Find Your Voice, Free Your Imagination, Connect Through Acting
Yale Summer Session Acting Program (DRMA S001)
The Yale Summer Session Acting Program offers an immersive, intensive program introducing foundational acting techniques. Rooted in Stanislavski’s principles, this five-week summer actors' conservatory is designed to equip aspiring actors with essential skills that form a solid base for advanced theater training.
We believe that acting happens in the space between people — people who are fully embodied, breathing, and exchanging energy in the same space. We’re confident that you’ll come away from these five weeks with new skills, a deeper understanding of craft, and a more liberated sense of permission and play.
[point] To apply for the Yale Summer Session Acting Program (DRMA S001) course, please select Session B in your application. Course dates are June 29 - July 31, 2026.
More than just acting or scene study, the Yale Summer Session Acting Program is a rigorous, lab-based experience designed to develop the whole actor. Working in small sections, students receive focused individual attention while exploring performance through experimentation, collaboration, and risk-taking.
The program emphasizes process over product—there is no public performance—allowing students to deepen their craft without the pressure of an audience. Through an intensive schedule and close mentorship from distinguished faculty, students build skills they can carry into future training and performance.
[bottom]
Student Video Testimonials
Our participants range from college-bound high school students (rising seniors and older) to undergraduates (Yale and visiting students) and post-graduates who wish to hone their professional skills. Skill levels vary from motivated beginners to seasoned professionals – the faculty finds that a diversity of experience in the student makeup is of great benefit to everyone.
Want to learn more about the student experience at the Yale Summer Session Drama Program? Listen to what these program alumni had to say.
How Are the Participants Selected?
We consider academic history, personal statements, recommendations, acting experience, and whatever test scores apply (English proficiency, SAT scores, etc.) No audition is required. We attract strong students who are committed, rigorous in their dedication to growth, and unafraid of intensive study.
Acting Applicants must submit the following with their applications:
- A resume of relevant experience
- Personal statement (located on the application course selection page)
- Two letters of recommendation (one from a theater professional or drama teacher)
- Academic transcript
- Test scores if required based on your student type.
- Photo ID: Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, passport, other government-issued ID, or official school ID
Drama Program Budget
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition - Yale Summer Session Acting Program (2 credits) | $10,705 |
| Housing and Meals* | $4,555 |
| Application Fee (nonrefundable) | $80 |
*Includes Yale Health Fee. On-campus housing is optional, but living on campus is a wonderful part of the Yale Summer Session experience.
All tuition and fees must be paid in full three weeks before the course begins.
Financial Assistance
Yale Summer Session offers financial assistance to Yale College students on financial aid. Yale College students can receive financial assistance for half (50%) tuition on up to two course credits. Students who have attended Summer Session previously will have the application fee waived.
We encourage visiting students to consult closely with the financial aid office at their home institution to explore potential financial assistance options. Your financial aid advisers may be able to guide you toward scholarships, grants, or other funding opportunities to support your education in Yale Summer Session. Limited financial assistance may be available to some visiting students.
More information about financial assistance may be found on our Financial Assistance page.
[/bottom]
