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Juilliard Acceptance Rate, Alumni, and How to Get In (2024)

March 10, 2024

The Juilliard School, commonly referred to simply as Juilliard, is a prestigious performing arts conservatory. Founded in 1905, Juilliard has become one of the leading institutions for training musicians, dancers, and actors. Juilliard is important to me, personally, for its part in the baffling audition scene performed by the lovely Julia Stiles in Save the Last Dance (2001). But for you, maybe Juilliard is important because it’s your dream! So in this blog, we’ll answer questions like, where is Juilliard? Who are some Juilliard notable alumni? How much does The Juilliard School cost? What’s the Juilliard acceptance rate? And we’ll talk about how to get into Juilliard. Then you’ll be prepared for your own Julia Stiles moment.

First of all, where is Juilliard?

Juilliard is located in New York City, United States. More specifically, it’s situated in the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.

The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a renowned hub for the arts. It’s home to several other prominent institutions and venues. These include the Metropolitan Opera , the New York Philharmonic , and the New York City Ballet , among others.

And who are the Juilliard notable alumni?

Here’s a list of notable alumni from The Juilliard School across acting, music, and dance:

• Viola Davis
• Robin Williams
• Jessica Chastain
• Kelsey Grammer
• Christine Baranski
• Laura Linney
• Oscar Isaac
• Jessica Hecht
• Andre Braugher

Juilliard Notable Alumni (Continued)

• Yo-Yo Ma (Cellist)
• Itzhak Perlman (Violinist)
• Van Cliburn (Pianist)
• Wynton Marsalis (Trumpeter)
• Emanuel Ax (Pianist)
• Alan Gilbert (Conductor)
• Beverly Sills (Soprano)
• Leontyne Price (Soprano)
• John Williams (Composer and Conductor)
• Renée Fleming (Soprano)
• Martha Graham (Choreographer)
• Twyla Tharp (Choreographer)
• Alvin Ailey (Choreographer)
• Paul Taylor (Choreographer)
• Lar Lubovitch (Choreographer)

But remember this is just a selection of Juilliard notable alumni. Many more talented individuals have graduated from Juilliard and made significant contributions to the world of performing arts.

So how much does The Juilliard School cost to attend?

According to Juilliard, the total estimated cost of attendance for a first-year student living on campus is $83,892 during the 2023-2024 academic year.

And before we go on to talk about the Juilliard acceptance rate, let’s break down this big number.

However, some first-year students choose not to live in the residence hall. For these students, The Juilliard School cost will be a little different. So let’s compare Juilliard’s estimated cost of living off campus with the cost of living with your parents (if your parents happen to live near Juilliard.)

What is the Juilliard acceptance rate?

Juilliard has an acceptance rate of 10.6%. This is consistently low compared to many other colleges and universities. However, the exact acceptance rate fluctuates each year based on various factors. For example, the number of applicants, the quality of applicants, and the available spots in each program will affect the Juilliard acceptance rate each admission season.

But don’t worry. If either the Juilliard acceptance rate or The Juilliard School cost is a dealbreaker for you, there are other fantastic drama , dance , and music programs for you to pursue.

How to get into Juilliard as a dancer

Getting into Juilliard’s Dance Division is highly competitive. It requires dedication, talent, and preparation because the Juilliard acceptance rate is low. So here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of admission:

Develop exceptional dance skills

Start training in dance at a young age and continue to refine your technique and artistry. Consider pre-college programs or specialized high school programs . Take classes in various dance styles such as ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary. And gain exposure to different techniques and styles.

Build your repertoire

Work on building a strong dance repertoire that showcases your technical proficiency, musicality, and expressive abilities. Focus on mastering both classical and contemporary dance pieces, as Juilliard’s dance program typically requires proficiency in both styles.

Juilliard Acceptance Rate (Continued)

Participate in competitions and performances

Gain performance experience by participating in dance competitions, showcases, and recitals. Moreover, seek opportunities to perform both solo and ensemble pieces to develop your stage presence.

