How to Audition
Students must audition or present a visual arts portfolio for acceptance into The Governor's School for the Arts (GSA).
All current 8th - 11th grade students are eligible to apply.
We welcome students of all interests, races/ethnicities, gender identities, experience levels, and all socio-economic backgrounds.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 5, 2025
Watch!
Virtual Meet GSA Nights
These sessions will give you information about the school
and the application process.
REGISTER HERE for the 2025 Informational Sessions
Suffolk: 9/25 at 7pm Watch recording
Chesapeake: 9/30 at 7pm Watch recording
Virginia Beach: 10/7 at 6:30pm Watch recording
Norfolk: 10/9 at 6:30pm Watch recording
Portsmouth: 10/14 at 6:30pm Watch recording
Isle of Wight: 10/16 at 7pm Watch recording
Southampton and Franklin: 10/21 at 7pm
All applications are ONLINE.
Please read all directions carefully!
Please submit only ONE application. You may audition for up to three (3) departments.
Deadline: Online Applications along with Round One submissions must be submitted no later than December 5, 2025 at 11:59pm.
STEPS TO APPLY
ESSAY QUESTIONS TO PREPARE IN ADVANCE:
Essay #1: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Essay #2: How will opportunities at GSA support your interests, both in and out of the classroom?
Your written answer should be 150-200 words. If you need, we will accept a video answer.
Two Adult Recommenders are required. Send this link to them: https://forms.gle/SYFpXhFVH3jWAF9j6
1. Round One Submission
1. You must submit a separate video submission for each department to which you apply. This is your Round One submission. Each department will have different requirements. Carefully read each department's requirements before you complete your online application.
2. If you are selected for Round Two you will be notified in early to mid January 2026. You will be assigned a date and time; you may not request a date. Round Two will be in-person at the GSA building.
3. Once an audition date and time is assigned, supplemental forms may be required from individual departments. These forms will be e-mailed with your audition date and time assignment. Please make sure your email address is complete and correct on your application. All communication will be done electronically.
2. Complete the online application
1. You may audition for up to three (3) different departments but you submit only ONE application.
3. Upload your submissions with your online application
1. Be sure to upload all videos and images with the online application. Visual Arts requires 3 drawings and 1 original piece.
2. For all applicants except Visual Arts, please record yourself in a full body angle, saying your name slowly and clearly, before your performance begins.
3. Your video may be taken with your phone in your home. You do not need special surroundings for your pre-screen audition.
Questions? Contact: rachel.mccall@gsarts.net or 757-451-4711
choose your department
