<p>Most of the conservatory programs, Juilliard, NEC, Mannes, Manhattan, Longy, Curtis, Colburn and others of that ilk are almost exclusively auditioned based. For BM candidates in a performance discipline, the minimums tend to be a high school diploma, home school equivalent, or GED certificate. Juilliard specifically does not require the SAT or ACT as an undergrad requirement, and the others may or may not, but the exact parameters are stipulated on the appropriate websites. Most, if not all of the conservatories offer a Diploma or certificate program, which has no academic requirements, and is usually a three rather than four year duration as opposed to a degree focused BM. </p>
<p>A four year degree will include academics, including non-discipline related degree requirements. The amount and intensity will vary among programs. The best comparison is found in comparing the specific requirements in the institution’s undergrad handbook. This will detail the degree requirements and distribution in far more depth than the overview found in the admissions webpages.</p>
<p>You may want to verify the requirements at the various state top-level programs like IU/Jacobs, UMich Ann Arbor. While there may be less emphasis on a top candidate’s academic skills for a performance based BM, each has their own low-side threshold for academic standards. These programs may or may not offer a non academic Performance Diploma or Certificate.</p>
<p>And stephmin makes a good point. Even the diploma/certificate type programs have requirements in theory, history, aural skills, which are “academics”, although not the liberal arts type of academics required in an undergrad BM program.</p>