Hi! I’m a transfer student from a 2 year community college and a hopeful acting major (preferably with a BFA) who’s searching for schools with good programs. The number of schools out there is overwhelming and I’m having trouble knowing where to start! I’ve looked at bunches online but it’s hard to tell how good the school is just from the website and there’s no way to email/call them all. I understand that this is a difficult and timely process and that different schools fit different needs based on the person applying. But, are there any tricks or resources out there that will help me separate the schools with great programs from the ones that aren’t so great?
I think there are many ways to approach this. If you know you want a specific type of program (they vary by number of studio hours, curriculum and academic requirements) you can start making a list of schools that meet those specifications. If you are not sure I would read a few 4 year curriculums and also download the actual courses students take to see what interests you most. You can also narrow by geographic location or size of school if that matters. This board is a wealth of knowledge. The “top” programs are open to discussion and each person may have different schools listed. There are also many that never appear in the “top” lists that could be the perfect school for
You. A well rounded list is key because even the schools not at the “top” are very competitive. Many programs admit less than 10% of auditioners. The most selective may admit 1% or less. Not to scare you - just keeping it real.
My daughter starts this fall and there are a few kids transferring in from other schools that will be In Her class So it does happen.
Also check out what each schools policy for transfers are for a BFA. most programs are
4 years and transfers enter as a first year
Check out the Musical Theatre Forum. There is a list of schools at the top as well as a “Big List” of schools thread that is pinned. Most also have an Acting or Theatre major. Not all are BFA, but as BFAhopeful noted, check out the curriculum for each school that appeals to you.
Here are other things to think about:
- Is there a geographic region you prefer? Are you looking for a traditional campus experience - or something in a major city?
2, What are your finances going to be like? Do you need aide? Since you are applying as a transfer, you may not be eligible for “freshman” packages at many schools. - Do you want a big school or a small school? Many/most BFA programs are fairly small, even inside a big school - but the overall experience can still be important.
Once you have some of these things narrowed down- the number of schools can become more managable