Consider the entrance requirements. This is the very first step in determining whether a performing arts college is right for you. What does the application process involve? If you are interested in dance, do you need to submit a video of your performance before acceptance? If you are looking into an acting program, is it necessary that you visit the school and audition in person to be considered? Furthermore, find out what your GPA needs to be in order to be accepted to the school. Although performing arts colleges may not be primarily about academic work, a high GPA is always better than a low one, and some rigorous and highly-acclaimed schools will likely require you have one anyway since it demonstrates discipline and focus.
Explore the list of programs offered. Consider your main interests and determine whether they are offered and, if so, whether they are a major or minor. The main programs offered at performing arts school focus on drama, dance and music. Under drama are musical theater, opera, ballet, illusion, improvisational theater, stand-up comedy, pantomime, method acting and more. Under music are musicology, music education, music theory, history of music, music composition, vocal exercises and basic instrument performance. Dance involves non-verbal communication and expression; the main dances are ballet and tap. The programs a performing arts school offers are the most important part of your decision to attend there.
Consider the cost. Although college is obviously expensive, a more pricey college does not necessarily guarantee a better education. Read reviews online and talk to students who attend the college to find out more about the education and compare what you find out to the cost. Do not choose a "name-brand" college just because it seems like a better option; saving money is possible even with the best education.
Consider the location. Would you like to be close or far away from your home? What about vacations and holidays--do you want to be able to travel home for every break? Is the city or town your college is located in close to stores that have what you need?
Consider the size of the student population. This makes a huge difference in the "feel" of your college experience. Some campuses have only a few hundred students whereas others may have 50,000. Private schools are generally smaller than state schools and have smaller classroom sizes, with more personal interactions between professors and students. Consider how important this is to you.
Visit the school. If everything else works out and yet you do not feel a "fit" when you go to the school, you may decide not to attend. Most colleges offer a bed-and-breakfast program that allows you to stay in a dorm room with another student for a night and tour the campus with that person. You may even be allowed to attend a few classes. Actually visiting the school will help you make the final decision about attending there.