CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
MFA Programs at Carnegie Mellon University - School of Drama
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
€52k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- MFA programs in 10 specialized drama disciplinesSpecializations
- Rigorous academic study and hands-on production experienceCurriculum Focus
- Learn from leading industry professionalsFaculty Expertise
- Opportunities like Dance/Light, Playground festival, and ShowcaseUnique Platforms
- Preparation for immediate entry into the professional fieldCareer Readiness
Carnegie Mellon University's School of Drama offers Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs that combine rigorous academic study with extensive hands-on experience. The curriculum is designed to integrate classroom learning with practical application through the school's ambitious production season. Students benefit from instruction by faculty and alumni who are recognized leaders in the performing arts industry, preparing them for immediate entry into the professional field upon graduation.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the MFA programs?
- The tuition for Master of Fine Arts programs is $60,900 per academic year. Costs are based on the 2026-2027 academic year.
- What are the estimated living expenses for an academic year?
- Estimated annual living expenses, excluding tuition and health insurance, are approximately $32,274. This includes housing, food, books, personal expenses, and transportation.
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
- Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. Waivers are not provided.
- How do I apply to the MFA programs?
- You need to prepare application materials including transcripts, a resume, a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. Submit these through the School of Computer Science online application for admissions. GRE scores are not required.
- When does the application open?
- The application for Fall 2027 admissions opens on September 9, 2026.
- Are there any scholarships available for MFA students?
- Limited funding is available through grants such as Conference Funding, Professional Engagement Funding, and Scholarly Project Funding, which can help cover costs for presenting at conferences, professional engagements, or research.
Entry requirements
TOEFL iBT100
TOEFL scores are required for non-native English speakers. Waivers are not issued based on previous study in the US or English-speaking countries.
Fees
Tuition (international)The tuition for Master's programs is $60,900 per academic year.
Tuition (home)—
LivingEstimated annual living expenses include: Housing ($14,752), Food ($8,664), Books and Supplies ($2,212), Personal and Misc. ($4,098), Travel Allowance ($1,756), Transportation Fee ($302), and Technology Fee ($490). Health insurance costs are TBD. The total estimated living expenses, excluding tuition and health insurance, is approximately $32,274.
Costs are based on the 2026-2027 academic year. The total estimated cost of attendance for the academic year is $34,018 plus tuition and health insurance.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather your most recent transcripts from all attended institutions, a resume, a Statement of Purpose (including research interests, experience, objectives, and optional diversity contributions), and arrange for three letters of recommendation (at least two from faculty or recent employers).
2. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the School of Computer Science online application for admissions. Ensure all required documents are uploaded as PDFs. Note that GRE scores are not required.
3. English ProficiencyNon-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. Waivers are not provided.
Scholarships
Conference Funding—
Professional Engagement Funding—
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the MFA programs?
+
The tuition for Master of Fine Arts programs is $60,900 per academic year. Costs are based on the 2026-2027 academic year.
What are the estimated living expenses for an academic year?
+
Estimated annual living expenses, excluding tuition and health insurance, are approximately $32,274. This includes housing, food, books, personal expenses, and transportation.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
+
Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100. Waivers are not provided.
How do I apply to the MFA programs?
+
You need to prepare application materials including transcripts, a resume, a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. Submit these through the School of Computer Science online application for admissions. GRE scores are not required.
When does the application open?
+
The application for Fall 2027 admissions opens on September 9, 2026.
Are there any scholarships available for MFA students?
+
Limited funding is available through grants such as Conference Funding, Professional Engagement Funding, and Scholarly Project Funding, which can help cover costs for presenting at conferences, professional engagements, or research.