You’re searching for the music school that can take your talent and turn it into a thriving career. I get it—with 373 colleges offering music programs across the United States and over 25,000 music degrees awarded annually, the choices can feel pretty daunting.

Here’s what I’ve learned from working with aspiring musicians: America’s music education landscape includes institutions of extraordinary prestige and selectivity. The Juilliard School stands as the most prestigious music conservatory in the country, while the Curtis Institute of Music maintains its position as likely the most selective conservatory with a consistently small student body of around 150 students—all receiving full-tuition scholarships. When you’re evaluating the best music schools in the US, you should know that music graduates enjoy an average early-career salary of $29,590.

Something interesting has happened with college rankings recently. This year’s rankings have introduced an Economic Mobility Index that measures economic status change for low-income students, and ACT/SAT scores have been removed to align with the general de-emphasis on test scores in college admissions. From the historic Berklee College of Music—the first US music school to include jazz in its curriculum—to institutions like Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music with its impressive 175 full-time faculty members and over 1,100 performances annually, the top music programs in the US offer remarkable opportunities.

I want to save you the trial and error of figuring out which schools might be the best fit for you. This expert guide for 2025 will walk you through the 10 most exceptional music schools ranked by reputation, faculty quality, performance opportunities, and career outcomes. Whether you’re a classical virtuoso, jazz enthusiast, or aspiring music producer, you’ll discover which institutions align with your musical ambitions.

The Juilliard School

_{Image Source: The Juilliard School}

The Juilliard School stands as the crown jewel among America’s music schools, and for good reason. Founded in 1905 by Frank Damrosch as the Institute of Musical Art, this private performing arts conservatory has evolved into one of the most prestigious institutions for aspiring musicians worldwide.

The Juilliard School Overview

What makes Juilliard special starts with its location at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City. The school encompasses three academic divisions: dance, drama, and music—with music being the largest and oldest. You’ll find yourself in a tight-knit community with approximately 950 students.

The numbers speak for themselves when it comes to Juilliard’s reputation. Alumni have earned 105 Grammy Awards, 62 Tony Awards, 47 Emmy Awards, and 24 Academy Awards. Beyond that, faculty and alumni include more than 16 Pulitzer Prize and 12 National Medal of Arts recipients, cementing its status among elite music institutions globally.

The Juilliard School Notable Programs

Juilliard offers instruction across all orchestral instruments, piano, organ, guitar, and collaborative piano. Here’s something you might find interesting: its Jazz Studies program, established in 2001 and led by alumni Wynton Marsalis and Aaron Flagg, has quickly become one of the most innovative jazz programs in the country.

The curriculum balances four key areas:

• Private lessons with renowned faculty
• Collaborative experiences in chamber music and large ensembles
• Classroom instruction in ear training, music theory, history, and keyboard studies
• Liberal arts foundation for undergraduate students

Performance opportunities abound at prestigious venues including Juilliard’s own auditoriums, Lincoln Center’s David Geffen and Alice Tully halls, Carnegie Hall, and international tours. The Alan D. Marks Center for Career Services and Entrepreneurship equips students with essential business skills and facilitates over 450 freelance performance opportunities annually.

The Juilliard School Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition and Costs (2024-25)

Expense	Amount
Tuition	$54,650
Food and Housing	$22,410
Total Cost of Attendance	$80,892

Don’t let these costs discourage you. Juilliard maintains a need-blind admissions policy, meaning financial need doesn’t affect admission decisions. What’s remarkable is that approximately 90% of students receive scholarship support. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is $41,958, while the average non-need-based scholarship is $30,815. Overall, Juilliard meets 72% of its students’ financial need.

You’ll want to mark your calendar: financial aid applications are due by March 1, with continuing students required to reapply annually by May 1. Scholarships are generally determined based on a combination of financial need and artistic merit, though some programs like Artist Diploma, Doctor of Musical Arts, Historical Performance, and the Kovner Fellowship program have different criteria.

The Juilliard School Admission and Selectivity

Here’s the reality about Juilliard’s admission process—it’s exceptionally competitive, with acceptance rates ranging from 5.5% to 8.0% in recent years. The application procedure includes several distinct steps:

1. Initial application submission with essays and artistic resume by December 3
2. Prescreening materials evaluation
3. Live audition for selected applicants (sometimes with callbacks)
4. Meeting with program administrators for finalists

Rather than focusing on traditional academic metrics, Juilliard seeks candidates with “exceptional talent as a performer, and the potential to meet Juilliard’s technical standards”. The school evaluates applicants based on their training quality, disciplined practice capacity, personal maturity, and dedication to artistic excellence.

