Applications and Audition Guidelines (BFA)
All applicants must submit their materials via our online portal: address with link.
An audition is required of all applicants to the BFA Program in Dance. Live auditions are strongly recommended!
Artist Statement
An artist statement is a pivotal part of the application process. It provides faculty the opportunity to get to know your authentic and creative self. Be succinct, be real, and answer the following questions (one paragraph minimum per question):
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What is most important to you as a person and as a dancer, and why?
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What are your artistic and personal goals?
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Why are you applying to the BFA in Dance Program at CalArts?
Audition Requirements
The live audition will consist of more than one dance technique. There is also a creative component to the audition. Audition attire should consist of form-fitting dancewear. Be prepared to dance barefoot, in ballet slippers, and in sneakers. There is no clothing color requirement for the audition. Individual solos are not required.
Applicants who are not able to schedule a live audition may submit video auditions using our online portfolio submission system in the CalArts Application. Recorded auditions must include the following:
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Three ballet exercises: adage, petit allegro, and grand allegro.
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A contemporary phrase of movement that travels across the floor and incorporates jumps, turns and floor work.
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A solo in any dance genre choreographed and performed by the applicant, highlighting individual creativity and performance.
Note: Once a portfolio is uploaded, it can be viewed and rearranged until the final submission is made. No changes can be made following the final submission of your portfolio. There is a fee for each portfolio submission made through the online system. Be sure to submit the portfolio to the correct degree level and program.
BFA Transfer Audition Requirements
An audition is required for all BFA transfer applicants. See the audition guidelines for the BFA program above for information. BFA transfer applicants wishing to be considered for advanced placement are also required to submit an online portfolio with two complete works (no excerpts): one choreographic work and one performance work.