Master of Performing Arts (MPA) – 2 Years- Music, dance, theatre, choreography, teaching and research. Bachelor’s graduates can apply; prior performing-arts training may be required – Admission through entrance tests, auditions, practical assessments or merit.
Course Highlights
| Colleges | Total Course Fees Range | College Type | Specialisation Areas | Approx. Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Colleges | INR 8,070 – INR 2.50 Lakh | 19 Private + 9 Government | 10+ Music, Dance & Theatre specialisation labels | INR 2 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
Course Details
- Duration: 2 years; 4 semesters
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university; typically around 45%–55% minimum where marks are prescribed. Some institutes require a Performing Arts degree, certificate, Visharad-equivalent qualification or about 5 years of formal training.
- Entrance Exam: CUET PG, AU PGAT, JUET, JAIN Entrance Test; practical/audition where applicable
- Selection: Entrance score or qualifying merit + audition/practical/performance assessment/interview/counselling, depending on institute
- Approx. Total Cost: Government costs about INR 8,000–INR 60,000; Private cost about INR 30,000–INR 2.50 lakh among colleges with published tuition/course fees; hostel and other charges extra
- Admission Season: Applications mainly December–May; entrance tests generally March–June; counselling/admissions mainly June–August. Some private or mop-up rounds can continue into September.
Top Entrance Exams
- CUET PG – Common University Entrance Test (Postgraduate)
Level / Conducting Body: National-level – National Testing Agency
For: Banaras Hindu University, Rajiv Gandhi University, University of Jammu and other participating universities offering relevant MPA programmes.
Admission Route: CUET PG - score/result - university registration - practical/audition where prescribed - counselling/seat allocation.
2026 Status: CUET PG 2026 was conducted during March 6–30, 2026, and the NTA result has been declared. University-level admission activity is separate; Banaras Hindu University is displaying a PG mop-up admission round.
- AU PGAT – Allahabad University Postgraduate Admission Test
Level / Conducting Body: University-level – University of Allahabad
For: MPA/music programmes including Vocal, Sitar and Tabla.
Admission Route: PGAT - result/merit - online counselling - document verification - fee payment.
2026 Status: Applications were extended to May 28, examinations were held in June, results were released in late June, and PG counselling began on July 9. A last-date notice for PG admission was issued on August 24, 2026; the regular 2026 cycle is therefore completed.
- JUET – Jammu University Entrance Test
Level / Conducting Body: University-level – University of Jammu
For: MPA Vocal, Sitar, Violin, Tabla and Kathak programmes.
Admission Route: JUET/CUET score + applicable academic-merit component - programme registration - allocation/counselling - admission.
2026 Status: JUET 2026 registration ran from March 18 to April 2, and the examination was scheduled for April 19. The result was subsequently declared, and final UG/PG mop-up counselling was held on July 23, 2026. The regular 2026 cycle is completed.
- JAIN Entrance Test (JET)
Level / Conducting Body: University-level – JAIN (Deemed-to-be University)
For: MPA Classical Dance – Bharatanatyam and MPA Classical Carnatic Music.
Admission Route: JET/programme-specific assessment - result/evaluation - admission formalities - fee payment.
2026 Status: The main PG JET written examination was held on April 30, 2026. The MPA programme pages list September 2026 as the course commencement period.
Three Myths Busted
- Myth: Only BPA graduates can pursue MPA.
- Fact: Some universities accept graduates from any discipline if they possess recognised Performing Arts training, certificates or sufficient formal learning. Eligibility varies by institute.
- Myth: Every MPA admission requires a national entrance exam.
- Fact: Merit-based routes also exist. Guru Nanak Dev University stated that its 2026 MPA Music (Instrumental) admission would not have an entrance test, while LPU's published programme criteria use qualifying-examination merit.
- Myth: MPA graduates can only become stage performers.
- Fact: Career routes also include teaching, choreography, research, arts entrepreneurship, event management and cultural administration.
Ques. What is a Master of Performing Arts (MPA)?
Ans. MPA is generally a 2-year postgraduate degree focused on advanced practical and theoretical study in areas such as music, dance, theatre and related performance disciplines.
Ques. How long is the MPA course in India?
Ans. Most MPA programmes are 2 years long and are divided into 4 semesters.
Ques. What percentage is required for MPA admission?
Ans. It varies by university. Where a minimum is prescribed, approximately 45%–55% of the qualifying degree is common. Some universities focus more heavily on previous Performing Arts training or the audition/practical assessment.
Ques. Can I pursue an MPA without a Bachelor of Performing Arts degree?
Ans. Yes, at some universities. Alliance accepts graduates from any discipline if they satisfy its Performing Arts training requirements, while other institutions may specifically require Music, Dance or Performing Arts qualifications.
Ques. Is CUET PG compulsory for MPA admission?
Ans. No. CUET PG is used by participating universities, but other institutions conduct their own entrance tests, auditions or merit-based admissions.
Ques. Which entrance exams are important for MPA admission in 2026?
Ans. Important routes include CUET PG, AU PGAT, JUET and JAIN Entrance Tests, depending on the chosen university. Practical or performance assessments may also be compulsory.
