This article will list the top performing arts scholarships for college students in 2025. On top of that, we will give out a few important tips on how to secure one!
The U.S. News and World Report says that the average cost of tuition and fees at performing and visual arts colleges is about $51,400 per year. This doesn’t include other expenses like specialized training, private lessons, or the equipment/materials required for the program. On top of tuition, art students are estimated to spend an additional $3,000 to $5,000 each year for things like supplies, travel, and other related costs.
The good news? Scholarships exist for these specific challenges. Performing arts scholarships help you navigate your career dreams, putting financial burdens at a minimum. With the right scholarship, you can make your education more affordable and take full advantage of the opportunities in the performing arts field.
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Whether you dream of performing on Broadway, in a concert hall, or on the big screen, performing arts scholarships can support you to help make those dreams a reality.
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Types of Performing Arts Scholarships
Most people typically mention two types of scholarships: merit-based and need-based. However, if we take a closer look, there are actually many more ways to categorize them, and understanding these can raise your chances of winning one.
Scholarships can also be classified by who’s offering them, the specific students they aim to support, or the particular skills they want to encourage.
Merit-Based vs. Need-Based Scholarships
Let us start with the two main categories of scholarships you’ll come across:
- Merit-based scholarships focus on your talent or achievements in the performing arts. If you apply for them, you will be required to submit a portfolio or an audition tape to showcase your skills.
- Need-based scholarships are awarded to recipients based on financial need. If you’re struggling to cover the cost of your education, need-based scholarships can help close the gap between your resources and tuition fees. Often, you’ll need to submit documentation of your family’s financial situation.
College-Specific vs. Private Scholarships
- College-Specific Scholarships: A lot of universities have their own performing arts scholarships to bring in top talent. These are usually part of a bigger effort to recruit the best students, so you’ll want to check out the college’s website to see what options they have available.
- Private Scholarships: Many private organizations, foundations, and even individuals sponsor scholarships for performing arts students. These may be specific to a certain performing arts genre (like classical music or modern dance), or they may be broad enough to support a range of artistic disciplines.
Genre-Specific Scholarships
Genre-specific scholarships are specialized awards.
- Scholarships for Actors: These are for actors who shine in theatre, film, or TV. You’ll likely need to submit a monologue or a performance video to show off your range and skills.
- Scholarships for Dancers: There are also plenty of scholarships for dancers. You can find one for you, whether you’re into ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, or jazz. These scholarships often ask for a video of your best performance, along with a written statement about your artistic journey.
- Scholarships for Musicians: Musicians, vocalists, and composers can find scholarships that are focused specifically on their field. These may require an audition piece or a performance submission, depending on the nature of the scholarship.
Each genre-specific scholarship has its own set of criteria, and knowing which one to apply for can make all the difference in securing the financial support you need.
Top Performing Arts Scholarships for 2025
Scholarships for Actors
1. GRCF Grand Rapids Combined Theatre Scholarship
- Amount: $5,000
- Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Full-time Theater Arts majors at an accredited college/university in the U.S.Must have theatre experience at one of the local community theatres.Three letters of recommendation are required.
- Applications are open from December until the due date.
2. Iowa Scholarships for the Arts
- Amount: $3,000
- Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Applicants must be outstanding high school seniors from Iowa.
- Must be pursuing a future Arts education
- This scholarship is intended for students with a demonstrated passion and potential for the arts.
3. University of South Alabama/Drama Assistantships/Scholarships
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: May 1, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Open to students applying to the Drama program at the University of South Alabama.
- Applicants must demonstrate talent and commitment to studying Drama in college.
- Both assistantships and scholarships are available, offering financial support to qualified students.
4. Hope College Distinguished Artist Awards – Dance
- Amount: $12,000
- Deadline: March 2, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent in dance.
- This award is open to high school seniors and transfer students intending to enroll at Hope College.
- Auditions are required as part of the application process.
5. CBC Spouses Performing Arts Scholarship
- Amount: $5,000
- Deadline: March 15, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be a full-time Black scholar pursuing a degree in performing arts (drama, music, dance, opera, marching bands, or other musical ensembles)
- Open to undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree candidates in the performing arts.
6. Augustana College Rissing Scholarship for Future ELCA Church Leaders
- Amount: $20,000
- Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be pursuing a degree to become an ELCA church leader
- Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential as well as a commitment to Lutheran values.
7. Oregon Music Hall of Fame Scholarship
- Amount: $2,500
- Deadline: April 15, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be a graduating senior from an Oregon high school
- Must be pursuing a college degree in music
- Applicants should demonstrate personal achievement in musicianship.
General Performing Arts Financial Aid/Scholarships
8. Performing Arts Scholarship
- Amount: $50,000
- Deadline: May 26, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be a high school or undergraduate student
- Applicant should be pursuing a career in theater or performing arts.
