditions.
Online Application The CommonApplication is most widely used to apply to any school. See the Where Do I Apply? Module for more in-depth information regarding online application.
Essay/ Artistic Statement Most drama schools will ask you to write a 500 word artistic statement. This statement is meant to tell the admissions office who you are as an artist. You should share what engages your senses, what experience you bring to the table, and your creative vision for the future.
1. Many people tackle the artistic statement in two steps: Share your "why" and share the impact you'd like to make in the drama community.
Transcript Your transcript will most likely be included in the CommonApplication. They are required to show your academic rigor, no matter the school you are applying to.
Recommendations Typically you will submit 2-3 recommendations, one being from your high school counselor. For your recommendations, it is important to choose people/mentors that are familiar with your artistic endeavors. You should ask them to highlight your works, talent, and future potential. At Lewis-Palmer, recommendations are requested and sent through Naviance.
Prepare Your Portfolio Drama portfolios typically consist of the following:
1. A professional headshot (Acting Majors)
2. A one-page resume consisting of your theatrical experiences (Acting Majors)
3. An original play (Playwright Majors)
4. An essay describing your directing process with related materials from a recent production (Directing Majors)
5. An essay describing your creative process with examples of your creative work (Creative Technologies Majors)
Auditions/Interviews All applicants to the dramatic arts are required to audition or interview with a faculty member of their prospective college. An actor's interview will most likely take place at the same time as their audition and will most likely be asked to demonstrate a 1-minute theatrical monologue, although this can vary for each school. Check out the Rock The Interview! Module for preparation help.

Here are some resources that go further in-depth regarding the application process!

https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/how-to-apply-drama-school

https://www.newschool.edu/drama/how-to-apply-undergraduate/