UCD Ad Astra Performing Arts Drama and Law Alumna (2022), Carla Fusciardi Wallace offers her advice on applying to UCD’s Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarship. Read (opens in a new window)here to find out her advice for applying!
To have a better look at what is involved in the scholarships, then make sure to check out our behind the scenes videos of our (opens in a new window)Drama and (opens in a new window)Music Programmes.
Dates
Opening Date:
Applications are accepted from 1st November 2023.
Closing Date:
Students must submit an application before 31st January 2024. This date is strictly adhered to.
Interview Date:
Interviews will take place in April / May 2024.
Notification:
Only students who are shortlisted for interview are notified.
All students who are interviewed will be notified of their outcome by the end of June 2024.
How to Apply
Students should complete their CAO forms as usual by the 1st February for undergraduate admission. Graduate applicants should apply directly to UCD in the normal way.
(opens in a new window)Click here to apply.
Stage 1 - Application:
Drama:
The audition will involve three elements:
- Two contrasting pieces of up to 3 minutes each (to be approved beforehand by UCD)
- A workshop led by Kellie Hughes, Ad Astra Academy Artistic and Theatre Director
- An interview
Music:
The audition will involve two elements:
- The performance of a 10-15 minute recital with at least two contrasting pieces (to be approved beforehand by UCD)
- An interview
Please note: for those applying in the vocal category, a list of pieces suitable for performance will be sent to those candidates selected for audition. There will be several pieces to choose from within each voice category i.e. soprano, baritone etc.
Stage 3- Offers:
Successful candidates will be offered a place in the Academy subject to an offer and acceptance of a course in UCD. Some provision may be made for successful audition candidates who do not attain the required points for their chosen degree but who can show evidence of ability to undertake their chosen course. This concession is intended to reflect the time commitment and discipline invested by scholars in their artistic performance. However, all candidates must meet minimum Matriculation subject entry requirements. The full entry conditions, including points concession can be found here:
All scholarships are awarded subject to the general conditions of the Ad Astra scholarships and specific Terms & Conditions for each strand.
Eligibility
Prospective Students
The Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarships are open to students who excel in the fields of classical music or drama, with a proven record of dedication to the development of their performance work. There is no restriction on the type of academic programme Performing Arts Scholars may undertake during their time at UCD.
Current UCD students
Students already enrolled on courses at University College Dublin at undergraduate or postgraduate level are eligible to apply.