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North East School of the Arts (NESA)

Admissions & Enrollment at NESA

NESA welcomes interested students in joining our magnet school program for gifted young artists. We are privileged to support talented students through an audition and admission process as they pursue enrollment in our nationally-ranked programs. 

NESA accepts passionate and dedicated applicants entering the 9th and 10th grades. Select spots may be available for standout 11th graders on a case-by-case basis factoring in major cohort sizes. All students submit an application for their desired major(s) featuring recommendations and achievements, followed by a live or digital audition that showcases their skills.

With an intentional admissions approach, we thoroughly assess artistic potential and match students with environments that allow them to thrive both academically and creatively during their time at NESA. We are eager and happy to assist dedicated prospective students at every step as they pursue admission.

Application Process

Step 1: Check the Audition Requirements for your desired Major

Each of our seven (7) majors has a specific process that can include live performance, portfolio submissions, or writing samples as part of their audition. Please keep these requirements in mind as you continue through the application process.


Step 2: Complete the NEISD Magnet Application

The application must be submitted two (2) weeks before your desired audition.

NESA holds three (3) live auditions for the following academic school year.

2026-2027 Audition Dates
  • Saturday, November 14, 2026 (application due by 11:59pm, Oct 30th)
  • Saturday, January 30th, 2027 (application due by 11:59pm, January 15th)
  • Saturday, April 17th, 2027 (application due by 11:59pm, April 2nd)

Step 3: Submit documents

Submit the following supplemental documents via email

  • A resume highlighting education, experience, and awards or honors (Example Resume
  • Current grade transcript or report card from current school
  • Headshot photo (No selfies, but does not need to be professional)
  • An essay addressing “Why I Should Be Considered for NESA” that is 300 - 500 word typed (Does not apply to dance, instrumental music, or musical theater applicants) 
  • Any other additional requirements outlined in the NESA Application google form

Auditions

2026-2027 Audition Dates

Saturday
November 14, 2026

(application due by 11:59pm, Oct 30th)

Saturday
January 30th, 2027

(application due by 11:59pm, January 15th)

Saturday
April 17th, 2027

(application due by 11:59pm, April 2nd)

Attend Night With NESA

Join us for Night With NESA on October 15, 2026, from 5:45–7:00 p.m. at the Performance Arts Center (PAC).

This event showcases all seven NESA majors and provides an in-depth look at each program, including audition requirements and the application process.

For Questions:

Schedule a Tour

Explore NESA in person by joining one of our campus tours, offered most Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.

To schedule a tour: