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Scholarships to study performing arts abroad
Do you have an artistic soul? Apply for one of the scholarships to study performing arts abroad and make your leap to fame.
If your biggest passion is acting, bringing characters to life, studying scripts, spending hours on set, or feeling the audience’s applause in a grand theater, we have great news for you. Did you know you can get scholarships to study performing arts abroad? Not only will you make your dream a reality, but you will also get to travel to a new country, learn a new language, immerse yourself in its culture, and earn a degree that will stand out on your artistic résumé.
Being a performing arts scholar in a foreign country is an incredible opportunity you don’t want to miss. Most of these scholarships, as we’ll explore in this article, not only cover tuition but also provide support for housing, living expenses, transportation, and other costs.
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How much does it cost to study performing arts abroad?
Training in performing arts abroad can be a huge boost for your artistic career, though it’s not always easy to cover the costs. One of the best ways to make it possible is by applying for scholarships to study performing arts abroad. Many of these opportunities fly under the radar, and in this blog, Holafly will help you discover them.
The amounts vary depending on the country you choose to study in, as do living expenses, transportation, entertainment, and housing costs. It’s important to pick a destination that matches your cultural interests and fits your lifestyle and budget. Here’s a brief overview:
| Country | Tuition fees | Expenses (accommodation, food, transportation) |
| United States | Between $15,000 and $40,000 per year. | From $12,000 to $18,000 per year. |
| United Kingdom | Between $11,300 and $31,000 per year. | From $12,500 to $19,000 per year. |
| Canada | Between $12,500 and $17,500 per year. | From $8,500 to $12,500 per year. |
| Spain | Public: $1,500 to $4,500 per year. Private: Over $10,500 per year. | From $8,000 to $12,000 per year. |
| Australia | Between $12,500 and $22,000 per year. | From $13,000 to $15,000 per year. |
Top 5 scholarships for studying performing arts abroad
There are a variety of scholarships to study performing arts abroad, tailored specifically for people with a passion for the arts. Programs typically cover areas such as on-camera acting, theater, physical movement, singing, character study, dance, active listening, and more. All of these subjects are essential for developing a well-rounded artistic training.
Plus, earning a respected degree abroad can open doors to opportunities like teaching theater or landing international casting calls. As you can see, the benefits are clear, so we encourage you to follow your dream and apply for one of these scholarships.
1. Fulbright Program for foreign students – United States
This program is one of the most popular scholarships for studying performing arts abroad, attracting actors from all over the world. Its main appeal is the chance to train in the heart of the film industry, with courses offered in New York and Los Angeles, including visits to the famous Hollywood studios. If you’re traveling to the United States, we recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance to avoid any issues. Want to learn more about this scholarship?
- General requirements: Strong academic record, being proficient in English, and gaining acceptance to a U.S. university with a program in performing arts or acting.
- Coverage and benefits: Full tuition coverage, monthly living expenses ranging from $1,100 to $2,500, airfare, health insurance, and other program-related costs.
- Type of studies offered: Courses and diplomas in acting, theater, or dramatic arts.
- Aimed at: International students with experience in theater, film, or other performing arts.
- Application form: Through the official Fulbright program website in the applicant’s country.
- Opening date: May.
- Closing date: September.
2. Chevening Scholarships – United Kingdom
This UK government-funded program offers scholarships for studying performing arts abroad. Although open to all students, it is especially suited for those passionate about theater, acting, or dance. Successful applicants can attend some of the country’s top schools, including the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama or the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Here are the key requirements:
- General requirements: Significant professional or artistic experience, acceptance to a UK university with a performing arts program, and proficiency in English.
- Coverage and benefits: Full tuition payment, monthly living expenses between $1,350 and $1,600, and travel expenses.
- Type of studies offered: Courses in acting, theater, dance, and performing arts.
- Aimed at: International students with experience and a passion for the dramatic arts.
- Application form: Through the official Chevening Scholarships website (www.chevening.org).
- Opening date: August.
- Closing date: November.
3. National Endowment for the Arts (YoungArts) – United States
Founded in 1981, this organization has spent decades helping thousands of young artists from around the world secure scholarships to study performing arts abroad. Their programs cover disciplines such as dance, music, writing, film, and visual arts. While it isn’t an official academic program, it provides valuable opportunities to work with established artists. If you’re interested in applying, here are the requirements:
- General requirements: Must be between 15 and 18 years old, show outstanding skills in acting or theater, and send in an artistic portfolio.
- Coverage and benefits: Financial support ranging from $100 to $10,000, personalized mentorship with professional artists, and opportunities to take part in exclusive programs in the United States.
