Actor

You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate diploma in a subject such as:

• drama
• performance studies
• contemporary theatre and performance
• acting
• musical theatre

You could join your university drama or theatre society to develop a network of contacts and get performance experience.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• to pass an audition

• at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• search for conservatoire courses|https://www.ucas.com/conservatoires
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

There is no set entry route to become an actor but it may be useful to do a course like:

• performing arts
• drama and theatre
• speech and drama

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

Acting is very competitive and you'll need to develop your skills by getting as much acting experience as possible.

You might get experience by joining:

• amateur, community or youth theatre groups
• college and university drama societies
• student drama festivals and competitions
• an agency to get work as an 'extra' for films and TV shows

Societies and theatre groups also help you meet other people in the acting profession. It can be useful to have contacts when looking for work.

You may be able to find work by applying directly for auditions and roles if you have a lot of experience and exceptional acting talent.

You can study with a private drama school or conservatoire. You can choose from full-time courses, short courses and summer schools.

You'll need to pass an audition to get into a drama school. You may also need A levels or a Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts. This is not always essential if you can show enough talent and commitment.

You could also take graded exams in acting, musical theatre and performance art at:

• Trinity College London
• University of West London
• London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA)

Funding

You may be able to apply for a Dance and Drama Award to help with fees and living costs at a private drama school.

Career Tips

You'll need to get as much experience of acting as you can. You can give showreels and headshot photos to agents and casting directors.

You may need to do another job while you search for acting roles or when you're between acting jobs.

Agents

As an actor you're likely to work freelance through an agent who will put you forward for auditions and castings.

Agents usually charge commission, this might be based on a percentage of what you earn. Equity offeradvice on how to work with agents and what your rights are.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join Equity who are a professional body for actors. They can help you find jobs, training opportunities and contacts.

You'll need to have earned money from an acting job or be a student or graduate to join Equity.

Further Information

You can find out more about careers in theatre, film and the creative sector from:

• Get Into Theatre
• Get Into Film

As an actor, you could:

• work with an agent to find new roles and opportunities
• prepare for and go to auditions
• research roles
• learn lines and attend rehearsals
• attend fittings for costumes
• support back stage activities such as costume or prop management
• work as a voice over artist or as an extra

You could work in a theatre, on a film set or at a recording studio.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding and you may spend nights away from home.