Competitions are an important part of the ISTD's activities and all Faculties are active in this respect. As far as possible these are spread out around the country offering all an opportunity to take part.

The ISTD also co-ordinates the competitions which award major scholarships and bursaries such as the Phyllis Haylor Scholarship Grant (Ballroom and related disciplines), and Mary Archbutt Bursary (Modern Theatre), Stella Mann Bursary, Elizabeth Baines-Hewitt Award and Mavdor Scholarship (Imperial Ballet).