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Application Process for On-Campus Students

Please note:
This application is for On-Campus students only. Students in the Online Program should complete the Online Music Student application.

Before you consider application to the VCSU Music Department, you should first fill in an application for entry to VCSU.

Application materials for entry to the VCSU Department of Music for students who plan on attending classes on campus includes the following items:

  • The Application form for Face-To-Face Students
  • Scholarship Application Essay
  • Recommendation Form
  • Entrance Audition
  • Theory Placement Exam
  • Piano Placement Exam

Application Documents

You will need to complete the online application form which you can access by clicking on the ‘Continue’ button at the bottom of this page. After you submit your application you will also be required to submit an essay, details of which will be given.

A Letter of Recommendation form is required. You should print this and give it to your school or private music teacher. Instructions for completing it are included on the form.

Entrance Audition

The audition determines voice/instrument placement. Instrumentalists and vocalists are required to provide a live accompanist or taped accompaniment OR to send copies of their music at least 3 weeks prior to their audition date (FAX 701-845-7264). Original copies of music must be brought to the audition. To be eligible for music scholarships, students must complete the application process no later than February 15th.

  • Piano: Two selections in contrasting styles. Repertoire equivalent to that described in the NFMC Junior Festivals Bulletin as Moderately Difficult II or higher. Memorization is not required but is preferred.
  • Instruments: Two selections in contrasting styles. Repertoire equivalent to high school contest solos listed by the North Dakota High School Activities Association. Memorization is not required.
  • Voice: Two selections in contrasting styles. Repertoire equivalent to high school contest solos listed by the North Dakota High School Activities Association. Memorization is not required but is preferred.

Theory Placement

This assessment, administered to all prospective music majors and minors, measures ability to read pitches, rhythms, scales, and chords, symbols, and terms, and places the student in Music Fundamentals or Music Theory I and Aural Skills I. Websites for study material are available on request.

Piano Placement

The piano placement assessment is administered to all prospective majors and minors and determines placement in first or second-year piano classes. Students with sufficient background will be encouraged to test out of the piano proficiency requirement.