Acting Audition Guide

For entry in September 2026

This audition path is the audition process for our Acting programmes: BA (Hons) Acting and Foundation Acting.

Acting guide

1. Audition process

There is a one-stage audition process for both the Foundation and BA (Hons) Acting programmes. During the audition you will be working with IAB staff in a masterclass style audition. Be prepared to perform materials you have rehearsed, undertake given instructions and respond to direction.

You will also have a one-to-one interview. 

You will be seen individually to present your material and work on it with a member of the acting team, as well as undertake an interview. The audition start time will be listed on the IAB website. You will be given a breakdown of timings in advance of the audition. 

For Live Online auditions, you will be allocated an individual time slot. Once confirmed, it is important that you attend the audition at the agreed time. Auditions will only be rescheduled in exceptional circumstances (evidence for rescheduling may be requested).

The audition will comprise:

1. Classical monologue

Presentation of one of these Shakespearean monologues or a Shakespearean monologue of your choice. You can choose a monologue from either the list of monologues by female or male characters, whichever speaks to you.

2. Contemporary Monologue

Presentation of a monologue of your choice, taken from a modern play. We advise you to choose a monologue that speaks to you. It should be one to two minutes long.

During your interview, you will be asked about your characters and your understanding of the scenes from which the monologue is taken. Make sure that you have read the plays and can talk about them and your characters.

We understand that you may need help preparing for this audition. However, in the audition it is important that we see your honest thoughts and responses to the pieces, and not the direction of another person.

3. SONG

Presentation of a song of your choice. This can be sung with or without music and should be no more than two minutes in length.

4. Interview

You will take part in an individual interview and discussion about your previous training and your personal aspirations as an actor. We will also discuss your vocal health as your voice is an important element of the training.

In certain circumstances, where further consideration is required, you may be asked to attend a second audition with the Programme Leader so that they can find out more about you and also see you work. If this is the case, we will inform you and let you know if you need to perform a monologue.

2. Audition type

You can choose between three types of audition types: On-Campus, In-Person or Live Online.

1. In-person or on-campus audition

Plan your travel in advance and stay overnight locally if you need to. You will be sent the location of the audition in advance.

The audition may start with a small group introduction before being seen individually for your audition.

2. Live online audition

You will need a computer or mobile device with a camera, and a good speed internet connection which will allow you to stay connected on Zoom throughout the audition.

Checklist for before the audition

Before the audition:

  • Check we can see your full body through the camera of your device, place it at a good distance and if needed lift it or lower it accordingly.
  • Make sure the camera of your device is not facing a window, as the light will not allow us to see you properly.
  • Do a test Zoom call with a friend or family on the device you will use for the audition.
  • Make sure the device is not set to auto-zoom in on your face.  
  • Ensure your name displays in Zoom as your full name. If you are using someone else’s Zoom account, change the Zoom name via ‘Rename’.
  • If you are in a different time zone to Spain, double-check the audition start time for your time zone.

3. Frequently asked questions

1. What do I need to wear?

Wear comfortable rehearsal clothes.

2. Will my audition be filmed?

Yes. We record our auditions to share with appropriate members of staff in order to assess your suitability for our programmes.

3. Will my audition take place with other people?

You will be seen individually for your presentation of material and interview.

4. Can I do the audition via video?

As the audition involves responding to direction, it is not possible to audition solely via video.

5. How can I prepare for my interview?

Think about your answers to possible questions such as:

  • Why do you want to study this programme?
  • Why do you want to come to the IAB?
  • Who has influenced you from the acting world?
  • What live performance/stage experience do you have?
  • Which professional performances have you seen?
  • What do you want to do after your time at the IAB?

6. What are you looking for in a successful applicant?

A successful applicant will demonstrate their skills, enthusiasm and commitment to their chosen programme.

We are looking for students that are willing to learn, collaborate and grow, who are curious about the world and ambitious to develop their creative voice. We are not looking for a final product; we are looking for commitment, passion and potential.

7. Can I use a language other than English in the audition pieces and interview?

No, all our programmes are fully taught and assessed in English therefore all spoken elements of the audition must be undertaken in English.

8. When will I know the outcome of my audition?

We aim to inform you of the outcome within four weeks of your audition. You may be offered a place on the programme, placed on a reserve/waiting list, offered a place on an alternative programme or rejected from the programme.

9. What are the requirements if I am disabled?

If you are registered as disabled, contact the IAB. Please note, we do not vary the criteria we use but we do recognise that people with disabilities may demonstrate meeting those criteria in a different way.

10. Who do I contact if I still have a question?

Contact us through the contact form for any questions regarding the audition process.

4. Assessment Criteria

Criteria Evidenced by/in

Understanding: How you understand what you are saying in your speech, to whom you are saying it, and why you are saying it. Your understanding of the circumstances around the speech.

Monologues and song

Choices: How you have made choices about who this character is and what they want.

Monologues and song

Clarity: How you use your voice and body to deliver the speech with clarity.

Monologues and interview

Engagement: Your understanding of the industry, how you will fit into it and your possible career path. You can provide example of actors that are like you and the type of work you like in film, TV, theatre and why.

Your understanding of the IAB Acting programme and how you think this training will benefit your career path.

Application and interview

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Your health and safety are of paramount importance to us. The staff members leading the audition are experienced professionals and will not ask you to do anything which will impact on your health and safety. If you feel unprepared for any specific exercise or activity or feel that it may cause you injury, let the member of staff know and you should refrain from undertaking it. Be sure to state any injuries on your application form.