Applications and Auditions

How can I find out about an application and audition for The Juilliard School?

To access our online application and complete instructions, please go to the Program Information and Application Requirements page in the Admissions section of our Web site.

Since there are different requirements for the various departments, it is important to carefully review the requirements for the area to which you intend to apply. Auditions are never scheduled until completed applications are received and reviewed. In the Music Division, many instruments have pre-screening procedures before auditions are granted. Students are only accepted for entrance in the fall, so there is only one application and audition cycle each year.

Do I need advanced training in order to apply?

Yes. The Juilliard School is a conservatory offering pre-professional training in its programs for music, dance and drama, with a highly competitive applicant pool. Only about 8 percent of our applicants are accepted (it may be more or less for an individual program); therefore, only those students who are best qualified to fill our limited spaces will be admitted. As is the case for many other colleges with competitive admissions processes, some talented and deserving students who would undoubtedly benefit from our training will not be offered a place as a result of our limited openings.

What are the Admissions dates and deadlines?

The application becomes available September 1 and is due December 1 for most programs. The Artist Diploma in Opera Studies application is due November 1. Playwriting applications are due January 15. For information about when auditions will take place, please refer to the entrance audition requirements portion of our Web site specific to the program to which you are applying. Unfortunately, The Juilliard School does not offer spring admission.

Are there specific courses that I should be taking or standardized test scores that are required in order to qualify?

Although The Juilliard School does carefully evaluate the transcripts and diplomas earned by applicants, there are no specific courses, GPAs, or class rank required. Transcripts are reviewed to determine the general background of an applicant and essays are required to help evaluate the intellectual and scholastic aptitude of prospective students. We do not require any standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT. The greatest importance is placed on the required audition in which the student performs in front of Juilliard faculty

Do I have to know someone, a teacher or administrator, in order to get admitted?

Absolutely not. One reason the audition process is so rigorous is to ensure that every applicant will be heard or seen in virtually identical settings. Auditions are attended by the faculty artists of each department or musical area. Decisions are reached by consensus of the entire department, not by the wishes of individual teachers. In fact, students are welcome to visit and/or tour the School before the audition in order to gain the greatest understanding of the opportunities available at Juilliard.

Can I major in two divisions such as Music and Drama?

No. Although a musician may qualify to major in more than one instrument if an application and audition is approved in each area, the curricular demands of each division (Music, Dance, Drama) do not allow for multiple interdisciplinary majors.

Does Juilliard provide career counseling?

Yes, Juilliard has an excellent Office of Career Services. An advisor will meet individually with students and help them assess long-term career goals. Helping students build careers with jobs that utilize strengths, interests, personality, long-term goals, values, and desired lifestyle is the goal of career development. Placement services will act as a general clearinghouse for immediate employment opportunities for students who seek temporary employment while in school or following graduation.

Does The Juilliard School offer part-time classes?

No, not within the College Division. The Juilliard School College Division programs are all full-time degree or diploma programs. Juilliard does have a Saturday Pre-College program for advanced students from ages 8-18 and an Evening Division for adult students who wish to take a courses in the evening. These courses do not reflect the full-time curriculum and are not designed to prepare students for the full-time conservatory program.

Are admissions requirements different for home-schooled students?

The Juilliard School recognizes home schooling as a viable educational alternative; however, there are important and explicit regulations governing acceptable documentation. Home-schooled applicants are expected to complete the  Home Schooling Information Form on the online application. This information should include the submission of a full outline of the curriculum by subject, including textbooks for each course; assessment procedures and grades; and evidence of official recognition by the school district and/or state department of education. Juilliard reserves the right to rescind admission to any applicant whose file documentation is deemed insufficient and/or incomplete

What is your policy on the submission of supplemental materials including CDs?

We request that the submission of supplemental materials be submitted in accordance with the mailing instructions on the online application. Discs must be labeled appropriately.

