First-Year Applicants

November 1, 2025
Deadline to submit the Common Application.

Application deadline:
November 1, 2025

First-year fall semester applicants who submit the Common Application and transcripts by November 1 are automatically considered for the University’s Presidential, Provost, and Deans’ scholarships.

January 15, 2026
Deadline to submit the Common Application for regular fall decision and consideration for all other university scholarships.

Decision notification:
Applicants who submit their applications and all necessary application materials by January 15 are guaranteed a decision by April 1, 2026.

Programs that accept first-year applicants for this semester:
Art Foundation, Art History, Cinema, Dance, Fashion Merchandising, Music, and Theatre

Please ensure that your address stays active for at least one year, as we will use it to communicate with you throughout the application process. Use the same email address for all VCU business. Check your email frequently for updates on the status of your application.

Freshman applicants must apply using the Common Application. You will not submit your portfolio, audition, or interview through the Common Application. (Please see Step 3.)

Applicants may only submit one application to one major. Admitted students can request additional major/minor(s) during their first semester.

Applications will only be reviewed after all components have been received, including transcripts, test scores and supplemental materials.

Include your Social Security number on your application if you wish to be considered for financial aid or the American Opportunity tax credit. Find out why we ask for your Social Security number.

If your program requires arts-specific materials, you will receive an email with instructions after submitting the Common App. You’ll also find a link to upload materials in your applicant portal. See the program-specific requirements below for more details.

Request that your high school guidance counselor send your official transcripts to VCU. Transcripts may be submitted electronically via the Common App or Naviance, or sent in the mail. If sending a hard copy in the mail, please request that your school counselor send your transcript, including:

• Senior-year courses and first-term grades, if available
• Class rank, if available

All foreign transcripts must be official and submitted in the original language. If the original language is not English, an official translation must be submitted along with the transcript.

Transcripts must arrive in sealed envelopes signed across the seal by official high school, university, or college registrars.

Transcripts should be sent to:
Office of Admissions
PO Box 842526
Richmond, VA 23284-2526

VCU does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. However, submission of test scores remains a requirement for all Guaranteed Admission Programs, offered through the Honors College.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency. To learn more about how language proficiency will be determined, please visit this page.

VCU does not require applicants to submit recommendations. If you choose to submit recommendations, you will see an option to list your recommendations in the Common App.

Applicants should review VCU’s Student Financial Services’ financial aid checklist.

Applicants are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing the FAFSA form allows you to be considered for federal student aid. States and colleges also use FAFSA information to award grants, scholarships and loans.

Art Foundation applicants are required to submit a portfolio of artwork that presents 12 to 16 pieces of art you have created within the past two years and demonstrate your artistic commitment, skill, curiosity, and creativity.

You must submit your Common Application to gain access to the application portal where your portfolio will be uploaded. This video contains helpful information regarding the upload process.

Your work may consist of a diverse range of 2D, 3D, and 4D media, or an investigation of one media type. We look for experimentation, a range of technical skills and subject matter, and evidence of critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Your work should indicate your potential to succeed in VCUarts’ rigorous programs.

Drawing from direct observation (people, places, or objects from life) is encouraged but optional. Copying work or using character designs from another artist or media property is discouraged.

Additionally, you must include the medium and/or software used to create the work, including any use of artificial intelligence (neural network) software that creates images.

When uploading your portfolio, we strongly recommend including information such as the title, medium (required), dimensions, and a brief description of each piece.

You can schedule a one-on-one meeting with a VCUarts representative virtually or meet with us at a National Portfolio Day for individualized feedback on your portfolio.

Art History applicants are required to submit a research-based writing sample that makes a clear assertion about a selected topic and cites published sources to support your assertion. 

The paper may focus on a work of art, an historical event, a sociological phenomenon, a literary text, or other humanities topic. Your writing sample should be no longer than 600 words, including any citations. You will be prompted to submit your research paper as part of the Common Application.

Overview
Do you ever rewatch a scene over and over just to figure out how it was filmed? Has a movie or TV show ever resonated so deeply that it made you want to create something that moves people too? If this sounds like you, you might be a perfect fit for the VCUarts Cinema program.

Applying to a film program can feel intimidating — especially if you’ve never picked up a camera or don’t have a portfolio yet. That’s okay! When reviewing applications, we’re looking for curiosity and a willingness to learn. Most of all, we value team players who are open to feedback, eager to grow, and ready to be challenged. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your passion further, there’s a place for you here.

Cinema essay
In 300–600 words, tell us how you approach creative responsibility and collaboration.

