Admissions
International Admissions: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Students from abroad and permanent residents must consider a number of additional factors when
enrolling in American colleges and universities. With that in mind, the International Admissions
department has compiled this list of questions frequently asked by international students:
General Admissions
Application
Financial
Students
General Admissions
Q. How many International Students study at the Academy of Art University?
A. The University has a diverse international student population that represents
85 countries and makes up about 30 percent of our total enrollment of nearly 16,000 students.
^ back to top
Q. Do you offer ESL (English as a Second Language) classes?
A. Yes. The Department of English as a Second Language provides international
students at the Academy of Art University with a unique program, which integrates the study of art
and language.
We are strongly committed to the goal of helping students succeed in their art and design
classes while working to improve their English throughout their academic careers.
International students can receive additional ESL support outside of class, such as writing and
speaking labs, at no extra cost.
^ back to top
Q. Will ESL credits apply toward to my degree?
A. No. ESL support, if needed, is intended to improve our students' ability to
succeed in their art and design classes. We are the only art and design university that allows
students to take ESL and art classes concurrently, meaning that students do not have to complete
ESL classes before taking art classes.
^ back to top
Q. What is your minimum TOFEL score requirement?
A. There is no minimum TOEFL requirement for international students because the
Academy of Art University offers ESL (English as Second Language) classes. The University invites
international students to enroll immediately in art and design classes while learning English.
^ back to top
Q. What is your minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) requirement?
A. None. The Academy of Art University maintains the tradition of an open
admission policy. Your high school grades and SAT scores do not always measure your potential to be
a successful artist or designer. Undergraduates are accepted with the promise that they will work
hard to learn the skills that prepare them for a future earning a living doing exactly what they
love to do.
^ back to top
Q. Is a portfolio required for admission?
A. A portfolio is not required for undergraduate admission. We believe that
aspiring artists and designers have the right to pursue their dream with or without a portfolio.
But if you have a portfolio, we encourage you to submit it. Department Directors may transfer or
waive major/foundation classes in their individual departments based upon portfolio review.
A portfolio is required for graduate (MFA and Master of Architecture) admission.
^ back to top
Q. Do you offer interviews?
A. Yes. An admissions interview is not required for admission to the University.
However, if you feel that an interview would help our admissions representatives get a better sense
of your strengths as a candidate, we encourage you to set up an interview by contacting the
International Admissions Department.
^ back to top
Q. I earned a Bachelor's degree from another institution; can I apply for a second bachelor's
degree?
A. Yes. Our Second Degree program is designed for students who may have majored in
a different subject, but would now like to pursue an education and career in art & design.
Admission is guaranteed for Second Degree applicants.
^ back to top
Application
Q. Is there a separate application for International students?
A. Yes. International students must complete the International Undergraduate
Application or International Graduate Application.
^ back to top
Q. I am U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder); how do I apply?
A. The Domestic Admissions Department assists all U.S. Permanent Residents (Green
Card Holders). If you are interested in Undergraduate Admissions, contact the Undergraduate
Admissions Office; if you are interested in Graduate Admissions, contact the Graduate Admissions
Office. You may call 800-544-ARTS to be transferred to the correct Admissions area and for further
assistance.
^ back to top
Q. Will I be notified if my application has arrived? Will I be notified if something is missing
from my application?
A. Yes. Your Admissions Representative will contact you as soon as we receive your
application. You will be notified of any missing documents via phone or e-mail.
^ back to top
Q. What is a transcript?
A. A transcript is an official record provided by your secondary school or
college/university that shows your academic performance during your attendance there, and provides
information about your current academic status. The transcript may include grades in various
subjects and/or results from internal or external examinations (e.g. GCSE, national examinations in
your country, etc.).
^ back to top
Q. Can I submit a photocopy of my transcript?
A. No. You must submit an official transcript.
^ back to top
Q. Do you accept official transcripts and financial documents in a foreign language?
A. No. All documents must be in English, or have been officially translated.
^ back to top
Q. Can I send photocopies of the bank letter and Affidavit of Support?
A. No. We require the original bank letter and Affidavit of Support.
^ back to top
Q. Do you accept a digital signature for the Affidavit of Support?
A. No.
^ back to top
Q. What if I have question that is not answered here?
A. You should
contact us online.
^ back to top
Financial
Q. Do international students and U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) pay more
tuition?
A. No. All students at the Academy of Art University, whether or not they are U.S.
Citizens, pay the same tuition.
^ back to top
Q. I am an international student: am I eligible for U.S. financial aid?
A. No. U.S. federal and state financial assistance is not available for
international students.
^ back to top
Q. I am an international student, am I eligible for scholarships?
A. Yes. The Academy of Art University offers the
Summer Portfolio Grant to qualified international
undergraduate applicants. There is no scholarship available for graduate applicants.
^ back to top
Q. I am a U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder): am I eligible for U.S. financial aid and
the Summer Portfolio Grant?
A. Yes.
^ back to top
Students
Q. What is the international community like at the Academy of Art University?
A. The international community is diverse, exciting, dynamic, and inspired by the
various cultural influences and artistic communities of each student's native country.
^ back to top
Q. How many clubs are there at the Academy of Art University?
A. There are more than 30 clubs. If you can't find a club you want to join, you
can start one!
^ back to top
Want More Information?
Contact Us:
Phone: 800-544-2787
Contact us online
|