<p>For applying as a music performance major in Steinhardt, are GPA and SAT/ACT/AP scores important factors, or is the audition what matters most? I have a GPA of 3.1 which is very low for NYU standards, but I'm interested in applying to Steinhardt.</p>
<p>My D got in with a 3.4 GPA and 1190/1600 and 1850/2400 SAT -- low for NYU -- and a very good audition. The audition committee asked her about her GPA and SAT scores after she played; then after the audition one member came out and started selling her (very effectively) on coming to NYU.</p>
<p>I think it's the same deal at all universities with music schools: the music school / department makes a recommendation to university admissions based on the audition; but it's up to university admissions to make an offer. My D also had a very good audition at Northwestern and, based on hearing the competition in the practice rooms, thought she would get in. But she didn't and I imagine her app was nixed by Northwestern's university admissions. Another factor, I think, is how much the music folks want to fight for you. </p>
<p>So, low GPA and SAT can pose a problem, but a real good audition can overcome that problem. I'd suggest that you still do what you can to raise your GPA and get your SAT as high as you can. It could help.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Thank you, hkstrpd. :)</p>
<p>Did she choose to go to NYU, then?</p>
<p>Yes, she's going to NYU and is very excited. It ended up being her top choice after the audition / visiting process. The chamber music and non-classical performance opportunities, including collaborations with film and musical theater within NYU and the whole genre-busting new music scene in NYC really sold her. And she's interested in doing a minor in record producing in Tisch. So, for someone who's not set on a classical music career track, but still values classical music training as a foundation, NYU impressed us both.</p>