Five Tips for Applying to Art and Design College

Otis College’s Director of Admissions outlines five ways parents and families can help their creative student apply to college.

Applying to art and design college is an exciting milestone in your student’s creative journey. For many families, it can also feel a little overwhelming. What should their portfolio include? How do art and design college applications differ from traditional college applications? And how can you support your child throughout this process? Here are five ways to help your aspiring artist shine. 

1. Research Schools for Creative Interests and Fit

Start by researching art and design programs that align with your child’s artistic interests and career goals. Some schools specialize in fine arts while others excel in graphic design, animation, or product design. Schedule campus visits or virtual tours to get a sense of each school’s culture and resources.

Factors to consider:

• Supportive environment: Students thrive when they can be themselves and relate to their peers. Campus visits are essential to ensuring that  a college feels right.
• Emphasis on passion-driven careers: Choosing a college that fosters creativity ensures students pursue careers they love. After all, artists and designers play a pivotal role in shaping the world.

2. Understand How the Application Process Differs

Art and design college applications are different from traditional college applications. While grades may still matter, the primary focus often is on the portfolio—a curated selection of your child’s best and most meaningful work. At Otis College, we require 10–20 examples of original work created by your student. 

Other potential requirements:

• Transcript/s from all high schools and colleges attended
• Writing sample or artist statement, which is a short essay about a student’s creative goals and influences
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors 
• A resume or a bio of achievements and experiences

The recommendation letters and resume/bio are optional for Otis College’s application, but they often provide admissions counselors with a more holistic view of an applicant.

Encourage your student to review each school’s application requirements carefully. Every institution will have its own guidelines for what it seeks in a student.

3. Build a Strong Portfolio

The portfolio is the heart of an art and design college application. Summer programs such as Otis College’s Summer of Art offer an amazing opportunity for high school students to build their portfolios in the lead-up to application season. 

Key elements in a portfolio: 

• Strong technical skills: Admissions teams love to see versatility. Help your child select work that showcases a range of skills, techniques, and mediums. These might include:
• Observational drawings (life studies of people, objects, or landscapes)
• Creative pieces that highlight their personal style
• Projects that demonstrate problem-solving or experimentation

• Focus on quality over quantity: Most schools ask for 10-20 pieces, so remind your child to prioritize their strongest work. It’s better to submit a smaller portfolio of exceptional pieces than a larger one with work of an inconsistent quality.
• Organized and professional presentation: Whether digital or physical, the portfolio should be neat and organized. Good-quality photographs of artwork are essential for digital submissions. Ensure images are well-lit, clear, and free of distracting backgrounds.

4. Write a Compelling Essay or Artist Statement

An art and design college application essay or artist statement is your student’s chance to explain their creative vision, goals, and influences.

Focus on: 

• Personal reflection: Ask your child why they create and what inspires them.
• Clarity: Admissions teams value a student’s authentic voice over unclear language.
• Proofreading: Offer to review your student’s essay draft and provide constructive feedback.
• Aligning with requirements: Remember that each college has its own application requirements and essay/statement prompts.

5. Financial Planning

College can be a significant investment, so it’s important to explore financial aid options early. 

Possible funding opportunities:

• Scholarships specific to art and design students
• Merit-based scholarships are determined based on the strength of a student’s portfolio and a solid high school GPA
• Grants and work-study programs
• Portfolio-based competitions

Applying to art and design college is a unique and rewarding journey. Family guidance and encouragement can make all the difference. By helping your child stay organized, motivated, and inspired, you can set them up for success not only in the application process but also in their future artistic endeavors.

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