<p>Hi guys-- I'm currently a senior looking forward to spring 2015 when I will be applying for MFA acting programs. My GPA is a 3.0. I have the acting experience with a couple professional works, and the works I've done at my university (UNT). This past spring both of my friends were undergrads and both were able to get in MFA programs right out of undergrad. So why is it people say, "You should wait, you should wait, don't apply right away!" Why should I wait? There's living testament of 6 of my friends who got into MFA programs straight out of undergrad. schools such as, Depaul, New School, NYU, Scotland conservatory, and Pace Acting studio.</p>
<p>Should I wait a year? Should I apply right away? Or should I just ignore MFA programs and choose a different path? I know it's going to come down to MY decision. I would just like to hear some stories of my fellow actors processes if you guys don't mind sharing. :)</p>
<p>The short answer: Your chances of getting into a <em>good</em> MFA program are much higher if you wait and get training and experience; and your life experience will help you have a better experience once accepted.</p>
<p>Yes, of course, there are always exceptions. There are people who graduate college at 11. Does that mean that this is a viable plan for most people? Occasionally, some people get into MFA programs immediately on graduation not only through talent (that’s a given) but through being in the right place at the right time–they are the exact type the MFA program happened to be looking for that year. That is luck and cannot be relied on.</p>
<p>The MFA programs you list vary in reputation, type, approach to training, and cost. If your goal is to get into any MFA program at all, you may well be able to get into one immediately after graduation. That’s like having a goal of getting into any undergrad program at all without trying to figure out if it is best for you, or without even really knowing what’s out there. Experience in the acting world - doing internships, shows, etc - will help you determine what is the right fit for you.</p>
<p>Why do you want an MFA? Also, make sure you’re aware of cost. Some MFA programs are full ride, and others can be prohibitively expensive, to the point of having to take out $100,000’s in loans, which can be a bad choice. </p>
<p>You can go ahead and audition if you want, but again, your chances increase quite a bit with more experience under your belt. It’s up to you, but personally I’d strongly advise someone to wait a couple of years to apply, since you will then not only have more experience to increase your odds, but you’ll have more wisdom to help determine which program is right for you and why (and if indeed you need the program at all). </p>