Curtis Institute of Music

A very small conservatoire in Philadelphia (about 160 students) that admits solely on audition and is tuition-free: every student has had a full-tuition scholarship since 1928.

Philadelphia, United States · Specialised university: not in the QS overall ranking, ranked by subject

Admission

Admission is based solely on audition: online application with prescreening materials, then live auditions in Philadelphia in February and March

How to apply

Curtis's own online application

Deadline

10 December (applications open mid-September); decisions 1 April

Cost per year

Tuition is free for every student (curtis.edu, checked 2026-10-21): budget for living costs in Philadelphia, housing and instruments.

Known for

QS subject rankings 2026 (world)

=3 Performing arts (music, drama, dance)

Admission

How students are selected: Admission is based solely on audition: online application with prescreening materials, then live auditions in Philadelphia in February and March; tuition is free for every admitted student.
How to apply: Curtis's own online application
Usual deadlines: 10 December (applications open mid-September); decisions 1 April · all United States deadlines
Teaching language: English

What it takes Costs in United States United States admissions guide

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