Take academic classes

While dance is the primary focus, Juilliard also values academic excellence. So maintain a strong academic record in high school or equivalent education.

Attend auditions and workshops

Keep an eye out for the dance audition schedule and attend auditions in your area. Additionally, consider participating in pre-screening workshops or classes offered by Juilliard or other reputable institutions.

Prepare for the audition

Prepare thoroughly for the audition by selecting and rehearsing dance pieces that highlight your strengths and versatility as a dancer. Follow Juilliard’s audition guidelines regarding attire, repertoire, and technical requirements. Then be ready to demonstrate your technical skills, artistic expression, and ability to learn choreography quickly.

Submit your application

Complete and submit your application materials according to Juilliard’s application deadlines.

Finally, if selected, attend the live audition at Juilliard or another designated location. Arrive early, warm up properly, and present yourself professionally. Be prepared to perform your audition pieces and participate in a group audition, improvisation, and interview.

How to get into Juilliard as an actor

Getting into Juilliard’s Drama Division as an actor is also extremely competitive. The Juilliard acceptance rate is low. But it’s certainly possible with dedication, talent, and preparation. So here’s a guide on how to increase your chances of admission:

Acting training

Start your acting training as early as possible. Consider pre-college programs or specialized high school programs . Take acting classes in high school and seek opportunities to participate in school plays, community theater productions, or acting workshops. Develop a strong foundation in acting techniques such as Stanislavski , Meisner , or method acting .

Work on building a diverse repertoire of monologues that showcase your range, emotional depth, and acting abilities. Choose monologues from a variety of genres and time periods, and make sure they resonate with you personally. Then practice them regularly to refine your performance.

Audition preparation

Research the specific audition requirements for Juilliard’s Drama Division, including the number and length of monologues required, as well as any other requested materials. Select monologues that highlight your strengths and demonstrate your versatility as an actor. Then memorize your monologues thoroughly and be prepared to perform them with authenticity and conviction.

Academic excellence

While Juilliard primarily focuses on artistic talent, academic excellence is also important. So maintain a strong academic record in high school or equivalent education.

Participate in extracurricular activities

Engage in extracurricular activities related to theater and acting. For example, you could join drama clubs, attend theater productions, or participate in acting competitions. These experiences will not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to the craft of acting.

Seek feedback and training

Take advantage of opportunities to receive feedback on your acting from experienced professionals. Consider working with acting coaches or attending acting workshops and masterclasses to further develop your skills and receive constructive criticism.

Complete and submit your application materials according to their application deadlines.

Finally, if selected, prepare thoroughly for the audition. Rehearse your monologues, research the characters and plays, and practice relaxation and focus techniques. Be prepared to perform your monologues with confidence and vulnerability. Also, be prepared to engage with the audition panel during any interviews or discussions.

How to get into Juilliard as a musician

Unsurprisingly, getting into Juilliard’s Music Division as a musician is a highly competitive process. The Juilliard acceptance rate is low. But with dedication, talent, and preparation, it’s possible. So here’s a guide on how to increase your chances of admission:

Start early and develop your musical skills

Begin your musical training as early as possible. Consider pre-college programs or specialized high school programs . Take lessons on your chosen instrument(s) with qualified instructors who’ll help you develop solid technical skills, musicality, and artistry. Practice regularly and aim for excellence in your playing.

Diversify your repertoire

Build a diverse repertoire that showcases your abilities across different musical styles and periods. Include both solo and ensemble pieces that highlight your strengths and musical expression. Make sure to choose pieces that demonstrate your technical proficiency, musical interpretation, and artistic maturity.

Gain performance experience by participating in music competitions, recitals, festivals, and concerts. Seek out opportunities to perform as a soloist and as part of ensembles, such as orchestras, chamber groups, or bands. Performing in front of live audiences will help you gain confidence and stage presence.

Academic preparation

Maintain a strong academic record in high school or equivalent education. Take challenging courses in music theory, music history , and other related subjects to deepen your understanding of music.

