Seeking information on performing arts scholarships for international students

I'm an international student with a strong interest in the performing arts, and I'm curious about scholarship opportunities. What are some of the well-known scholarships available? Also, does the application process differ greatly from other types of scholarships?

The availability of scholarships for international students within the performing arts can vary considerably between different colleges and institutions. Here are a few examples of performing arts scholarships that typically accept international students:

1. The Juilliard School's Scholarship: Juilliard provides talent-based scholarships to all admitted students. The school also has a need-based grant program to supplement the merit-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need.

2. The UCLA Global Arts Scholarship: This program offers funding for international students studying in the arts at the undergraduate level.

3. The USC Thornton School of Music offers the International Artist Fellowship program to candidates in select programs including music, dance, and theatre.

4. Some schools, though not necessarily limited to performing arts, offer tuition waivers or scholarships to exceptional students. An example is the Presidential Scholarships at Berklee College of Music.

5. Drama scholarships at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland: This prestigious institution provides various scholarships for international students who show promise in drama and performing arts.

While these are just a few examples, many arts-focused colleges will have their own scholarship programs that could apply to you.

As for the application process, it differs from conventional academic scholarships. Many performing arts scholarships require that you submit a portfolio demonstrating your talent, or even attend an audition. This can take the form of photos, video recordings, or other demonstrations of your work. Similarly, you might be asked to write about why you're passionate about your chosen field or how you plan to use your studies to contribute to the art world. Aside from these factors, the paperwork involved is usually similar to other scholarship applications – you'll need to provide information about your academic background, complete various forms, and perhaps provide letters of recommendation. It's always recommended to closely examine the specific requirements of each scholarship before you begin the application process.