How Much Do Acting Classes Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

For those who wish to begin a career in acting, classes may be necessary.  These classes will help you learn the ways of the industry, the different techniques of acting and other skills to help you succeed in your acting career.

How much do acting classes cost?

Paying for a private tutor will cost more than simply taking a class.  If you’re looking for a more intimate approach where you will be the only student in the class, a professional acting coach may charge anywhere from $50 to $250 per hour.  Some may charge more if they have to travel to your home.

Many local community colleges, as well as parks and recreation programs, hold sessions on a weekly basis for a certain time period.  On average, these novice sessions can vary anywhere from $25 to $100 per class or $150 to $500 for the average 8-week session.

In a hot acting city, such as Los Angeles, acting classes are going to be more in demand and readily available.  Average classes in an in-demand city may cost $250 to $650 per month.  This will all depend on the school.  All in all, plan on budgeting at least $250 to $500 per month for a once-per-week class.

For example, the Young Actor’s Studio currently charges around $200 a month for one three-hour class per week.

Actingcareerstartup.com tells us the average acting class can cost $250 to $375 per month.

As for colleges, our table below shows you the top acting colleges, along with the annual tuition fees.  Remember, tuition won’t include any supplies or books.

SchoolAnnual Tuition
Boston University School of Theatre$53,000
California Institute of the Arts$48,000
Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama$54,000
New York University, Tisch School of the Arts$59,000
SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Theatre Arts$5,000 (in state residents)
Syracuse University School of Drama$50,000
The Juilliard School, Drama Division$46,000
University of Minnesota, Department of Theatre Arts & Dance$21,000 (in state)
University of North Carolina School of the Arts$16,000 (in state)

Acting classes overview

Most acting classes will be lead by a professional who has either acted for money or knows a lot about the industry.  He or she will share techniques, advice, and stage-acting scenarios as a class.  Classes can be broken down into sections as shown below.

Some classes may include books, videos, and other materials that are included as part of their tuition.  Your results may vary, so be sure to consult with the school before signing up.

Types of acting classes

Auditioning – This is often a private class where you will be prepped for an upcoming audition.  Since each audition can be unique, this may not work in a group setting.

Body/Movement – Moving is a large part of acting, and this can teach you movements actors may need to learn.

Cold Reading – During this class, students will be handed a piece of paper and as a group, you will read it together.  This will help for those who plan on auditioning in the future since most auditions don’t offer a script ahead of time.

Commercial – Designed for those who want to play the part in a commercial since it will often be different than a television or movie role.  Students will interact with fake products and practice selling.

Improv – A scene will be set and the actors must play the part, similar to the television show, Whose line is it anyway?

On-Camera – These classes will allow you to act out a scene and an acting teacher will offer feedback.

Scene Study – During this class, you may view an acting scene or witness one live.  You will learn certain techniques being used and will also be asked to analyze it.

Vocal – A class designed for those who want to work on Broadway.  This class can help with your vocals and/or breathing strategies.

Voice Over – Voice overs can occur in commercials, animated movies or other projects needing a “voice over.”  These classes can help work with your voice and how it can be portrayed.

What are the extra costs?

Aside from the acting classes, a registration fee may apply.

If there are workshops or field trips, additional fees may apply.

Classroom material, such as study guides, test booklets, and “acting” clothing, may be required to purchase.

How can I save money?

Don’t sign up with the first school that you come across.  Be sure to compare at least three to five different schools.  Websites, such as ActingSchools.com, can help you find a school in your local area.

Consider learning acting techniques on your own.  YouTube, Amazon and many other various resources online can teach you how to act for free.  Most acting auditions won’t require any sort of certification or degree.

Always research the school before signing up with one.  If you think about it, any person can claim they are an “actor.”    It’s best to research the teacher’s credentials to see what they have accomplished in the past.


Advertising Disclosure: This content may include referral links. Please read our disclosure policy for more info.

Null

Average Reported Cost: $0

0 %
0 %
Less Expensive $1 $1.5K $3K $5K $6.5K More Expensive $8k

How much did you spend?

Was it worth it?  

About Us | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
Copyright © 2022 | Proudly affiliated with the T2 Web Network, LLC
The information contained on this website is intended as an educational aid only and is not intended as medical and/or legal advice.