Applications
Am I Eligible?
Prospective Students
The Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarships are open to students who excel in the fields of music or drama, with a proven record of dedication to the development of their performance work. There is no restriction on the type of course Performing Arts Scholars may undertake
Current UCD students
Students already enrolled on courses at University College Dublin at undergraduate or postgraduate level are eligible to apply.
Continuing Eligibility
The Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarship is awarded for the duration of the programme of study, subject to annual review of continued high performance.
How do I apply?
The application procedure is additional and separate to that of the CAO. Students should complete their CAO forms as usual by the 1st of February for undergraduate admissions. Graduate applicants should apply directly to UCD in the normal way. In addition to this process, applicants should submit an application on the form provided to the UCD Ad Astra Academy Performing Arts programme, at the address below no later than the 31st January.
Ad Astra Academy Performing Arts programme
Room 212, Tierney Building
UCD Belfield, Dublin 4
Download Application Form (Performing Arts) PDF
Application process
Candidates will be chosen for audition on the basis of the information provided on the application form. Candidates should give as much information as possible about their musical or dramatic studies, past experiences and any information that might support the application for an audition.
Audition and Interview:
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 Director-in-Residence;
- An interview.
Music:
The audition will involve three elements:
- The performance of a 10-15 minute recital with at least two contrasting pieces (to be approved beforehand by UCD);
- The performance of an unseen quick-study;
- An interview.
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.
All scholarships are awarded subject to the general conditions of the Ad Astra scholarships and specific Terms & Conditions for each strand.
