If you want to become an actor, you have to get used to one unavoidable, and often uncomfortable part of the job: auditions. In lieu of a traditional job interview, an audition is how you show a project’s creative team that you’re the right fit for a role.
Sometimes that means acting out a scene directly from the script; other times, you’ll perform a piece from another project that captures the same energy. Either way, the audition is your chance to showcase your range, skills and unique perspective.
But while the purpose of an audition is clear, the process itself can feel daunting. To demystify it, USC Online spoke with Debi Manwiller, director of the USC School of Dramatic Arts’ Professional Development Center, as well as faculty members Esther Chae and Bayo Akinfemi, about what actors should know before stepping into the audition room.
“Auditioning is a very peculiar and specific process for the actor. It’s a step in order to do a project — and sometimes, from the actor’s perspective, it can feel like an unfortunate step. But there is definitely a technique to it,” advised Chae.
What Are the Different Types of Auditions?
Auditions are the primary way actors demonstrate that they are the right fit for a role, and there are several different types to be aware of. One of the most common is the open call, where anyone can show up and audition in front of the casting director — the person responsible for advising the director on which actors should be considered for the project.
Another is the invited audition, which is not open to the public. These are reserved for actors who have been specifically asked to attend, usually because an agent is advocating on their behalf or because they have the right industry connections to secure the opportunity.
In today’s industry, self-taped auditions have become increasingly prevalent. Instead of performing live in front of the casting team, actors are asked to record a scene or monologue on video and submit it virtually. This method allows casting directors to review more candidates and gives actors greater flexibility in how they present their work.
It’s also common for the audition process to involve multiple rounds, known as callbacks. Callbacks allow the casting team to narrow down the pool of applicants to the strongest contenders. By seeing more from these actors — perhaps new material or adjusted performances — the team can evaluate their range and ultimately reach a consensus on who best embodies the role.
How Do You Find an Audition?
There are many different ways to find an audition. One of the most accessible options is to search online, as numerous websites and online casting networks regularly post open calls. Most aspiring actors secure an agent to help them land auditions, though.
An agent acts as your advocate, doing much of the legwork for you: tracking down casting calls, submitting your headshots and resumes to the right people and following up on promising leads. Having an agent can significantly increase your chances of being seen by the right decision-makers.
At the same time, agents and online searches aren’t the only ways in. Sometimes success simply comes from meeting the right people. Networking plays a critical role in building an acting career, which is why attending a drama school like the USC School of Dramatic Arts can be so beneficial. Industry professionals often attend school productions, providing students with valuable exposure and the chance to connect directly with those who may be casting future projects.
“Visual storytelling is the most prominent way to reach people right now. It doesn’t always have to go through a traditional casting route — student films, PSAs, even corporate videos can be great ways to get experience and be seen,” Chae said.
How Do You Prepare Before an Audition?
Before your audition, it’s important to do your research. That means understanding your character and the project so you can hit the right notes, but also learning about the people involved, which can give you a clearer sense of what they might be looking for.
Once you’ve done your research, practice the scene as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches. That exploration will help you find the right tone and keep you flexible in the room.
“Preparation is key. You’re not going in to deliver a full performance — you’re showing you have the potential to play the role. Make bold choices, have a strong point of view and go in with confidence,” Akinfemi suggested.
It’s also critical to keep your materials current. Headshots, resumes and reels should reflect your best and most recent work.
How Do You Audition for a Film?
When you audition for a film, you’ll typically be asked to read material for the casting director. Sometimes this will be a scene directly from the script, while other times it might come from a different project chosen to capture similar emotions or character dynamics.
“It’s really about authenticity: I want to see you. Casting directors want to see what you bring to a role. And that doesn’t mean making the weirdest choice possible — it means showing up and bringing what you bring to the piece within the context of the text and the character,” Manwiller said.
During the audition, the casting director may give you notes and ask you to approach the scene in different ways. Be prepared to adapt, but also remember that your interpretation is ultimately your own.
“If I directed everybody right off the bat when they came into the room, I would kill instinct. I might get someone to change what they had in mind, something that could have been really, really interesting,” Manwiller said.
What Should You Expect After an Audition?
After you audition, you may get a callback, or — less commonly — book the role outright.The process can take weeks or even months, and if you have an agent, they’ll keep you updated.
Of course, rejection is normal and frequent, but do not become discouraged. Being passed over for a role doesn’t necessarily reflect your talent.
“Even when you do your best, booking or not booking the role might have nothing to do with your talent or skills. It’s a marathon, not a sprint — stay ready, even when success feels far away,” Akinfemi said.
What Are the Best Tips for Auditioning?
One of the best things you can do on your journey to becoming an actor, all three experts agreed, is gain formal training. Like any other profession, education provides a strong foundation.
“A lot of people claim they can act — yes, people have talent — but I do believe strongly that training helps give you the skills and technique to make your talent really shine,” emphasized Akinfemi.
Consider USC’s online certificate course “The Art of Auditioning: Acting Techniques for Stage and Screen,” which prepares students with the tools, techniques and expert insights needed to navigate auditions with confidence. Through practical training and industry guidance, students build a strong foundation by exploring strategies for mastering in-person and on-camera auditions.
Attitude matters, too. Projecting confidence, showing professionalism and connecting with casting directors can leave a lasting impression. Creativity is also essential, as bold, original choices can help you stand out.
“Really hone in on understanding what is being required, but also make sure it doesn’t hinder or prohibit your own creativity. That’s the tricky part, even for seasoned actors, when going through the auditioning process,” Chae said.
Manwiller agreed: “We didn’t know we needed Zendaya or Timothée Chalamet until they surfaced. Now people say, ‘We want a Timothée Chalamet type.’ But how would we have known that before? Sometimes, the most interesting choice is the one no one could have predicted,” she said.
Learn more about the online “The Art of Auditioning: Acting Techniques for Stage and Screen” certificate course from USC School of Dramatic Arts today.