<p>Just echoing EmmyBet’s comments–no audition program can be considered a “safety” (am curious why VCU is a safety for him?). Also, just in regard to your preference for a more typical “real college” experience (a preference I share for my own son)–you did list a couple of schools that are straight-up conservatories: NCSA and Cornish. Is he really considering both arts schools and liberal-arts colleges/universities? Finally, I’ve seen good comments about the University of Rhode Island’s non-auditioned acting program, and your son might be a good prospect there academically. Wishing the best of luck to your son–I’m sure he’ll find the right spot!</p>