Incoming First Year and Transfer Students

A student's entire record is evaluated when under consideration for admission to the School of Music including: Grade Point Average (GPA), an interview with a member of the music faculty, a recommendation of a former music teacher, the student's repertoire, and audition results. This information is reviewed by faculty in the student’s instrument/voice and the Scholarship Committee. Deadline for Scholarship Application and Audition is March 1. Students will be informed via letter of the decision for being accepted to pursue a music major. This decision is contingent upon students' admission to the University of Montana.

1) Apply to the University of Montana, and visit Financial Aid

2) School of Music audition application 

Is an audition required?

An audition is required of all students applying as music majors, minors and of anyone wishing to be considered for music scholarships. To become a music major, every prospective student must complete a pre-admission audition and be accepted into a performance studio. It is not possible to become a music major if the student does not exhibit sufficient performing competence in his or her audition. Prospective majors should contact the School of Music Director of Admissions as early as possible. Participation in one of the scheduled audition days is highly recommended, but individual auditions can also be arranged through the Music Office. In addition, students who cannot make it to campus may submit a high-quality CD/DVD/MP3/MP4. Recordings must be received by the School of Music by March 1st each year for scholarship consideration. Undergraduate music major scholarships and tuition waivers are awarded based on student’s level and determined at the time of the auditions. There is no additional application needed to qualify for these talent-based scholarships. If a student is awarded a scholarship, they are notified in writing. Though Graduate Student Audition Requirements differ slightly, graduate students are welcome to audition on the scheduled audition days.

3) Prepare for Your Audition

The School of Music pre-admission audition consists of a performance by the student on their principal instrument or voice. School of Music Audition Performance Requirements

4) Complete the Letter of Recommendation Form

This must be completed before March 1st.

Have someone who knows you in a musical capacity complete the instructor recommendation form.

5) New and Transfer Student Orientations

During the summer and just before the beginning of the fall semester, all new and transfer music majors will meet with with us for a full orientation about the School of Music and registering for music classes. Every student will be assigned a music advisor to assist and advise students into the proper courses. Visit the orientation page for information about upcoming orientation schedules.

6) Ensemble Auditions

Bands, Choirs, Orchestra and Jazz Bands will take place during the first days of the fall semester. Audition material will be placed on this website during the summer.

Incoming Graduate Students

1)  Apply to the University of Montana Graduate School, and visit the Financial Aid website.

2)  Complete the School of Music application.

3)  View audition requirements here.

4)  Review the information about Financial Assistance and Graduate Assistantships here.