Curtis Institute of Music

Philadelphia, United States of America

Established in 1924, the Curtis Institute of Music is a private conservatory located in Philadelphia. It offers a performance diploma, a Bachelor of Music, a Master of Music in opera, and a Professional Studies Certificate.
Add to compare

Frequently Asked Questions

The Curtis Institute of Music is a prestigious conservatory located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Established in 1924, it is renowned for its rigorous training and exceptional faculty. Curtis offers a range of programs, including Diplomas, Bachelor of Music, Master of Music, Post-Baccalaureate Diplomas, and Professional Studies Certificates. All students receive merit-based, full-tuition scholarships, ensuring that artistic promise is the sole criterion for admission .
Curtis maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 4:3, allowing for highly personalized instruction. This intimate setting ensures that students receive focused attention from a distinguished faculty, which includes a high proportion of actively performing musicians .
No, Curtis does not offer a preparatory music or academic program. However, younger students (e.g., pre-college aged) are encouraged to apply for the Diploma program, which is designed for exceptionally gifted musicians regardless of age .
Admission to Curtis is a two-step process: applying and auditioning. Applicants must submit an online application and, if selected, participate in auditions that may include pre-recorded submissions, interviews, and in-person rounds. Audition dates and repertoire requirements vary by department .
No, Curtis sets no minimum or maximum age for application or admission. The institution evaluates candidates based solely on their artistic promise, regardless of age .
Yes, Curtis welcomes international students. Over 40% of the student body comprises individuals whose home country is outside the U.S. International students must obtain an F-1 Non-Immigrant Visa and an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility to study in the U.S. The institution provides guidance on visa acquisition and maintenance through its International Student Affairs office .
Curtis Institute of Music is located in a vibrant urban area of Philadelphia. While specific campus safety measures are not detailed in the provided sources, students are encouraged to utilize general safety practices such as staying aware of their surroundings, traveling in groups during late hours, and utilizing campus security resources. For detailed information on safety protocols, students should contact the campus security office directly.
The provided sources do not specify whether Curtis offers on-campus housing. Given the conservatory's location in Philadelphia, students may need to seek off-campus accommodations. It's advisable to consult the Student Life or Housing office at Curtis for information on available housing options.
While specific procedures for reporting safety concerns are not detailed in the provided sources, students are typically encouraged to report any safety issues to campus security or the designated student affairs office. For precise reporting procedures, students should refer to the Curtis Institute of Music's official student handbook or contact the relevant campus office directly.
Curtis offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes: Performance Courses: Lessons, coachings, instrumental repertoire, vocal studies, and chamber music. Musical Studies: Courses designed to provide practical knowledge of Western music techniques. Liberal Arts: Courses aimed at broadening students' intellectual horizons.
Yes, students at Curtis have numerous performance opportunities, including: Orchestra and Opera Performances: Regular performances with the Curtis Symphony Orchestra and opera productions. Solo and Chamber Music: Recitals and ensemble performances that are integral to the curriculum.
Yes, students interested in double-majoring must audition and gain admission to each department separately. This allows for a tailored educational experience that aligns with their artistic goals .
Yes, Curtis provides merit-based, full-tuition scholarships to all students, regardless of their financial situation. For the 2025–26 academic year, the annual value of this scholarship is $54,364 for undergraduate students and $67,502 for graduate students .
While the full-tuition scholarship covers educational expenses, Curtis also offers need-based financial aid to assist with living expenses. Approximately 85% of students qualify for financial aid, which can help cover costs such as housing, meals, and personal expenses.
The Curtis Institute of Music is situated in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at 1726 Locust Street. This urban setting provides students with access to a vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and public transportation options.
Yes, Curtis provides on-campus housing in Lenfest Hall for all students. For the 2025–26 academic year, the room and board rates are: Single Room: $24,882 Double Room: $21,786
Yes, in addition to room and board, students may incur other fees such as: Comprehensive Fee: $3,500, covering textbooks, facility use, security, internet, IT support, wellness services, and recording fees. Health Care Insurance: $3,678, unless the student has comparable private insurance.
Yes, Curtis provides guidance to international students on obtaining an F-1 Non-Immigrant Visa and an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility to study in the U.S. While the institution offers support, students are responsible for applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to work in the U.S. after graduation .
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students in the U.S. to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree. Students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields may be eligible for a 24-month extension, totaling up to 36 months.
To apply for OPT, students must: Attend an OPT workshop offered by the International Student Services (ISS) office. Complete the OPT application form and gather required documents. Submit the application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within the required timeframe.
Curtis Institute of Music provides various scholarships to its students. The scholarships are both need-based and merit-based. The merit-based scholarship does not depend on the financial condition of the students. These are available to both transfer and general students.

University Of Curtis Institute of Music Application Statistics

151
109
41
113
4:3
4 %
$ 52781
$ 22080
3
6.5

University Of Curtis Institute of Music Application Statistics

151
109
41
113
4:3
4 %
$ 52781
$ 22080
3
6.5

We also can help you with following Services

Connect With Curtis Institute of Music

  • 1726 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
  • +1 215-893-5252

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts