6 answers
Rosalyn
Student
Olympia, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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What's the biggest issue with getting in?
What's the biggest reason someone might not get in to art schools?
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6 answers
Ellen Rosenthal
Retired Art Teacher
239
Answers
Woodbridge, Virginia
Updated
Ellen’s Answer
Hi Rosalyn
There really isn't ONE issue for not getting accepted into an art school. There are a lot of factors that are beyond your control, such as the number of applicants vs the number of new students the school has room for, or other factors. However, if there is one issue to pay attention to, that is following the artschool's directions when applying. Please do not fall into the trap of thinking because you are a creative person, you don't have to follow directions or procedures in this.
Make sure the art school is the right one for you. Check out art schools online, and look at their acceptance rates. Some art schools are more selective about what they are looking for in terms of skills, experiences, and level of artwork than others. Read the information on their website or catalog carefully. Look at the photos, or even better, visit, to get a sense of the learning environment. Look at the art classes offered to see if the selection matches what you would like to learn. Some art schools are more structured than others, so look to see if they have required classes, or offer more "open studio" type classes. Look at the tuition and living expenses where the school is located, and look to see if there is any financial assistance available. Check out if they have any career counseling.
Make sure you understand the application process and what the school is requiring in terms of your art portfolio. Follow all their directions. Make sure you have examples of artwork they are asking for. Put artwork in your portfolio that shows the range of your abilities, experiences, and interests. Ask your current art teacher for advice. If the art school does ask you to do artwork specifically for the portfolio, then follow the directions and do your very best. Make sure you label your artwork images following their requirements. Make sure you get your application submitted on time.
Make sure your grades and academic performance match what they are looking for. Yes, grades in other subjects do count. Make sure you get some good recommendations from your current art teachers and other teachers.
Understand that some art schools are more selective, so apply to more than one. If you do not get accepted to any art school, do not give up on art. Take art classes at community colleges or local colleges or universities to strengthen your portfolio and apply again. Or, get a degree in art from a college or university instead; it will be a different experience, but you can still learn a lot about art.
Best wishes!
There really isn't ONE issue for not getting accepted into an art school. There are a lot of factors that are beyond your control, such as the number of applicants vs the number of new students the school has room for, or other factors. However, if there is one issue to pay attention to, that is following the artschool's directions when applying. Please do not fall into the trap of thinking because you are a creative person, you don't have to follow directions or procedures in this.
Make sure the art school is the right one for you. Check out art schools online, and look at their acceptance rates. Some art schools are more selective about what they are looking for in terms of skills, experiences, and level of artwork than others. Read the information on their website or catalog carefully. Look at the photos, or even better, visit, to get a sense of the learning environment. Look at the art classes offered to see if the selection matches what you would like to learn. Some art schools are more structured than others, so look to see if they have required classes, or offer more "open studio" type classes. Look at the tuition and living expenses where the school is located, and look to see if there is any financial assistance available. Check out if they have any career counseling.
Make sure you understand the application process and what the school is requiring in terms of your art portfolio. Follow all their directions. Make sure you have examples of artwork they are asking for. Put artwork in your portfolio that shows the range of your abilities, experiences, and interests. Ask your current art teacher for advice. If the art school does ask you to do artwork specifically for the portfolio, then follow the directions and do your very best. Make sure you label your artwork images following their requirements. Make sure you get your application submitted on time.
Make sure your grades and academic performance match what they are looking for. Yes, grades in other subjects do count. Make sure you get some good recommendations from your current art teachers and other teachers.
Understand that some art schools are more selective, so apply to more than one. If you do not get accepted to any art school, do not give up on art. Take art classes at community colleges or local colleges or universities to strengthen your portfolio and apply again. Or, get a degree in art from a college or university instead; it will be a different experience, but you can still learn a lot about art.
Best wishes!
Pavida Changkaew
Director, Storyboard artist, Illustrator
6
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Pavida’s Answer
Hello, Rosalyn
If you are asking in terms of the application process, it could be 1) not having a strong art portfolio, or 2) the school is highly competitive. The acceptance rates among places are different, so some schools might have fewer spots for new students. Some art schools might expect you to have prior knowledge of art fundamentals and require you to have a certain level of skills shown in your portfolio, while others might be willing to teach the fundamentals to you and look for students with passion.
If you are asking in terms of the application process, it could be 1) not having a strong art portfolio, or 2) the school is highly competitive. The acceptance rates among places are different, so some schools might have fewer spots for new students. Some art schools might expect you to have prior knowledge of art fundamentals and require you to have a certain level of skills shown in your portfolio, while others might be willing to teach the fundamentals to you and look for students with passion.
angie azur
Writer | Artist | Death Doula | Yoga | Meditation | Psychology | Philosophy
78
Answers
Weaverville, NC
Updated
angie’s Answer
Hello Rosalyn,
This is a great question that will help you prepare your skills for college competition. I am a writer and artist, and I love being creative. The skills I learned in college have helped me over the years - but getting into a good college is a journey, and it's not all about creativity. I asked ChatGPT for the answer, and below is what it gave. I hope it helps --- good luck! ~ Angie
Gaining admission to art schools can be highly competitive, and there are several reasons why an applicant might not be accepted. The specific criteria can vary significantly between institutions, but here are some common issues that could impact an applicant's chances:
1. Portfolio Quality
The most common and significant reason for not getting into an art school is the portfolio. Art schools place a heavy emphasis on the applicant's portfolio because it showcases their skill level, creativity, and potential. A portfolio that lacks diversity, technical skill, or personal voice may not stand out to admissions committees.