The $110 application fee can be waived for applicants with financial need, underscoring Juilliard’s commitment to accessibility for talented musicians regardless of financial circumstances.

Curtis Institute of Music

_{Image Source: Britannica}

I need to be honest with you about Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia—it’s perhaps the most exclusive destination for aspiring musicians, with an extraordinary acceptance rate of merely 4%. Established in 1924, this prestigious institution has maintained its commitment to nurturing exceptional talent through an intimate educational environment.

Curtis Institute of Music Overview

What makes Curtis truly different is its remarkably small student body of approximately 160 students. This deliberately limited enrollment ensures that Curtis can maintain a full symphony orchestra and opera program, plus select programs in piano, guitar, composition, conducting, organ, and other specialized areas. Students benefit from an exceptional student-to-faculty ratio of 2:1, allowing for intensely personalized instruction.

Curtis operates under a unique “learn-by-doing” philosophy. Each year, students participate in more than 200 orchestra, opera, solo, and chamber music performances. The institute brings together students from over 20 countries worldwide, with nearly 40% of enrollees coming from abroad.

Curtis Institute of Music Notable Programs

The curriculum at Curtis is designed to meet students where they are in their musical journeys. Major programs include:

• Performance-focused degrees: Diploma (2-4 years), Bachelor of Music (3-5 years), and Master of Music (2-3 years)
• Specialized certificates: Professional Studies Certificate and Post-Baccalaureate Diploma (2-3 years)

Students receive individualized instruction through private lessons, repertoire classes, and chamber music coachings with distinguished artist-teachers. The curriculum balances four core areas:

1. Performance courses (lessons, coachings, instrumental repertoire)
2. Musical studies (counterpoint, harmony, score analysis)
3. Liberal arts (art, literature, philosophy, languages)
4. Career studies (entrepreneurship, digital recording, pedagogy)

Curtis Institute of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

Here’s something remarkable: since 1928, Curtis has provided full-tuition scholarships to all students. For the 2025-26 academic year, these merit-based scholarships are valued at $54,364 for undergraduates and $67,502 for graduate students. Students still encounter certain expenses:

Expense Type	Cost (2025-26)
Comprehensive Fee	$3,500
Health Insurance	$3,678 (can be waived)
Single Room & Meal Plan	$24,882
Double Room & Meal Plan	$21,786

Need-based financial aid is available to help cover living expenses. Students from Pennsylvania who qualify for the PA FosterEd Program may receive waivers for any remaining institutional charges.

Curtis Institute of Music Admission and Selectivity

Admission to Curtis is based primarily on artistic promise rather than academic credentials. The institute sets no minimum or maximum age for most of its programs. First-year students who were born after September 1, 2007 and hold a high school diploma are required to live in Lenfest Hall during their first two years.

The application process includes:

• Online application submission ($150 fee) by December 16
• Audition invitation for selected applicants (February-March)
• Final decisions by April 1

For Bachelor of Music program applicants, Curtis requires submission of high school transcripts and, optionally, standardized test scores. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through tests like TOEFL (minimum 79-80) or IELTS (minimum 6.5-7.0).

Berklee College of Music

_{Image Source: Berklee Online – Berklee College of Music}

Think of Berklee College of Music as the place where traditional music education met the real world—and decided to shake hands. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this institution took a different path from the classical conservatory model, and it’s been paying off for students who want to make music that connects with today’s audiences.

Berklee College of Music Overview

What sets Berklee apart is its focus on contemporary music education. The school figured out early that the music industry needed musicians who could bridge traditional musicianship with modern industry demands. With an impressive 10:1 student-faculty ratio and 88.8% of classes containing fewer than 20 students, you get that intimate learning environment where faculty actually know your name and your musical goals.

The retention rate of 82% tells you something important—students tend to stick around. That usually means they’re finding what they came looking for. Among 2023 graduates, Visual and Performing Arts represented 55% of the most popular majors, which makes sense when you consider that Berklee students often come here with clear career goals in mind.

