Applying to an undergraduate program at Boston University’s School of Theatre requires two methods of application: one to Boston University, and one to the School of Theatre itself.
As artists, we know that preparing for an artistic review is a year-long and evolving process. However, we encourage students to begin their application to Boston University via the Common App as early as possible. Information outlining this process can be found by visiting the BU Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Please note that Boston University is currently test-optional, so you do not need to provide SAT or ACT information.
The Admissions Process
Important Deadlines
Applications Open: September 1
Early Decision 1 Deadline: Acceptd application & Common App – November 1
Early Decision 2 Deadlines: Acceptd application – December 1, Common App – January 6
Regular Decision Deadlines: Acceptd application – December 1, Common App – January 6
Transfer Application Deadlines: Acceptd application & Common App – March 15
Step One: Apply for your Academic Review
Applications for Boston University can be completed via the Common App: Information outlining this process can be found by visiting the BU Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
*Note that Boston University is currently test-optional, so prospective students do not need to provide SAT or ACT information.
Step Two: Get Your BU ID
After submitting your application to BU, you will receive a University ID number. This BU ID number will be used in your Acceptd application to the School of Theatre.
Your BU ID is a nine-digit number beginning with the letter U. Students receive their BU ID up to three weeks after submitting completed applications to BU Admissions, and you can access this number on your MyBU Student Portal.
You are able to submit your Acceptd application without your BU ID if you do not receive it in time. Please use U00000000 as a placeholder, and email mlupulio@bu.edu with your BU ID once you receive it.
Step Three: Apply for your Artistic Review
Using your BU ID, you can apply for your Artistic Review via the Acceptd platform. In their first year, all BFA-Theatre students are enrolled in the Theatre Core curriculum, focusing on either Performance (Performance Core) or Design, Production & Management (DP&M Core).
Artistic Reviews vary slightly depending on the core program for which you apply. The first step of the Artistic Review process for Regular Decision applicants is a Prescreen through the Acceptd Platform:
- In Acceptd, Performance Core applicants should choose either Performance Core Early Decision 1, Performance Core Early Decision 2, or Performance Core Regular Decision, when selecting a “Program” in the Acceptd Platform. Performance Core is best suited for students pursuing BFA degree in Acting or Theatre Arts.
- In Acceptd, DP&M Core applicants should choose either DP&M Core Early Decision 1, DP&M Core Early Decision 2, or DP&M Core Regular Decision. DP&M Core is best suited for students pursuing a BFA degree in Scene Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design, Costume Design, Costume Production, Technical Production, Stage Management, or Theatre Arts with a focus in Design & Production.
Regular Decision applicants who pass the pre-screen process will be invited to an audition (Performance Core) or an interview (Design, Production & Management Core). Performance Core auditions consist of monologue performances and a short interview. We offer both virtual and in-person options for auditions. DP&M interviews consist of a portfolio review and a short interview. All DP&M interviews are virtual.
Early Decision 1 & 2 applicants are not pre-screened, and are automatically able to select a virtual audition or interview slot upon submission of their Acceptd application.
The Acceptd platform does require a $30 submission fee for all applicants. If you need a fee waiver, please access it here.
Step Four: Ensure your FAFSA and CSS Profile are submitted
Performance Core
Learn more about applying to the School of Theatre’s Performance Core track.
Dive In
Design, Production & Management Core
Learn more about applying to the School of Theatre’s DP&M Core track.
Explore More