Ques. Is MPA admission for 2026 still open?
Ans. It depends on the institution as of September 9, 2026. CUET PG's NTA examination and result process is complete; the University of Jammu and the University of Allahabad have completed their regular admission cycles, while Banaras Hindu University is displaying a PG mop-up admission round. JAIN's MPA pages list the September 2026 course commencement.
Ques. Which MPA specialisations are popular in India?
Ans. Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Hindustani Classical Music, Carnatic Music, Vocal Music, Tabla, Sitar and other instrumental specialisations are commonly available. Theatre-related options are offered at selected universities.
Ques. What is the difference between MPA and MA in Music or Dance?
Ans. MPA generally places greater emphasis on practical performance, repertoire, technique and stage practice. MA programmes may place comparatively greater emphasis on academic theory, history and research, although curriculum structure varies by university.
Types of Admission Routes in India
| Admission Route | Important Examples | Coverage / Process |
|---|---|---|
| National-Level Entrance Examination | CUET PG | Used by participating central and other universities. A separate university application, practical test, audition or counselling may still be required after the CUET PG result. |
| University-Level Entrance Examination | AU PGAT, JUET, JAIN Entrance Test | Candidates qualify through the university's own examination and then complete programme-specific counselling, assessment or admission formalities. |
| Merit-Based Admission | LPU, Guru Nanak Dev University | Selection is based primarily on graduation marks and fulfilment of Performing Arts eligibility requirements. Guru Nanak Dev University's 2026 MPA Music (Instrumental) route is an example. |
| Institute-Level Entrance / Audition / Practical Test | Alliance University and other institutes | Institutes may assess singing, instrument performance, dance technique, repertoire, rhythm, expression, portfolio or prior training. Alliance considers academic record, portfolio, previous Performing Arts experience, personal interview and performance assessment. |
| Counselling-Based Admission | Banaras Hindu University, University of Allahabad, University of Jammu | Used after entrance results or merit lists. Seat confirmation generally requires document verification and payment of the prescribed admission fee. |
MPA Admission Process
- Qualifying Degree: Complete a recognised bachelor’s degree. Typical minimum marks, where prescribed, are around 45%–55%.
- Academic Background: A BPA/BPA equivalent, Music, Dance or Theatre background is preferred or mandatory at some universities; other graduates may qualify with recognised training/certification.
- Entrance Examination: Apply for CUET PG, AU PGAT, JUET, JET or the institution's prescribed selection process.
- Entrance Result: Meet the programme-specific score, merit or shortlist requirement.
- Practical/Audition: Attend a dance, vocal, instrumental, theatre or performance assessment where required.
- Counselling/Application: Register separately with the accepting university after the entrance result, where applicable.
- Document Verification: Submit graduation marksheets, degree/provisional certificates, identity proof, photographs, entrance scorecards and training/category certificates where applicable.
- Seat Confirmation: Complete verification and pay the admission/course fee within the allotted deadline.
- Merit Route: Some universities admit on qualifying-degree merit without a separate entrance examination; LPU and Guru Nanak Dev University's 2026 MPA Music (Instrumental) route are examples.
Top MPA Colleges in India
| Top Colleges | Total Course Fee |
|---|---|
| Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar | INR 2.2 Lakh |
| Alliance University, Bangalore | INR 1.43 Lakh |
| REVA University, Bangalore | INR 1.02 Lakh |
| GLS University, Ahmedabad | INR 2.5 Lakh |
| Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad | INR 16.8 K |
Ques. Can an MPA graduate become a college teacher?
Ans. Yes. MPA can provide the required postgraduate academic foundation, while recruitment for assistant professor and research roles may additionally require UGC-NET, PhD or other qualifications under applicable institutional rules.
Ques. Is an audition important for MPA admission?
Ans. Yes, at many institutes. The audition or practical assessment may test vocal ability, instrumental technique, dance repertoire, rhythm, expression, stage skills or previous training. Alliance University, for example, includes performance assessment in its MPA selection process.
Ques. Can an MPA graduate start a music or dance academy?
Ans. Yes. Graduates with sufficient training, performance experience and teaching skills can work independently as instructors, choreographers or academy founders. Business registration and local compliance requirements apply separately.
Ques. Are MPA placements guaranteed by colleges?
Ans. No. Performing Arts careers often combine salaried employment with freelance performances, teaching, productions, workshops and self-employment. Students should evaluate faculty, performance exposure, industry networks and alumni outcomes rather than relying only on institution-wide placement figures.
Ques. Which documents are generally required for MPA admission?
Ans. Common documents include graduation marksheets, degree or provisional certificates, Class 10 and 12 certificates, identity proof, photographs, entrance scorecards where applicable, performing arts certificates/portfolios, category certificates and migration certificates where required.
