Course Specific Application Requirements: Acting – The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA)

This page outlines everything you need to complete your application for the Bachelor of Fine Arts Acting (BFAACT).

Application & Selection Process

The selection process takes place in two rounds:

Round 1: Online Application and Video Audition

Round 2: In-Person Recall Audition (shortlisted applicants only)

Online Application
Complete the online application form and upload all required documents, including your video audition.

About your Audition Video
Your audition video must include two contrasting monologues submitted as one continuous video.

Treat your video as an audition before a panel, not a portfolio of previous work. Perform each monologue specifically for this audition. Do not submit self-devised material, a showreel or clips from previous performances.

Selecting and preparing your monologues
Choose published dramatic texts that suit your current age range and demonstrate your individuality, range and acting skills. Read each complete text to understand the character, relationships and context. Be clear about who you are speaking to, what you want and what you are trying to achieve.

What to include:

Monologue 1: Modern/Contemporary Text

Duration: approx. 2 minutes
Framing: medium shot (waist up, with headroom)
Text: contemporary or modern dramatic work (from the period of Anton Chekov early 1900s to present day)
- Language: may be performed in your cultural language
  Must also be prepared in English if requested at recall
We suggest choosing a piece from this Monologue List.

Monologue 2: Heightened Text and Language Piece

Duration: approx. 2 minutes
Framing: long shot (full body in frame)
Text: heightened language or verse monologue
We suggest choosing a piece from this Monologue List.

Singing Actor Stream (additional)
If you are applying as a Singing Actor:

One additional song of your choice
Duration: approx. 60 seconds
Unaccompanied (a cappella)
May include opera or operetta repertoire

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an in-person recall audition.

During recall, you may be asked to:

Re-perform your Round 1 monologues
Present your additional stream-specific material
Participate in group or guided exercises
Respond to direction from staff

Additional preparation by stream

Actor Stream

Prepare a third acting piece of your choice

Singing Actor Stream
Prepare two contrasting musical theatre song cuts of your choice, each 60-90secs. One may be the same song used for your Round 1 video submission. Suggested songs can be found on the Song List.

Refer to the Interview/Callback Preparation Guide for full details on what to expect and how to prepare.

Important: International students must attend recall auditions in-person in Australia.

Outcome

Final outcomes will be communicated via email following completion of recall auditions (early December).

Successful applicants will receive a formal offer to study.