If your dream is to become a professional actor, choosing the right acting school is your first major role. Acting schools across the United States offer a wide range of programs — from classical stage performance to modern screen acting — designed to help you develop technical skill, emotional depth, and industry knowledge.
In this guide, we highlight the top 50 acting schools in the USA. Each listing includes estimated tuition fees, key program features, and reasons why the school stands out. Whether you’re searching for an affordable public university or a world-renowned conservatory, you’ll find an option that fits your career goals and budget.
Top 50 Acting Schools in the USA
1. The Juilliard School – New York, NY
Tuition: Approx. $53,000 per year
Overview: Juilliard is synonymous with excellence in performing arts. With its location in Lincoln Center, it offers unmatched exposure to theatre and film industries. Graduates include Viola Davis, Robin Williams, and Jessica Chastain. Admission is extremely competitive, accepting less than 10% of applicants.
2. NYU Tisch School of the Arts – New York, NY
Tuition: Around $56,000 per year
Overview: Tisch combines rigorous acting training with film production and performance studies. Students gain access to Broadway, off-Broadway, and film internships, making it one of the best acting schools for on-screen careers.
3. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) – Valencia, CA
Tuition: Approximately $47,000 per year
Overview: Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts focuses on creativity and innovation. Students are encouraged to experiment across disciplines, preparing for both stage and screen careers in California’s entertainment hub.
4. Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama – Pittsburgh, PA
Tuition: About $60,000 per year
Overview: Carnegie Mellon’s School of Drama is one of the oldest and most respected in the world. Alumni include Holly Hunter and Patrick Wilson. The program emphasizes voice, movement, and performance analysis.
5. University of Southern California (USC) School of Dramatic Arts – Los Angeles, CA
Tuition: Roughly $61,000 per year
Overview: USC offers direct access to Hollywood’s film and television industries. The school provides a balance of classical theatre and screen acting training, ideal for aspiring movie and TV stars.
6. Yale School of Drama (David Geffen School of Drama) – New Haven, CT
Tuition: Tuition-Free (Scholarship Supported)
Overview: Yale’s acting program is world-class and fully funded thanks to a $150 million donation. Alumni include Meryl Streep, Lupita Nyong’o, and Paul Giamatti. It’s the ultimate choice for serious stage professionals.
7. Boston University College of Fine Arts – Boston, MA
Tuition: Around $63,800 per year
Overview: BU’s conservatory-style training focuses on performance, voice, and movement. The university’s location provides access to Boston’s vibrant theatre community and cultural scene.
8. American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) – New York, NY / Los Angeles, CA
Tuition: About $42,000 per year
Overview: AMDA’s two campuses (NYC and LA) allow students to choose between Broadway and Hollywood exposure. It offers diploma and degree options with industry-focused, hands-on training.
9. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Los Angeles, CA
Tuition: $45,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television provides a strong academic foundation with a practical performance focus. Students regularly collaborate with directors and producers in the film industry.
10. University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance – Ann Arbor, MI
Tuition: $54,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: Michigan offers one of the most well-rounded BFA programs, combining acting, musical theatre, and voice training. Alumni have appeared on Broadway and major TV networks.
11. Northwestern University – Evanston, IL
Tuition: $66,000 per year
Overview: Northwestern emphasizes flexibility and creativity, allowing students to double-major or minor in writing, directing, or media arts. The Chicago theatre scene provides real-world acting opportunities.
12. University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) – Winston-Salem, NC
Tuition: $26,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: UNCSA is a conservatory within a public university system — offering top-tier acting education at an affordable rate. Alumni include David LaChapelle and Danny McBride.
13. Columbia University – New York, NY
Tuition: $68,000 per year
Overview: Columbia’s MFA Acting program focuses on classical theatre, movement, and advanced stagecraft. Its New York City location connects students with leading theatre networks.
14. The New School (School of Drama) – New York, NY
Tuition: $55,000 per year
Overview: The New School promotes creative expression and collaboration. Its modern curriculum integrates acting, directing, and screenwriting for a holistic approach to performance arts.
15. Pepperdine University – Malibu, CA
Tuition: $68,000 per year
Overview: Pepperdine offers personalized training with small class sizes and mentorship. Its scenic Malibu campus gives students a calm, inspiring atmosphere to perfect their craft.
16. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – La Jolla, CA
Tuition: $44,000 per year
Overview: UCSD’s MFA Acting program is among the best on the West Coast, with a partnership with the La Jolla Playhouse for real-world stage experience.
