Accordion
Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the BFA Dance program, faculty, facilities, curriculum, and student work.
You cannot make any changes to your application after it has been submitted.
Create an account to begin the application process. This is where you’ll complete each step in the application and receive updates on your application status. Add your personal background and academic history.
Approximately 10 BFA audition events are held each year from October through February. Auditions and interviews are held on the CalArts campus and in select US cities. Please see the audition schedule for more information.
An audition is required of all applicants to the BFA Program in Dance. Live auditions are strongly recommended!
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:
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.
If you experience technical difficulties while uploading your portfolio, please email admissions@calarts.edu.
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):
Applicants should upload their resume as a part of the online application.
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.