Yale School Of Drama

The Yale School of Drama, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is one of the most prestigious and highly selective drama schools in the world. Founded in 1924, it has a long history of producing talented actors, playwrights, directors, and designers who have gone on to achieve great success in the entertainment industry. The school is part of Yale University, one of the Ivy League universities in the United States, and offers a Master of Fine Arts degree in various disciplines, including acting, playwriting, directing, and design.
Academic Programs and Curriculum

The Yale School of Drama offers a range of academic programs, including the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in acting, playwriting, directing, and design. The school also offers a Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA) degree in drama, which is a terminal degree that requires original research and a dissertation. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the art and craft of drama, including courses in acting, playwriting, directing, and design, as well as courses in drama history, theory, and criticism. The school’s faculty includes many renowned artists and scholars, who provide students with mentorship and guidance throughout their studies. The school’s studio-based learning approach allows students to learn by doing, with ample opportunities to participate in productions and other creative projects.
Admissions and Financial Aid
Admission to the Yale School of Drama is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of less than 5%. The school looks for applicants who have a strong passion for drama and a demonstrated talent for their chosen discipline. The application process typically includes an audition or portfolio review, as well as submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The school offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students fund their education. The school also offers a number of assistantships and internships, which provide students with hands-on experience and a stipend to help offset the cost of tuition.
Program | Duration | Tuition |
---|---|---|
MFA in Acting | 3 years | $29,750 per year |
MFA in Playwriting | 3 years | $29,750 per year |
MFA in Directing | 3 years | $29,750 per year |
MFA in Design | 3 years | $29,750 per year |

Notable Alumni and Faculty

The Yale School of Drama has a long list of notable alumni, including actors such as Meryl Streep, Liev Schreiber, and Paul Newman, as well as playwrights such as Thornton Wilder and Donald Margulies. The school’s faculty includes many renowned artists and scholars, such as playwright and director Elizabeth Egloff and dramaturg and critic Marc Robinson. The school’s alumni network is also highly active, with many graduates going on to achieve great success in the entertainment industry and remaining involved with the school through teaching, mentoring, and other activities.
Production and Performance Opportunities
The Yale School of Drama offers a range of production and performance opportunities for students, including the Yale Repertory Theatre, which is a professional theatre company that produces a range of plays and musicals each year. Students also have the opportunity to participate in student-led productions, which are produced and performed by students and provide a chance for students to take on leadership roles and showcase their talents. The school also has a number of performance spaces, including the Yale University Theatre and the Iseman Theater, which provide students with a range of venues in which to perform.
- Yale Repertory Theatre
- Yale University Theatre
- Iseman Theater
- Student-led productions
What is the application deadline for the Yale School of Drama?
+The application deadline for the Yale School of Drama is typically in mid-December, although this may vary depending on the program to which you are applying. It is recommended that you check the school’s website for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines and requirements.
How much does it cost to attend the Yale School of Drama?
+The cost of attending the Yale School of Drama varies depending on the program to which you are applying, as well as your individual circumstances. The school offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students fund their education. It is recommended that you check the school’s website for the most up-to-date information on tuition and fees, as well as financial aid options.