Every 'Audition only' University program I've seen does require you to register for the class first - but then you can ALSO cancel said class and get a refund, provided you drop it within a certain period before the semester starts. In a situation like this, I see it more as a matter of paying a deposit to a potential instructor, which can then be returned should the instructor decide not to take you as a student.

As to terming the 'pay for audition' a scam - well, I guess that is a personal belief. Pyramid scams are often quite blatant about their goals, and about their payments and profits. But, they're still illegal. In this case, I just can't help but feel that there's something wrong with the ethics behind charging auditionees. Maybe I'm just viewing it as the old "sucker born every minute" saw, and revolting from the concept on that point, but I really do view this as wrong. Given that I can guarantee that no matter what they say, every person does NOT have an equal chance of getting picked, I view it as using the less talented but still hopeful as a cash cow to bleed. There's no chance whatsoever they're picked, but they're still encouraged (and charged) the same as others who will have a chance.

If they allowed a refund if requested, I'd feel better about the concept. In that case, if you feel you'd like to 'donate' your audition fee to the organizers, you'd be welcome to. But you wouldn't be required.

M