AUDITIONS FOR THE 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR
Thank you for your interest in NWSA!
In light of ongoing developments involving COVID-19, ALL AUDITIONS WILL BE VIRTUAL until further notice.
Please follow the instructions below:
1.Complete the Audition Request Form as soon as your child decides to audition. Please do not wait until the deadline, as auditions are scheduled in order of requests received. See Dates and Deadlines for more information.
2.Read your child’s Audition Requirements carefully so they can prepare for their audition/portfolio review. Requirements are different for each major, and some may require extensive preparation.
3.Check your email weekly for an email to schedule the audition. We will call if we are not able to reach you via email.
*New to or returning to CMS? Enrollment in CMS schools is required to request an audition. Once you future-enroll, you can submit the request, and your child should be able to audition in time for the first lottery.*

Hello From NWSA!
The CMS lottery is the way most students are admitted to our school after a passed audition. All students who attend NWSA must first pass an audition. If your child has not yet been scheduled, the Fall audition information dates/deadlines will apply to them. ALL 8th grade students who wish to continue at NWSA for High School must pass a High School audition AND must enter the lottery for the corresponding NWSA program!
Students at NWSA concentrate in arts areas, or "majors." Middle school students are only permitted to major in one arts area, even if they pass two auditions. High school students are able to major in more than one area. It is also important to note that 8th graders who intend to remain at NWSA for High School must pass an audition in order to be guaranteed their seat at NWSA for high school.
The "Audition at NWSA" tab (above) contains a checklist to help you manage the process. The checklist only covers essential steps, so please review the website entirely. Follow the steps, observe dates and deadlines, and make sure your child prepares for their audition or portfolio review using the Audition Requirements!
Below you can find a recording that will help you navigate the website. I'm available to answer questions after you have reviewed the information on this website. Check out the other tabs on the menu above for lots of information about our school! We would also love for you to join us at one of our Virtual Information Sessions!
Best of luck and "break a leg"!
Ka'Shara Davis,
NWSA Audition Coordinator
Phone: (980) 343-5500
AS OF 3/16/20, ALL IN-PERSON SCHOOL TOURS ARE CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
NWSA Virtual Information Sessions
Upcoming Virtual Information Session for Prospective Families
Previously Recorded Virtual Information Session for Prospective Families
For more information please visit our Tours/ Information Sessions page!
Auditions Website Instructional Video
2021-22 AUDITION REQUEST FORM
MAGNET AGREEMENT FORM
Please feel free explore this website for more information about our school and audition requirements. Don't forget to visit the Audition Announcements page for updates on future audition opportunities!
For all NWSA Audition Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the in-depth FAQ page on the Auditions website.
NWSA Live Recruiting Event Video
Northwest School of the Arts is the only public arts magnet school serving students in grades 6-12 in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District and is ranked #2 Best High Schools for the Arts in North Carolina. NWSA combines a strong academic foundation with concentrated study of the visual or performing arts. Students choose to major in Band, Chorus, Costume Design, Dance, Musical Theatre, Orchestra, Piano, Theatre, Technical Theatre, or Visual Arts. High school students can have more than one major.
Northwest is highly ranked among CMS schools for academic success and is known both nationwide and internationally for the quality of its arts programs.
Our Students
NWSA is a diverse community of dedicated student artists from all over Mecklenburg County. In addition to engagement in core studies and the arts, students enjoy connecting with talented peers in a dynamic, pro-caring learning environment.
In April we hosted our first ever virtual live recruiting event! In the recording (above) you will find the recording of the event and the slide show that covers information that you may need regarding applying for and attending Northwest School of the Arts in Charlotte, NC.
In the recording, you will hear from our Arts Director, Auditions Coordinator, one of our guidance counselors, and each of our Arts Departments on what it takes to be a successful student at Northwest, as well as the steps you need to follow to apply, audition, and what happens next. Get your questions answered and be inspired about your future!
Thank you for your interest in NWSA!