The rest of the app package (tests, ECs...)

College Majors Musical Theater Major
1

<p>So here we are in spring of junior year. Kiddo is making up her lists of schools...hopefully well-rounded. We have the great college tour road trip scheduled for spring break. She's studying and working hard in voice, piano, dance, acting...oh yeah -- and high school, too. I know some colleges place more weight on academic acceptance than others, and the ability to receive academic/talent $$$s will be a fairly critical aspect of my daughter's ability to attend college. (Know the talent dollars are few and far between, and that several schools do some automatic scholarships at certain score/grade thresholds....)</p>

<p>So...what about the application package (other than the audition...which one prepares for like mad...and then it's out of your hands) is important to help a kid stand out? She's taken SATs, and the odds are decent she'll have a shot as a National Merit Semi or Finalist based on test scores (know there are other criteria yet to meet). She will take ACTs in June. Has a good GPA (around 4.3 weighted, 3.86 unweighted), is doing AP courses. Is trying to fit in those ECs (around dance class, rehearsals...). She has done/will do summer programs to "test the waters" in a bigger pool. Her guidance counsellor (whose son is at CCM in Drama) said she does not need to do SAT subject tests....have others done the subject tests? (She's pretty firm on wanting a BFA program or BA that's really MT-based, would like a dance minor if possible). </p>

<p>So...while there is still time to test, to add more to the "package"....what is needed? I'm really curious about the need (or not need) for the SAT subject tests, as well as how kids are able to show they are fantastic, well-trained performers, excellent students....just what X college wants in their program!!</p>

2

<p>I would have her take 2 or 3 subject tests in May/June. While not required for most MT programs (UCLA a noted exception), doing well will only help her chances of getting scholarship money. With score choice, there is really no downside these days anyway. Having some subject tests in the 700’s can’t help but add to your D’s app.</p>

<p>We were in the same position you are this time last year. D took 3 tests in a single sitting (not recommended!) which enabled her to apply to UCLA for Theater-MT where she has recently been accepted. In addition, she just received a huge scholarship package from another school. While she has comparable SAT scores to your D, I can’t help but think her high subject test scores gave her an added boost. I would definitely recommend taking the subject tests.</p>

3

<p>Along with UCLA, Northwestern requires three subject tests (last time I looked), if she’s interested.</p>

4

<p>Of course, I forgot to mention NYU as well. They have totally changed their testing requirements. In the past, audition-based majors for Tisch and Steinhardt were exempted from SAT subject tests. Now you have to satisfy one of the many permutations and combinations of standardized tests listed on their website. In short, if your D tests well, the additional subject tests only increase both her options and her appeal to the more academic programs.</p>

5

<p>I would definitely have her take some of the subject tests. A lot can change between now and application time next year and she may decide she does want to apply to some of the MT Ba programs that require those tests. She may end up not needing them, but I think it is better to leave all avenues open.</p>