- Type of studies offered: Short programs, intensive workshops, and funding for studies in acting and dramatic arts.
- Aimed at: Young international and American talents.
- Application form: Through the official YoungArts website (www.youngarts.org).
- Opening date: June.
- Closing date: October.
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4. MAEC-AECID Scholarship for Performing Arts – Spain
The MAEC-AECID Scholarships, run by Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), support students and professionals in the performing arts who want to foster cultural exchange. If you’re aiming to study at the Royal School of Dramatic Art (RESAD), here are the requirements you’ll need to meet:
- General requirements: Be a citizen of a country listed for international cooperation (including Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe, among others), have an intermediate level of Spanish, and possess experience or training in the arts.
- Coverage and benefits: Full or partial funding for courses at specialized performing arts schools in Spain, along with health coverage and monthly living support ranging from $700 to $1,200.
- Type of studies offered: Artistic improvement programs at recognized Spanish institutions, as well as master’s degrees.
- Aimed at: Young talents and international professionals.
- Application form: Check the terms and conditions on the official AECID website (www.aecid.es).
- Opening date: Between January and March.
- Closing date: In May.
5. Performing Arts Scholarship: Australia Council for the Arts – Australia
This Australian institution offers a scholarship program for studying performing arts abroad, giving you the chance to train in theater, dance, music, and performance at some of the country’s top schools. Partner institutions include the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and the Sydney Theatre Company. Here’s what you need to apply for this scholarship:
- General requirements: Submit an artistic or educational project with clear professional development goals, demonstrate advanced English skills, and show prior experience.
- Coverage and benefits: Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, a monthly stipend of $1,950, and international transportation.
- Type of studies offered: Artist residencies at renowned institutions in Australia.
- Aimed at: International artists of all ages.
- Application form: Visit the official website of the Australia Council for the Arts (www.australiacouncil.gov.au).
- Opening date: Between February and August.
- Closing date: Two months after each opening date.
Tips for securing scholarships to study performing arts abroad
Landing a scholarship to study performing arts abroad is a dream for artists worldwide who want to train at top schools but may lack the funds to cover the costs. You’ll be competing with talented candidates from around the globe, so it’s important to showcase all your artistic skills in your application. Here are some tips to help make your application stand out.
1. Develop an excellent artistic portfolio
Create an impressive artistic portfolio that reflects who you are as an artist and showcases your strongest talents. Make sure to include high quality recordings, and consider using a good camera or hiring a production team to ensure professional results. It’s also important to include a professional photo collection focused on your area of expertise.
2. Choose programs that value your specific strengths
If theater is your passion, look for the top drama schools and submit your application. Be honest about your strengths and focus on areas where you can truly shine. Pay attention to age requirements and the disciplines offered, and choose scholarships that fit your profile. If a scholarship emphasizes social impact, highlight how your projects contribute to cultural change, for example.
3. Take part in international competitions and festivals
Awards and recognitions can carry a lot of weight with scholarship selection committees. That’s why it’s important to keep training in your home country, whether at schools or with companies, and to participate in competitions and contests. Every achievement you earn will strengthen your scholarship application.
4. Ask your teachers for recommendation letters
Recommendation letters should come from respected figures in the arts who can speak to your skills and work ethic. Try to get one for each discipline you practice, such as theater, film, dance, or singing. This way, your multidisciplinary talents and willingness to grow across different artistic areas will be recognized.
5. Prepare for auditions
Some scholarships for studying performing arts abroad require an in-person or video audition. Make sure you prepare thoroughly for this step. Ask your teachers for guidance, choose a monologue or choreography that suits your artistic profile, and practice repeatedly. Record yourself multiple times, review it with a professional, and refine every detail until it’s flawless.
Frequently asked questions about scholarships to study performing arts abroad
Most programs ask for an artistic portfolio, a personal statement, recommendation letters, language qualifications, and an audition. You’ll also need to show that you’ve been accepted into a recognized school or institution.
Most scholarships require some prior experience or training in the arts, or at the very least, the chance to show your skills through an audition.
Yes, most programs require an advanced level of the language of instruction to follow classes without difficulty. For English-speaking countries, a TOEFL or IELTS score is usually needed, while other programs may ask for specific certificates in the local language.
Choose a piece that feels completely comfortable and highlights your artistic style, technique, and emotional range. Be natural and confident, and above all, practice extensively before your audition.
Yes, you can apply to multiple scholarships to study performing arts abroad. This will increase your chances of receiving one. Just make sure you meet the requirements and tailor each application to the specific goals of the program.
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