Admissions and Aid

Applicants to the MFA in Dance Program are expected to have substantial professional experience in choreography and performance or related disciplines, well beyond undergraduate studies. We encourage applications from artists who wish to pursue their creative research.

The program is designed as a two-year, four-term program; however, those who cannot commit to four consecutive terms are encouraged to propose an alternative schedule. Such proposals should be made when applying.

As part of the application process, applicants to the MFA in Dance Program should write a detailed letter describing their experience in the arts, their specific goals, and their proposals for using Bennington’s resources to accomplish those goals.

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Tuition and Fees
Financial Aid

Application Checklist

In addition to the biographical information requested on the application, you will also be asked to submit the following:

  • Your résumé, which should include a brief list and description of any creative projects, performances, and teaching experience beyond your undergraduate education.
  • A portfolio of your work. As part of the online application, you will be able to include links or upload video or audio files.  You may also send us DVDs or flash drives (see address below).
  • An essay that discusses how you propose to pursue the research and development of new work during your time at Bennington College.
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.
  • Three references who can discuss your professional accomplishments, i.e., your creative projects, performances, and teaching.
  • The $75 (U.S.$) non-refundable application fee or a fee waiver*.

*To request a fee waiver, write a brief description of the reason for your request and send to mfadance@bennington.edu.

Submit your application and send any application materials to the Office of Admissions by the priority deadline of March 15. You will be notified of our decision by April 15. Selected applicants will be contacted after completed applications have been reviewed. Interviews are offered by faculty invitation only.

We recommend that you save copies of everything you send to us. Any mailed application materials should be sent to:

Office of Admissions - MFA Dance application
Bennington College
One College Drive
Bennington, VT 05201

Deadlines

  • March 15: MFA in Dance applications due (priority deadline)
  • April 1: Financial aid applications due

Interviews are offered by faculty invitation only. Selected applicants will be contacted after completed applications have been reviewed.

Contact

If you would like to schedule a campus visit or if you have any questions about the graduate program in dance or the admissions process, please contact:

mfadance@bennington.edu
802-440-4312