Berklee College of Music Notable Programs

Berklee offers 15 different majors for the Bachelor of Music degree, and you can choose from 36 principal instruments. The curriculum balances several key areas:

• Undergraduate music studies covering performance, composition, entrepreneurship, and production
• B.A. in Music Industry Leadership and Innovation (no audition required)
• More than 30 minors and specializations to complement major studies

One thing I appreciate about Berklee is their international study opportunities at their campus in Valencia, Spain. The core curriculum includes courses in arranging, ear training, harmony, and music technology, giving you a solid foundation for musicianship. You’re not just learning to play—you’re learning to think like a professional musician.

Berklee College of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

The 2025-2026 tuition costs are substantial:

Expense Type	Degree Program	Diploma Program
Tuition	$52,440	$45,170
Fees	$1,560	$1,560
On-campus room and board	$20,680	$20,680
Total on-campus costs	$82,302	$75,032

Here’s some good news: All full-time entering students are automatically considered for Berklee-funded scholarshipsthrough the admissions process. The Office of Student Financial Services assists with federal and institutional grants and loans. You can also reduce costs by earning transfer credits through Berklee’s academic partner schools or online courses.

Berklee College of Music Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate of 44%, Berklee maintains selective but accessible standards. The application process requires:

• Online application through Berklee’s website (not Common App)
• $150 application fee (waivers available)
• Supplemental materials including transcripts
• Audition and/or interview

What I find refreshing is that Berklee evaluates applicants based on musical ability rather than standardized test scores, maintaining a test-blind policy. Application deadlines include January 15 for regular decisions and November 1 for early action. This approach helps Berklee accommodate diverse musical talents while maintaining its position among the top music schools.

USC Thornton School of Music

_{Image Source: USC Thornton School of Music – University of Southern California}

Established in 1884 as one of Los Angeles’ oldest cultural institutions, USC Thornton School of Music has evolved into a powerhouse among America’s top music schools. Think of it as the perfect marriage between traditional conservatory training and Hollywood’s innovative spirit—located right in the heart of the entertainment capital.

USC Thornton School of Music Overview

USC Thornton stands as the center of higher education in music in the western United States, bringing together distinguished faculty and gifted students from around the world. The school hosts more than 500 formal and informal concerts and recitals annually, providing students with abundant performance opportunities. Here’s what makes the location special: students benefit from proximity to major recording studios, film companies, and performance venues—creating an environment for musical development that’s hard to find anywhere else.

USC Thornton School of Music Notable Programs

The curriculum is organized into three distinctive divisions: Classical Performance and Composition, Contemporary Music, and Research and Scholarly Studies. Thornton offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees across more than 20 disciplines, with programs spanning:

• Classical instruments and voice
• Jazz and popular music performance
• Screen scoring and composition
• Music industry and production
• Early music performance (one of few top schools offering this specialty)

What’s particularly noteworthy is Thornton’s pioneering role in music education—it was among the first schools to offer an undergraduate program in music industry and provides the only comprehensive program in Scoring for Television and Film.

USC Thornton School of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

For the 2024-2025 academic year, undergraduate students face substantial costs:

Expense	Amount
Tuition (12-18 units)	$69,904
New Student Fee (one-time)	$450
Student Health Service	$1,300
Individual Instruction	$1,400

The good news? First-year undergraduates from families with annual income of $80,000 or less with typical assets can attend USC tuition-free. Graduate students can access Stafford Direct Loans ($20,500 per year) and Grad Plus Loans up to the total cost of attendance. Music scholarships are available to most graduate programs, primarily based on faculty recommendations and funding availability.

USC Thornton School of Music Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate of approximately 10%, USC Thornton ranks among the most selective music schools. Popular music performance and music production programs are even more competitive, accepting just 5% or fewer applicants. The application deadline for most programs is December 1, with auditions and interviews forming crucial components of the evaluation process.

Here’s something important to remember: USC Thornton emphasizes musical talent over standardized test scores—seeking students who demonstrate exceptional potential coupled with dedication to artistic excellence. The location can be both an advantage and a consideration—while you’ll have unparalleled access to the entertainment industry, you’ll also be competing with some of the most ambitious musicians in the world.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music

_{Image Source: Oberlin College and Conservatory}

Here’s something that might surprise you: Oberlin Conservatory of Music is the second oldest conservatory and oldest continuously operating one in the United States. Founded in 1865, this institution in Ohio has figured out something that few other music schools have managed—how to blend intensive musical training with liberal arts education without compromising either.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music Overview

What makes Oberlin different from other top music programs in the US? It’s the integration with Oberlin College, a renowned liberal arts institution. This isn’t just two schools sharing a campus—it’s a genuine environment where music and academic studies coexist seamlessly. The conservatory hosts approximately 540 students, including 180 pursuing double degrees.

