Donna Egan Graduate Program

Boston Ballet’s Donna Egan Graduate Program provides an entryway for young artists to experience the daily life of a professional dancer. Graduates train, rehearse and perform alongside Boston Ballet’s second company (BBll) and Boston Ballet’s main company. Through direct interaction with all aspects of Boston Ballet, Graduates thrive, grow and expand their understanding of the profession.

Graduates develop both artistic and technical qualities in a small, supportive environment. Immersed in classes, repertoire rehearsals, coaching, mentoring sessions and performances, these emerging professionals develop the skills needed to become well-rounded working artists.

Performance is key in developing young artists.

Auditions

To apply to the Graduate Program, visit Boston Ballet’s AUDITIONS page. Applicants should submit their materials by the end of January.

Students of Boston Ballet School’s Professional Division at Walnut Hill are evaluated throughout the year and do not need to submit separate audition materials.

Older or more experienced candidates may be interested in auditioning for Boston Ballet II.

Frequently Asked Questions

For any questions not answered here, please contact Caroline Elliott, Manager of Professional Track Programs, at CELLIOTT@BOSTONBALLET.ORG.

What is the age range for the Graduate Program?
Graduate Program candidates have completed their high school education and are between 18 and 20. Older or more experienced candidates may be interested in auditioning for Boston Ballet II.

Do I have to audition for the program?
Yes, acceptance to the Graduate Program is by audition only. Please visit Boston Ballet’s AUDITIONS page for more information.

Do you accept international dancers?
Yes. Boston Ballet School can sponsor M1 student visas for Graduates from outside the US. Upon their acceptance into the Graduate Program, Boston Ballet School will work with families to make sure all the necessary steps are taken. Please be aware that Boston Ballet School does not cover the expenses of visa processing or other related fees.

What is the size of the Graduate Program?
The Graduate Program is a small group, no more than 15 dancers, selected by the Artistic Team.

What are the dates for the Graduate Program?
The Graduate Program follows Boston Ballet’s season calendar which runs from early August to early June. A brief winter break in early January follows the conclusion of Nutcracker.

Is there a tuition cost for the Graduate Program?
No, the Graduate Program is endowed to remain tuition-free for participants.

Is housing provided for the Graduate Program?
We help incoming Graduates connect with each other and local realtors to search for housing. The program does not provide room and board.

Do Boston Ballet Graduates get a salary?
No, participants in the Graduate Program are not employees of Boston Ballet and do not receive a salary. However, some Graduates may independently apply for limited part-time work within Boston Ballet and Boston Ballet School. (Unfortunately, we are not able to offer employment to any international participants.)

Is there Physical Therapy?
Regular physical therapy is included as part of the Graduate Program.

Does Boston Ballet provide health insurance for Graduates?
No, Graduates must provide proof of their own health insurance.