Career Opportunities After MPA
| Career Option | Average Salary – Approx. Starting Years |
|---|---|
| Music Teacher / Vocal Trainer | INR 2.2 LPA – INR 4 LPA |
| Dance Instructor | INR 2 LPA – INR 4.5 LPA |
| Choreographer | INR 2 LPA – INR 4.5 LPA |
| Performing Arts Trainer | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Theatre Instructor | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Arts / Cultural Programme Coordinator | INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Event / Cultural Event Manager | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Arts Administrator | INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Performing Arts Research Assistant | INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Creative / Performance Content Producer | INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
Top College Placements
| Indicative Tier | College / University | Relevant Course | Approx. Early-Career Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Banaras Hindu University | MPA – Music / Dance disciplines | INR 3 LPA – INR 5.5 LPA |
| Tier 1 | JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) | MPA – Bharatanatyam / Carnatic Music | INR 3 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Tier 2 | Alliance University | MPA – Dance / Music specialisations | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Tier 2 | REVA University | Master of Performing Arts | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Tier 2 | University of Jammu | MPA – Vocal / Instrumental / Kathak | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 5 LPA |
| Tier 3 | Goa University / Goa College of Music | MPA – Vocal / Instrumental / Tabla | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 4.5 LPA |
| Tier 3 | Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University | Master of Performing Arts | INR 2.5 LPA – INR 4.5 LPA |
Note: Tier grouping is indicative, not an official ranking. Course-specific MPA campus placement averages are generally not separately published; the salary figures above are approximate early-career market ranges rather than official college placement averages.
Popular Specialisation
| Popular Specialisation | Major Study Areas | Common Career Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Bharatanatyam / Classical Dance | Nritta, Abhinaya, repertoire, choreography | Performer, Choreographer, Dance Teacher |
| Hindustani / Carnatic Music | Vocal/Instrumental performance, Raga, Tala, Musicology | Vocalist, Musician, Music Teacher, Researcher |
| Kathak | Technique, footwork, Abhinaya, repertoire | Performer, Choreographer, Dance Instructor |
Current programmes also include Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Tabla, Sitar, Violin and other instrumental/vocal disciplines depending on the university.
Top Recruiters
| Sector | Major Recruiters / Employers |
|---|---|
| Music & Media | Saregama, T-Series, Sony Music India, Zee Music Company |
| Broadcasting | Prasar Bharati, All India Radio, Doordarshan |
| Cultural Organisations | Sangeet Natak Akademi, Indian Council for Cultural Relations, state cultural academies |
| Events & Live Entertainment | Wizcraft, Teamwork Arts, BookMyShow Live, event management agencies |
| Education & Training | Schools, universities, music schools, dance academies, private Performing Arts institutes |
| Performing Arts & Theatre | National Centre for the Performing Arts, repertory companies, theatre groups, cultural centres |
Higher Education Options
| Course / Pathway | Duration |
|---|---|
| PhD in Performing Arts | 3–6 years |
| PhD in Music | 3–6 years |
| PhD in Dance / Theatre | 3–6 years |
| UGC-NET / Junior Research Fellowship Preparation | 6–12 months |
| Advanced Diploma / Certificate in Choreography or Stagecraft | 6 months–2 years |
| Arts Management / Cultural Management Programme | 6 months–2 years |
Scholarships
- Performance Merit Scholarship: Alliance University publishes a 50% special merit scholarship for eligible high performers from specified South Zone or National Youth Festival achievements.
- Academic Merit Scholarships: Tuition concession may be offered based on graduation/entrance performance; percentage varies by university.
- Need-Based / EWS Assistance: Fee concessions or institutional financial aid may be available; amount varies.
- Government Scholarships: Central and state post-matric, SC/ST/OBC/EWS/minority schemes may apply subject to scheme eligibility.
- Performing Arts Talent Scholarships: Cultural bodies and foundations may provide scholarships, fellowships or stipends for eligible artists; award amount varies.
- Sports/Cultural Achievement Scholarships: Available at selected universities; percentage and eligibility depend on institutional policy.
FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between MPA and MFA?
Ans. MPA primarily covers performing disciplines such as music, dance and theatre. Master of Fine Arts usually focuses on visual, studio or applied art disciplines, although programme naming can vary.
Ques. Which are some budget-friendly MPA colleges?
Ans. Some of the budget-friendly colleges include Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya at about INR 8,070, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University at INR 16,850 and Dr Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya at INR 19,720. Additional examination, hostel, or university charges may apply.
Ques. What salary can an MPA graduate expect in India?
Ans. Salaried early-career roles commonly fall around INR 2 LPA–INR 5 LPA. Earnings can vary substantially for performers, musicians, actors, choreographers and freelancers because income may be project- or performance-based.
Ques. Is there a fixed foreign package after MPA?
Ans. No. Overseas income depends on the country, role, portfolio, performance experience, employer, work authorisation and cost of living. An Indian MPA degree does not provide a guaranteed foreign salary.
Ques. Can I pursue a PhD after MPA?
Ans. Yes. Graduates can pursue a PhD in Performing Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre or related interdisciplinary areas subject to university eligibility and entrance requirements.
Ques. Is UGC-NET useful after MPA?
Ans. Yes, particularly for students aiming for academic teaching or research. Eligibility depends on the subject chosen, postgraduate qualification and current UGC/NTA rules.
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