Actor

You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate diploma in drama, or other relevant subject like:

• performance studies
• contemporary theatre and performance
• acting
• musical theatre

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• to pass an audition
• at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• search for conservatoire courses
• university courses and entry requirements

There is no set entry route to become an actor but it may be useful to do a relevant subject like:

• Level 2 Technical Certificate in Performing Arts
• Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Acting
• A level in Drama and Theatre
• Level 4 Diploma in Speech and Drama

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

Acting is very competitive and you'll need to develop your skills by getting as much practical experience of acting as possible. You could do this through:

• amateur, community or youth theatre
• college and university drama societies
• student drama festivals and competitions

This can also help to put you in touch with people in the acting profession, who could be useful contacts when looking for work.

You may be able to find work by applying directly for roles if you have a lot of experience and exceptional acting talent.

You can study with a private drama school or conservatoire. Many offer full-time courses, as well as short courses and summer schools.

You'll need to pass an audition to get into a drama school. You may also need A levels or a Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts, though this is not always essential if you can show enough talent and commitment.

You may be able to get funding to help with fees and living costs at a private drama school.

You could also take graded exams in acting, musical theatre and performance art through Trinity College London, University of West London or London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

Career tips

You'll need to get as much practical experience of acting as you can, and create a showreel to demonstrate your acting skills to agents and casting directors.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join Equity for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming an actor through Get into Theatre and Discover Creative Careers.

You can also get extra support from organisations like Shape Arts, if you have a disability or special learning need.

You'll need:

• knowledge of the fine arts
• the ability to work well with others
• persistence and determination
• the ability to use your initiative
• to enjoy working with other people
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of media production and communication
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You’ll spend a lot of time:

• researching your role
• learning your lines
• rehearsing
• attending fittings for costumes
• preparing for and going to auditions
• contacting actors’ agents and finding the next job

You could work at a recording studio, in the community, in a theatre or on a film set.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding and you may spend nights away from home.