Attend summer programs and workshops

Consider attending summer music programs, workshops, and festivals where you can receive intensive training, masterclasses, and performance opportunities. These experiences can help you improve your skills, expand your musical network, and gain exposure to different teaching styles.

Prepare for auditions

Research the specific audition requirements for your instrument(s) and Juilliard’s Music Division. Select an audition repertoire that demonstrates your technical proficiency, musicality, and artistic expression. Additionally, practice your audition pieces regularly and seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or professional musicians.

Complete and submit your application materials according to the school’s application deadlines.

Finally, if selected, attend the live audition at Juilliard or another designated location. Arrive early, warm up properly, and present yourself professionally. Be prepared to perform your audition pieces with confidence and musicality. And be prepared to engage with the audition panel during any interviews or discussions.

Juilliard Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts

If you dream of success in the performing arts, Juilliard just might be the ideal place for you. Learning the Juilliard acceptance rate and reading how to get into the school can help set you up for a successful application and audition.  Are you ready to make your dream a reality?

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Mariya holds a BFA in Creative Writing from the Pratt Institute and is currently pursuing an MFA in writing at the University of California Davis. Mariya serves as a teaching assistant in the English department at UC Davis. She previously served as an associate editor at Carve Magazine for two years, where she managed 60 fiction writers. She is the winner of the 2015 Stony Brook Fiction Prize, and her short stories have been published in Mid-American Review , Cutbank , Sonora Review , New Orleans Review , and The Collagist , among other magazines.

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Application Tips | Student Blog

It seems that time has hardly passed since I was filling out my application to Juilliard, but here I am now, filling out grad school applications and wondering how I’ve come full circle from a high school senior to a college one!

If you are currently filling out your Juilliard application, congratulations on making the first step in your journey here! It’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially at the beginning, but here’s what I have learned from filling out college applications:

1. Don’t overthink it. It can feel like a lot of pressure to submit a perfect prescreen and an award-worthy essay, but don’t try to do something beyond your capabilities, and certainly don’t try to be someone you’re not! You may want to submit something that is “Juilliard-worthy” or fits into whatever you think is what Juilliard is looking for, but keep in mind that you are auditioning for a school. The faculty don’t expect you to be a master at what you do already; they want to see potential, enthusiasm, and originality much, much more than they want to see a mistake-free robot.

2. Make a list, check it twice—and a third time. Especially if you are applying to more than one school, it will help tremendously to keep a list (or some type of record!) of deadlines, materials to submit, application fees, etc. Do you need a teacher to submit a letter of recommendation?  Will you be using the Common App or the school’s individual application portal? (Do you remember your passwords?) The last thing you want at 11:59 pm on December 1 is to realize that your application is due in one minute and you forgot to record a piece for your prescreening. For my flute applications, many schools requested the same pieces, but I had to keep track of which ones needed accompaniment, which ones only required a single movement, etc. When I recorded my prescreening repertoire, I made sure that I was recording the correct requirements for each school.

3. Make application season enjoyable. While I certainly don’t find filling out tedious applications to be a hobby of mine, one of my fondest memories from fall during senior year was getting together with friends in the library, gathering a big pile of contraband snacks (making sure the librarians didn’t notice!), and critiquing each other’s essays. We ended up having a lot of fun hyping each other up, making jokes, and thinking of clever ways to sneak each other’s accomplishments into our essays. Your friends may not be applying to Juilliard, but it’s still nice to have somebody there who will share the time with you and offer encouragement. If it works for you, you can even try setting little rewards for yourself after finishing each part of your application—it  may not have been the healthiest motivation, but my friends and I all got ice cream after recording our prescreenings, even though it was nearly winter by that time.

4. Take it as a learning experience. Whether you get invited to a live audition or not after submitting your application, the preparation and dedication that you put into your application will result in tremendous growth. After recording prescreenings, I felt much more confident and familiar with the process of preparing performance-worthy repertoire.

I wish you all the best of luck in completing your applications! I almost didn’t apply here, and I never expected my path to lead me here, but I’m so thankful that I did. Getting to even apply here is a privilege, and the faculty here recognize and respect that. Sending good vibes to all of you applying, and I hope to see you here in a few months for the auditions!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how to get into juilliard: what are the requirements.

Hey there everyone! I've been really interested in the arts and dream of going to Juilliard, but I'm a bit overwhelmed by the whole process. Could anyone tell me what the requirements are for getting into Juilliard, and maybe some pointers about the application/portfolio?

To get into Juilliard, there are several key steps and requirements that you'll need to follow:

1. Academic Requirements: Juilliard is unique in that they don't specify a set GPA requirement and the emphasis is more on your talent and performance. However, you're expected to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. If you're a home-schooled student, you’ll need to provide transcripts that show progress equivalent to traditional high school.

2. Auditions: For admission, you need to audition in your chosen field. The audition process differs between departments, but be prepared to perform a selection of pieces that showcase your ability. Auditions are competitive across the board, so it's crucial to start preparing well in advance.

3. Application: You'll need to fill out an online application. This includes basic information about you, your academic history, and your intended major.

4. Artist Statement: This is a 250-500 word essay that outlines your artistic influences, why you're interested in a particular discipline, your goals, and other similar points. It should give the admissions committee an insight into your passion and commitment to the arts.

5. Prescreening Materials: Depending on your department, Juilliard may require prescreening materials like a video recording or a portfolio of your work, and these materials must accompany your application.

6. Recommendation Letters: You’re expected to provide at least one recommendation letter from an instructor who knows you well and can speak on your talent and dedication. A second non-academic recommendation can also be submitted.

7. English Proficiency: For non-native English speakers, proof of English language proficiency is required. The TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test are all accepted.

Specifics vary based on department and discipline, so be sure to review the Juilliard website for more detailed information. Prior to auditioning, it might be helpful to attend summer programs or participate in workshops to refine your skills. Given Juilliard’s focus on performance and talent, how you prepare and execute your auditions or portfolio will significantly determine your chance of admission. Good luck!

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Application Management

Create your account.

All applicants to The Juilliard School in New York must create an admissions account before beginning an application for a specific program. To get started, select whether you are a returning or first-time user and follow the instructions given.  Please note:  The email address you provide will be the primary method of communication used throughout the application process.  

Program Requirements 

Detailed program requirements for  The Juilliard School in New York can be found by using our  Application Requirements Wizard . Simply follow the prompts to arrive at the specific requirements for your program.  Please note that the Application Requirements Wizard is not available for applicants to the Extension Division. 

Detailed program requirements for  The Tianjin Juilliard School in China can be found by visiting the Tianjin Juilliard website . Please be sure to review the requirements specific to your major.   

Start Your Application 

Once you have created and logged into your account, you may begin a new application by clicking on the "Start a New Application" link located near the bottom of your screen. 

Applicants to The Juilliard School (New York)

Select "Application for Fall 2025"   if you are applying to: 

• College-level programs with The Juilliard School (BFA, BM, Barnard-Columbia-Juilliard Exchange, MFA, MM, GD, DMA, AD) ( Application is open .)

Select "Summer 2025 Programs" if you are applying to: 

• Summer Composition  (Application will open in Fall 2024)
• Summer Dance Intensive ( Application will open in Fall 2024 )
• Summer Percussion Seminar (Application will open in Fall 2024 )
• Summer Piano  (Application will open in Fall 2024 )
• Summer Voice  (Application will open in Fall 2024 )
• Starling-DeLay Symposium on Violin Studies ( Application will open in Fall 2024)
• String Quartet Seminar (Application will open in Fall 2024 )

Select "Preparatory Education Applications Fall 2025" if you are applying to: 

• Juilliard Pre-College in New York (Application will open in Fall 2024)
• Music Advancement Program (MAP) (Application will open in Fall 2024)

Select "Extension Division Fall 2024" if you are applying to:

• Juilliard Extension Music and Drama courses for adults. ( Applications open )
• Juilliard Extension Music Theory and Ear Training courses for High School students. ( Applications open )

Status Page 

If you have already submitted an application, you can check your  application status page  for more information and to submit additional materials.