You’ll find roughly 500 concerts happening annually on campus, which means abundant performance opportunities. The facilities are impressive: 150 practice rooms featuring windows (a small but important detail), 240+ Steinway pianos, and 32 organs. These resources rival those of any top-tier conservatory.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music Notable Programs

Oberlin offers seven majors, nine degree programs, and 42 areas of private study. The curriculum spans from traditional classical performance to cutting-edge electronic music through departments including:

• Contemporary Music (Composition, TIMARA, Recording Arts)
• Performance (Orchestral instruments, Jazz)
• Historical Performance (Early music specialists)
• Musicology

The crown jewel of Oberlin’s reputation remains its five-year double-degree program, which allows students to earn both Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees. Something I find particularly interesting: approximately 300 arts and sciences students enroll in conservatory classes each semester, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

For 2025-26, students face substantial costs:

Expense	Amount
Tuition	$68,340
Housing	$9,970
Meal Plan	$10,126
Fees	$1,142
Total	<citation index=”40″ link=”https://www.oberlin.edu/student-accounts/tuition-and-fees” similar_text=”## Housing Rates 2025-26 Housing Type

Here’s what I want you to know about Oberlin’s financial aid: they commit over $100 million annually to financial aid. Every admitted student receives a minimum $10,000 merit scholarship, and more than two-thirds of students receive need-based assistance. Most importantly, Oberlin meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, including international applicants.

Oberlin Conservatory of Music Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate of 35%, Oberlin maintains high standards while being somewhat more accessible than some peer institutions. From approximately 1,400 applicants, only about 430 are accepted each year. The application process requires:

• Common Application ($100 fee, waivers available)
• Prescreening recordings
• Music teacher recommendations
• On-campus audition (when possible)

Admission decisions are based primarily on musical ability rather than academic credentials, which underscores the school’s commitment to identifying and nurturing exceptional talent.

New England Conservatory of Music

_{Image Source: NECMusic}

You know how location can make all the difference in your musical education? New England Conservatory (NEC) proves this point perfectly. Located steps from Boston’s renowned Symphony Hall, NEC stands as a premier destination among top ranked music schools in America. With its 500+ faculty of acclaimed teaching artists and a vibrant community of over 700 students, NEC offers an intimate setting where artistic excellence thrives.

New England Conservatory Overview

Founded in 1867, NEC represents the oldest independent conservatory in the United States. The conservatory hosts more than 800 concerts and events annually, providing extensive performance opportunities for students. Its strategic location in Boston—considered one of the world’s leading creative cities—offers students unique exposure to professional music environments.

What really sets NEC apart is its remarkably low student-to-teacher ratio of 2:1, ensuring personalized instruction. This means you’re not just another face in the crowd—you get the individual attention that can make the difference between good and great.

New England Conservatory Notable Programs

NEC offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs across 25+ majors. The curriculum features:

• Bachelor’s degrees in instrumental performance, vocal performance, jazz studies, and composition
• Master’s programs in collaborative piano, conducting, and musicology
• Prestigious dual-degree programs with Harvard University and Tufts University

The Harvard/NEC program culminates in a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard and a Master of Music from NEC over five years of study. Similarly, the Tufts/NEC program allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts/Science from Tufts and a Bachelor of Music from NEC.

New England Conservatory Tuition and Financial Aid

For 2024-2025, students face substantial costs:

Expense	Amount
Tuition	$61,561
Room & Board	$21,000
Total Billed Costs	$86,938

Here’s some good news: 90% of NEC students receive scholarship support. The average aid package awarded is $27,945. Financial aid applications are due February 15, with priority consideration given to applications received before December 1. Notification dates for financial aid typically fall around April 1.

New England Conservatory Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate of approximately 43%, NEC maintains high standards while being comparatively accessible. The admissions process emphasizes musical talent above all else, evaluating applicants through:

1. Pre-screening recorded auditions reviewed by faculty
2. Final auditions (primarily live) with studio faculty
3. Theory assessments for certain programs

Admission decisions prioritize “high level of proficiency on instruments” and “capacity for hard work”—qualities indicating potential for success in professional music careers. Don’t worry if you’re not perfect yet—they’re looking for potential as much as current ability.

Manhattan School of Music

_{Image Source: Manhattan School of Music}

Here’s something that might surprise you: Manhattan School of Music (MSM) was actually the original home of what later became Juilliard, back when it was called The Institute of Musical Art. When Juilliard moved to Lincoln Center, MSM stayed put in the Morningside Heights neighborhood, right next to Broadway and West 122nd Street. Founded in 1917, this school has been a musical cornerstone in New York City ever since.

Manhattan School of Music Overview

What I find compelling about MSM is how it harnesses New York City’s creative energy to promote the highest standards of musical excellence. The campus features multiple performance spaces, including the recently renovated Neidorff-Karpati Hall, where orchestral and large jazz ensemble concerts are held. MSM is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the New York State Board of Regents.

Manhattan School of Music Notable Programs

The four-year undergraduate program serves students with a high-school diploma who want to study:

• Composition and Instrumental Performance
• Jazz (excluding Jazz Voice and Jazz Composition)
• Musical Theater and Voice

Students focus on four concentration areas: major field of study, music-related subjects, ensemble performance, and humanities. MSM also offers graduate programs culminating in Master of Music (MM) degrees, along with specialized options including Professional Performance Diploma, Professional Studies Certificate, and Artist Diploma.

Manhattan School of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

Expense	Amount (2025-2026)
Full-time Tuition	<citation index=”56″ link=”https://www.msmnyc.edu/admission/tuition-overview/” similar_text=”
General Student Fees	<citation index=”56″ link=”https://www.msmnyc.edu/admission/tuition-overview/” similar_text=”
On-campus Housing (Double)	<citation index=”56″ link=”https://www.msmnyc.edu/admission/tuition-overview/” similar_text=”
Meal Plan (Gold)	$6,440
Health Insurance	<citation index=”56″ link=”https://www.msmnyc.edu/admission/tuition-overview/” similar_text=”

Financial aid is available through grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment. MSM commits to providing the best financial aid package within regulations and fund availability.

Manhattan School of Music Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate of 55%, MSM maintains selective but accessible admissions standards. Application deadlines for fall freshmen are December 1, with notifications by April 1. Applications require prescreening materials and a $130 application fee. The conservatory prioritizes musical talent, noting it “is not for beginning students on any instruments”. MSM enrolls a diverse student body with 35% international students and 61% out-of-state students.

Eastman School of Music

_{Image Source: Eastman School of Music – University of Rochester}

Part of the University of Rochester, Eastman School of Music consistently ranks among the top music schools in America. The institution fosters a community of passionate students who possess the self-discipline and intellectual curiosity necessary for musical excellence.

Eastman School of Music Overview

Eastman prepares musical artists, scholars, and teachers to become tomorrow’s leaders. The school’s performance-intensive undergraduate degree programs develop comprehensive musical skills and literacy. Students benefit from over 800 concerts and events annually, providing extensive performance opportunities similar to professional environments.

Eastman School of Music Notable Programs

The Bachelor of Music curriculum spans four years, developing not only performance abilities but also practical and academic skills. Core components include:

• Applied lessons and ensemble participation
• Music theory and history
• Keyboard proficiency
• Humanities

Undergraduate offerings include Applied Music Performance, Composition, Music Education, and Theory. Graduate programs integrate performance skills, music scholarship, pedagogy, and professionalism to prepare students for new professional challenges.

Eastman School of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

For 2024-25, undergraduates face these direct costs:

Expense	Amount
Tuition	$65,870
Housing	$11,820
Food	$7,750
Fees	$2,026
Total	<citation index=”65″ link=”http://www.rochester.edu/bulletin/esm/cost-of-attendance.html” similar_text=”Personal

Here’s some encouraging news: nearly 100% of students receive merit scholarships. Financial aid decisions blend merit (relative ranking within applicant pool) and need (difference between student aid index and total cost). For students with lower financial need (SAI 60K+), awards average $26,000, ranging from $10,000-$45,000.

Eastman School of Music Admission and Selectivity

Acceptance rates vary by source—officially around 43%, although some unofficial sources suggest 23-26%. Annually, approximately 795 students apply, with 341 admitted and 127 enrolled. Application deadlines typically fall on December 1, with a $100 fee (waivers available).

