Glasgow is one of the UK’s most dynamic cultural cities, known for its theatres, film studios, established performing arts institutions, and vibrant creative industry. Whether you want to pursue stage acting, screen acting, musical theatre, or general performance arts, Glasgow offers world-class training options suitable for beginners, intermediate actors, and advanced performers.
This guide covers the Top 10 Acting Schools in Glasgow, their fees, courses offered, entry expectations, and what makes each institution stand out.
Top 10 Acting Schools in Glasgow and Fees
1. Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS)
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is the highest-ranked acting school in Glasgow and one of the top performing arts institutions globally. Many famous actors trained here, including James McAvoy, David Tennant, Ncuti Gatwa, and Richard Madden.
Courses Offered:
- BA Acting
- BA Musical Theatre
- MA Classical & Contemporary Text
- Short Courses in Acting & Performance
Fees:
- UK Students: £9,250 per year
- International Students: £32,000 per year
- Postgraduate Fees: £23,000 – £32,000 per year
Why Choose RCS:
RCS offers elite training, industry-level performances, expert tutors, and regular collaborations with BBC Scotland, major theatre companies, and international festivals.
2. Acting Coach Scotland (ACS)
Acting Coach Scotland (ACS) is a modern, practical acting school that specialises in film and screen performance. Known for its professional yet friendly environment, it has quickly grown into one of Scotland’s most respected private acting academies.
Courses Offered:
- 1-Year Professional Diploma in Acting
- Screen Acting Courses
- Part-Time Acting Foundation
- Audition and Acting Technique Workshops
Fees:
- Full-time Diploma: £8,500 – £10,500
- Short Courses: £350 – £1,500
Why Choose ACS:
ACS uses the Practical Aesthetics System, a proven industry method. It is known for its small class sizes, intensive training, and career-driven approach.
3. City of Glasgow College – Acting & Performance
City of Glasgow College offers one of the most affordable and accessible acting programmes in Scotland. It is ideal for students looking to gain solid practical skills without the high cost of conservatoire training.
Courses Offered:
- HND Acting & Performance
- NQ Drama & Acting
- Theatre Workshops
Fees:
- UK Students: £1,285 – £3,500 per year
- International Students: £6,500 – £8,000 per year
Why Choose This School:
Known for strong foundational training, excellent facilities, and supportive tutors. A popular stepping-stone to RCS or professional theatre training.
4. Glasgow Kelvin College
Glasgow Kelvin College provides well-structured, affordable programmes for students interested in acting, theatre production, and performance development.
Courses Offered:
- NC Acting & Theatre
- HND Acting & Performance
- Drama Foundation Courses
Fees:
- UK/EU Students: £1,200 – £2,000 per year
- International Students: £6,000 – £7,500 per year
Why Choose Kelvin College:
Its practical approach helps students develop acting, voice, physical theatre, and stage production skills. It is also known for excellent progression routes into top UK drama schools.
5. West College Scotland – Paisley Campus
Located close to Glasgow, West College Scotland offers comprehensive performing arts training for aspiring actors.
Courses Offered:
- NC Performing Arts
- HND Acting & Performance
Fees:
- UK Students: £1,200 – £2,000 per year
- International Students: £7,000 – £8,500 per year
Why Choose This School:
Graduates often progress to leading UK drama institutions. The programme covers acting, voice, movement, improvisation, and audition preparation.
6. Glasgow Acting Academy
The Glasgow Acting Academy offers versatile acting programmes for beginners, young performers, and adults. It is known for its friendly learning environment and practical training style.
Courses Offered:
- Adult Acting Classes
- Young Actors Training
- Summer School Programmes
- Theatre & Screen Performance Classes
Fees:
- Weekly classes: £12 – £20 per session
- Term Fees: £500 – £1,200 per term
Why Choose It:
Perfect for those who want flexible, part-time acting training without committing to a full-time course. Many students use it as an audition prep centre for major drama schools.
7. UK Theatre School (Glasgow)
A popular drama school in Glasgow offering professional performance training for children, teens, and adults.
Courses Offered:
- Diploma in Acting
- Musical Theatre Training
- Screen Acting Classes
- Weekend Performing Arts Programmes
Fees:
- Diploma Programmes: £2,500 – £5,000
- Short Workshops: £150 – £800
Why Choose UK Theatre School:
They offer direct connections with casting directors and talent agencies, making it ideal for actors who want exposure and professional representation.
8. Stagecoach Performing Arts Glasgow
Stagecoach is a global performing arts network with a strong Glasgow branch offering structured acting training for young performers.
Courses Offered:
- Weekend Acting & Musical Theatre Classes
- Holiday Performance Workshops
- Teen Talent Development Programmes
Fees:
- £180 – £450 per term, depending on age and course type
Why Choose Stagecoach:
Stagecoach is excellent for building confidence, creativity, and performance basics in young actors. Many students go on to full-time drama schools after Stagecoach training.
9. Strathclyde Theatre Group (STG)
Although not a traditional school, STG offers high-quality acting workshops, performance opportunities, and practical training.
Courses Offered:
- Acting Workshops
- Directing Classes
- Audition Technique Training
- Theatre Production Participation
Fees:
- Workshops: £100 – £500
- Annual Membership: £80 – £120
Why Choose STG:
Perfect for actors who want hands-on stage experience, networking, and participation in real theatre productions.
10. Glasgow Clyde College – Performing Arts
Glasgow Clyde College offers well-rounded performing arts courses suitable for beginners and intermediate performers.
Courses Offered:
- NC Acting & Theatre
- HND Acting & Performance
- Theatre Production Courses
Fees:
- UK Students: £1,200 – £2,000 per year
- International Students: £6,500 – £8,000 per year
Why Choose Clyde College:
Known for practical training, supportive tutors, affordable fees, and good progression pathways into advanced acting programmes.
Why Glasgow Is a Great Place to Study Acting
Glasgow has become a major creative hub thanks to its rich theatre culture, annual festivals, strong film production activity, and respected drama institutions. Students benefit from:
- Access to BBC Scotland and National Theatre of Scotland
- Affordable cost of living compared to London
- A thriving film industry with new productions filmed regularly
- Opportunities for auditions, casting calls, and theatre collaborations
- A variety of acting training options at different price points
How to Choose the Right Acting School in Glasgow
When comparing acting schools, consider:
- Fees and affordability
- Type of training (screen acting vs. stage acting)
- Audition requirements
- School reputation
- Class size and teaching style
- Industry connections and performance opportunities
Acting Career Opportunities in Glasgow
Completing an acting course in Glasgow opens doors to:
- Film and TV acting
- Theatre performance
- Commercial acting
- Voice-over roles
- Music videos
- Presenting and hosting
- Stage directing
- Scriptwriting and production
The city’s growing film industry provides more casting opportunities each year.
FAQs About Acting Schools in Glasgow
1. What is the best acting school in Glasgow?
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is widely considered the top acting school.
2. What is the most affordable acting school in Glasgow?
City of Glasgow College, Glasgow Kelvin College, and Clyde College offer the cheapest programmes.
3. Do acting schools in Glasgow accept international students?
Yes — most of the schools listed accept international students.
4. Can beginners join these acting schools?
Yes — several provide beginner-friendly classes and workshops.
Conclusion
Glasgow offers some of the best acting training opportunities in the UK. From world-class conservatoires like RCS to flexible part-time academies like Glasgow Acting Academy, there is a suitable training path for every aspiring actor. Compare your goals, fees, and preferred style of training to choose the school that best fits your acting ambitions.