To be selected for NASDA, applicants need to demonstrate their ability in singing, acting and dance, their desire to perform and their potential for a successful career in the performing arts.

The number of students admitted to the programme is limited, and selection is made after an individual audition and possible group audition conducted on the same day. Other criteria for selection include academic attainment and aptitude, personal qualities and referees' support.

Applicants need to complete an application form and send it in before the due date.  To download an application form, click here.

Entry Requirements

Academic

• 42 NCEA credits at Level 3 and
• 8 credits in NCEA English Level 2 (4 in reading and 4 in writing) and
• 14 credits in NCEA Mathematics (or P?ngarau) Level 1.

OR

• If you have achieved a minimum of 72 credits at NCEA Level 2 including a minimum of 14 credits in each of four subjescts and a number of Merits and Excellence you may apply for entry. You need to have achieved degree entry standards for numeracy and literacy (see above).

Note. Students who have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (eg. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge examination) should contact CPIT for requirements.

Alternative

• Evidence of literacy, numeracy and an ability to study at the appropriate level. This can be through study, work and/or life experience. CPIT literacy assessments are available.

Audition (Individual)

Acting
You must perform from memory one speech or monologue. It is essential that you have read the play from which your speech or monologue is taken.

Singing
You should prepare one ballad and one up-tempo song from Music Theatre repertoire. An accompanist will be provided by NASDA or may be provided by you. If you wish to use an accompanist provided by NASDA, you must provide sheet music in the key in which songs are to be performed. Backing tracks are not permitted.

Group Audition

You may be required to return later in the day to participate in a group audition. Appropriate dance clothing and footwear must be worn for this. The audition will involve:

• physical warm-up and related activities incorporating some movement
• spoken voice warm-up
• group activities including aspects of improvisation and physical theatre activities, etc.

Audition Dates for 2011 Intake

Auckland: 27 & 28 August
Wellington: 29 August
Christchurch: 25 & 26 September

Written Requirements

Personal Statement
You should briefly indicate your relevant work experience (paid or unpaid), interests, strengths, skills and community involvement, including any performance-related opportunities you may have had. It is important that you include all your strengths as the panel looks carefully at your personal statement and/or performance CV. These may include:

• dance/drama/music/art
• tutoring/teaching
• sporting interests
• work experience
• coaching
• community activities
• marae/hapu/iwi development
• experience in other cultures
• holiday programmes
• travel experiences
• fluency in another language

Referees
You must provide a referee report from two people, preferably with whom you have had involvement in performing arts. This report should explain the referee's relationship to you and his/her view of your suitability for the programme. 

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language you are also required to provide evidence of your English language skills as listed below. Refer also to the Acceptable Alternatives Chart which includes credits in English-rich subjects from New Zealand educational institutions. If you have no evidence of your English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, contact us for an assessment.

• IELTS 6.5 Academic (no lower than 6.5 in speaking, reading and writing subtests and 6.5 in listening subtest). 

Medical requirements

You will need to provide a medical certificate signed by your doctor that shows you are fit for the programme.