What does it mean to be a thoughtful, creative partner? How do you handle feedback or contribute to a team? You may also reflect on the artist’s role in the world. Do storytellers have a responsibility to their audience or community? What kinds of stories matter to you — and why?

Portfolio
Submit a portfolio of your creative work. You’re welcome to include a mix of mediums — short films, photography, painting, music, etc. Choose work that shows us who you are as a creator and best reflects your voice and point of view!

Submit up to 5 total pieces. If you’re including video or music, keep the total combined length under 10 minutes.

If you don’t have a full portfolio yet, that’s okay! You can instead send a 60-second video of yourself pitching an idea for a movie you’d like to make one day.

Dance applicants are required to audition in person or virtually and interview with faculty.  

On-campus audition

• Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9:30 am – 3 pm (only date for Spring applicants)
• Friday, January 30, 2026, from 9:30 am – 3 pm
• Friday, February 20, 2026, from 9:30 am – 3 pm

Auditions take place at the VCU Dance Center, located at 10 N. Brunswick St., Richmond, VA. The department will send more information in advance of your audition date.

On-campus auditions will consist of a warm-up, a ballet barre, modern center work, and an improvisation section as part of a class, followed by a short interview.

Off-campus and festival option

March 5 – 8, 2026
National High School Dance Festival (NHSDF). For more information and to register, please visit this page.

Virtual audition and interview

If you are auditioning virtually, please use the the application portal to submit your audition video. Below you will find the link to access the videos as well as a description to what each file is.

• Audition video
  • All aspects of the audition material can be danced safely in a 10 x 10 foot space. Auditionees are strongly encouraged to access a studio environment to learn material and record audition footage. We understand that this may not be an option for all. We ask that all auditionees locate themselves in an open space with as few obstacles and distractions (i.e., furniture and pets) as possible.
  • Please choose two modalities in which you wish to be evaluated for your virtual audition. Although there are four movement modalities that you can choose from, you only need to submit two movement sections to best represent you in your audition. Please only upload the sections which you feel comfortable and confident in representing you and your talents.
  • Please use this link to access the audition video and music files.
  • Auditionees will learn choose two of the brief movement experiences to represent themselves in the audition process:
    • Traditional
    • Contemporary
    • Rhythm (choose either the slow or fast version)
    • Improvisation
• Video file
  • The video file is meant to resemble the entire length and sequence of events for the video submission. This video is designed for you to follow along if needed.

• Creation of video audition
  • All material should be filmed in one continuous shot only pausing to change shoes and take a breath.
    • Traditional, Contemporary and Rhythm section (choose either the regular or up tempo versions) audition. You may follow along with the video if preferred.
    • One-minute improvisation open for interpretation prompted by the audio sound file embedded in the video. You can view movement examples provided by 2 students in the video. All material should be filmed in one continuous shot only pausing to change shoes and take a breath.
  • Please use the provided sound from the video while completing the improvisation and movement phrases.
  • Please make sure the volume is loud enough for the camera to pick up the music. The video should not exceed the sound on the video.

A virtual interview will be scheduled at a later date after your virtual audition has been submitted.

Admissions criteria

• Talent and potential as an artist in the field of dance.
• Prior training and the ability to demonstrate knowledge of modern dance and/or classical ballet techniques.
• Ability to demonstrate musicality and dynamic range.
• A healthy, physically conditioned body that is injury-free.
• Openness to new ideas and the ability to engage in creative problem-solving.

If you have any questions, please contact Meagan Doan, Admissions & Administrative Coordinator for the Performing Arts, at adamsml@vcu.edu.

Acceptance into the program is based on evaluating the applicant’s extracurricular activities, community service, letter of recommendation, application essay, and a preferred minimum GPA of 3.0.

All Music major applicants must audition. Auditions take place live on campus (preferred) or by pre-recorded video submission. Media Scoring applicants must also upload two original compositions. Look up your audition requirements.

Live on-campus audition dates

• Sunday, December 7, 2025 (afternoon)
• Saturday, January 31, 2026 (morning and afternoon)
• Friday, February 6, 2026 (afternoon)
• Saturday, February 21, 2026 (morning and afternoon)

Important information

• Live audition slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t wait, choose your audition date early — the sooner you do, the more likely you will have that date as an option. We require at least 1 week ahead of an audition date to schedule you. Select your audition date in the VCU application portal—look out for an email invitation after you submit the Common App!
• We recommend auditioning live. It’s less stressful, and you can meet faculty and current students, plus explore the campus. Info for pre-recorded video auditions can be found below.
• Media Scoring applicants: you must audition on your primary instrument AND upload two original compositions to VCU Application Portal. Access the portal for more info.
• We issue rolling acceptance letters. The sooner you audition, the sooner you will get your admissions decision!
• Transfer students can enroll in either the fall or spring semester. Transfer applicants, please find relevant info here.

