About

Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Drama at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a six-week, residential summer program focused on conservatory-style theatrical training and college audition preparation. Operated by CMU’s School of Drama, the program mirrors the intensity of the university's BFA curriculum, helping students build technical skills and professional repertoire.

The full-time session (June 20 – August 1, 2026) offers three concentrated pathways: Acting, Music Theater, and Design/Production. Acting and Music Theater students attend daily classes in audition technique, Shakespeare, voice and speech, movement, and Acting for the Camera (useful for filming college pre-screens). Music Theater students also receive training in song coaching, ballet, and jazz. Design/Production students engage in foundational work across scenic, lighting, sound, costume, and stage management. All students take Dramaturgy and participate in weekly workshops led by School of Drama faculty and industry practitioners.

Eligibility requires students to be at least 16 years old by June 20, 2026, and currently in 10th or 11th grade. Admission is competitive; while an audition is not required for entry, applicants must submit an academic transcript, a recommendation, and responses to three essay prompts. For 2026, the Early Application deadline is February 1 and the Final Deadline is March 1. The 6-week residential cost is $12,303, while the commuter cost is $8,974 (both including a mandatory supply kit). Full-tuition scholarships are available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents who demonstrate financial need and apply by the February 1 deadline.

Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Drama provides an intensive introduction to one of the nation’s top drama schools. The program equips students with the repertoire and artistic discipline necessary to navigate the competitive collegiate audition and interview process.