Theater Application Requirements

Prospective students must complete the admissions application requirements and the program audition or portfolio requirements to be considered for admission

Audition and Interview Guidelines

It is the responsibility of applicants to schedule an audition or interview. Auditions and interviews are held on selected dates on the CalArts campus and in select U.S. cities.

Audition and Interview Schedule

Portfolio Guidelines

Prospective students applying to the Directing, Writing for Performance, Management Programs and Programs in Design and Production are asked to submit portfolios prior to interview. Once the portfolio is reviewed applicants may be contacted to schedule an interview appointment.

BFA applicants for the Programs in Design and Production will begin the first year in a general art foundation structure which will look at the whole of design while preparing the student to subsequently specialize in a chosen area of interest. The portfolio submissions should reflect your primary areas of interest and artistic strength. Students interested in the Management Program should see the Management Program portfolio instructions.

Prospective students applying to the Programs in Design and
Production (scenic, costume, lighting, video, sound, and technical direction) must bring submit portfolio materials to our online portfolio site, and bring portfolio materials to an in-person interview. Students who are unable to attend an in-person interview may scheduled a phone or video interview.

Prospective students applying to Directing, Writing for Performance, and Management must submit a physical portfolio through the mail. Please include a completed Portfolio Information Form with each mailed portfolio package. Address your portfolio to the Office of Admissions at CalArts using the Portfolio Mailing Label. Do not send your portfolio directly to the School of Theater. Doing so will cause a delay in the review of your work. See the individual programs for specific requirements.