- Financial status: Moderate-to-low-income
- Must be a resident of California
9. Hunter Dean Temple Art Scholarship
- Amount: $10,000
- Deadline: June 11, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be an undergraduate student
- Applicants should be passionate about art
- Must be a resident of North Carolina
10. Berklee Merit-Based Scholarships
- Amount: $80,864
- Deadline: June 30, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Open to students auditioning for Berklee College of Music
- Applicants must demonstrate strong talent in music, theater, or dance through auditions or previous performances.
How to Apply for Performing Arts Scholarships
As art college costs continue to rise, more students are vying for scholarships. While plenty of college scholarships for performing arts students are available, the competition can be tough.
There are different ways you can apply for performing arts scholarships. Your college might offer a general arts scholarship that covers both visual and performing arts, or there could be specific scholarships for students majoring in or focusing on performing arts. Another option is to check out performing arts associations, which often have their own scholarship opportunities.
Here’s a general roadmap on how to apply for performing arts scholarships:
The first step is to research scholarships so you can find ones that match your specific discipline and needs. Many scholarships will have an online application form, and you’ll likely need to submit the following:
- Audition Tape or Portfolio: This is often the most important part of your application. You must submit a video or performance piece showcasing your talent. For actors, this could be a recorded monologue; for dancers, a performance video; and musicians, a live or recorded performance.
- Personal Statement/Essay: You might have to explain why you’re a great fit for the scholarship as well. Make sure to highlight your dedication and goals. Explain how the scholarship can help you achieve those.
- Letters of Recommendation: You may need to submit 1-3 letters of recommendation from professionals who can vouch for your abilities and character. Choose recommenders who genuinely know you and your talent.
- Transcripts & GPA: Some scholarships may require you to submit your academic transcript. While performing arts scholarships focus more on talent, they may still want to see that you’re academically committed.
Creating a Standout Audition Tape or Portfolio
Submitting a standout portfolio and audition tape tips for scholarships has never been easier, thanks to better digital tools and the convenience of recording at home.
However, with more students submitting tapes than ever, it takes more effort to stand out:
Key Tips for a High-Quality Audition Tape
When recording your self-tape, focus on making it look professional. Clear video, crisp sound, and minimal distractions are key so casting directors can focus on your performance.
- Set up the right frame. Use a tripod and, if possible, a DSLR or your smartphone with the highest resolution setting. Frame your shot from chest to above your head, keeping your head and shoulders centered. Avoid cutting off your head, and keep the frame consistent throughout.
- Choose the right eye line. Don’t look directly at the camera—look slightly off to create a realistic scene. Make sure to stay consistent with your gaze throughout the performance.
- Pay attention to lighting. Invest in affordable lights like LED panels or ring lights. If you’re on a budget, set up a three-point lighting system: a bright key light for your face, a fill light to soften shadows, and a backlight to separate you from the background.
- Pick the right backdrop. Keep the backdrop simple. A plain wall or solid-colored fabric works best to avoid distractions and keep the focus on your performance.
Improving Your Portfolio
An audition tape is different from a portfolio. Think of it as a visual resume that underscores your journey, performance, and achievements professionally. Here are some tips to make sure your portfolio not only meets but exceeds the performing arts portfolio requirements:
- Passion & Dedication: Show you’re in it for the long haul, not just fame. Highlight your commitment through training, performance, and growth.
- Artistic Vision & Unique Perspective: Showcase what makes you stand out—your personal style and approach to acting.
- Quality Over Quantity: Choose your best work. A few strong examples are better than a lot of average ones.
- Professionalism & Presentation: Make your portfolio look sharp—high-quality photos, well-edited clips, and a neat resume.
- Growth & Development: Show how you’ve improved and taken on more challenging roles over time.
- Commitment to Education: Highlight any training, workshops, or classes to show you’re always learning and improving.
- Versatility: Demonstrate that you can take on different roles and styles—comedy, drama, film, voice acting, etc.
- Clear Goals & Intentions: Explain your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
Additional Financial Aid for Performing Arts Students
Grants and Fellowships
Look for grants and fellowships that support your field. For instance, the National Endowment for the Arts offers grants for both individual artists and organizations. These can help supplement your education and creative work.
Work-Study Opportunities
Many performing arts programs offer work-study options, where you can work part-time in exchange for financial aid. This could include working in a theater production, helping with backstage tasks, or teaching younger students.
Conclusion: Securing Scholarships to Fund Your Performing Arts Dream
Pursuing your dreams as an actor, dancer, or musician requires a big financial commitment. But remember, you don’t have to go it alone. The best scholarships for performing arts majors can provide you with the right financial support and recognition for your career!
An arts education can be costly, but there are plenty of scholarships to help you reach your goals. There are more resources out there than you might realize. You can apply for as many scholarships as you want, so take advantage of all the opportunities available.
With a little determination, you can make your artistic dreams a reality without getting buried in student loans.