<p>For a strong dancer, as you’re making up that list, look for schools that also have a dance major or minor (not that your d would be in that track) but ask if MTs are able to take dance w/the majors and/or be placed by ability. Some programs start everyone in MT in the same dance class (that was the kiss of death for my strong dancer’s list) or don’t offer enough hours for a strong dancer to stay strong. </p>
<p>My d’s list (which changed and morphed throughout the process) used some of these criteria: strong dance, BFA preferred, showcase a plus (but not a dealbreaker), performance opportunities, academic honors program, availability of merit money (because talent scholarships are few and far between). </p>
<p>Some programs that looked great on paper did not make the final list after a campus visit (we were able to visit most of the schools that made her final list – a great thing, if you can pull it off). In the end, she auditioned for 9 programs, was academically accepted to all, was artistically accepted to 4. But you can only attend one school…make sure that every school on the list is one you would be truly happy attending…that’s why figuring out what’s important to you (beyond just “name”!!!) is another critical phase of the process. Good luck!</p>