Financial Planning for College Dancers
Hidden Costs of a College Dance Major: What Students Need to Know
Being a dance major in college is an exciting opportunity—but it also comes with some unique expenses that other students might not be thinking about. The good news? These costs are manageable with planning and awareness. Here’s what to keep in mind.
1. Dance Classes and Attire
Even if you’ve danced for years, college-level training can come with new requirements:
Ballet or technique classes: You may be dancing more hours per week than in high school, which can affect shoes and attire wear-and-tear.
Dress codes: Some programs still have specific leotard or uniform expectations, but most college programs are much more flexible than pre-professional schools.
Supplies: Costs for leotards, tights, or shoes exist but are typically smaller than the high school pre-professional level.
2. Meals and Dining
College dancers often have higher energy needs than their peers. Consider:
Meal plans: Most students rely on them, but dancers may supplement with groceries to meet caloric and nutritional needs. Additionally sometimes dance schedules don’t align with cafeteria meal times.
Eating out: While it’s fun to share meals with friends, try to balance dining out with budget-friendly options like campus dining or cooking simple meals.
3. Performances and Ticket Costs
Dance majors often attend more performances than other students, and this can add up:
Department shows: Some are free for majors; others may be $10–$15.
Community performances: Tickets can range from $30–$40 or more.
Student involvement: Opportunities like ushering, student rush tickets, or volunteer options can offset costs.
Personal enrichment: Occasionally, you may want to see shows outside your program—these are investments in your growth as an artist.
4. Summer Study
Many college dancers participate in summer intensives to continue training:
Scholarships: Departments may offer small amounts to offset costs.
Balancing work and study: Summer is also a time to earn money. Consider:
One longer intensive for growth and exposure
Shorter workshops combined with work opportunities
Budget impact: Plan ahead for travel, tuition, and housing during summer programs.
5. Travel Expenses
College dancers often attend schools farther from home, which adds travel costs for both students and visiting family:
Family travel: Consider which performances are most meaningful for parents or family to see.
Example: seeing you dance in a faculty show vs. seeing your work in a student showcase
Plan ahead: Coordinate visits with performances, travel deals, or group gatherings after shows to reduce costs.
6. Books, Materials, and Miscellaneous
Books: Dance majors sometimes have fewer textbook costs than other majors, but plan for workshops, scores, or research materials if your program requires them.
Other items: Water bottles, yoga mats, conditioning equipment, and personal care items may add up over the semester.
Tips for Staying Financially Wise
Track your spending: Keep a budget for classes, meals, performances, and travel.
Plan summer strategically: Mix intensive training with work to maintain income.
Use student discounts and campus resources: Tickets, transportation, and supplies often have cost-saving options.
Communicate with family: Decide together which performances are priorities for visits.
Final Thoughts
The hidden costs of a college dance major are real but manageable. With thoughtful planning, budgeting, and open communication, you can focus on training, performing, and growing as an artist—without being caught off guard by unexpected expenses.