The schools estimate your need and provide the amount that will satisfy that need. Outside scholarships reduce that need, so the college reduces its aid in that amount. Yes you have to report outside scholarships. As I remember you may be allowed an amount to buy a computer, that kind of thing, but it’s been awhile.
I thought a BFA was a lighter load than a BM-? So more possible to study another subject. Help understanding BA vs. BFA vs. BM - College Majors / Music Major - College Confidential Forums
My personal view, based on what I know with a kid with a doctorate in music who has had all kinds of job options throughout, is that it is a wonderful thing to study and practice what you love in undergrad years. Doing another subject, like English, because you love it, or because you want that particular expertise, makes sense, but if it is just as a “financial backup” I don’t think it is a good reason. That’s me.
I know people who have done undergrad music and gone on to med, law or business school, worked in tv, worked in orchestra management, gone on to grad school in Medieval Studies (a singer), and so on. Music majors can do anything anyone with a BA can do. I also know kids who have gone on to grad work in music, including doctorates, and teach, compose or perform. Life is flexible and nothing is written in stone. Studying music or musical theater shows discipline, hard work, and intellectual strength., You can do internships, vplunteer for a non-profit, or help organize things on campus to gain skills in the work world. Summer programs are also very helpful and are often funded.
Okay so my question now is, do you want to sing in opera or musical theater? It seems that most vocal performance programs are opera. There are also musical theater, jazz and contemporary programs.
If you are choosing vocal performance because you think it is less intense than a BFA and easier to do with another subject, I don’t think that is right. Also, for a double degree as opposed to a double major, you will do 5 years and the degrees are arranged so there is room for both.
Do you act and dance as well and like those activities? If you are a “triple threat” then musical theater might be your thing.
So a double degree is great- if you love both subjects. A double major can be done but it’s tough. A major/minor is an option. Or you can do a full BFA. Or you can study English for a BA at a school with a good extracurricular music/muscical theater program.
If cost is an issue, and you don’t have full aid, the double degree is that extra year.
When you know what you are likely to want (and it can be more than one option), we can suggest specific schools. If you choose a BA, again, you need to avoid some of the schools suggested as “good for music” because they might prioritize BM or BFA students, but check for exceptions.
I sent you a PM. Look for the green envelope upper right.