Our enrollment is currently closed.
Please complete the MHSA Interest Form to sign up for updates about enrollment. Our enrollment for incoming freshmen (current 8th graders) will open again in the spring.
Every student at MHSA completes an audition; the audition is required for enrollment. The audition is an opportunity for you to show your artistic talent, to greater understand the programs offered at MHSA, and to get placed at the correct level for your skills. “Audition” can be a scary word for many students – but we encourage you to see it as an opportunity to grow!
Click on a paint swatch to see the requirements for your art area:
What is an Audition?
An audition is an opportunity for you to show your skills to our staff members. You will perform, submit a portfolio, have an interview and/or complete an in-person skills test at your audition.
Auditions are not scary! They are a chance for you to meet your future teachers and for them to meet you. They will ask you questions about your experience and interest in your chosen art area to get to know you. After the audition, they will place you in the correct level for your skills. An audition also lets you experience what taking classes in your art area will be like. We want to set students up for success at MHSA!
Why do we audition?
Students audition at MHSA because our school is different from other schools in Milwaukee. MHSA supports young student artists to become the best version of themselves by receiving high quality, immersive art education in their chosen area. The audition is your introduction to the level of instruction you will receive in your Art Area classes. It is important for students to understand what being a student at MHSA will be like so you are prepared to make the important decision if MHSA is the best high school for you.
How do I prepare for my audition?
Visit the Art Area pages to learn more about the programs offered. Then, visit our Audition Guide for the specific requirements. All requirements can be found in one document here: Audition Guide Google Doc.
Practice the audition requirements so that you are prepared for your audition. Practice for your parents or other family members. Do you have a friend who is also coming to MHSA? Ask each other the interview questions or practice drawing or read each other’s written pieces. Preparing with a friend can make you both feel more confident.
Auditioning for your second choice
During the Audition Day, you will have the opportunity to audition for your second choice. If you are interested in two Art Areas, you should prepare to audition for both areas on the audition day.