Who are we looking for?
We welcome applicants who demonstrate creative potential, curiosity, discipline and a genuine commitment to the dramatic and entertainment arts.
NIDA values the different perspectives, experiences and creative practices that people bring to our community. We encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds, identities and lived experiences, including those from communities that have historically been underrepresented in the dramatic, creative and entertainment industries.
Applicants come to NIDA through many different pathways with experience gained through secondary study, higher education, vocational training, creative practice, professional work and lived experience.
We look for people who will contribute positively to NIDA’s collaborative, inclusive and creative learning environment.
Entry Requirements and Selection Criteria
To be considered for admission to a NIDA accredited course, applicants must meet the general eligibility requirements for their chosen level of study and specific requirements for their chosen course.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection or admission. NIDA selects students on merit through a fair and equitable admissions process. The number of places available in each course is governed by NIDA’s resources and capacity.
Undergraduate Degrees
Applicants for undergraduate courses must:
- have completed Year 12 or an equivalent secondary qualification
- be at least 18 years of age by 31 March in their first year of enrolment
- meet the applicable English language proficiency requirements
- demonstrate skills and knowledge appropriate to the level and discipline of the course
- demonstrate an interest in the dramatic, creative or entertainment arts
Postgraduate Degrees
Applicants for postgraduate courses must:
- have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification, and/or have at least five years of documented relevant professional experience
- be at least 18 years of age by 31 March in their first year of enrolment
- meet the applicable English language proficiency requirements
- demonstrate the skills and knowledge required for advanced study in their chosen discipline
- demonstrate an interest in the dramatic and entertainment arts
Vocational Diplomas
NIDA’s vocational courses and diplomas are available to domestic applicants only. Applicants must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen and meet the entry and selection requirements for their chosen course.
Applicants for postgraduate courses must:
- demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English appropriate to the course
- meet competency requirements specified in the relevant training package
Course-Specific Entry and Selection Requirements
Each NIDA course has specific entry and selection requirements that reflect the academic, creative and practical demands of the discipline.
Depending on the course, applicants may be required to:
- attend an audition, recall or interview
- present and discuss a portfolio or project
- complete a practical or skills assessment
- undertake an English language proficiency assessment
- complete a written or literacy exercise
Only applicants who meet the relevant eligibility requirements can be considered for selection.
Selection is merit-based and considers an applicant’s suitability for admission. Where the number of eligible applicants exceeds the places available, applicants may be ranked against the published requirements and selection criteria.
Refer to your chosen course page for its specific application requirements and selection criteria.
English Language Requirements
All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English appropriate to their course and level of study.
International applicants for Higher Education courses must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to an Academic IELTS overall score of 7.0, with no individual band score below 6.0.
Applicants for the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting) must demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to an Academic IELTS overall score of 8.0.
Equivalent recognised English language qualifications may also be accepted. Refer to the relevant course page for any course-specific requirements.
Internation Applicant Requirements
International applications are accepted for eligible higher education courses only. Applicants should refer to the relevant course page to confirm whether international applications are accepted.
Where a course is available to international students, applicants must meet the same academic, creative and course-specific entry requirements as domestic applicants, as well as NIDA’s English language proficiency and international student requirements.
International applicants must:
- be at least 18 years of age when they apply
- meet the English language requirements for their chosen course
- meet the Australian Government’s student visa requirements
- pay any required tuition deposit and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment before commencing their course
Course availability and specific requirements may vary, so international applicants should review the relevant course page carefully before applying.