Two Video Auditions
Present two contrasting solos/excerpts (one minute each). We want you to interpret the word ‘contrasting’ for yourself (and you’ll be asked to explain how they are contrasting). Show us your best work, but make sure that you show us your range. These solos can be in any technique style(s).
You are welcome to submit original choreography, but you do not have to. You can choose to improvise or freestyle. You may submit a video of site-specific work, if it makes sense for you. You may also include footage from a competition but do not submit group numbers. Also, you may include one example of partnering work, as long as you are easy to identify. Please do not submit a choreography or performance reel.
We will accept previously recorded performances (it must be recent) or newly-shot videos. A dance studio, if available, is an ideal location for newly-shot work.
While you need not submit professional videos, we must be able to clearly see you in order to observe your technique and musicality.
When filming, make sure that you are in close proximity to the camera while maintaining your full body in frame. Do not submit work that has been edited with jump cuts, dissolves or musical overlays. If you plan to use a phone, please hold the phone horizontally to ensure that the dancer in the video is as large and as clear as possible.
Finally, be sure to provide information about each solo under the Forms section and label your media items appropriately.
Most importantly, each piece may be no longer than one minute. Be sure to make each second count!
Contact Elliott Scher, Assistant Director of Admissions and Career Services, at elliotms@usc.edu if you have difficulty managing the video request.
Video Response
Upload a video no longer than 60 seconds introducing yourself to the Kaufman Admissions Committee and responding to the prompt below. Speak to the camera as if you’re talking to a friend. Natural, unscripted responses are encouraged, and it’s absolutely okay to pause or take a breath. We’re not looking for perfection—we’re looking for authenticity!
Video Prompt: Describe a specific setback you experienced in dance that challenged how you saw yourself as an artist. What choices did you make in response, and what—if anything—would you do differently today?
One-Page Dance Resume
The one-page dance resume allows us to understand your dance background. You must follow the format of the following template. If you do not yet have the results of your SAT or ACT examinations, please indicate ‘IP’ (for In Progress) followed by the month in which you plan to take the exam. If you are not submitting the results of your SAT or ACT examinations, please list ‘Will not be submitting’. Your resume must be only one page.
Short Answer
Answer the following question in 250 words or less: Think about the dancers you train with now. What role do you naturally play in that group, and what do you think your peers would say you bring to the room?
Two Photographs
You should provide a head shot and action shot. The head shot should allow us to see your face clearly. The action shot should showcase your personality. It will not be evaluated for technique. Professional photographs are not necessary. No group shots please.
Additional details and instructions about each component of the USC Kaufman Portfolio are provided on SlideRoom.
Next Steps:
If you are selected to participate in live auditions, you will be notified by December 18, 2026. Our live auditions will take place on January 16-17, 2027. Participants will be asked to join us for one of those dates.