BPA Course: Full Form, Fees, Admission 2024, Subjects/Syllabus, Top Colleges, Top Exam, Career & Salary

Updated on Oct 17, 2024 03:02 IST

BPA full form is Bachelor of Performing Arts. Bachelor of Performing Arts is a 3 - 4 undergraduate degree program focusing on Dance, Drama, and Music as its core subjects. BPA course is a gateway to one's entry into the entertainment and media industry. To be eligible for BPA courses, one must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board with an aggregate of 50% or more. BPA courses can be pursued in regular and distance modes

Admission to the BPA courses takes place in both entrance tests and merit-based. Aspirants need to have received high grades in the 12th grade in order to get admitted based on merit. Students must carefully prepare in order to pass entrance examinations and pursue a BPA from their desired college. Some of the commonly accepted Bachelor in Performing Arts entrance exams include SET, CUET, JMI entrance exams, and LPUNEST. BPA courses can be pursued from various top colleges including Banaras Hindu University and Lovely Professional University. The average fee ranges from INR 6000 - INR 4 lakh depending on the specialization and the college/university. 

Candidates can apply for various positions in different domains of music, dance, and theatre. Some of the top job profiles after BPA include Community Arts Worker, Music Therapist, Theatre Director, Choreographer, and Broadcast Presenter. The salary ranges from INR 3.6 lakh - INR 10.5 lakh. Some of the top BPA recruiters include theatres, dance studios, and music studios. The students who want to level up and take their dancing or music career one step ahead can also pursue higher studies and opt for courses like MPA, PhD, MA, or M.Phil in dance, music, or theatre as the core subject.  

Latest updates on BPA courses:

Table of Contents
  1. BPA Course Highlights
  2. BPA Admission 2024
    • 2.1 BPA Course Eligibility Criteria
  3. BPA Entrance Exams 2025
  4. BPA Syllabus
  5. Best BPA Course Colleges in India
    • 5.1 Best Government Colleges for BPA
    • 5.2 Best Private Colleges for BPA
  6. BPA Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
    • 6.1 BPA Job Profiles and Salary
    • 6.2 BPA Top Recruiters
  7. Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) Course FAQs

BPA Course Highlights

The highlights table gives quick information about the course types, duration, course fees, and entrance exams for pursuing a BPA course. Candidates can check this table to get an idea about the average salary offered after completing this course as well as the top recruiters for BPA graduates.

Some key points related to the BPA course are given in the table below:

Particulars

Details

BPA Course full form 

Bachelor of Performing Arts

BPA Course level

Graduation

BPA Course Duration

3 - 4 years depending on specialization

BPA Course Fee

 INR 6000 - INR 4 lakh

BPA Course Top Institutes

Banaras Hindu University, Rabindra Bharati University, Amity University

BPA Average Salary

INR 3.6 lakh - INR 10.5 lakh.

BPA Top Recruiters

Film and Television Institute of India, Balaji Telefilms, YRF Studios, UTV Motion Pictures, T-series 

BPA Course Entrance Exams

CUET, SET, PUBDET, BHU UET, etc.

BPA Course Top Job Positions

Actor, Choreographer, Musician, Cinematographer, Community Arts Worker, Theatre Teacher

Relevant Links Related to the BPA Course:

Best Western Music Colleges in India; Specialisations, Fees & more

Q:   What is a BPA Course?

A:

Bachelor of Performing Arts is a three to four-year undergraduate program that concentrates on three primary components of the performing and entertainment industries: music, dance, and theatre.

Bachelor of Performing Arts graduates frequently achieve success by fusing their creative talents with business, originality, and a love of the arts and entertainment sector. The course assists students in honing their skills and becoming successful artists in any of the three distinct genres of performing arts: dance, theatre, and music.

Click to learn Art (Fine/Visual/Performing) Course.

Q:   Why pursue BPA course?

A:

The candidates prefer to pursue a BPA course for several reasons that are explained below:

  • Candidates who wish to pursue a career in the field of music, dance, or drama can pursue a BPA course.
  • A BPA programme from a good institute can help candidates hone their skills and knowledge in the field of Performing Arts.
  • After completing the BPA course, candidates can work in the field of music or dance industry as a performer, choreographer, director, administrator or teacher.

