Tuition-Free College for the Musically Talented
Tuition-Free College for Music Majors: Image by Illuminate at sxc.hu
The music minded should consider the Curtis Institute of Music, a tuition-free college located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The school offers free tuition, which was like getting $33,500 off for undergraduate students during the 2008-2009 school year. Graduate students got a value of about $46,000 in the same year.
The Curtis Institute of Music offers its full-tuition scholarships based on merit. You must be talented to get into this school. Admission is highly competitive, and only a fraction of students get in. This is not meant to discourage you; it’s just reality. But I’ve always been one to suggest aiming high. I am often surprised by the good things that come my way when I try for something I didn’t really expect to get. You can pursue either a diploma or a degree program at the Curtis Institute of Music. The school offers a Diploma of Music, Bachelor of Music, Master of Music, and Professional Studies Certificate for student vocalists. The college even allows talented high school students to enroll. Here’s the estimated time frame for completing each program: *Diploma in Music: Two to four years *Bachelor of Music: Three to five years *Master of Music: Two to three years *Professional certificate: Two to three years
If you want to apply to this tuition-free college, you can expect lots of competition, so start early. The school’s deadline is usually in early December–plan ahead. The application fee is pretty hefty. In 2009, it was $150, and it went up to a crazy $350 for those who missed the application deadline (Seriously, don’t miss it.). Students interested in vocal studies may have to pay a screening fee as well. You don’t have to call for an application form, you can download it right here. Be sure to read all the pertinent information at the link above. Don’t overlook the list of supporting documents you’ll need to complete your application. Okay, so you’re talented or your kid is? Don’t expect this music college to take your word for it. You will have to audition. I know, that may get the knees to knocking, but if you get it, the nervousness will be so worth it. In most cases, you’ll have to audition in person, but there are some exceptions for vocal studies students. Applicants also have to travel to Philadelphia for an interview. The musical school provides an accompanist for those playing certain instruments as well as a warm-up room for practicing right before the audition. Please drop me a line if you have experience with this tuition-free college. One of my daughters is interested.
