Top dance scholarships

Key takeaways about dance scholarships

• Dance scholarships can help cover tuition, training, and performance-related costs.

• You don’t have to be a professional dancer to qualify—many awards focus on passion, commitment, or academic goals.

• Scholarships for dance students are available for high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners.

• Smaller scholarships add up and are often less competitive.

• Using a scholarship search tool like Scholly Scholarships can help you find best-fit dance scholarships faster.

Pursuing dance takes talent, dedication, and—let’s be real—money. Between tuition, studio time, shoes, costumes, and travel, costs can add up quickly. The good news? Dance scholarships can help lighten the financial load so you can focus on perfecting your craft and earning your degree.

Whether you’re heading to college as a dance major, minoring in dance, or simply continuing your training alongside another field of study, there are scholarships for dance students designed to support your goals. This guide will explain what scholarships are available for dance students, why they matter, and how to find and apply for the right opportunities for you.

What are dance scholarships?

Dance scholarships are financial awards offered to students who demonstrate talent, interest, or involvement in dance. Unlike loans, scholarships don’t need to be repaid, which makes them one of the best ways to help pay for college.

These scholarships may be awarded by colleges, dance organizations, nonprofits, community groups, or private foundations. Some focus on specific styles like ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, or cultural dance, while others are open to dancers of all backgrounds and disciplines.

Still looking for the right dance program? Check out Scout College Search to research schools.

Why scholarships matter for dance students

Dance is both an art and a discipline—and it often comes with extra expenses that other majors don’t face. Scholarships can help offset:

• Tuition and fees

• Studio and rehearsal costs

• Costumes, shoes, and equipment

• Travel for auditions, competitions, or performances

Beyond the financial support, earning a scholarship can also be a confidence boost. It’s proof your hard work, creativity, and commitment matter.

How to qualify for dance scholarships

Each scholarship has its own requirements, but many look for a mix of talent, dedication, and academic or personal goals. Common criteria include:

• Dance experience: Years of training, styles studied, or participation in performances or competitions

• Auditions or portfolios: Video submissions, live auditions, or performance resumes

• Academic standing: GPA requirements may apply, especially for college-based awards

• Personal statements or essays: A chance to share your passion for dance and future plans

• Community involvement: Teaching, mentoring, or volunteering through dance

• Financial need: Your info from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) will be considered for need-based scholarships

Pro tip: Even if you don’t meet every requirement perfectly, it’s often still worth applying. Many scholarships look at the whole applicant, not just one or two details.