Hence, this course is tailor-made for candidates who are creative and have the desire to express their creativity.

Quick Links Related to BPA Course:

Q:   What is the difference between BPA and MPA?

A:

Performing arts can be defined as the form of a creative act performed in front of an audience or a group of people. The art includes music, drama and dance. The difference between MPA and BPA are as follows:

 Parameter

BPA

MPA

Degree level

Undergraduate

Postgraduate

Duration

4 years

2 years

Focus

Practical aspects of performing arts

Practical aspects of performing arts

BPA Admission 2024

Here is the general step-by-step guide for the    Admission in Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) Course:
  • Step-1 Choose the program: First research and choose the program then look for universities or colleges that offer Master of Performing Arts programs. Don't forget to Review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
  • Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, Standardized Test Scores such as CUET, and letters of recommendation.
  • Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
  • Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): If the program requires an entrance exam register and prepare for it. Take the exam and wait for the result.
  • Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
  • Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
  • Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
  • Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
  • Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.
Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.

BPA Course Eligibility Criteria

The desirous students need to fulfill the below-mentioned eligibility criteria for admission to BPA courses:

Particulars

Details

BPA  Academic Qualifications

  • The candidate should have completed Class 12 or equivalent qualification in any stream from a recognized board.
  • Applicants waiting for their results in the same year can also apply.

BPA Qualifying % 

  • Aggregate of 50% marks is compulsory for the admission.
  • Students of the reserved category will get admission based on the government's reservation policies

BPA  Age Limit

  • No age limit is prescribed

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute and may vary.

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for BPA course?

A:

To gain admission to the BPA course, candidates need to have a Class 12 pass certificate with at least 50% - 60% aggregate marks. However, candidates with a background in performing arts are given preference at the time of admission. Many colleges also offer Diploma or certificate courses which the candidates can opt for before studying BPA. Subsequently, they can merge the credits and also pursue BPA in Lateral Entry.

Q:   How can I get admission to a BPA course? Is there any entrance exam for the same or can I get direct admission?

A:

Getting admission to a BPA course is similar to any other course. Some universities have the eligibility to qualify in the entrance exam.

  • First, you need to apply for the entrance and appear in it.
  • Then you need to apply for college.
  • If you get the required score, you can get admission to the college.

The exams accepted for BPA course are:

CUET, SET, PUBDET,  BHU UET

The top job roles are:

Actor, Choreographer, Musician, Cinematographer, Community Arts Worker, Theatre Teacher

I hope it will help. 

Q:   What is the difference between BPA and MPA?

A:

Performing arts can be defined as the form of a creative act performed in front of an audience or a group of people. The art includes music, drama and dance. The difference between MPA and BPA are as follows:

 Parameter

BPA

MPA

Degree level

Undergraduate

Postgraduate

Duration

4 years

2 years

Focus

Practical aspects of performing arts

Practical aspects of performing arts

BPA Entrance Exams 2025

There are multiple BPA entrance exams that candidates appear for each year. Candidates must prepare well for the BPA entrance exam by referring to the entrance exam syllabus. Candidates should also be prepared for practical examinations.
The table given below contains the list of BPA entrance exams along with the exam schedule:

BPA Entrance Exam

BPA Exam Dates

BPA Exam Schedule 

CUET

May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative)

CUET Exam Schedule

PUBDET

Jul '25 (Tentative)

PUBDET Exam Schedule

MAH AAC CET

Jul '25 (Tentative)

MAH AAC CET Exam Schedule

URATPG 

Jul '25 (Tentative)

URATPG Exam Schedule

IPU CET

Apr '25 (Tentative)

IPU CET Exam Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

BPA Course topics you might be interested in: 

What is the right time to begin CUET 2025 preparation?

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Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates

Dec '24 - Feb '25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Jan '25

OJEE 2025 registrations

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

IPU CET 2025 Application Form Availability

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

IPU CET 2025 Application Form Availability

TENTATIVE

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Mar '25

IPU CET 2025 Release of Admit Card

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates

05 Jun '23 -

17 Jun '23

DU CUET PG 2023 Exam

Jun '23

CUET PG 2023 Exams

21 May '23 -

31 May '23

DU CUET UG 2023

Q:   Which are top entrance exams for BPA course?

