Admission decisions are based on an applicant's demonstrated ability, achievement, and interest in their chosen field. All NHSI programs are designed for high school students, but each Institute has specific eligibility requirements and application criteria.
The Theatre Arts Division of the NHSI is a highly competitive program with limited spots available. Students must apply in their sophomore or junior year, graduating in 2028 or 2029. Juniors are given priority consideration. Additionally, competitive applicants:
Rank academically in or near the top 30% of their high school class, or have at least a “B” average
Meet a high standard of character, responsibility, motivation, and scholastic ability
Provide evidence of experience and/or substantial interest in the theatre arts.
The Film & Video Division of the NHSI is a competitive program with limited spots available. Students must apply in their sophomore or junior year, graduating in 2028 or 2029. Additionally, competitive applicants:
Rank academically in or near the top 30% of their high school class, or have at least a “B” average
Meet a high standard of character, responsibility, motivation, and scholastic ability
Provide evidence of experience and/or substantial interest in the media arts.
The Debate Division of the NHSI accepts students with varying experience in Policy Debate. However, students must apply in their 8th grade, freshman, sophomore, or junior year, graduating in 2028, 2029, 2030, or 2031. Additionally, competitive applicants:
Rank academically near the top 30% of their high school class or have at least a "B" average
Meet a high standard of character, responsibility, motivation, and scholastic ability
Provide evidence of experience and/or interest in Policy Style Debate
The Playwriting Division of the NHSI is a competitive program with limited spots. Students must apply during their sophomore or junior year to be eligible for admission (graduating in 2028 or 2029).
Any student who has attended an NHSI playwriting workshop either in their school or virtually is eligible to apply with the play they drafted in that workshop.
Students who have not attended a workshop will need to submit a sample of their own draft of a 10-minute play, at any stage, in order to be considered.
Additionally, competitive applicants:
Rank academically in or near the top 30% of their high school class, or have at least a “B” average
Meet a high standard of character, responsibility, motivation, and scholastic ability
Provide evidence of experience and/or substantial interest in writing and/or theatre arts