Dance Scholarships

It can be extremely expensive to attend dance conservatories or colleges with decent dance programs. With the cost of dance education and the slim prospects for high paying jobs, a lot of dancers may be discouraged to follow their passion. But fortunately, there are a few dance scholarships that make it easier to pay tuition.

Youth America Grand Prix

This dance scholarship competition awards over $250,000 annually to students hoping to attend prestigious dance programs. Dancers must send in a video audition or attend semi-final competitions. Those selected for the Youth America Grand Prix finals compete in New York City for one of 100 dance scholarships, which cover anything from a summer session to a full year of tuition.

Princess Grace Foundation

This performing arts foundation aims to assist talented performers in the areas of dance, theater and film. Dancers can receive dance scholarships, fellowships and apprenticeships through the Princess Grace Foundation.

Jessica Karratt Dance Scholarship Fund

Those wishing to pursue a career in dance education will want to apply for an award from the Jessica Karratt Dance Scholarship Fund. Named in memory of a young dancer who tragically died in a car accident, this scholarship fund allows recipients to attend dance programs at all two and four-year colleges in the United States, as well as dance conservatories and workshops.

American Harlequin Dance Scholarships

This producer of dance floors aims to promote dance education by providing scholarships to deserving students. Instead of providing scholarships based on talent or financial need, the winners are chosen through a random drawing. For the 2011 scholarship drawing, $25,000 will be awarded to ten dancers.

Irish Dance Teacher's Association of North America

Most scholarship programs for dancers focus on awarding ballet and modern dancers. But Irish dancers are in luck-the Irish Dance Teacher's Association provides $20,000 worth of scholarships annually to high school seniors and college students.

Dance Council Scholarships

The Dance Council awards a variety of scholarships for dance education. These dance scholarships are mainly used to cover tuition expenses at summer dance programs, intensives and workshops and range from $150 to $2000. Eligible dance styles include ballet, modern, jazz, musical theatre, tap and Indian dance.

ASPIRE Dance Competition and Convention

In addition to receiving valuable dance training at the ASPIRE dance convention, high school and college students can compete for scholarships to a variety of dance conservatories and dance education programs. Additionally, younger competitors are eligible to win dance scholarships to Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway and the Joffrey School of Ballet.