Audition and Interview
Our Approach
Applying to be a Bachelor of Music student at Berklee College of Music requires a live audition and interview. Berklee’s unique audition and interview process allows us to learn about you as a whole artist while assessing your current level of musicianship and potential to succeed in our dynamic community. The audition and interview process is detailed below.
Bachelor of Arts applicants are not asked to audition, but must complete an online interview as a part of the application process. The interview, combined with your transcripts and supporting application materials, gives us a picture of who you are and where you have potential to grow. The interview process is detailed below.
If you know Berklee College of Music is your top choice and you plan to apply for early action, we suggest submitting your application as early as possible to complete your application next steps.
Download this insider's guide for tips from current students and requirements to be aware of as you prepare for your audition and interview.
Bachelor of Music Audition and Interview
The Bachelor of Music audition and interview process takes about one hour after you check in. Once it’s time for you to begin, we will guide you through the entire experience, which includes a 15-minute audition and a 15-minute interview. We request that you check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time to ensure you have the proper setup.
Your Audition
Each component of the audition for the Bachelor of Music program helps us assess your overall abilities as a musician and your potential for success at the college level. We recognize that it is common to have imbalances in playing abilities and that you may not have advanced skills in each aspect of the audition. Our goal is to see where your musicianship is right now and learn how you might further develop your skills.
Refer to the audition guidelines for details about the audition.
Your Interview
While your audition showcases your musical preparedness and potential, the interview is your chance to share your readiness for pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree at Berklee, including past musical experiences, your future aspirations, and how you envision Berklee helping you reach your goals.
Refer to the interview guidelines to learn more about the interview, including sample questions.
Watch this video to learn more about the audition and interview directly from Berklee faculty and students. They’ll take you through each section and offer insight about how to prepare:*
*This video was filmed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to Schedule Your Audition and Interview
In the application, you will choose your preferred locations, which helps us determine where to schedule you (e.g., in Boston or online). You will receive an email invitation with your date and time details approximately four weeks before your scheduled audition and interview. Locations and online slots sometimes fill up quickly, and you may be scheduled for an alternate option.
Once scheduled, your date, time, and venue information will be posted in your applicant portal (under the Next Steps tab). This is also where you will confirm your scheduled audition and interview.
You must confirm your assigned audition and interview time immediately or your space will be given to another qualified applicant. Please do not make travel arrangements until you have confirmed your audition and interview assignment.
To learn where and when we are traveling, visit the audition and interview event calendar.
Watch in-depth videos on how to set up your space for and complete your online audition and interview.
Bachelor of Arts Online Interview
The online interview for the Bachelor of Arts program is hosted through a digital platform called Kira Talent. Through this portal, you will be asked a question, be given prep time, and then have a set amount of time to respond. The interview should only take 20 to 30 minutes to complete and can be at your convenience.
Reminder: There is no audition required for the Bachelor of Arts program.
Your Interview
You’ll answer a few questions to help us gain a deeper understanding of what inspires you to build a career in music, and will be asked to talk about how you've prepared to pursue a degree at Berklee.
Visit our Interview Guidelines page to learn more.
How to Schedule Your Online Interview
After submitting the application form, you will be invited via email to complete your online interview, which is conducted through Kira Talent.
Questions? Contact us at auditions@berklee.edu, 617-747-2579, or 800-BERKLEE.