The cost of training varies. This is because there are three ways that NCDT accredited courses are funded, outlined below. It’s advisable to investigate sources of funding at the same time as you’re making decisions on which drama schools to apply for.
Be realistic about how much drama school will cost. Like university, fees for a three-year maintained course can add up to over £10,000, and some are higher. This is before you have considered living costs (particularly high in London) and the cost of study materials. Funding a 3-year independent programme, including living costs, can cost in the region of £50,000. In a recent NDCT survey, graduates from 2006-2008 repeatedly reported high debt levels, and some wished they had taken a year out to save money before starting their course.
However, it is possible to finance training. Several respondents stated that they should have applied for more sources of funding, and made applications earlier. Applications benefit from timely research and targeted effort.
To see how the course you are interested in is funded, first have a look at the NCDT accredited course list, then refer to the links below to find out more about funding sources.
[If you are a European Union Student you should contact the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills EU Means Testing Team
Students from outside the EU will pay full fees for all courses unless they are from the Commonwealth and have family status for immigration purposes. Go to Advice for Overseas Students.
If you are a student with disabilities, specific support if available. The SKILL website contains funding information sheets. Information is available on income support, benefits and funding from charitable trusts:
SKILL: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities
0800 328 5050 (freephone) and 020 7657 2337
(Tuesdays 11.30 to 1.30 pm and Thursdays 1.30-3.30 pm)
Chapter House, 18-20 Crucifix Lane, London SE1 3JW
www.skill.org.uk (opens in new window)
There is also information about support at www.direct.gov.uk.