The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) has once again been named in The Hollywood Reporter’s prestigious list of the Top 25 drama schools worldwide, reaffirming its place as a global leader in creative education.
NIDA has been a consistent presence on the list, reflecting the strength of its training, its deep industry connections, and the ongoing success of its graduates across stage, screen and the creative industries.
Notably, NIDA remains the only Australian institution recognised in the 2026 list, an achievement that highlights the global impact of Australian talent and storytelling on the world’s stage.
Published annually, The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 25 drama schools feature brings together leading institutions from around the world, acknowledging the training grounds that continue to shape the future of performance, production and creative practice.
For NIDA, this recognition affirms our commitment to rigorous, practice-led training that prepares students to work at the highest levels of the industry. For over 68 years, from actors and directors to designers, technicians and cultural leaders, NIDA graduates continue to make their mark both in Australia and internationally.
As NIDA’s 2027 Application period opens once again, the list confirms NIDA’s position as a key contributor to the global creative landscape and a place where the next generation of storytellers can develop the skills, craft and ambition to build lasting international careers.
As NIDA continues to evolve its programs and partnerships, its focus remains firmly on supporting artists and makers to tell bold, original stories that resonate across cultures and contexts.
Read the full list via The Hollywood Reporter.
Applications to study at NIDA are open.
National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA)
NIDA is Australia’s national dramatic arts educator and innovator. NIDA’s unparalleled rigour, practice-based learning, connections to industry and culture of innovation have produced some of the world’s most influential and in-demand storytellers across stage, screen and new digital platforms. NIDA offers comprehensive training in the skills necessary to create and deliver entertainment experiences for audiences across theatre, film, television, dance, opera, commercials, musicals, festivals, live events, interactive gaming and more. NIDA alumni are actors, directors, writers, set and costume designers, lighting and sound designers, set builders, costume and prop makers, special effects artists, world builders, and stage and production managers. A not-for-profit, NIDA was founded in 1958.
Header Image: NIDA’s 2025 Student Production of Peter Pan. Photo by Brett Boardman.