Auditions and Portfolios

Applicants are not required to submit an admissions portfolio. Instead, graphic design, and studio art and photography concentrations submit portfolios for review and evaluation after completing 21 credits in the major — this creates greater equity in the admissions process.

Only students applying for the Harold T. and Alice M. McCarthy Scholarship must submit a portfolio. The deadline to apply for this scholarship is March 1, 2026.

Submit portfolios online at salemstate.slideroom.com.

No audition is required for bachelor of arts in dance applicants. For more information about the program, or to schedule a visit, please contact Professor Meghan McLyman. 

No audition is required for Music applicants.  For more information about the program, or to schedule a visit, please contact Professor Mary-Jo Grenfell.

Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Fine Arts

There are two tracks in the theatre major to which students can apply:

• Bachelor of Arts, BA (does not require an audition/portfolio)
• Bachelor of Fine Arts, BFA (requires an audition/portfolio review as part of the application review)

If you do not initially apply to the BFA as an incoming student, you will have the opportunity to apply during your freshman year.

BFA Auditions and Portfolio Review Dates

• Saturday, November 15, 2025, 12 pm

• Saturday, January 24, 2026, 12 pm

Complimentary Performance Tickets

Prospective students can receive complimentary tickets to select student performances. To inquire about tickets for upcoming performances or to schedule a tour of the Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts, please email Ashley O’Toole.