A:

The table given below contains the list of BPA entrance exams along with the exam schedule:

BPA Entrance Exam

BPA Exam Dates

BPA Exam Schedule 

CUET

May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative)

CUET Exam Schedule

PUBDET

Jul '25 (Tentative)

PUBDET Exam Schedule

MAH AAC CET

Jul '25 (Tentative)

MAH AAC CET Exam Schedule

URATPG 

Jul '25 (Tentative)

URATPG Exam Schedule

IPU CET

Apr '25 (Tentative)

IPU CET Exam Schedule

Q:   What is a good score in CUET UG?

A:

On analysing the CUET UG cut off for the academic year 2024-25, scoring above 700 marks can be considered a good score in CUET UG. Candidates scoring above 700 may fall in the category of 95+ percentile. Candidates can get admission to top universities like University of Delhi, Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal Nehru University and other top central universities in the desired course. Given below is the range that is considered good for admission to top universities:

  • Very Good Score: 700 and above
  • Good Score: 650 and above

Score range between 400-649 is considered an average score. Admission on the basis of the average score can et into any decent college in India accepting CUET scores. 

Q:   What is the level of IPU CET?

A:

Indraprastha University Common Entrance Test IPU CET is a National Level Exam. IPU CET or Indraprastha University Common Entrance Test, is a competitive examination conducted by Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) in Delhi, India. It is held annually for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered by the university and its affiliated colleges.

BPA Syllabus

BPA Music is a specialization under Bachelor in Performing Arts and includes subjects like Raga Studies and Folk Music. To know more about the detailed syllabus of BPA, refer to the table below: 

BPA Music Syllabus Semester 1
Raga Studies  Fundamental Study of Tala 
Fundamental Study of Hindustani Music  Folk Music 
BPA Music Syllabus Semester 2
Elementary Study of Hindustani Music  Western Music 
Tala Studies  Raga Studies 
BPA Music Syllabus Semester 3
History of Dance  Choreography 
Technique of Dance  New Media and Performance Practice 
BPA Music Syllabus Semester 4 
Indian Culture  Chandas 
Mudras  Movement Techniques 
BPA Music Syllabus Semester 5
Indian Culture and Art  Body Movement and Dance 
History of Indian Theatre  Basics of Vocal Practice 
BPA Music Syllabus Semester 6
Film Theories  Stagecraft and design 
Folk Theater Forms of India  Scriptwriting 

Relevant Links for BPA Course Syllabus:

Popular Specializations

Q:   Can I do MPA after BPA?

A:

Yes, candidates who are interested in sales, marketing, business administration, and other similar profiles can take up MPA after completing BPA. It will enhance their skills and allow them to attain in-depth knowledge of the course. After completing MPA, candidates can become teachers or instructors by clearing NET examination. They can teach as Assistant professors or also enter research and academia. 

Q:   Is BPA a good course?

A:

Yes, BPA is a good course as the career opportunities after completion of the course is wide. Candidates can get multiple job roles as per their interest after completing the course. Therefore, candidates must employ their skills such as performing arts techniques, communication skills, creativity and management skills and business handling skills in order to harness the benefits of pursuing this course.

Q:   What are the subjects in Bachelor of performing arts?

A:

Candidates pursuing BPA have to study different subjects such as:

·       History of Indian Theatre

·       Western Music

·       Sound Editing

·       Introduction to Indian Theatre

·       Choreography, World Music

·       Project on Commercial Advertisement

·       Basic Concepts of Film Making

Best BPA Course Colleges in India

Many good institutes in India have been offering quality learning opportunities in BPA courses. BPA courses are available in government and private colleges in regular and distance mode. Candidates are advised to choose a college for BPA Admission by checking the college’s fees, overall rating, and placement sessions.

Best Government Colleges for BPA

BPA Courses are offered by many colleges under the Central government of India and various State governments.

