<p>Do the top MT programs provide merit scholarships (e.g. based on talent and academics and that are not financial need based)? I am particularly interested in NYU, CM and Northwestern.</p>
<p>NYU and CMU have merit based scholarships. Northwestern does not (only has need based aid). A great many of the BFA in MT programs have merit aid, as well as need based aid. As you likely know, Northwestern is not a BFA program, though is a highly regarded BA theater program.</p>