Admission to the B.F.A. in Theatre or Musical Theatre

This page contains important information about Admission to the B.F.A. Theatre and Musical Theatre programs in the University Theatre program, including YSU and University Theatre Admissions Procedures, Audition Requirements, Scholarships, and Financial Aid. NOTE: Admittance to the B.A. Theatre Studies and B.A. Film/Video programs does not require an audition.

Students who wish to pursue the B.F.A. in Theatre or Musical Theatre must successfully complete an audition. Students not qualifying for the standard course of study may take preparatory work until sufficiently prepared.

Procedures

1. Prospective students must apply to Youngstown State University in addition to auditioning for the B.F.A Theatre or Musical Theatre programs. Apply online or call our Admissions Office toll free at (877) 468-6978 (877-GO-TO-YSU) or local (330) 941-2000 to request an application.
2. Send an official high school transcript to the YSU Admissions Office.

Spring 2024 Audition Dates

• Saturday, January 27, 2024 | 8:30 AM
• Saturday, February 17, 2024 | 8:30 AM
• Saturday, February 24, 2024 | 8:30 AM

1. Once you complete your YSU Application and are admitted to the University, follow the directions below to schedule your audition.
2. To schedule an audition, click the link below. To be eligible for theatre scholarship consideration, all forms and information must be completed prior to acceptance into the B.F.A Theatre or Musical Theatre programs.

If you are unable to audition on one of the days listed above, or to schedule a virtual audition, contact the Cliffe College Program Coordinator of Admissions and Recruitment at sawaltman@ysu.edu or 330-941-2346 to schedule an alternative date or receive information about the virtual audition process.

Auditions will be accepted after February 24, 2024, but applications received prior to February 24 will receive full consideration for a Theatre program scholarship.

Audition Requirements

The audition should include a performance of material that best highlights your ability. Within two weeks of the audition date, students will be notified of the results of their audition.

B.F.A. Musical Theatre

1. 2 songs in contrasting styles
2. 2 acting monologues of approximately 1-minute in length

B.F.A. Theatre

1. Two acting monologues of 1-2 minutes in length
2. One-page performance resume to include performance experience, training, and classes

What to bring (all students)

1. A headshot
2. Your résumé
3. If you plan to sing, bring a printed copy of your music in a binder
4. An accompanist is desirable but not required
5. If you need backing tracks, bring a Bluetooth speaker (if you don't have one, we will provide one for you)
6. Additional important information is provided in the video below

Scholarships

Performance-based scholarships are granted on a competitive basis. Auditions for entrance into the B.F.A Theatre and Musical Theatre programs and for scholarship purposes occur at the same time (one audition suffices for program admission and scholarship consideration). If you wish to be considered for a scholarship, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which may be found on the YSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships website. In addition to University Theatre scholarships, YSU offers awards based on academic achievement and financial need.

Financial Aid

The University participates in a variety of loan programs. Those needing financial aid should contact the YSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.