Admission decisions primarily consider musical talent rather than standardized test scores. Faculty evaluate applicants through prescreening materials first, followed by auditions that assess technical ability, musicianship, and potential contribution to the music community.

San Francisco Conservatory of Music

_{Image Source: sfcm.edu}

The San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM) has an interesting story—it started back in 1917 as the Ada Clement Piano School and has grown into one of the top ranked music schools on the West Coast. What I find compelling about SFCM is how it sits right in San Francisco’s vibrant cultural landscape, offering students a distinctive educational experience that balances rigorous artistic training with intellectual exploration.

San Francisco Conservatory Overview

SFCM’s core mission focuses on transforming students artistically, intellectually, professionally, and individually through an entrepreneurial experience. The conservatory hosts over 500 performances annually and maintains an exceptional 3:1 student-to-teacher ratio with 173 faculty members serving 443 students. SFCM’s facilities include the impressive Caroline H. Hume Concert Hall with state-of-the-art acoustics, and its strategic relocation to the Civic Center campus in 2006 marked a pivotal moment in the institution’s development.

San Francisco Conservatory Notable Programs

The curriculum at SFCM provides a connected learning sequence that brings together history, theory, humanities, and performance. Undergraduate students can pursue concentrations in:

• Business
• Teaching
• Technology

These optional concentrations prepare musicians for contemporary careers, covering everything from entertainment law to music festival planning. Students experience diverse performance settings while developing entrepreneurial skills through SFCM’s unique industry integration—including ownership of artist management companies and an iconic record label.

San Francisco Conservatory Tuition and Financial Aid

Expense	2025-26 Amount
Full-time Tuition	$56,400
Fees	$1,750
Housing (varies by type)	$13,900-$21,000
Meal Plan (Gold Plus)	$7,352

Here’s something remarkable: 99% of students receive merit-based scholarships, with an average tuition coverage of 60%. Financial aid applications for domestic students follow standard FAFSA procedures.

San Francisco Conservatory Admission and Selectivity

With an acceptance rate ranging from 42-52%, SFCM maintains selective standards. The application process requires a $110 fee and emphasizes musical ability through prescreening recordings and auditions. The conservatory notes its applicants typically possess advanced training and years of experience with private instruction, which tells you about the high caliber of its student community.

Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

_{Image Source: Indiana University Bloomington}

Indiana University Jacobs School of Music is one of America’s largest and most active music institutions, and when I say active, I mean it—they put on over 1,100 performances annually, including seven fully staged operas. That’s a lot of music-making.

Jacobs School of Music Overview

Founded in 1921 and known as the Indiana University School of Music until 2005, Jacobs serves more than 1,600 students, with undergraduates making up about half the student body. What I find impressive is how they maintain a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio with their 175 full-time faculty members. The campus facilities span 369,000 square feet, giving students plenty of space for musical development. Here’s something that caught my attention: composer Leonard Bernstein spent six weeks there composing his final opera, “A Quiet Place,” and then donated his entire conducting studio contents to the school.

Jacobs School of Music Notable Programs

The curriculum includes over 70 academic programs across all levels from undergraduate to Ph.D.. Jacobs particularly excels in classical and jazz performance, composition, and audio engineering (now called Music Production). Students can study in numerous specialized areas:

Program Categories	Examples
Performance	Brass, Strings, Voice, Piano, Percussion
Composition	Music Scoring for Visual Media, Music Theory
Specialized Areas	Historical Performance, Jazz Studies
Other Disciplines	Music Business, Music Industry, Music Education

Jacobs School of Music Tuition and Financial Aid

For 2024-25, undergraduates face these costs:

Expense	Indiana Residents	Non-Residents
Tuition	$10,621.84	$40,369.16
Program Fee	$2,508.08	$2,508.08
Mandatory Fees	$1,522.04	$1,522.04
Housing/Food	$13,984.00	$13,984.00
Total	$28,635.96	$58,383.28

The good news is that more than 75% of students receive scholarships, and the school provides about $5 million in merit-based funds annually.

Jacobs School of Music Admission and Selectivity

The acceptance rate sits around 25%, though it varies by program. You’ll need to complete both the university application and Jacobs School supplemental application (due December 1, $50 fee). If you’re an international student, minimum TOEFL scores range from 65-100 depending on your program level. Decisions usually arrive by April 1, with enrollment response dates of April 15 for graduate students and May 1 for undergraduates.