Pre-recorded video audition information

• Feb 21, 2026, is the final deadline for pre-recorded video submissions.
• Record separate videos for your various audition requirements.
• More detailed instructions are on the VCU Application Portal.

Have questions? Check our FAQ or reach out at apply4music@vcu.edu. We love hearing from prospective students!

A reminder of the admissions steps

• First-year: apply through the Common App. Transfer: apply in the VCU application.
• Submit transcripts. Submitting test scores is optional.
• Check your email for an invitation with a PIN to the VCU Application Portal.
• There, you will choose either a live audition date or the pre-recorded video audition option.
• Perform your live audition or submit your pre-recorded video audition.
• Media scoring applicants only: also submit two original compositions.

In-person audition/interview dates:

• Friday, November 14, 2025, from 12:30 – 5 pm (only date for Spring applicants)
• Friday, November 21, 2025, from 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, December 5, 2025, from 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, January 16, 2026, from 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, January 23, 2026, from 12:30 – 5 pm
• Friday, February 13, 2026, from 12:30 – 5 pm

For priority consideration, Performance concentration applicants should audition by February 1.

Applicants can expect to:

• All students participate in a group general info and Q+A session.
• Parents are encouraged to attend, too. We continue with a parent Q+A session after applicants head off to auditions/interviews.
• Performers participate in group warm-ups.
• Present their portfolio or appropriate audition pieces (details dependent on intended major).
• Interview with faculty in their area of interest.
• Tour Theatre facilities.
• Talk with current students.

Auditions/interviews take place at the W.E Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, located at 922 Park Ave, Richmond, VA. The department will send more information in advance of your audition date.

If you have any questions, please contact Meagan Doan, Admissions & Administrative Coordinator for the Performing Arts, at adamsml@vcu.edu.

Performance

Log into your application portal to select your audition date and upload your headshot or photo and theatrical resume.

• Your headshot or photo should be a well-lit photo that focuses on your face and resembles what you currently look like.
• Your theatrical resume should be a one-page resume that highlights your theatrical experience and training. Please include any relevant school courses, vocal coaching, and dance classes under training.

On your audition/interview day

• Maintain a positive attitude, dress professionally yet comfortably, and most importantly — have fun!
• Prepare and memorize two contrasting (one comedic and one dramatic) monologues from published play scripts. You will have two minutes to perform both pieces. Introduce your audition pieces with the play’s author, title, and the character’s name.
• You may substitute one monologue with a 16-bar cut song from a musical. The song should showcase understanding of story, music and range. You may sing a cappella or play a pre-cut track from your phone or speaker system. Please note there will be no accompaniment or speakers provided. If you do decide to sing, it’s recommended you begin with the song.
• There will also be an interview portion. Be prepared to articulate your specific interests in the VCU program and to ask questions.

Keep in mind the following as you prepare:

• Dos
  • It is to your advantage to choose material you connect with at your current age.
  • Read the entirety of the play so you are prepared to discuss the context of the role if asked.
  • Please time your material.

• Don’ts
  • No dialects/accents.
  • Please do not utilize the following playwrights: Joseph Arnone, Mamet, O’Neill, Pinter, Shakespeare, Shepard, and Williams.

You do not need to upload an introductory or audition video.

Costume Design, Lighting Design, or Scenic Design

Log into your application portal to select your interview date and upload your theatrical resume and portfolio.

• Your theatrical resume should be a one-page resume that highlights your relevant experience and training.
• Your portfolio should consist of 12 to 16 images that show your promise as a Theatre student. Present your strongest work and demonstrate your potential to develop a diverse set of skills and ideas. We prefer to see a diverse range of 2D and 3D media. This can include photographs of productions you have worked on, pieces you have built such as props or costumes as well as other works of 2D and 3D art. For more information about acceptable file types, please see the information in the application portal.

Stage Management

Log into your application portal to select your interview date and upload your theatrical resume and example of stage management paperwork.

• Your theatrical resume should be a one-page resume that highlights your relevant experience and training.
• Your stage management paperwork should demonstrate your organizational and management skills and might include things like prompt book pages, blocking notes, call sheets, rehearsal notes, communications, etc., to help demonstrate your stage management process.

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre

Log into your application portal to select your interview date and upload your theatrical resume and statement of intent.

• Your theatrical resume should be a one-page resume that highlights your relevant experience and training.
• Your statement of intent should be a paragraph or two, please tell us why you are interested in pursuing a BA degree in Theatre. What are your goals? What do you hope to achieve?