<p>I'm entering grade 11 this upcoming fall, and I figured I should be starting my research for potential universities right about now. </p>
<p>I am hoping to get a BFA (or BA), for I would like to study acting at college, and preferably do some writing as well. I have already looked into the best theatre programs in the States. One thing that should be noted; I am Canadian. I've started building my resume by studying with Theatre Ontario, participating in the Young Playwrights' Unit at the Tarragon Theatre, and having my play performed at Luminato (an arts festival in Toronto) among other things. I also attend one of the more rigorous private schools in Toronto.</p>
<p>However, I do realize that applying to American schools is extremely competitive, and I do have a few concerns regarding this. First of all, do I stand a chance applying for programs at schools such as SUNY Purchase, Vassar, CMU, or Fordham? Or should I also consider conservatories such as AADA? And of course, the main issue that I am faced with-- finances. </p>
<p>Even if I were to qualify for such competitive and respected programs (as mentioned above), what kind of options would be feesible for a Canadian student such as myself?</p>
<p>Best of luck to you as you explore your options. A couple of things to consider. . . there are very good acting schools that have relatively lower costs (Purchase and University of Minnesota come to mind) without any additional financial aid – mid $20K per year. They are as you suggest very competitive and their lower costs make them very attractive. There are other schools that provide pretty generous scholarships (especially if your academics are strong) – Webster, Otterbein, Evansville and Illinois Wesleyan, for example). Explore this forum further since there are a couple of threads on costs and scholarships.</p>
<p>canada, welcome! My D, who actually has dual citizenship attended a U.S. college for a BFA in Drama. She double majored and had an interest to do so because she was, and continues to be, also a writer. The ability to double major is impossible at many BFAs and difficult at those where it is possible. The main reason that so many of her fellow classmates were able to do so at her school was due largely to the structure of the scheduling of her drama studio classes. </p>
<p>The question of where you would be competitive is something we can’t comment on without knowing a lot more about you. Your gpa, SAT scores, extra-curriculars, training, and artistic resume would all be considered. The fact that you’re Canadian will not matter, your academic and artistic factors will. Have you written the SATs yet? Please check the websites of the schools you’re interested in VERY closely and see what each one requires in terms of testing, so that if you haven’t already begun your testing, you will have enough time to complete it satisfactorily for each school.</p>
<p>As for finances, that is likely to be an issue for a Canadian. You will not be eligible for any of the U.S. government need-based financial aid. Many college BFA programs that do award scholarships do so on a basis which is largely based on need, although some still have some purely based merit scholarships based on academic stats. A few offer some $$ for talent awards but not as many as have in years past. For some schools, you will be required to provide substantial documentation that you will be able to afford to attend, prior to the student visa part of the process. So, yes, finances can definitely impact international students.</p>
<p>You’re starting early, which is great, and you’re on the right track with seeking advice. Spend some time reading through this, and the MT, forum and you’ll learn a tremendous amount. Congratulations on having your play performed at Luminato. I know one of the artistic producers there very well. It’s an excellent festival.</p>
<p>Alwaysamom- if you don’t mind me asking, what school did your D do her double major at? </p>
<p>And, unfortunately I haven’t taken my SATs yet, I’m planning on doing that this year. As for my GPA, we don’t do that in Canada as far as I know. I’ve tried doing some research as to how to calculate it, but nothing was really conclusive, possibly because of differences in the school systems. What I can tell you is that I have an 82% average, which I know isn’t great, but I’m really trying to buckle down this year and get it higher.</p>