Comparison Table

You might find it helpful to see how these schools stack up against each other across key factors. I’ve put together this comparison table to give you a quick reference for the most important metrics you should consider:

School Name	Acceptance Rate	Student Body Size	Annual Performances	Student-to-Faculty Ratio	Base Tuition (2024-25)	Students Receiving Aid
Juilliard	5.5-8.0%	950	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	$54,650	90%
Curtis Institute	4%	160	200+	2:1	$54,364	100% (full-tuition)
Berklee	44%	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	10:1	$52,440	Not mentioned
USC Thornton	10%	Not mentioned	500+	Not mentioned	$69,904	Not mentioned
Oberlin	35%	540	500	Not mentioned	$68,340	67%
New England	43%	700+	800+	2:1	$61,561	90%
Manhattan	55%	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	$58,000	Not mentioned
Eastman	43%	Not mentioned	800+	Not mentioned	$65,870	Nearly 100%
SF Conservatory	42-52%	443	500+	3:1	$56,400	99%
Indiana Jacobs	25%	1,600	1,100+	7:1	$40,369 (Non-resident)	75%

What jumps out at me from this data? Curtis Institute really stands apart with that 4% acceptance rate and full-tuition scholarships for everyone. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for more performance opportunities, New England Conservatory and Indiana Jacobs are putting on the most shows.

Don’t get too caught up in the acceptance rates, though. A higher acceptance rate doesn’t necessarily mean lower quality—it might just mean the school has a different mission or serves a broader range of students.

Conclusion

You’ve just walked through ten exceptional institutions that represent the best of American music education. Each school I’ve shared with you offers something unique—Juilliard’s unmatched prestige, Curtis Institute’s remarkable full-tuition scholarships, Berklee’s contemporary approach, and Indiana Jacobs’ incredible performance opportunities.

What strikes me most about these schools is how different they are from each other. Some stick to classical conservatory traditions while others gear everything toward modern industry needs. The acceptance rates tell an interesting story too—Curtis Institute’s ultra-selective 4% compared to Manhattan School of Music’s more accessible 55% means there are multiple paths to elite education.

Don’t let the financial side discourage you. Most of these prestigious schools provide substantial support, with several offering aid to 90% or more of their students. The specialized programs across these institutions mean you can align your education precisely with where you want to go musically, whether that’s performance, composition, production, or business.

Location matters more than you might think. Studying in New York City gives you one kind of experience, while Boston, Los Angeles, or San Francisco each offer their own cultural landscapes and professional networking opportunities. Learn more about how College Music Major can help you discover best-fit schools and ace your auditions through personalized guidance tailored to your unique musical journey.

The right educational environment can nurture your specific talents and ambitions in ways that will surprise you. Sure, the application process looks daunting, but think about what’s waiting on the other side—studying with world-class faculty, performing in prestigious venues, and building the connections that launch careers. These top music schools are worth your consideration.

Your musical future is waiting at one of these extraordinary institutions.

FAQs

Q1. What are the top music schools in the United States? The top music schools in the US include The Juilliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, Berklee College of Music, USC Thornton School of Music, and Oberlin Conservatory of Music. These institutions are renowned for their rigorous programs, exceptional faculty, and numerous performance opportunities.

Q2. How competitive is admission to top music schools? Admission to top music schools is highly competitive. For example, the Curtis Institute of Music has an acceptance rate of around 4%, while Juilliard’s acceptance rate ranges from 5.5% to 8%. Most elite music schools prioritize musical talent and potential over traditional academic metrics in their admissions process.

Q3. What financial aid options are available at prestigious music schools? Many top music schools offer substantial financial aid. For instance, Curtis Institute provides full-tuition scholarships to all students, while nearly 100% of students at Eastman School of Music receive merit scholarships. Other schools like Juilliard and New England Conservatory provide aid to 90% or more of their students.

Q4. What factors should I consider when choosing a music school? When selecting a music school, consider factors such as the quality of faculty, performance opportunities, curriculum offerings, location, financial aid availability, and specific programs aligned with your musical goals. It’s also important to evaluate the school’s facilities, industry connections, and alumni success.

Q5. Are there differences between conservatories and university music programs? Yes, there are differences. Conservatories like Juilliard and Curtis focus exclusively on music education and performance, offering intensive, specialized training. University music programs, such as those at USC or Indiana University, provide a broader educational experience, often allowing students to explore other academic interests alongside their music studies.