Does Juilliard have a minimum GPA?

Although The Juilliard School does carefully evaluate the transcripts and diplomas earned by applicants, there are no specific courses, GPAs, or class rank required. Transcripts are reviewed to ascertain scholastic competence sufficient to succeed in course work at the college level, and an essay is required to help evaluate the intellectual and scholastic aptitude of prospective students. Although greatest importance is placed on the required audition in which the student performs in front of Juilliard faculty, these other elements of the application are critical in evaluation for admission

Visiting Juilliard

How do I arrange a campus tour?

Tours are given once a day at 11:45 Monday through Friday during the school year and Monday through Thursday during the summer months. Reservations are necessary and can be made roughly a month in advance. This can be done through our online tour calendar. If you are unable to secure a place on the tour, you are welcome to stop by the admissions office to pick up literature. Please be aware that the school is closed to visitors unless they are on a scheduled tour.

Do I need to make an appointment to attend a tour?

Yes, appointments are necessary as there is a limited amount of space on tours of The Juilliard School.

What will I see on the tour?

Visitors on the scheduled tour will see: recital space, practice rooms, dance studios, the drama theater, classrooms, a residence hall room, and will be walked through the Juilliard building.

Does Juilliard attend College Fairs off campus?

Yes, Juilliard does attend college fairs throughout the US. Please refer to our Web site for a complete list of the college fairs where a Juilliard admissions representative will be present.

How do I arrange to have a prospective student lesson/class visit?

For Music Students: If you are interested in having a prospective student lesson with one of our faculty members, we suggest that you visit our Web site and read our faculty members’ biographies . The Office of Admissions is permitted to give contact information for the purpose of setting up lessons for no more than two different faculty members per prospective student. Please select the faculty members you wish to contact carefully and then feel free to contact admissions (212.799.500 ext 223, admissions@juilliard.edu). Please be aware that our faculty members have demanding schedules which includes their teaching schedule and professional careers. We appreciate your understanding and patience. Rates are determined by faculty members.

For Dance Students: Regularly scheduled dance technique classes may be open to observation by advance appointment only. Please contact the Dance Admissions Coordinator at 212.799.5000 extension 506 to ask about the possibility of observing class. Please note, guests are not permitted to participate in class. Due to various limitations we ask that class observation requests be limited to students who are planning to apply to the college Dance Division or Summer Dance Intensive within the next two years (i.e. prospective students ages 13 and up). Parents, guardians, or dance teachers are welcome to accompany prospective students during the class observation.

For Drama Students: Due to the nature of the Drama Division curriculum and class structure, it is not possible for guests to observe classes. However we welcome prospective students to attend Drama Division performances. Please contact the Drama Division at 212.799.5000 extension 251 to ask about performances that are open to the public. Drama Division performances are free of charge but do require advance tickets/reservations.

Do I need to schedule an interview with an admissions representative?

No. The Juilliard School does not require interviews for admission, except when part of the audition callback process (please refer to the entrance audition requirements for the program to which you plan on applying). If you have questions about a program or the school in general, you are welcome to contact the Office of Admissions at 212.799.5000 extension 223 or admissions@juilliard.edu, and/or make an appointment to meet with a representative in your area of interest.

Financial Aid

How do I apply for financial aid?
After you have submitted your Application for Admission, you will need to also complete a financial aid application by March 1. The financial aid application consists of three components:

1. Complete the Juilliard Financial Aid Application online or print and send the PDF of the Juilliard Financial Aid Application. The online application is available in late January to applicants who submit an online Application for Admission.
2. U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. International students, submit the International Student Supplement (found in the Juilliard Financial Aid application).
3. Send us signed copies of your and your parents’ 2009 federal tax forms. If you are not required to file, send us a signed statement to that effect including any W2 or 1099 forms. If you live in a country without tax forms, send an official salary document from your employer.

