Starting Your College Journey: Important Dates to Know

Are you an aspiring dancer dreaming of taking the next step in your artistic journey by pursuing a college education? If you're nodding your head, you've come to the right place! Applying to college as a dancer is an exciting, yet intricate process that requires meticulous planning, research and preparation.

Your journey into the world of college applications will, in many ways, resemble the dances you've rehearsed and performed throughout your high school years: it's a carefully choreographed sequence of steps, each with its own unique rhythm and timing.

Before you take your first step, you need to know where you're headed. Most colleges offer a few different application deadlines:

• Early Decision (ED): This is typically your first chance to apply, with deadlines usually around November 1. If you're absolutely certain about your top-choice school, this may be the route for you.

• Early Action (EA): EA deadlines are similar to ED but non-binding, meaning you're not obligated to attend if admitted. It can be an excellent choice if you're eager to hear back early but also want to keep your options open.

• Regular Decision (RD): The RD deadlines are often around January 1. This is the most common option, offering more time to prepare your application.

As any skilled dancer knows, mastering choreography requires a detailed plan. In this case, your plan should include a comprehensive timeline to keep you on track:

• Junior Year: Begin researching colleges, exploring programs, and understanding their requirements. Start preparing for standardized tests (ACT/SAT).

• Summer Before Senior Year: Visit campuses, refine your list, and start drafting your college essay. Make the most of the College Scholarship Auditions at the NYCDA Nationals, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to showcase your talent early in front of our panel and partner schools. This exclusive audition gives you the chance to be seen before other applicants across the country and to receive scholarship offers directly from these prestigious programs.

• Early Fall Senior Year: Complete your college list and application strategy. Request recommendation letters and work on your dance portfolio.

• Late Fall Senior Year: Submit Early Decision or Early Action applications if applicable.

• Winter Senior Year: Submit Regular Decision applications.

• After Senior Year: Participate in the College Scholarship Auditions at the NYCDA Nationals for a chance to secure scholarships from our list of college partners that can be applied to the school of your choice.

Dancers, it's time to add a different kind of performance to your repertoire—the standardized tests. Plan to take the ACT or SAT well in advance to ensure you have scores available for your college applications. You can take these tests multiple times, so be sure to start early, practice, and aim for your best performance.

Your journey may also include stops at the FAFSA office and scholarship opportunities. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on October 1, and you should complete it as soon as possible to maximize your financial aid possibilities. Additionally, research and apply for scholarships—many colleges offer merit-based awards for talented artists.

The NYCDA Foundation College Scholarship Program is an initiative designed to support dancers like you in pursuing higher education while minimizing the financial burden. Each year, the Foundation awards multiple four-year college scholarships with values ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, paid directly to the college or university of the recipient’s choice. These scholarships are specifically for students pursuing performance-based majors, such as dance or musical theater, in BA or BFA programs. For those opting for certificate programs, the foundation offers 50% of the original scholarship amount, provided the program qualifies. Since its inception in 2010, the NYCDA Foundation has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships, empowering students to attend prestigious arts programs across the country.

In addition to the Foundation’s own scholarships, NYCDA partners with a select group of colleges and universities that offer their own scholarships to NYCDA dancers. The annual National College Audition provides an unparalleled opportunity for dancers to be seen by multiple schools in one place, streamlining the audition process and increasing the chances of acceptance into top-tier programs. Each year, hundreds of rising seniors and recent graduates audition for these college partners, with many dancers receiving substantial scholarship offers and recruitment opportunities.

As a dancer, you already know the value of discipline and time management. Applying to college can be intense, especially if you're balancing rehearsals and performances. To keep your stress levels in check, follow these time management tips:

• Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or a dedicated college application organizer to keep track of what needs to be done and when. We love this FREE organizer from Hello College but there are lots of tools online you can use.

• Set aside dedicated time for college applications.

• Seek help from teachers, mentors, and counselors.

• Don't procrastinate – tackle tasks gradually.

It's your unique talent that will make your college application truly extraordinary. Stay motivated, organized, and dedicated, and watch as your college dreams unfold step by step, just like a perfectly choreographed dance.

In our next blog post, we'll dive deeper into "Choosing the Right College Dance Program" to help you find the perfect match for your artistic and academic aspirations. So, stay tuned, and keep dancing towards your dreams.