If it’s a BFA program, the point is to decide whether or not to accept you into their program. Most BFAs are very small and will take a very low number of students. Crazy compeitive. These programs are for those planning on professional theater careers. Very common for BFA candidates to be accepted to the school, even with an academic scholarship but not awarded entrance into the MT or T program. I think the process is crazy. Be nice if they let you audition first to determine if you even want to apply. D currently has been accepted into several schools with significant academic scholarships but only a few will even pass her prescreen…but she had to apply and pay the fees (oh yeah - I guess that’s the point - fees!)
If it is a BA program, most don’t require auditions. Some will in order to evaluate you and see if you are artistic scholarship worthy. There are some BA programs with very good theater programs. These should not be ignored, even for the ones who want a professional career.
Hope this helps.