College Prep: Music and Arts School Admissions 101


Finding the perfect college to nurture and develop your unique talents can be daunting. This four-week course is designed to lead you through the intricate college admissions process for arts programs, whether at a conservatory, college, or university. Not only will you have access to exceptional college planning guidance, but you will work with an expert with professional admissions experience who will provide you personalized coaching and advice throughout the course. 

The course begins with a focus on important research techniques that help you to narrow down your list of dream schools. You'll gain insights into current trends in college admissions and craft a personalized fit list that aligns with your aspirations. Then, dive into the nitty-gritty of preparing your application—from assembling your application support team to understanding what goes into the Common App, supplemental materials, résumé, recommendations, essays, and more. 

You'll then learn important information about preparing for auditions and developing portfolios, including how to research requirements, compile pre-screening materials, and ace interviews and auditions with confidence. You'll also learn how to navigate the complex financial aid landscape.

By the end of this course, you'll not only feel confident in your college application strategy but also equipped with the tools and knowledge to make the best decision for your future.

What you will learn:

✔ Identify the schools and programs that are the best fit for you and your goals 
✔ Recognize current trends in college admissions 
✔ Compile the various components of college applications 
✔ Prepare for live auditions and interviews with confidence 
✔ Navigate the financial aid application process, including scholarships, financial aid award letters, and the appeal process 
✔ Reflect on and refine the non-negotiable factors in your final school choice

Next Session

Jan. 12 - Feb. 8, 2026

Teen and adult sections

VIEW ALL DATES

Tuition

$299

Rates increases Jan. 1

Ages

Teens: Grades 7-12

Expert guidance
Receive direct, personalized feedback from a professional artist.
Learn on your own schedule
Explore meaningful instruction in about five hours a week, over four weeks.
Collaborate
Work with your instructor and peers through messaging or optional real-time weekly classes.
Real growth
Develop artistic skills and projects that are important to you in 30 days.
  • Computer or mobile device with Internet and camera. Internet speed must be at least 1.5Mbps download and 800Kbps upload. For students using a mobile device, download the Canvas mobile app and select “Interlochen Online” as your school.
  • Google Suite, for Google Docs and Google Sheets

No, course sections are designed for their respective age groups, either for adults (students 18 and older) or young people (students under 18).

Yes, there are eight sessions of courses per year. View the academic calendar for more session dates.

Interlochen Online's Learning Experience

World-class. Inspiring. Flexible.

Meet the Faculty

Katherine Drago Luellen

Instructor, Interlochen Online; Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, New England Conservatory

Questions? Speak with an Advisor.

Email: online@interlochen.org 

Phone: 231.276.5990 

You can also schedule an appointment.

How does it work? Start a free course demo.

Expert Faculty
Receive direct, personalized feedback from a professional artist.

Real Growth
Develop artistic skills that are important to you in 30 days.

Collaborate
Connect with peers and instructors on your projects—or just for fun.