Acting School vs. Self-Teaching: Pros and Cons of Formal Education Versus Independent Learning

You can certainly have a lot of raw talent when it comes to acting. That talent will help you grasp the concepts of acting easily at times, but just like a diamond, if you want to shine, stand out and stay for a while, you need to shape your acting skills properly.

No actor, be it from the big screen, OTT platforms, stage, or television and commercials is fully self-taught. Some of the best actors still go through rigorous training and learn new aspects of acting for their roles. No matter how exceptional and proven an actor you are, you still need to know that studying acting is a continuous process.

Critical Decisions : Formal or Independent Learning

You can get books based on acting, read about it on the internet, watch videos and movies to make your own inferences based on it. You can try to imitate your favourite characters, and learn all this independently.

But, knowing about something theoretically, is not enough when it comes to a performing art that is as complex as acting. To learn the technicalities about your hobby, independent learning is more than enough as there is enough written material available. But, to those who are looking to create a full career out of their talent, you will always excel with expert guidance, technical training, and under the supervision of some of the best in the industry.

In India, we always say it is better to save time and learn from others’ experience rather than go through a rather messy trial and error method of your own!

So let’s look at some of the pros and cons of having a formal education versus learning independently, as both have their advantages and drawbacks, and based on what your ultimate goal is - with regards to acting, you can make an informed decision.

Comprehensive and Immersive Environment

If you are looking for an immersive environment that trains you in-depth, and offers comprehensive aspects of acting like-

Fundamental Techniques

• Voice Acting
• Stage/Screen Presence
• Characters Development
• Collaborative Work
• Audition Preparations, etc.

Then, an acting school will take you ahead in leaps and bounds than independent learning methods. You will be surrounded by talented peers too, which will keep you updated on the current competition and upcoming talent. This is not to be simply competitive, but by being around other upcoming talented actors, you can up your talent, learn immeasurably and have fun while doing so.

Flexibility and Freedom

If you are looking to learn acting at your own pace, design your path yourself, self-teaching gives you that freedom.

You can be flexible, make your own schedule, and go after your interests. Self teaching is also more cost effective as you don't have to worry about tuition fees or other expenses. But, if you have a certain goal to achieve, a role you want to perfect, and an aim you are walking towards, independent learning and self teaching can slow down the timeline.

While you get a flexible schedule that you yourself manage, it is also difficult to stay on the timetable without any outside help. It is also easy to feel uninspired when you are alone in this journey. You also face the possibilities of missing out on personalised feedback when you are by yourself.

So, as you can see you should choose between acting school or self-teaching based on your financial situation, pace you want to learn at and time availability.

Pros and Cons of Acting Schools

Pros

• Structured Learning

If you thrive in a systematic process and organised curriculum, you will be able to cover a wide range of aspects in acting in a short. time period

• Expert Tutors

Acting schools like ISA often have some of the best expert tutors in the industry. They have extensive knowledge and valuable experience that will help you hone your skills better.

• Performing the Art

It is vital that you have the experience of showcasing your talent and many top acting schools offer you just that - a priceless experience.

• Networking and Connections

Acting schools often offer you collaborative projects and create an environment where you can create meaningful connections in the industry. These networks will come in handy and benefit your careers.

• Dedicated Surroundings

You will have a place that nurtures your skills, creativity, hone other crafts and still have discipline to keep you on track. You can really accelerate your learning process and test your artistic limits in this environment.

Cons

• Finances

You may see that the best acting schools are often costlier than your average local workshops. It is the cost of having a dedicated space with expert tutors and experiences like guest lectures with some of your idols, that you will not get anywhere else. This financial situation might be a little repressive to some individuals.

• Lack of flexibility

Acting schools have fixed schedules that may mess with your other plans or commitments and responsibilities.

• Competition

Some individuals may find it a little overwhelming or intimidating to be around so many focused and competitive actors. It can be both motivating and a little threatening. Our suggestion is you focus on the positive aspects and hone your skills with dedication and practice while also focusing on your mental and physical health.

• Limited Seats

It is often natural for acting schools to fill up quickly and have limited seats. You may even have to relocate or commute to make the best of your art and passion.

Pros and Cons of Self-Teaching

Pros

• Fluidity

You can create your schedules and timelines to learn acting at your pace. You have the freedom to choose and focus on the areas of acting you want to explore.

• Cost-effective

It is definitely cost-effective when you are self-learning. You also cut costs in the department of housing - where you don't have to relocate, or travel.

Cons

• Guidance

It is vital to have guidance when you want to pursue acting as a career. The lack of guidance will keep you from technical training, hands-on experiences, critical feedback, as well as personalised advice.

• Limited Networking

You may not have as many collaborative opportunities, and have limited connections in the industry. That will definitely play a big role and create some challenges.

• Self-discipline

You will need immense self-discipline to keep yourself on track and stay motivated through the journey. You cannot get side-tracked and need consistency to improve your skills.

• Knowledge Gaps

It is always possible that you have incomplete knowledge about acting when you are learning by yourself. You may miss out on techniques, theoretical fragments, industry experience and insights, and face a difficult time adapting in the industry later.

Final Thoughts

In short, whether you want to go for a self-taught method or attend a specialised school to hone your skills and pursue your interests depends completely on you.

Based on your preferences, resources and circumstances, you can weigh the pros and cons and use them to your advantage. 

We, at the Indian School of Acting, offer you multiple short and long courses, diplomas and workshops in acting with structured learning methods, experienced instructors and cater to guiding you towards your acting goals.

We will help you meet your best version. You can take a look at our courses here!

Contact us for more information.