Job Description

Actors and Actresses will work in theatres, television, radio and film; they will use speech, movement and expression to bring characters to life. Some actors do voice-overs for animated projects, record audio books and are part of television commercials. Salary and hours can vary enormously, unsociable hours may be expected. Most actors sign-up with an agent who will negotiate wages.

Entry Requirements

There are various ways in which you can get into this job role and the entry requirements can vary depending on what you choose to do:

College

There is no set entry route to become an actor but it may be useful to do a relevant subject like:

Level 2 Technical Certificate in Performing Arts
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts - Acting
A level in Drama and Theatre
Level 4 Diploma in Speech and Drama

You'll usually need:

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

The following local colleges offer courses in actor/actress:

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course

University

You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate diploma in drama, or other relevant subject like:

performance studies
contemporary theatre and performance
acting
musical theatre

You'll usually need:

to pass an audition
at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Click here to search for a suitable course.

A course at drama school

You can study with a private drama school or conservatoire. Many offer full-time courses, as well as short courses and summer schools.

You'll need to pass an audition to get into a drama school. You may also need A levels or a Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts, though this is not always essential if you can show enough talent and commitment.

You may be able to get funding to help with fees and living costs at a private drama school.

Although this job role does not require formal qualifications, we highly recommend that you try to achieve at least a grade 4 (C) in English & Maths. Achieving this minimum grade in these subject will increase opportunities in the future and help with your career development and prospects.

If you don't achieve the minimum grades, you will be supported to continue to study English and Maths throughout your full-time education or an apprenticeship.

Career tips

Acting is very competitive and you'll need to develop your skills by getting as much practical experience as possible.

You should do volunteering and get experience, such as:

School performances
amateur, community or youth theatre
school, college and university drama societies
student drama festivals and competitions

This can also help to put you in touch with people in the acting profession, who could be useful contacts when looking for work.

Career Path and Progression

If you can show an agent you have potential they may put you forward for auditions and castings. Agents usually take a fee of about 10% to 25% from your earnings.

You could take further training and move into directing, scriptwriting, drama therapy or teaching.

Related careers you may be interested in:

Community arts worker
Dancer
Dramatherapist
Entertainer
Entertainment agent

Required Skills

Confidence
Creative flair
The ability to analyse scripts and to memorise dialogue
Self discipline
Determination
Reliability
Good communication and listening skills

Salary Range

Variable

Actor / Actress