17. Emerson College – Boston, MA
Tuition: $56,000 per year
Overview: Emerson specializes in communication and arts. Its acting and performance programs are highly respected, offering opportunities in both stage and digital media acting.
18. DePaul University (The Theatre School) – Chicago, IL
Tuition: $53,000 per year
Overview: DePaul’s intensive conservatory prepares students for Broadway and television. Chicago’s theatre industry provides a wealth of performance opportunities.
19. Florida State University – Tallahassee, FL
Tuition: $18,700 per year (In-State)
Overview: FSU’s College of Fine Arts provides strong acting programs at affordable rates. Students benefit from experienced faculty and access to regional theatre networks.
20. Pace University – New York, NY
Tuition: $50,000 per year
Overview: Pace’s School of Performing Arts offers acting for stage, screen, and voice-over programs. Its Manhattan campus is perfect for students pursuing Broadway and film.
21. Rutgers University Mason Gross School of the Arts – New Brunswick, NJ
Tuition: $32,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: Rutgers’ acting conservatory emphasizes classical techniques, voice training, and camera performance. Its alumni often find work in TV and theatre.
22. University of Washington – Seattle, WA
Tuition: $40,000 per year
Overview: Known for ensemble-based training, UW’s School of Drama provides professional acting education with affordable tuition for in-state residents.
23. University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, MN
Tuition: $36,000 per year
Overview: The Guthrie Theater partnership offers acting students hands-on stage experience, making this an excellent public option for theatre training.
24. Temple University – Philadelphia, PA
Tuition: $35,000 per year
Overview: Temple provides modern acting education with strong links to the Philadelphia theatre community. Students learn stagecraft, directing, and performance techniques.
25. Ithaca College – Ithaca, NY
Tuition: $51,000 per year
Overview: Ithaca’s theatre program prepares students for careers in film and live theatre, with strong alumni representation on Broadway.
26. Chapman University – Orange, CA
Tuition: $60,000 per year
Overview: Located near Los Angeles, Chapman’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts integrates acting and film studies, giving students on-camera experience early in their training.
27. Loyola Marymount University – Los Angeles, CA
Tuition: $64,000 per year
Overview: LMU’s College of Communication and Fine Arts provides acting programs emphasizing personal growth, creativity, and screen performance.
28. San Francisco State University – San Francisco, CA
Tuition: $30,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: A budget-friendly public university with a strong performing arts department offering BA and MFA acting degrees.
29. University of Arizona – Tucson, AZ
Tuition: $35,000 per year (Out-of-State)
Overview: Offers both acting and musical theatre programs. Known for its hands-on approach and supportive creative community.
30. Oklahoma City University – Oklahoma City, OK
Tuition: $30,000 per year
Overview: A strong regional theatre program offering both BFA and MFA tracks with professional stage experience.
31. Rutgers University – Mason Gross School of the Arts (New Jersey)
Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts is known for its immersive conservatory-style BFA and MFA Acting programs. The curriculum integrates classical and contemporary techniques, emphasizing both stage and screen performance.
Annual Tuition: About $31,000 (in-state) and $49,000 (out-of-state)
Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey
32. Loyola Marymount University (California)
Located in Los Angeles, Loyola Marymount’s Theatre Arts program provides excellent connections to the entertainment industry. Its Acting concentration trains students in voice, movement, and film performance, with strong internship opportunities.
Annual Tuition: Approximately $57,000
Location: Los Angeles, California
33. University of Southern Mississippi – Theatre Department
A solid choice for aspiring actors in the South, USM’s Acting program emphasizes character development and stagecraft. Students benefit from small class sizes and hands-on production experience.
Annual Tuition: Around $9,200 (in-state) and $11,800 (out-of-state)
Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi
34. The Theatre School at DePaul University (Illinois)
DePaul’s Theatre School in Chicago offers an intensive conservatory environment for both BFA and MFA Acting students. The program’s close relationship with Chicago’s theatre scene provides unparalleled performance opportunities.
Annual Tuition: About $44,000
Location: Chicago, Illinois
35. University of Michigan – School of Music, Theatre & Dance
The University of Michigan’s BFA Acting program combines rigorous conservatory training with academic studies. Graduates often go on to successful careers in theatre, film, and TV.
Annual Tuition: Around $17,000 (in-state) and $57,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
36. The University of Utah – Department of Theatre
This program is ideal for students interested in both acting and directing. With extensive production facilities and mentorship opportunities, it prepares students for diverse performance careers.
Annual Tuition: About $10,000 (in-state) and $31,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
37. Temple University – School of Theater, Film, and Media Arts
Temple University’s Acting program emphasizes physical theatre, improvisation, and on-camera performance. Its location in Philadelphia provides access to professional opportunities in both film and stage.
Annual Tuition: Around $19,000 (in-state) and $34,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
38. University of Arizona – School of Theatre, Film & Television
Students at the University of Arizona enjoy a hands-on, production-heavy program that combines classical acting with screen performance training.
Annual Tuition: About $13,500 (in-state) and $41,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Tucson, Arizona
39. California State University, Northridge (CSUN)
CSUN offers a BA in Theatre with an Acting option that provides solid training for stage and screen. The school is known for affordability and strong industry ties in Los Angeles.
Annual Tuition: Roughly $7,000 (in-state) and $19,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Northridge, California
40. Columbia College Chicago
Columbia College’s Theatre Department provides specialized acting programs for both theatre and film. The curriculum balances technique, performance, and creativity.
Annual Tuition: Around $31,000
Location: Chicago, Illinois
41. Florida International University (FIU)
FIU’s Theatre Department provides students with opportunities to perform in both English and Spanish productions, making it a multicultural environment ideal for bilingual actors.
Annual Tuition: About $6,500 (in-state) and $18,900 (out-of-state)
Location: Miami, Florida
42. University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG)
UNCG’s Acting program is known for its supportive faculty and focus on both classical and modern theatre. Students participate in numerous productions throughout the year.
Annual Tuition: Around $8,500 (in-state) and $23,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
43. The New School – College of Performing Arts (New York)
The New School’s acting program offers conservatory-style training with an emphasis on social awareness and storytelling. Students often collaborate with film and writing majors.
Annual Tuition: About $53,000
Location: New York City, New York
44. University of Oregon – Theatre Arts Department
The University of Oregon provides an Acting concentration within its BA Theatre Arts program, focusing on creativity, collaboration, and diverse performance practices.
Annual Tuition: Around $14,000 (in-state) and $42,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Eugene, Oregon
45. Pace University – School of Performing Arts
Pace is known for its acting-for-film program and proximity to Broadway. Its alumni often transition smoothly into professional theatre, film, and television roles.
Annual Tuition: Approximately $51,000
Location: New York City, New York
46. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
VCU’s School of the Arts offers a strong BFA Acting program with a focus on ensemble work, character development, and improvisation.
Annual Tuition: About $15,000 (in-state) and $38,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Richmond, Virginia
47. Ball State University (Indiana)
Ball State’s Acting program blends theory and practice, with modern facilities and strong ties to regional theatres.
Annual Tuition: Around $10,000 (in-state) and $28,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Muncie, Indiana
48. Western Michigan University
WMU’s Theatre Department offers an Acting BFA designed to build stage, voice, and movement skills through constant performance opportunities.
Annual Tuition: About $14,500 (in-state) and $18,500 (out-of-state)
Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan
49. Emerson College (Massachusetts)
Emerson College’s Acting program is highly respected for its combination of performance training and media studies, ideal for film and theatre careers.
Annual Tuition: Around $56,000
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
50. University of Colorado Boulder
CU Boulder’s Theatre & Dance Department offers a BA in Theatre with an Acting concentration. The program fosters creativity, collaboration, and strong technical foundation.
Annual Tuition: Approximately $14,000 (in-state) and $40,000 (out-of-state)
Location: Boulder, Colorado
How to Choose the Right Acting School
When choosing an acting school, consider:
- Tuition and Living Costs: Big cities like NYC and LA can increase expenses.
- Program Focus: Decide between conservatory (practical) or university (academic) training.
- Alumni Network: Schools with active alumni communities often help graduates find jobs.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Look for schools offering merit or need-based aid.
FAQs About Acting Schools in the USA
Q1: What is the cheapest acting school in the USA?
Public universities such as Florida State University and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts offer affordable yet high-quality acting programs.
Q2: Which acting school is best for film acting?
USC, UCLA, and NYU Tisch provide top-tier screen acting programs near major film studios.
Q3: Can international students apply to acting schools in the USA?
Yes, most acting schools welcome international applicants, though tuition may be higher for non-residents.
Q4: What degree should I pursue for acting?
Undergraduates often earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Acting; graduate students pursue an MFA for advanced training.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a professional actor begins with training — and the right school can make all the difference. From Juilliard’s world-class conservatory to FSU’s affordable program, the USA offers countless opportunities for aspiring performers.
When choosing your acting school, think beyond prestige. Look for the right environment, program type, and financial fit for your goals. With dedication and the right training, you can take center stage in theatre, television, or film — anywhere your passion leads.