What can I do to make sure I receive enough financial aid?
Fill out the forms accurately and on time, and contact the financial aid office if you have any questions. In addition, many community and religious organizations sponsor scholarship programs. You should research these thoroughly, especially during the junior and/or senior year of high school. Check with your high school guidance counselor regarding application procedures.

Will I qualify for scholarship?
Because scholarship decisions are made on the basis of financial need and artistic merit, it is not possible to determine eligibility until admission procedures are completed and all financial aid applications received.

Are international students eligible for financial assistance?
Yes! While international students are not eligible for U.S. government assistance, they can apply for Juilliard scholarship, alternative loans, and work-study. When filling out the Juilliard Financial Aid Application, be sure also to complete the International Student Supplement.

When should I begin the financial aid application process?
All applications and supporting documents for incoming students should be received by March 1. That means that you should prepare your tax information in February, if possible. FAFSA filers should also apply for a PIN and file the FAFSA a few weeks in advance of the March 1 deadline to ensure timely processing by the Department of Education.

What if I don't have my tax information available?
You can use estimates while filing the FAFSA, but it's important to correct these figures as soon as possible to get a financial aid award package that is accurate. As always, we encourage you to contact our office if this will be a concern.

I don't think I'll qualify for any need-based financial aid. Can I just apply for a merit scholarship? 
Because our decisions are based on both financial need and merit combined, all forms must be completed to be considered for scholarship. The Juilliard School does not award merit-only scholarships.

Can I expect the same financial aid award each year?
Students must reapply for financial aid each year. Juilliard scholarships are generally renewable, pending availability of funding. Federal aid, such as Stafford loans and Pell grants, are based on the prior year tax form information and so are subject to change. Stafford loan eligibility will increased based on grade level. Finally, because some forms of aid are limited, such as the Perkins loan and FSEOG grant, late applicants may be denied these funds.

Campus Life

Do I have to attend orientation?
Yes, orientation is required of all new students.

What happens during new student orientation and registration?
Orientation is an opportunity for new students to meet each other as well as staff, faculty members, and returning student leaders. During this time, new students become acquainted with Juilliard and New York City. Workshops and presentations address topics such as safety, diversity, health, financial aid, and student life at Juilliard. Evening socials and outings throughout the 5 boroughs of New York City allow new students to familiarize themselves with our public transportation system and different neighborhoods. Students also take placement exams, register for courses, and attend departmental meetings.

What extracurricular activities are available within the Juilliard community?
The Office of Student Affairs works with students to maintain a calendar of events that range from social dances to alcohol awareness events and cultural heritage celebrations. Students also have the opportunity to hold student leadership positions.

What clubs and organizations are available at Juilliard?
There are a variety of student-run organizations at Juilliard relating to community service, spirituality, non-classical music and other forms of art. Students may start an organization of shared interest by completing a registration process and providing a mission statement to the Office of Student Affairs. These organizations are also responsible for handling membership, submitting a budget proposal, and the name of a staff advisor. Students also have the opportunity to become involved in Juilliard Student Council.

Residence Life

What are the general living arrangements in the residence hall?
Juilliard students are housed in suites in the residence hall. Each suite consists of:

• Five bedrooms (three doubles and two singles)
• 2-1/2 bathrooms
• A large living room

The double rooms are equipped with:

• Two loft beds
• Two desks with bookshelf and study lamp attachments
• Two three-drawer chests with a two-shelf cabinet attachment
• A small closet for each resident

The single room is equipped with the same furnishings, except the bed has no loft.

How is my roommate determined?
Upon acceptance to The Juilliard School, you will be sent a housing application which asks very specific questions about your interests, habits, and lifestyle, and the attributes you feel are important in your roommate. The School reviews this information carefully in order to match you with a compatible roommate.

An effort is made to house first-time college students together. Once your roommate assignment has been made, you will be given the individual's name, address, and telephone number so that you can contact him or her prior to your arrival.