Given below is a list of BPA government colleges along with BPA government college fees:

BPA Top Government Colleges

Average Fees

Assam University, Silchar

INR 10.8 K

Banaras Hindu University

INR 2.4 K - 6.2 K

CSJM - Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University

INR 45.6 K

Gujarat University

INR 1.4 L

Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya

INR 3.1L

IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University

INR 27.6 K

Kishinchand Chellaram College

INR 99 K

MGKVP - Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith

INR 83.2 K

MSU - The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda

INR 28.3 K

Visva Bharati University

INR 2.5 K

Best Private Colleges for BPA

BPA private colleges provide excellent infrastructure and experts in the field of acting, theatre, and filmmaking, making these colleges popular for BPA courses.

Candidates can find below some BPA private colleges along with their total tuition fees:

BPA Private College

BPA Private College Fees

Amity University, Noida

INR 2.4 L - 2.6 L

Assam Down Town University

INR 50 K

Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune

INR 1 L

LPU - Lovely Professional University

INR 1 L

MIT Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy

INR 1.6L

NIMS School of Humanities and Social Sciences

INR 1.2 L

Parul University

INR 2.7 L - 3.6 L

SAGE University, Bhopal

INR 2.2 L - 10.5 L

Sri Sri University

INR 9 L

SVSU - Swami Vivekanand Subharti University

INR 1.3 L

Quick Links Related to Art Courses Fees:

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3.7
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Q:   Which are the top Government Colleges for BPA?

A:

BPA Courses are offered by many colleges under the Central government of India and various State governments.

Given below is a list of BPA government colleges along with BPA government college fees:

BPA Top Government Colleges

Average Fees (in INR)

Visva Hindu University

6.25 K

Assam - The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda

27.18 K

IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University

27.6 K

Visva Bharati University

2.52 K

CSJM - Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University

45.6 K

MGKVP - Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith

83.2 K

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University

15 K

Assam Chellaram College

99 K

Gujarat University

1.45 L

Assam University, Silchar

10.8 K

Q:   Which are the top Private Colleges for BPA?

Q:   Which are the top colleges in India to pursue BPA in Kathak?

A:

Following is the list of colleges that provides BPA in Kathak:

  • Sarvajanik College of Performing Arts
  • National School of Drama
  • Film and Television Institute of India
  • Amity School of Performing Arts
  • Film and Television Institute of India (FTII)
  • Centre for Performing Arts (Lalit Kala Kendra)
  • Pune University

Hope it helps!!

Popular Private BPA (Bachelor of Performing Arts) Colleges in India

80 K - 3.6 L
24 Courses
85 K - 4.98 L
3.6
2 Courses
30 K - 35 K
50 K - 2 L

BPA Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Graduates with a Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) degree can pursue a variety of professional paths in the vibrant performing arts industry. Graduates of BPA programs can pursue a variety of careers in the entertainment sector, arts administration, teaching, and other fields.

Students can also pursue a Master of Performing Arts (MPA) to enhance their skills.

BPA Job Profiles and Salary

Career prospects for a performing arts graduate are bright. There are a variety of entertainment houses that seek talented professionals to serve their industry. Given below are some of the popular job profiles available for candidates with a BPA degree:

Job Profile Job Description Average Annual Salary
Actor An actor is a professional who portrays different characters in film, television, theatre, or any other performing arts media. Experience plays a significant role in the field of acting as greater experience leads to higher-paying roles.   INR 4.1 LPA
Choreographer A choreographer creates designs and directs routines used in various dances and performances. A choreographer creates dance and movement routines, sometimes by revising existing routines. INR 3.5 LPA
Dance Teacher A dance teacher is a professional who leads dance classes for an individual or a group of people. A dance teacher teaches various dancing techniques to his/ her students and ensures that they refine their dancing skills.  INR 3.3 LPA
Theatre Director A theatre director is responsible for practical as well as creative interpretation of a dramatic script. The director works closely with all the performers and creative and production teams to create a drama/ performance that connects with the audience.  INR 4 LPA
Screenwriter A screenwriter is the writer of the script of a movie. A screenwriter creates the dialogue, characters, and storyline of a film script. INR 5.5 LPA

