How do I become an actor?

According to the National Council of Drama Training, “some drama schools have specific entry requirements (typically five GCSE and two A-level passes or successful completion of a relevant BTEC course), so research into courses at an early stage is important”. It sounds as though you’re already looking into your options, which is a positive step towards your goal.

As entry levels may differ from institute to institute, it might be worthwhile contacting the schools you’re interested in attending to find out what their entry requirements are. You may find that some of the specialist schools you’d like to attend charge high fees. If this rules these schools out you could consider studying drama at university instead. If you study Theatre Studies A-level it will boost your university application for these courses. You could talk to your careers advisor at school to find out more about the universities offering drama degrees. Then you can compare their syllabuses to see which courses would suit you best.

If you’ve done your research before approaching your parents, it’s much more likely that they’ll take you seriously and understand that this is the direction you want to take. Perhaps sitting down with them and explaining the options and how much you want to pursue your dream of acting. It may reassure them to know that you’re aware of the potential pros and cons of such a profession, and that you’re aware of the routes into acting.

There are many different skills that you can focus on whilst studying at a drama school, so getting some experience before applying could help you to get a foot in the door.

For example, you can get involved with local drama or theatre groups. You can also back up experience with reading plays, film scripts, and books about acting and the theatre.