Founded in 1905, Juilliard has long been a leading institution for music, dance, and drama, but high tuition fees have presented barriers for many talented applicants. President Damian Woetzel has prioritised increasing access, emphasising that “talent is the opportunity, not the ability to pay for it.”
The initiative follows similar moves at other elite schools, such as Harvard College, and signals a wider shift in higher education toward reducing financial barriers. Fundraising efforts are underway to support Juilliard’s complete transition.
Alumni including Jessica Chastain, Jon Batiste, Christine Baranski, and Laura Linney have spoken about their experiences at Juilliard, recalling both the intense artistic training and the financial struggles they faced. The move to eliminate tuition aims to ensure future students can focus fully on their craft.
Juilliard’s leadership believes that creating a tuition-free environment will allow more diverse voices to emerge in the arts, strengthening the creative community for generations to come.