Undergraduate Admissions FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for Undergraduate Program Admission

When is the application deadline?

Freshmen applicants must complete the Common App application by December 1. Transfer applicants must complete the Common App application by March 1. Current UT Austin students applying to add or change majors must apply by May 1. Depending on the program you are considering, an audition, interview and/or portfolio may be required. Visit our Undergraduate Admissions page to learn more.

When will I know whether or not I've been admitted?

First-year and external transfer applicants will be notified of their admission decision by the UT Austin Office of Admissions through their MyStatus portal. First-year admission decisions will be disbursed no later than February 15. *Note: The College of Fine Arts does not participate in Early Action. Fine Arts applicants who apply early by October 15, will receive their admission decisions by February 15.

External transfer notices are typically distributed in mid-late June.

Current students at UT Austin applying to the department will receive a notification through their internal transfer application portal in June. 

How many students are majoring in Theatre and Dance at UT?

The number of students fluctuates year to year, but we typically enroll approximately 100 students to the department each year: 18 to the B.F.A. in Acting, 20-25 to B.F.A. Dance and Dance Education, 20 to Theatre Education and 40 to our B.A. in Theatre and Dance. 

How long will it take me to complete my degree?

Most degrees may be completed within four years depending on the number of hours taken each semester (including summer sessions). Transfer students may be required to take additional semesters dependent on their major requirements and transferrable credit hours. 

May I have two majors (double majors)?

Declaring a double major at UT Austin is contingent upon your successful approval for a second major by another college or school at UT. You must have 30 credit hours of coursework to apply to a second major and be able to demonstrate your ability to graduate within four years. The B.F.A. in Acting program does not allow a double major. 

Can I minor in Theatre and/or Dance?

The Department of Theatre and Dance recently proposed a minor in Theatre and a minor in Dance beginning Fall 2026. These minors are pending approval and updates regarding minors will be posted to our website prior to Fall 2026. Non-majors are also encouraged to get involved with our community by taking non-major classes, auditioning for productions and joining our student organizations.

Are scholarships and/or financial aid available to Theatre and Dance students?

Yes! The department’s scholarship committee awards merit and financial need-based scholarships to incoming students. There is no separate scholarship application for departmental awards. Students who fully complete their application to the Department of Theatre and Dance at The University of Texas at Austin will automatically be considered for departmental funding. The department also awards scholarships to continuing students.

To be considered for financial aid, applicants should complete the FAFSA by February 15.

For more information regarding financial aid and university scholarships, please visit the Texas One Stop website.

I love the performing arts but am concerned about my professional life after graduation. Can you help me?

The College of Fine Arts Career Services provides a full range of services and resources to help you realize your full potential during and after your time at UT. These services continue to be available to alumni after graduation.

Peruse our alumni profiles and set your mind at ease! Longhorns are enjoying great success in theatre, dance and business.

UT Austin is a big place. Is there a way I can better connect with the theatre and dance community?

Yes! The Department of Theatre and Dance is a close-knit community of students and faculty dedicated to exploring the performing arts. Here, you can collaborate with your peers through the Student Organizations and Hook ‘Em Arts. And, connect with Theatre and Dance by liking us on Facebook and following us on Instagram!

Can I visit the Department of Theatre and Dance?

Yes! Check out our Visit webpage to learn more about our College of Fine Arts Information Sessions and Tours for prospective freshmen and transfer students.

What if I'm not in the top 5% of my high school, or if I attend a private or out-of-state school?

We seek talented students who are academically strong but recognize they may not attend a ranking school in Texas or be in the top 5% of their class. Admission to this program is based on a holistic review of your academic merits and artistic talent, not strictly class rank.

How do I get to the Department of Theatre and Dance?

See our Location, Directions and Parking.

Who can help me with questions about admission to the Department of Theatre and Dance?

Ashley Rivera
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Coordinator
512-232-2741
tadadmissions@austin.utexas.edu