I’m not sure I’d put IWU in that category. Fewer students audition there than the places that are at Unifieds, but they only accept about 12, they prescreen, and they are a tougher academic admit than many others.
NKU was, we thought, a wonderful addition to D’s list because they only audition on campus (making the numbers smaller), and they admit however many fulfill whatever requirements they are looking for (which is something like drive, ability to handle the rigorous BFA program, talent, and potential for success in this field) instead of a set amount.
BTW, we found both programs to be caring and focused on the individual, big pluses to us.