Applying to SoTA
Applications to the School of Theatre Arts (SoTA) open on August 1st each year. Once you apply to IWU you will receive the links to register for your audition/interview.
Because ours is a highly selective program, SoTA students experience close, personal instruction from an outstanding faculty/staff who lead them through rigorous theatrical training.
The faculty and staff sees hundreds of candidates from across the country each year and mindfully accept only a handful. SoTA regularly attend:
- International Thespian Festival
- Southeastern Theatre Conference
- United States Institute for Theatre Technology
- College Audition Project
- Illinois High School Theatre Festival
- Missouri Thespians State Conference
2026-2027 Audition/Interview Dates:
- November 14, 2026 join us for Spring Awakening
- January 16, 2027 join us for The Tender Land
- February 27, 2027 join us for The Revolutionists
During your on-campus visit, you will have the opportunity to meet current faculty
and students, tour facilities, and attend a performance. Prospective students and
guests can receive complimentary seats while tickets are available.
For reservations, please contact Anna Corvera: acorvera@iwu.edu
For questions about the admissions process, or to inquire about a virtual appointment, please contact Laura Dolan: ldolan@iwu.edu
BFA Degree Application Requirements
- Submit a FREE application to Illinois Wesleyan University.
- Register for your audition date.
- Prepare a theatre resume and headshot.
- Prepare two contrasting monologues for a combined time of under three minutes. (No Shakespeare please.)
- Submit a FREE application to Illinois Wesleyan University.
- IWU SoTA is a participating institution within the Musical Theatre Common Prescreen. Submit your prescreen materials via our Acceptd page by January 1, 2027.
- Your prescreen materials for the BFA in Music Theatre will be evaluated by faculty. Applicants are typically notified about their results within one week. Applicants who advance will receive an invitation for an on-campus audition.
- On-campus invitees should prepare two contrasting songs and one monologue (no Shakespeare, please). The dance call will be live.
For questions about the prescreen process, please contact Anna Corvera: acorvera@iwu.edu.
For questions about the admission process, please contact Laura Dolan: ldolan@iwu.edu.
- Submit a FREE application to Illinois Wesleyan University.
- Register for your interview date.
- Prepare a theatre resume and portfolio. Your portfolio should present examples of your artistry.