As a Juilliard student, am I required to live in the residence hall?
All first-time college students are required to live in the residence hall. However, on-campus housing is not guaranteed for all four years.

Are there practice areas in the residence hall?
Most floors are equipped with two soundproof practice rooms containing Steinway L pianos.

What other types of facilities and services are available in the residence hall?
The lobby floor of the residence hall contains:

• A lounge area (with color television and a billiard table)
• A community kitchen
• Vending machines
• A quiet study lounge
• A laundry room

A fitness center is located on the 22^nd floor in the Residence Hall. A 24 hour computer lab is located on the 19^th floor. A cable television and a campus phone are provided in each suite. Students may arrange for individual phone service in their rooms.

Is the residence hall a safe and secure place?
The Juilliard residence hall is located in one of the most desirable Manhattan neighborhoods. Lincoln Center security personnel screen visitors at the building entrances 24 hours a day. An electronic surveillance system is employed at the entry of the residence hall, and no one may enter the hall without an access card.

What about meals for resident students?
The total cost of on-campus living includes a meal plan. Resident students may choose one of three meal plan options. These allow resident students the flexibility of choosing the meal plan that best suits their individual eating habits and daily/weekly schedules. The cafeteria is located on the plaza level of the building that houses the residence hall.

Are single rooms available for new students?
First-time college students are always assigned to a double room. A new student with a documented disability should request special accommodations.

Can you suggest some items that I should take with me?
Be sure to bring linens and a pillow for your bed; twin-size, extra-long sheets will fit perfectly. Also bring towels and a laundry bag/basket. Stereos, televisions, computers, and wall hangings are optional. You can rent refrigerators through the Office of Residence Life, or you may bring your own.

Health and Counseling Services

Who can use Health and Counseling Services?
Any full-time student or intern enrolled at Juilliard is entitled to use the services available through Student Health Services.

What about health insurance?
The student insurance covers accident and sickness only. It does not cover eye care or dental care. All full-time students and interns are covered by the basic plan as part of their tuition. If a student does not have sufficient outside coverage, he or she may also be covered by a supplemental policy, which is mailed to each student directly.

What happens if I have a medical emergency?
If you have an emergency on the campus during office hours, you will be seen and treated immediately. If necessary, you may be referred to the nearest hospital emergency room.

International Students

What type of visa do I need in order to study in the United States?
International students will need either an F-1 visa or a J-1 visa.

How do I obtain an F-1 visa?
You will need to first obtain Form I-20 (or Form DS-2019 for J-1 visa) from the International Advisement Office at Juilliard. You will then submit to the American Embassy/Consulate nearest you, your I-20 (or DS-2019) with a visa application form and fee, a valid passport, evidence of sufficient funds, Juilliard acceptance letter, and two passport-size photographs. Note that visa application procedures vary slightly from country to country. Please visit the United States Department of State web site for the most updated information.

What are Forms I-20 and DS-2019?
Form I-20 is a 'Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status' Form DS-2019 is a 'Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status'. To obtain one, you will need to complete and submit the following information:

• Certification of Finances (COF)
  This is a form Juilliard uses to collect information on your sources of funding. Students must prove they have funds readily available to meet all expenses for the first year of study, and that adequate funds will be available for each subsequent year of study. Students must have the COF form notarized and attach supporting financial documents.
• Request for I-20 or DS-2019 form.
• A transfer form (for those who have attended a school in the United States).

As an international student, can I work in the U. S.?
You are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week when school is in session. Students who have been in F-1 status at Juilliard for at least one full academic year are eligible to work off-campus. Written work authorization is required before you start an off-campus job.

How can I find housing in New York City?
International students may apply for on-campus housing through the School's Office of Residence Life. You may also consider International House (I-House) as an alternative. I-House is located near Columbia University and is just 10 to 15 minutes from Juilliard by subway. For detailed information, contact I-House at (212) 316-8436 or visit its Web site at www.ihouse-nyc.org.