how to apply 

ATCL two year diploma in acting & one year foundation in acting

At ACT Brighton, there are two ways to apply for our ATCL Diploma in Acting or One-Year Foundation in Acting.

Whether you are just beginning your training or looking to take the next step, both routes are designed to help you find the right starting point.

route one: the two-week workshop (recommended)

Our Two-Week Acting Workshop is the most supportive and informative way to apply.

This hands-on experience allows you to:

• Train in our Brighton studios

• Take classes across key acting disciplines

• Meet members of the teaching team

• Experience what studying with us is really like

At the end of the workshop, you will have an individual feedback meeting. From there, we may:

• Offer you a place on the Foundation in Acting, or

• Invite you to audition for the ATCL Diploma in Acting

The workshop allows you to get to know us — and for us to see how you work, grow and collaborate in a group setting.

Workshop fee: £200
(If invited to audition via the workshop, you do not pay the audition fee.)

route two: audition

You can also apply directly for an audition.

• Diploma applicants: Prepare two contrasting monologues

• Foundation applicants: Prepare one monologue

We prefer auditions to take place in person at our Brighton studios, but Zoom auditions are available for those based abroad or unable to travel.

Audition fee: £20 (March & April 2026 No Fee)

which route is right for you?

If you are new to training, the Workshop is an excellent way to build confidence and understand what professional actor training involves before committing to a full course.

Many Diploma applicants choose to complete both the Workshop and an Audition, as it gives them the fullest experience of the school.

short courses

ACT short courses can be booked directly via the website.

entry requirements

Applicants must be over 18 years old for Diploma. We will accept students 16-18 on Foundation with written parental approval. Previous drama experience is of course useful but not necessary and there is no upper age limit.

Applications from speakers of English as a second language are welcome but please note that all of ACT's courses are taught in English and are practical and active. We recommend an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall band of 6.0 or if below this extensive previous drama or theatre experience.