BPA Top Recruiters

There are many career options available after completing the BPA course. Top recruiters include film agencies, dance schools, theatre companies, direction houses, production houses as well as museums and arts organizations. They hire skilled and trained BPA graduates who possess relevant experience in their respective fields. Some of the top recruiters for BPA graduates include:

Top Recruiters for BPA Graduates
Saregama India Universal Arts
Eros International  UTV Motion Pictures 
HT Media Iris Mediaworks
Balaji Telefilms T-Series
Nritya Shakti  Shiamak Davar Institute for the Performing Arts

Read More about BPA Career:

Career in Dance: How dance has evolved over the years

Q:   What is the scope after completion of BPA?

A:

Performing Arts provides various good career options. Along with the degree, your skills also matters as it will help you in combining your creative skills with practical aspects. The expansion of entertainment industry has further highlighted the importance of this course. This career option offers various arena to showcase one's creativity and also provide opportunities to start one's entrepreneurial venture. It also offers competitive market wherein many talented artists are eying for the jobs.

Q:   What are the jobs after BPA course?

A:

After pursuing a BPA degree, candidates can get multiple job opportunities in the fields of music, theatre and choreography. They can work as:

·       Music Therapist

·       Art Administrator

·       Community Arts Worker

·       Theatre Director

·       Choreographer

·       Art Administrator

·       Broadcast Presenter

Q:   Which are the top recruiters for BPA graduates?

A:

Some of the popular recruiters for BPA graduates are:

·       Universal Arts

·       Saregama India

·       HT Media

·       Balaji Telefilms

·       Iris Mediaworks 

Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) Course FAQs

Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) Course FAQs

Q:   Are BA and BPA courses the same?

A:

No, they are two different courses. BA is Bachelor of Arts while BPA is Bachelor of Performing Arts. They both are undergraduate degree courses. BA is a general degree which is offered across various streams and specialisations such as Music, Dance and various other branches of Performing Arts. BPA is a specialised degree which is curated for candidates who wish to pursue a general course can take up BA whereas for a specialised education can choose BPA. 

Q:   What are the best career options in arts?

A:

Students with an artistic background have a wide range of professional alternatives. While performing arts provide options in acting, dancing, directing, and producing, visual arts and design offer pathways like graphic design, illustration, and art direction. Digital marketing experts, social media managers, and content producers are common positions in the field of digital media and communication.

Options for authorship, content development, and journalism are presented by writing and journalism. Furthermore, curators of galleries or museums are included in the field of arts administration. An arts degree's adaptability enables people to work in a variety of sectors, bringing creativity and critical thinking to disciplines like media and entertainment, design, and administration.

Q:   Is a degree in Performing Arts necessary to be an actor?

A:

A degree in Performing arts or a similar discipline is not legally required to succeed in the acting industry, though it might be helpful for those who want to pursue this career path. Building a successful career in acting is generally dependent on a combination of talent, experience, networking, and practical abilities, making it a unique vocation. Here are some things to think about:

  • Instruction and Development of Skills: A performing arts degree offers a systematic training programme that aids in the skill and technique development of performers.
  • Opportunities for Networking: Drama schools and performing arts programmes frequently offer chances for students to network with teachers and other professionals in the field.
  • Exposure to a Range of Acting Techniques: Students enrolled in degree programmes may be exposed to an extensive array of performing styles, ideas, and historical viewpoints, thereby expanding their comprehension of the trade.
  • Possibilities for Performance: Students can take part in productions through a variety of programmes, earning significant stage or on-screen experience.
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Answered 3 weeks ago

To seek admission at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Faridabad BPA programme, candidates must qualify AEEL entrance exam along with the interview and counselling, if selected. The Institute consider Class 12 qualification with 60% minimum aggregate with mandatory subjects, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and

...more

A

Aashi Rastogi

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

As per the official website, 95% of students were placed in the recent recruitment drives. The institute has not released the year-specific statistics. Check the table below to know the AAFT placement rate:

ParticularsPlacement Statistics
Students placed95%

A

Aarushi Kalra

Contributor-Level 10

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