Joining the school

ESNAM is open to students who take an entrance exam every three years. The next competition will be held in April 2027 for the 15th school year (2027-2030).

Candidates must be aged between 18 and 26 on 30 June of the year of the competition. They must hold a baccalauréat or equivalent foreign qualification and have at least one year’s professional or pre-professional artistic experience (theatre, circus, dance, visual arts, etc.): proof of training at a conservatoire (CDR, CRR, CEPIT, etc.), in a professional school or training course or in preparation for the school entrance exam, work placements or work in a company, etc. in France or abroad; please note that holding a baccalauréat with a specialisation in ‘Theatre’ is not sufficient to provide proof of one year’s theatrical experience.

Applicants of all nationalities are eligible, provided they are fluent in French (B1).

Waivers of the age and diploma limits may be requested. These are examined by an internal committee.

⚠️The examination guidelines are changing !
While we await the detailed version of the application guide (to be published in the fall of 2026), we are providing you with the new schedule.
Selection for the first-round is now based on an assessment of a complete administrative and artistic application pack. This includes the submission of video materials (requirements and formats are detailed in the application guide).

September 2026
The application guide will be published online, setting out the conditions for applying, the information and documents to be submitted as part of the online application, and the examination procedure.
From 4 January to 1st February 2027 (first-round)
Opening of online application: application form, supporting documents, artistic portfolio and video
Mid-February 2027
Selection of candidates admitted to the probationary workshop and the final exam.
Sending out invitations.
From 15 to 21 April 2027 (2nd round)
The probationary workshop and final exam will take place at the ESNAM in Charleville-Mézières.
Announcement of candidates admitted to ESNAM.

Do you have any question?
If so, email concours@marionnette.com