Preparatory Program at HSA

Prep Program atHSA

Rigorous arts training, individual mentorship, and a full-tuition scholarship for young artists ready to go further.

Cultivating tomorrow’s artists

Where young artists find their path.

HSA Prep offers committed young artists focused training in Dance, Media & Design, Music, and Drama. Students work with teaching artists, collaborate with peers, and prepare for arts-specialized schools and future opportunities.

Each Prep schedule combines required classes, private lessons, and electives according to the student’s department and artistic growth.

The HSA Prep experienceTrainCreateConnectAdvance
The Prep experience

Training that opens doors.

An individualized schedule connects intensive study with mentorship, community, and preparation for what comes next.

Access

Full-tuition scholarship

Every Prep student receives a full-tuition scholarship for HSA classes. Upon acceptance, families receive an Award Letter and Student Code of Conduct and are billed a $575 registration fee.

Explore Prep Auditions

Artistic growth

Advanced training

Students commit to their Prep schedules and take part in projects, masterclasses, workshops, ensembles, exhibitions, and trips.

Explore Disciplines

The future

College & career readiness

Department Directors and teaching artists offer mentorship, audition preparation, portfolio reviews, and opportunities to learn from working professionals.

Ask About Prep

Individual attention

Your Prep schedule

Required classes, private lessons, and electives come together differently for each student. Preview a sample schedule to see how a week can take shape.

View Sample Schedule

Discover your discipline

Four paths. One creative community.

Focused artistic training across HSA’s four Prep departments.

Movement

Dance

Explore technique and expression through HSA’s rich dance traditions.

Discover Dance

Visual worlds

Media & Design

Develop ideas through visual art, storytelling, and contemporary media.

Discover Media & Design

Sound

Music

Build musicianship in a community shaped by Harlem’s musical legacy.

Discover Music

Stage & story

Drama

Build performance and storytelling skills through theatre and musical theatre.

Drama

Take the next step

Bring your art to HSA Prep.

Prep auditions take place annually during the summer. Visit the audition page for the next published dates and department requirements, including Media & Design interviews and portfolio submissions.

Prepare.Audition.Grow.
Helpful information

Frequently asked questions.

Who is HSA Prep for?

HSA Prep and Pre-Prep serve young artists who want advanced training and support as they pursue their artistic goals. Check the current audition information for department-specific eligibility.

Is Prep tuition free?

Every Prep student receives a full-tuition scholarship for HSA classes. Upon acceptance, families are billed a $575 registration fee.

How do you place students in classes?

Department Directors consider each student’s current skills and interests to recommend a schedule that supports their growth.

When are Prep auditions?

Prep auditions generally take place during July and August. Visit Prep Audition Information for the next published dates and application instructions.

Will my child need an instrument for music study?

Music students generally need their own instrument. If one is not available, HSA can provide a list of stores that rent instruments.

What does the academic calendar look like?

HSA’s academic program runs in two 16-week terms, for 32 weeks total. Class length depends on the student’s age and program.

Who can I contact?

For questions about Prep schedules, auditions, or applications, email prep@hsanyc.org.

Learn more about Prep

Our Prep Team.

Magdalena Kobeszko

Magdalena Kobeszko

PREP Program Coordinator