Frequently Asked Questions

Do students travel far to get to CAPA College?

Students travel from across the whole of the North of England to study at CAPA College. Our easy to reach location in the heart of Wakefield has fantastic transport links, including two train stations and regular buses.

What are the course costs?

There are no course fees to pay at CAPA College. Some students may be eligible for a bursary, which is a means-tested fund to help support students in Further Education. Details of how to apply for the bursary are provided during enrolment.

What is a typical day for a CAPA College student?

Students are typically in college 8:45am-4:00pm Monday-Friday. They have a jam-packed timetable which changes and adapts weekly dependent on the project and curriculum at that time.

What performance opportunities do students have?

CAPA College students work collaboratively on a wide range of performance opportunities not only in CAPA College’s theatre space but also at regional, national and international events. CAPA College students and recent alumni have also gained extensive additional experience and opportunities achieving places in national companies and events including TV and Film work. Performances, awards and accolades include Move It, FRESH, Can You Dance?, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and much more.

What are the facilities like?

In September 2022 CAPA College opened the doors to its new, multi-million-pound home on Mulberry Way, Wakefield (opposite Wakefield Westgate train station). Equipped with the latest technology, industry-standard equipment and the finest rehearsal and performance spaces, this is unprecedented in the North of England

Where have alumni gone onto?

CAPA College graduates have gone on to study at leading national and international conservatoires and universities, including RADA, The Place, Rambert School, Arts Educational School, Guildford School of Acting, Institute of the Arts Barcelona and Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp. We have past students in just about every West End show, on cruise ships all over the world and appearing in shows on nearly every streaming platform. Keep an eye on our social media to see news from CAPA College Alumni to inspire your next steps!

Find out more about where our students have gone below:

How to apply to CAPA College?

Application forms can be found on the CAPA College website. Please see below:

What is the auditions process? Does everyone that apply have an audition?

All applicants are invited to attend an ‘Audition/Interview Day’ at CAPA College. This includes:

• A showcase performance by current students & presentation by staff
• Group question & answer session with staff and current students
• Participation in group audition/practical classes (specific to course pathway being applied for)
• Individual interview

Some applicants are then invited to a recall audition where they will present pre-prepared material and undergo a second interview. All applicants will receive written confirmation of whether or not they have been successful.

Read the full application process below:

What are the entry requirements of CAPA College?

Entry to CAPA College requires a minimum of 5 GCSES at Level 4 or above (including GCSE English and GCSE Maths). In exceptional cases, a student with a Level 3 in either GCSE English or GCSE Maths (but not both) may be accepted.

Arts qualifications/formal experience are not required for admission to CAPA College. Instead, applicants are evaluated based on their passion, aptitude and potential to thrive at the College.

How many places are available?

We will be awarding 250 places to study with us at CAPA College in September 2025.

Can you apply for more than one pathway?

Yes, you are welcome to apply for multiple pathways. This is facilitated within the application form.

What age do I have to be to join CAPA College?

CAPA College provides full-time Arts training and education for students aged 16-19.

What is the balance between written and academic work?

CAPA College largely focuses on practical work to ensure students are prepared for a career in the Arts. However, students do have written exams to successfully complete their qualifications. The student’s theory work is embedded within the course and relevant to what students learn within their practical lessons. Students study towards the equivalent of four A levels and will therefore be stretched academically as well as practically to ensure that they leave CAPA College with the qualifications to successfully prosper in life after CAPA College whether that be higher education or a professional career.

Do the five course pathways mix?

Yes. Students have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects and work with staff and students from across the pathways.

What pastoral support do students receive?

CAPA College’s pastoral guidance is of the highest quality. Students are assigned a personal tutor and receive regular group and individual tutorial guidance. CAPA College’s student support centre is always available to provide additional guidance on financial, emotional, health and welfare issues. Find out more on the pastoral support students receive below:

How do you support students with SEND needs and access arrangements?

Students with educational needs are supported to manage the demands of their course, in class and around the building. Students can access a range of 1-2-1 and small group interventions, overseen by the SEND team, to ensure that no student is left behind.

Find out more in our SEND Policy: