Full-tuition scholarship
Every Prep student receives a full-tuition scholarship for HSA classes. Accepted families are billed a $575 registration fee and receive an Award Letter and Student Code of Conduct.
HSA Preparatory Program · Harlem, NYC
Make art.
Make art.
Make a future.
Advanced artistic training, a community of young creators, and a full-tuition scholarship for every HSA Prep student.
For emerging young artists
A place to grow into your art.
HSA Prep gives committed young artists rigorous training across dance, media and design, music, musical theatre, and theatre. Students learn with teaching artists, collaborate with peers, and build the skills and confidence to pursue their next artistic chapter.
Each student follows a schedule tailored to their development, with a mix of required classes, private lessons, and electives depending on their department.
The HSA Prep experienceTrain.Create.Connect.Advance.
What Prep makes possible
More than the classroom.
Focused instruction and opportunities to make work, meet artists, and prepare for what comes next.
Advanced artistic study
Students commit to their Prep schedules and take part in projects, workshops, masterclasses, ensembles, exhibitions, and trips.
People in your corner
Department Directors and teaching artists support students with one-on-one lessons, audition preparation, portfolio reviews, and artistic guidance.
College & career readiness
Working artists lead masterclasses and workshops that help students prepare for arts-specialized schools, college, and professional opportunities.
A schedule built for you
Required classes, private lessons, and electives come together differently for each student. See a sample schedule.
Find your discipline
Five ways to find your voice.
Train in your chosen art form and create alongside young artists across HSA.
Visual worlds
Media & Design
Build creative confidence in visual art, storytelling, and contemporary media.
Stage
Musical Theatre
Bring acting, singing, and movement together in performance.
Your next step
Bring your art to HSA Prep.
Prep auditions take place annually during the summer. Visit the audition information page for the current schedule and department requirements, including Media & Design interview and portfolio details.
01
Explore your department
Choose the discipline that matches your practice and goals.
02
Check audition details
Review the current audition page for dates, application instructions, and portfolio or interview information.
03
Prepare your work
Bring the work and experience requested by your department. Have questions? Write to prep@hsanyc.org.
04
Apply
When the application window is open, open the Prep audition application and follow its instructions.
A creative future starts here
Find what’s possible.
Explore HSA Prep auditions and connect with the team about the right pathway for your young artist.
Helpful information
Frequently asked questions.
Who is HSA Prep for?
HSA Prep and Pre-Prep serve young artists ages 8–17 who want advanced training and support as they pursue their artistic goals.
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 skills and interests and help place them in classes that support their growth.
When are Prep auditions?
Auditions usually take place in July and August. Check Prep Audition Information for the next published cycle and department requirements.
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 the application, email prep@hsanyc.org.