2025-2026 Admission Requirements for the Graduate Major in Theater

Admissions Requirements for the Graduate Major in Theater


APPLYING

After exploring options and choosing a specific program, follow the steps on our University’s graduate application process:

Deadlines to apply

M.F.A.: Design, Directing and Playwriting specializations: December 1, 2024 M.F.A.: Acting specialization is not accepting applications for 2024-2025
Late applications may be considered for the M.F.A. Note however that interviews are conducted in January and February. Consult the Theater website for schedule and location.

Admission Limited to

Fall

Exams & GRE Types

GRE: Optional

Letters of Recommendation

Two Letters of Recommendation Required; Third Letter Optional

Consult department for additional information.

UCLA-Wide Graduate Admissions Requirements

Degree-Specific Admissions Requirements

In addition to the University's minimum requirements and those listed above, all applicants are expected to submit a statement of purpose, departmental application, and materials as indicated below:

M.F.A.:

Interviews and auditions for the M.F.A. program are conducted at various locations around the country in January and February. Details are available on the departmental website.

Design for Theater and Entertainment (scenic and production design, costume design, and lighting design). Resume and evidence of ability appropriate to the area of emphasis as demonstrated by sketches, renderings, photographs, production books, plots, technical papers, reviews, or other exhibits appropriate to the field of study. An interview and presentation of the portfolio may be required.

Directing. Resume and evidence of directed work, which may include video documentation, photographs, reviews and critical commentaries. An interview and presentation of portfolio may be required.

Playwriting. Resume, one full length play, and a second example of creative writing which may include plays of any length, screenwriting, fiction, poetry, video, audio, or other digital creative work. A personal interview may be required by the department.

Applicants are advised that all records submitted in support of an application, including creative work (original or otherwise), are not returnable nor is the department responsible for such material.

Program Name

Theater

Leading to the
degree of

M.F.A.,

Applicants whose objective is the Ph.D. should see Theater and Performance Studies

Major Code

0902

Address

103 East Melnitz
Box 951622
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1622

Phone

(310) 206-8441

Email

theatergrad@tft.ucla.edu

Website

www.tft.ucla.edu/admissions/theater/