<p>Start Your Search As Early As Possible.</p>
<p>For students studying the performing or studio arts begin your research as early as possible. Most guidance departments are not geared towards steering students to the right schools in these areas based on a student's needs and strengths or career goals.</p>
<p>HS subject area teachers, ensemble directors, private instructors are often a better source of available schools, applied faculty options, strength and type of program. Learn how to network, develop potential sources of info from among peer group, alums who have gone that route, friends, extended family with professional backgrounds or first hand experience.</p>
<p>Know that audition and other talent based submission programs cover a wide range of competitiveness. Level of prep is directly related to the talent pool range of peer group applying. Know if the program is audtioned based, how and if academic record weighs on decisions. </p>
<p>Your deadlines are often earlier than the standard application process, and may require prescreening materials.</p>
<p>A couple or three objective professional assessments of your skill level, talent and growth potential should be prime factors in considering this type of path. Know your options, and be ready to exercise them.</p>
<p>Here are some good advice threads:</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>