A group of students in various color unitards stand on one leg, with their back leg in attitude and arms reach out on a diagonal line.

Apply to the Independent Study Program

The one-year Independent Study Program offers intensive training to students ages 17 to 25 who have completed their secondary school requirements and wish to further develop their artistry and technical skills while enhancing their professional potential. 

Criteria

Prospective students must first audition in person or by video to be considered for the Independent Study Program. Candidates should have a minimum of three years of consistent training in ballet and modern. In addition, candidates should possess a keen sense of musicality, strong artistic performance qualities, and experience in multiple techniques.  

Students must register for an audition or upload their video audition with their application and $30 application fee in the Admissions Portal. 

Students must be program age by the start of the program (not audition date) to be eligible for acceptance.

Deadlines

November 15–April 2025

Audition registration opens 
Video Auditions Accepted

January–April 2025

In-Person Audition Tour

June 1

School Year Video Audition Deadline

Tuition & Fees

2024-25 School Year  

$13,240 ($6,620 per semester) 

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Refunds are issued according to The Ailey School’s published refund policy. Does not include other fees: $30 audition fee (one time), $45 BFA audition fee (one time), $50 international student fee (one time), $65 registration fee (annually), $135 physical therapy fee (biannually, once per semester).  

All fees are subject to change. All fees and required tuition deposits are non-refundable and will be deducted from any total tuition refund. Refunds will be pro-rated according to the School's published refund policy. To obtain an official withdrawal, students must submit a Withdrawal Form to their Faculty Advisor, who will then submit it to The Ailey School Directors. The tuition charge will be assessed according to the student's last date of attendance and the School's published refund policy. If you receive Federal Financial Aid you may owe a cash payment to The Ailey School or the Federal Government by withdrawing from school. You have not “earned” the aid you have received until you complete 60% of the term in which you receive aid. The amount of aid that you can keep (i.e., earned) is calculated as follows: Aid You Can Keep = (No. of Days Completed ÷ No. of Days in the Term Including Weekends) x Aid Received. 

Federal financial aid is available for qualifying Certificate and Independent Study Program students. 

FAQs