• Admissions and Enrollment at NESA

    NESA welcomes interested students in joining our magnet school program for gifted young artists. We are privileged to support talented students through an audition and admission process as they pursue enrollment in our nationally-ranked programs. 

    NESA accepts passionate and dedicated applicants entering the 9th and 10th grades. Select spots may be available for standout 11th graders on a case-by-case basis factoring in major cohort sizes. All students submit an application for their desired major(s) featuring recommendations and achievements, followed by a live or digital audition that showcases their skills.

    With an intentional admissions approach, we thoroughly assess artistic potential and match students with environments that allow them to thrive both academically and creatively during their time at NESA. We are eager and happy to assist dedicated prospective students at every step as they pursue admission. 

  • Application Process

    • Step 1: Check the Audition Requirements for your desired Major.
      • Each of our 7 majors have a specific process that can include live performance, portfolio submissions, or writing samples as part of their audition. Please keep these requirements in mind as you continue through the application process.
    • Step 2: Complete the NEISD Magnet Application 2 Weeks before your desired audition.
      • NESA holds 3 live auditions for the following academic school year. The auditions dates for the 2025-2026 year are:
        • Saturday, November 9th, 2024 (application due by 11:59pm, October 25th)
        • Saturday, January 25th, 2025 (application due by 11:59pm, January 10th)
        • Saturday, April 12th, 2025 (application due by 11:59pm, March 28th)
    • Step 3: Submit the following supplemental documents to the director of your desired major: 
      • A resume highlighting education, experience, and awards or honors (Example Resume
      • Current grade transcript or report card from current school
      • Headshot photo (No selfies, but does not need to be professional)
      • An essay addressing “Why I Should Be Considered for NESA” that is 300 - 500 word typed (Does not apply to dance, instrumental music, or musical theater applicants) 
      • Any other additional requirements outlined for each major
    •  
  • Majors Audition Requirements

  • Cinema Audition Requirements

  • Creative Writing Audition Requirements

  • Dance Audition Requirements

  • Instrumental Music Audition Requirements

  • Musical Theater Audition Requirements

  • Technical Theater Audition Requirements

  • Visual Art Audition Requirements


  • Magnet Nights

Magnet Informational Sessions

Magnet Informational Sessions provide opportunities for families to explore all magnet programs at one location.


  • Campus Tours

    Tours of NESA are available most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with a 9 AM or 3 PM time slot. To schedule a tour, please contact us by phone at 210-365-1033 or by email.

    NESA hosts Night With NESA every October to showcase the seven majors we have to offer in detail, which provides important audition information and requirements.