Didn’t Get Into a BFA Program? Here’s What’s Next
When the BFA Dream Doesn’t Happen (Yet)
Getting a “no” from your dream BFA musical theatre program can feel like a full stop. But it doesn’t have to be the end of your story—it can be the turning point. In this post, we’ll talk about what to do next, both emotionally and strategically, so you can keep building the career you’re meant to have.
First: Feel the Feelings (Then Shift the Story)
Let’s start with what you’re actually feeling right now: grief, disappointment, maybe even shame. It’s okay. Rejection stings, especially when you’ve worked so hard for a goal.
But here’s the truth no one talks about enough: “Not getting in” isn’t the same as “not enough.”
Casting decisions—just like college acceptances—are often about balance, concept, timing. Your rejection doesn’t reflect your talent or your future. It just means this wasn’t your door. But others are opening.
3 Strategic Paths You Can Take Next
There is no one right next step—only the one that aligns with your values, vision, and needs. Here are three real options:
1. Choose a Different Program (Even If It Wasn’t Your Dream)
Got accepted elsewhere? Take a fresh look. A BA program or another BFA could surprise you with its offerings—faculty connections, curriculum, flexibility. This could be your stepping stone. What if you went to a city college or local community college for the first year or two and focused on your general education requirements plus training then focused on transferring in a year or so. I’ve worked with many students who didn’t get their dream program but then spent the first year in a program elsewhere while then re working their audition materials and resubmitting for the next year and transferring into a program that is a better fit for them.
2. Explore Non-College or Online Training
There are incredible musical theatre training programs outside of academia. From certificate intensives to online coaching (like the kind I offer), you can keep growing as a performer without the traditional degree path.
💡 Want to stay in training while building a strategy for your next step? I offer 1:1 coaching designed for performers navigating BFA rejections and new career paths. Let’s work together. Request a Free Consultation »
3. Take a Gap Year with Purpose
Taking a year off doesn’t mean giving up—it means choosing clarity. Focus on training, auditioning, building your resume, or even working a flexible job that supports your creative goals. Many students reapply stronger, more confident, and more prepared.
This Doesn’t Define You—But It Can Refine You
So many working performers didn’t go to their dream schools—or any school at all. What they did do was keep going. They kept learning. They stayed curious. They made the next right choice.
Your resilience right now will carry you into the next chapter.
Want to Keep Building Momentum?
Download my Audition Book Blueprint to dig into the right audition songs and categories that are current for the industry and for college audition programs.
Final Takeaway
If you didn’t get into a BFA musical theatre program this year, I want you to know: you are still meant for this career. The path just looks a little different now—and maybe even more aligned with your real life, real goals, and real growth.
Your story’s not over. It’s just getting a rewrite.
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers thrive onstage and off. She brings over two decades of experience and a unique perspective from her bi-coastal lifestyle as a working artist. A former college professor, she now splits her time between performing, coaching, and creating digital resources to support other artists. Follow her on Instagram or check out the Musical Theatre Mentor YouTube channel for weekly career advice.
