Step 1 – Apply
Complete the online enrollment application or paper enrollment application and submit the $75 application fee before the deadline to receive priority status for admission to the upcoming semester.
- The priority status deadline for Fall semesters is February 1.
- The priority status deadline for Spring semesters is August 1.
- The priority status deadline for Summer semester is January 1.
Applications received by priority status deadline will be considered first for scholarships and admission.
The Admissions Office will accept applications sent after the priority status deadline for each semester, until classes fill. Applications received before the priority status deadline will receive first placement for enrollment, but rest assured that the Admissions Office will always review and respond to every application.
Applicants to the Master of Music Degree should click here for more information and application instructions.
Step 2 – Visit
We encourage all prospective students and their families to visit our campus, either at an Open House, a weekly information session, or by contacting our admissions office to schedule a time. A personal visit is the best way to discuss offerings with our staff, view the facility and resources, and determine if McNally Smith is the best fit for you.
Step 3 – Program Submission
Schedule an audition, entrance exam or submit your demo as applicable to your major.
- Auditions are required of all Music Performance majors, Music Composition majors, and Bachelors level applicants in Music Production. For upcoming audition dates and instructions, please visit Music School Auditions.
- Demos are required of Music Production majors and Music Composition majors, instructions will be sent upon receipt of enrollment application.
- Department Entrance Evaluations are required of Recording Engineering majors, Music Production Associate Degree and Diploma applicants, and Live Sound Diploma applicants.
Step 4 – Documentation
Submit required additional documentation as stated on the application. In addition to the required material listed below, the Admissions Representative may request additional information during the admissions process.
- Please contact your high school to request your high school transcript and immunization records be sent to the college.
- Please submit two official letters of recommendation. We suggest you provide as references people who have worked closely with the applicant in an academic and/or professional capacity. Recommendations from family members or friends cannot be used.
- Bachelor’s Degree applicants are required to submit ACT or SAT scores.
- If you have credit to transfer from another institution, an official copy of your prior college transcript needs to be sent to our Registrar Office.
- Consult with the Admissions Office for any further required documentation.
Step 5 – FAFSA
Due by March 1, 2012
Complete a FAFSA to begin the Financial Aid process by March 1. Go to www.fafsa.gov to initiate an application. (The school code for McNally Smith College of Music is 030012.) You will receive an award letter in the mail from the McNally Smith Financial Aid Office within two weeks.
Step 6 – Apply for Scholarships
Due by March 1, 2012
Complete and submit the McNally Smith online scholarship application by March 1st.
Step 7 – Acceptance
Following submission of all required documents to the Admissions Office, a formal letter of acceptance or denial will be sent within 2 weeks by mail.
Step 8 – Finances
Due by April 1, 2012
Finalize financial aid & tuition payment plan with the McNally Smith Financial Aid Office. All McNally Smith Scholarship award recipients will be notified by April 1, 2012.
Step 9 – Confirm Acceptance
Due within two weeks of accepting admission
Once the student receives an offer of acceptance, a confirmation must be sent back along with a non-refundable $200 tuition deposit within two weeks of accepting admission. The tuition deposit guarantees your space in our entering class for that semester and will be applied to your first semester tuition bill.
Note: Students may request a tuition deposit waiver from the Admissions Office if all financial aid monies have been approved and are scheduled to cover the entire amount of tuition and fees for the upcoming semester.
Step 10 – Housing
Begin researching local housing options and/or schedule a visit to our Residence Hall. Space in the Residence Hall is limited and assignments are made on a first come, first serve basis. Students are encouraged to apply early. Please contact reslife@mcnallysmith.edu with questions. The Admissions Office can guide you through your options.
Step 11 – Orientation
Attend new student and/or parent orientation as scheduled.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. We look forward to working with you.