Steps for Applying
A degree from the University of Missouri School of Music means being part of a close-knit family of talented students and faculty, as well as being part of a larger community at the state’s flagship university. We offer two degrees, five majors, three minors, and two certificates in music, providing courses of study that prepare students as emerging music professionals in a wide variety of career paths.
All prospective freshman and transfer music and music education majors must audition for, and be admitted to, the School of Music in addition to meeting all University of Missouri admissions requirements.
General University Admission Policies:
The University admits students on the basis of their chances for success here. The main criteria are the high-school curriculum, test scores and class rank.
Applicants are expected to have followed a college preparatory program with at least 17 units of credit, as follows (one unit equals one year):
Four units of English - Two units emphasizing composition or writing skills are required; one may be in speech.
- Four units of mathematics - Acceptable courses include algebra I, geometry, algebra II, pre-calculus/trigonometry/analytic geometry, calculus, and math analysis. Courses such as computer math, programming, consumer math, and accounting are not acceptable.
- Three units of science - At least one must be a laboratory course, such as earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics. Courses such as general science and agricultural science are not acceptable.
- Three units of social studies - Examples are world history, American government, and principles of democracy.
- Two units in a single foreign language
- One unit in fine arts - If you are thinking about majoring in music, you should participate in your school band, orchestra, or choir and take private lessons on your instrument. In addition, a music theory class, where available, is highly recommended.
Auditions are required for 1) students seeking admission as a music or music education major and/or 2) students who are seeking music scholarship assistance. Auditions are primarily heard in-person at our Undergraduate Mizzou Music Days:
- Friday, Feb. 14, 2025
- Monday, Feb. 17, 2025
- Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025
You are highly encouraged to attend one of the Mizzou Music Days listed above. If you are unable to attend a Mizzou Music Day, auditions can also be arranged at the convenience of the student and individual instructors, however, these cannot be guaranteed.
Priority Deadline to schedule an audition: Jan. 3, 2025*
*Priority for requested dates will be given to those that submit their audition request by the posted deadline. We will continue accepting audition requests up to 2 weeks prior to the audition date.
Mizzou Music Days offer the chance for our undergraduate prospective students to perform a live audition for consideration for a scholarship and/or admission to the School of Music degree programs. These days also provide opportunities for visiting classes, ensemble rehearsals, and attending specialized meetings focused on financial aid, admissions, housing, and degree programs.
To prepare for your audition at one of these days, review the audition repertoire requirements by your area.
Scholarship recommendations are made shortly after all the audition days are complete. Scholarship Award Letters are typically sent out by March 15.
If you are not awarded a scholarship, you will still receive a School of Music Admission Letter by March 15 or within 1 month from your audition date.
The School of Music award letter usually contains different options for your consideration and an acceptance form. Once you have reached a decision, the acceptance form should be completed and sent back to the School of Music Admissions Coordinator as soon as possible. If your acceptance form is not received by the deadline included in your letter, your scholarship may be forfeited.
Natalie Parker
Admissions Coordinator, School of Music
Phone: 573-882-4471
Fax: 573-884-7444
Email: musicadmissions@missouri.edu
Address: 140 Fine Arts Building, Columbia, MO 65211