2. Artistic Preparation
Applicants who have not taken the time to develop their skills through high school art classes, pre-college programs, or personal practice may find themselves at a disadvantage. Preparation not only shows in the technical skills displayed in the portfolio but also in the applicant's ability to talk about their work and artistic process.
3. Understanding of the School’s Philosophy and Curriculum
Not demonstrating an understanding of or alignment with the school's specific philosophy, curriculum, and approach to art education can be a drawback. Schools are looking for students who will thrive in their particular environment and contribute to the school culture.
4. Academic Record
While art schools primarily focus on the portfolio, the academic record still matters. Poor grades, especially in art-related subjects, can be a red flag, as they may indicate a lack of effort or commitment. Some schools also have minimum GPA requirements.
5. Personal Statement and Interview Performance
A weak personal statement or a poor performance during an interview (if required) can significantly affect an applicant's chances. These components offer a chance to understand the person behind the artwork, their motivations, and their fit for the school. Failing to articulate one's artistic goals, influences, and reasons for choosing the school can be detrimental.
6. Lack of Research and Targeted Applications
Applying to schools that don't match the applicant's interests or strengths can lead to rejections. It's crucial to research and apply to schools whose offerings align with the applicant's career goals and artistic style.
7. Timing and Preparation
Waiting until the last minute to prepare the portfolio or missing application deadlines can also be a significant barrier to admission.
Overcoming These Issues:
Portfolio Development: Seek feedback on your portfolio from art teachers, professionals, or through portfolio review days offered by many art schools.
Skill Building: Continuously work on improving your art skills and diversify your media and techniques.
Research: Look into each school’s philosophy, curriculum, and portfolio requirements thoroughly to ensure a good fit and tailor your application accordingly.
Preparation: Start preparing your application well in advance, including working on your personal statement and preparing for potential interviews.
Remember, rejection from an art school does not define your potential as an artist. Many successful artists faced rejections before finding the right fit for their education or forging their path without formal art school training. Keep developing your skills, seeking feedback, and exploring your creative passions.
This is a great question that will help you prepare your skills for college competition. I am a writer and artist, and I love being creative. The skills I learned in college have helped me over the years - but getting into a good college is a journey, and it's not all about creativity. I asked ChatGPT for the answer, and below is what it gave. I hope it helps --- good luck! ~ Angie
Gaining admission to art schools can be highly competitive, and there are several reasons why an applicant might not be accepted. The specific criteria can vary significantly between institutions, but here are some common issues that could impact an applicant's chances:
1. Portfolio Quality
The most common and significant reason for not getting into an art school is the portfolio. Art schools place a heavy emphasis on the applicant's portfolio because it showcases their skill level, creativity, and potential. A portfolio that lacks diversity, technical skill, or personal voice may not stand out to admissions committees.
2. Artistic Preparation
Applicants who have not taken the time to develop their skills through high school art classes, pre-college programs, or personal practice may find themselves at a disadvantage. Preparation not only shows in the technical skills displayed in the portfolio but also in the applicant's ability to talk about their work and artistic process.
3. Understanding of the School’s Philosophy and Curriculum
Not demonstrating an understanding of or alignment with the school's specific philosophy, curriculum, and approach to art education can be a drawback. Schools are looking for students who will thrive in their particular environment and contribute to the school culture.
4. Academic Record
While art schools primarily focus on the portfolio, the academic record still matters. Poor grades, especially in art-related subjects, can be a red flag, as they may indicate a lack of effort or commitment. Some schools also have minimum GPA requirements.
5. Personal Statement and Interview Performance
A weak personal statement or a poor performance during an interview (if required) can significantly affect an applicant's chances. These components offer a chance to understand the person behind the artwork, their motivations, and their fit for the school. Failing to articulate one's artistic goals, influences, and reasons for choosing the school can be detrimental.
6. Lack of Research and Targeted Applications
Applying to schools that don't match the applicant's interests or strengths can lead to rejections. It's crucial to research and apply to schools whose offerings align with the applicant's career goals and artistic style.
7. Timing and Preparation
Waiting until the last minute to prepare the portfolio or missing application deadlines can also be a significant barrier to admission.
Overcoming These Issues:
Portfolio Development: Seek feedback on your portfolio from art teachers, professionals, or through portfolio review days offered by many art schools.
Skill Building: Continuously work on improving your art skills and diversify your media and techniques.
Research: Look into each school’s philosophy, curriculum, and portfolio requirements thoroughly to ensure a good fit and tailor your application accordingly.
Preparation: Start preparing your application well in advance, including working on your personal statement and preparing for potential interviews.
Remember, rejection from an art school does not define your potential as an artist. Many successful artists faced rejections before finding the right fit for their education or forging their path without formal art school training. Keep developing your skills, seeking feedback, and exploring your creative passions.
Almas Shafeeq
2
Answers
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
Almas’s Answer
There can be several reasons why someone might not get accepted into art schools. Here are a few common factors that can affect admission decisions:
Portfolio
Academic qualifications
Competition
Interview or audition performance
Fit with the school's ethos
Portfolio
Academic qualifications
Competition
Interview or audition performance
Fit with the school's ethos
Eric Sunday
Oil painting, Pencil drawing, Contemporary art
2
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Eric’s Answer
One of the biggest reasons someone might not get into art school is because art schools can be expensive and not many aspiring artists can afford the fees.
Desmon Solomon
Guitar instructor
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Desmon’s Answer
A few reason but you need talent and a profolio of your drawing no matter how old keep all your drawings to look back as references where you can inprove in your skills to get better