@sbc I do think that schools–all of them–can be that secretive and will make offers/ hold spots. And not just in the MT world.
I just think that’s how the world works.
For my family, personally, we were incredibly lucky to chose to do a MT summer program that offered talent spots to about 10 kids who impressed them. D was one of them, so she didn’t need to audition and only needed an academic acceptance. That was in place by September of Senior year. I don’t believe that school is doing that now officially, but I’m sure students from the summer that they like and know are prioritized.
Younger D got a special interview with the director’s of admissions with a top ranked liberal arts college, because someone who works with my husband was a roommate of the director’s son.
We did not expect or plan for either of these advantages, but certainly took advantage of them when they came out way!
The lesson I got was that networking is important. So many times you won’t have connections, but it’s a good thing to be aware of. And in the world of casting and gaining employment in general, it’s an essential skill.
Hard Work and talent is still necessary. But getting a foot in the door first is part of being successful.