FAQs - Dance
Frequently asked questions about the dance department and audition process
- How many people audition and are admitted into the dance program each year?
- How long is the audition class?
- What should I prepare for my audition?
- How should I dress for my audition?
- What is the difference between on-campus and off-campus auditions?
- If I choose to attend an off-campus audition instead of an on-campus one, will that affect my chances for getting admitted?
- Are letters of recommendation required?
- How long will it take before I hear about my audition results?
- Can I get feedback from my audition?
- Are students eligible to re-audition for the dance department?
- Can dance students begin in the spring semester?
- Can I double major or declare a minor?
- How much dance training should a prospective student have prior to attending Point Park?
- What is the average size of dance classes at Point Park?
- Can I take dance classes in other areas that are not in my concentration?
- When am I eligible to audition for dance productions?
- Does the Conservatory offer talent awards?
Applications for admission to Point Park University must be received before auditions may be scheduled (the admission application need not be complete in order to schedule the audition).
How many people audition and are admitted into the dance program each year?
The number of students auditioning fluctuates each year, but traditionally, the dance department will audition approximately 1,000 students for approximately 90 spaces for all three concentrations.
How long is the audition class?
The audition lasts approximately 3½ hours, but students are asked to report an hour early for registration.
What should I prepare for my audition?
Please refer to Dance Audition Guidelines.
How should I dress for my audition?
Please refer to Dance Audition Guidelines.
What is the difference between on-campus and off-campus auditions?
On-campus auditions give you an opportunity to see the University and facilities, as well as attend a possible dance performance that may take place during the weekend of audition.
If I choose to attend an off-campus audition instead of an on-campus one, will that affect my chances for getting admitted?
No, both auditions carry the same weight.
Are letters of recommendation required?
No, letters of recommendation are not required for admittance into the Conservatory of Performing Arts programs.
How long will it take before I hear about my audition results?
In order for the Conservatory of Performing Arts to send a letter regarding your audition/interview decision, candidates must have received notification of their academic admittance from the Office of Admission. Candidates will be notified by both email and letter of the admission decision. Full financial aid awards will be sent upon academic and artistic admittance. We are not permitted to disclose audition results over the phone or by email. Please refer to the artistic notification schedule for exact dates.
Can I get feedback from my audition?
Due to the volume of students who audition each year for the Conservatory programs, it is impossible to provide feedback on individual audition results.
Are students eligible to re-audition for the dance department?
Yes, students may audition once per year with a maximum of two auditions for the program.
Can dance students begin in the spring semester?
Yes, the department of dance accepts students in the fall and spring semesters.
Can I double major or declare a minor?
Transfer students can declare a double major after the completion of one semester. Students interested in a dance minor must complete an audition at the end of freshman year.
How much dance training should a prospective student have prior to attending Point Park?
Dancers should currently be training at least 10 hours per week for a minimum of three years and must have a working knowledge and understanding of the following principles:
- Proper placement
- Coordination and épaulement
- Weight shifting
- Adaptability
- Musicality
Applicants should be proficient in their chosen concentration and have working knowledge in the other two areas.
What is the average size of dance classes at Point Park?
The average ratio for most dance classes is 20:1.
Can I take dance classes in other areas that are not in my concentration?
Yes. Point Park holds approximately 100 dance classes per week. The University has a very diverse program that offers numerous levels of ballet, jazz, and modern classes. The most popular reason students enroll at Point Park University is because you can declare a concentration in one area and still take classes in the others.
When am I eligible to audition for dance productions?
Students can begin auditioning in their freshman year.
Does the Conservatory offer talent awards?
The Conservatory offers academic and talent (merit-based) scholarships. Talent awards are offered based on the student's performance. Academic scholarships are based upon the student's submitted GPA. For more information on awards, refer to Scholarships.