Admission into the Royal Ballet School is based entirely on talent and potential, not on background or financial capacity. The institution conducts an extensive selection process to identify students who demonstrate promise in classical ballet. This merit-based approach underscores the School’s commitment to nurturing excellence, ensuring that opportunities are available to individuals from diverse communities and regions.
The admissions process begins with open auditions for students as young as 11, who may enter the lower school at White Lodge. Candidates are assessed through practical ballet classes where instructors observe physical suitability, musicality, and movement quality. Academic potential is also considered, as the programme includes a comprehensive education alongside dance training. Each year, a large number of applicants are narrowed down through regional and national audition stages, both in-person and online.
For international students and those unable to attend live sessions, the Royal Ballet School offers remote auditions. This digital option ensures that geography is not a barrier to entry, allowing dancers from all over the world to participate. These auditions are evaluated using the same criteria as in-person sessions, ensuring fairness and consistency across all applicant pools. The inclusion of video submissions has significantly expanded access and diversified the student body.
Financial accessibility is a core component of the Royal Ballet School’s admissions framework. Over 85% of students receive financial support, funded through scholarships, bursaries, and grants from philanthropic organisations. Once a student is offered a place, financial aid is assessed based on individual need, not merit. This structure ensures that any talented dancer offered a place can accept it, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
Once enrolled, new students undergo a transition period designed to support adaptation to boarding life and the demanding training schedule. Staff members—including teachers, healthcare professionals, and residential supervisors—provide guidance to help new pupils adjust both academically and personally. The School emphasizes emotional support, especially during the first term, to help students feel comfortable and confident in their new environment.
The Royal Ballet School also facilitates a structured progression path from White Lodge to Upper School. Upon reaching Year 11, students are invited to audition for a place in the senior division. This ensures that all students, regardless of their starting point, are continually assessed and supported as they develop. The criteria for transition include technical ability, physical development, and emotional readiness for the demands of higher-level training.
To help students and parents understand the admissions journey, the School offers extensive resources online, including detailed FAQs, sample audition content, and testimonials from current pupils. Information webinars and Q&A sessions are also available throughout the year. These resources aim to make the process transparent and supportive for all families considering the Royal Ballet School.
Applicants who are not successful in gaining full-time entry may still benefit from the School’s broader programmes. Associate classes and international intensives offer ongoing access to professional training, helping students continue their development. Many successful applicants have previously participated in these outreach programmes, gaining experience and confidence before formally applying.
The admissions and selection framework at the Royal Ballet School reflects a philosophy grounded in fairness, opportunity, and excellence. Through rigorous evaluation, targeted support, and financial aid, the School ensures that places are awarded based on potential alone—helping to shape the next generation of exceptional dancers from all walks of life.