What exactly does 'accreditation' mean?
If a course is accredited by the NCDT, this essentially means that the students applying for it can be reassured that this particular course is recognised by the drama profession as being relevant to the purpose of their employment, and that the profession has confidence that the people they employ who have completed these courses have the skills and attributes required for the continuing health of the industry.
Why should I choose an accredited course?
If a course is not accredited by the NCDT, it may be difficult to use your degree after graduation as few employers will take your degree seriously.
If you are seeking a degree in drama or theatre for personal enjoyment, accreditation may not be important to you, however, if you want to use your degree in the workplace or plan on furthering your education at a later date, accreditation is essential.
I've heard of a good drama course that is not accredited by you. Why is this?
There may be a number of reasons why a course is not accredited. The school may not have applied for accreditation, or it may not meet one of the initial guidelines, such as having 30 contact hours per week.
How do I get an agent?
Getting an agent is something that you will concentrate on towards the end of your education. Drama Schools hold showcases for you to display your talents and what you've learnt in front of agents on the lookout for new talent. Not everybody secures themselves an agent after their showcase, but that's not the end of the world; there are a number of ways you can secure an agent after graduation.
Do you accredit part time courses?
No. One of the requirements for course accreditation is for the teachers and students to have a minimum of 30 contact hours per week, and part time courses do not do this.
What is the best course?
The NCDT is confident in all courses it accredits and each course meets its levels of requirements for accreditation. After this, it comes down to personal preference and this is why it is important to look at as many courses as possible to see which is best suited for you.
How do I get funding?
The total cost of funding a 3-year independent programme, including living costs, can be in the region of £50,000. A small number of NCDT accredited courses at independent drama schools do not attract any government funding. The students (or their parents) are responsible for the full tuition fees, which average around £10,000 per year, and all living costs. Students on these courses are not eligible for Student Loans or any Government grant help.
Some Drama Schools have their own scholarships or bursaries to cover course fees for selected students. Applicants should contact the drama schools directly to find out whether they qualify, preferably at the time of first application.
For more information, visit our Funding section, which also gives advice on other ways of securing/finding funding.
I am a British graduate hoping to study abroad. Can i get funding?
The NCDT does not accredit any drama courses overseas, and funding will be very difficult to secure. For more information and advice on who to contact, visit our Training Overseas section on our Funding page by clicking on the link below.
https://www.ncdt.co.uk/guidetotraining/overseas/training/
I am from another country and want to study in Britain. Can i get funding?
Overseas applications for NCDT accredited courses are welcomed, although most schools will prefer to audition/interview overseas applications in person. Some schools may be able to arrange to audition/interview candidates in their own country. Some may also be prepared to consider a DVD video audition/authentic recording, or arrange auditions via video conferencing. For technical candidates it may be possible to arrange telephone interviews. Applicants should contact all schools directly to see if these arrangements are provided.
All overseas applicants whose first language is not English must have a high standard of written and spoken English that will enable them to benefit fully from their course of study. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 ot TOEFL 500-550 (220 for Computer Based Testing) is requested for entry to most College courses. A Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English at grade C or above would also normally be acceptable and applicants should contact the schools for advice.
NCDT accredited drama courses normally cost between £8,000 and £11,000 per year for overseas students. Students will also need to demonstrate their ability to support themselves during their time of study. To find out about educational opportunities and funding for courses in the United Kingdom applicants should contact the British Council office in their country of residence.
For more information, visit our Funding section.
Do you accredit any courses for under 18s?
No.
Do you have to go to an accredited school to get Equity membership and/or get on Spotlight?
Membership of equity is available through work in the following areas.
· Theatre
· Opera and Dance
· Singers
· Variety and Circus
· Models
· Television, Films, Commercials and Radio
· Walk-on artists
· Overseas Experience
Please visit Equity's website for more information about each role and the requirements.
http://www.equity.org.uk/HowToJoin/default.aspx
You can also join under a student membership as you are training. For more information on this, click the link below.
http://www.equity.org.uk/HowToJoin/TypesOfMembership/Student.aspx
To become a member of Spotlight, you need to have one of the following.
1. To have completed a NCDT accredited course at a drama school.
2. To have 4 professional credits on your CV.
Is it better to continue with A-Levels at school or to do a drama/performing arts diploma?
This is a question that we cannot answer. It is a choice that we cannot make for you, but we strongly advise not rushing into any decision. Make sure that you have thought everything through thoroughly and are realistic with your choices, acquiring as much information as you possibly can and making a firm, informed and decisive decision. Look at the academic requirements of courses you are interested in. Many will accept A-Levels or equivalent qualifications but you will need to check with individual institutions.
How many applications should I make?
the quick answer to this is 'as many as you want'! Applying to only one course isn't really giving yourself much of a fair chance, so the general advice is to draw up a list of your favourite schools in order of preference and apply to each of them. Do keep in mind that you will need to pay an audition fee as well as travel expenses.
If possible, apply to five schools. If you get a place at all five you know you have talent. If you get into none of the five, you may want to re-think your career options.