A Primer on Applying to Art School: What Every Student Needs to Know
If you’re a high school student dreaming of art school, first—take a breath. Then take a bow. You’re already on a path that many don’t have the courage to pursue. Applying to art school is more than filling out forms and uploading a few JPEGs. It’s about telling your story as a creative thinker—and showing the potential of your voice, your hand, and your imagination.
As someone who has reviewed thousands of portfolios and worked with families navigating this process, let me guide you through what really matters when applying to art school—and how to do it with confidence.
Why Art-Making Matters
Art isn’t just a talent; it’s a way of thinking. In a world increasingly driven by automation, creativity remains one of the few human skills that can’t be replicated. Artists learn to question, to explore, to empathize, and to problem-solve in ways that are deeply valuable—whether they go on to be fine artists, designers, educators, or entrepreneurs.
Want proof? Just look at the credits at the end of a film, the packaging on your favorite product, or the layout of your favorite app. Artists are everywhere, shaping the world in quiet and powerful ways.
What You Really Learn in Art School
An art education doesn’t just teach you how to draw. It teaches you how to think. Here are just a few transferable skills you’ll gain:
Critical Thinking – You’ll learn how to evaluate, reframe, and refine ideas from multiple perspectives.
Empathy – You’ll grow in your ability to communicate stories, concepts, and emotions that connect with others.
Project Management – You’ll manage long-term projects, meet deadlines, and iterate under pressure—skills useful in any career.
The myth of the “starving artist” is outdated. Today’s artists are working professionals with real careers in film, games, advertising, fashion, education, therapy, and more.
Understanding Your Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all route to becoming an artist. Consider these types of schools:
Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
You can major in art while also exploring non-art disciplines. These schools are great if you want flexibility to double major or switch paths later.Art & Design Colleges
These are fully immersive environments where everyone around you is creative. Think RISD, Pratt, or SCAD. You’ll be surrounded by your tribe.Conservatories
Focused on high-level polish and discipline—especially for performing artists. Conservatories like Juilliard or CalArts expect a strong foundation from day one.Community Colleges
Affordable, accessible, and a smart place to start if you need time to develop your portfolio or academic profile before transferring.Vocational & Technical Programs
Best if you want to go straight into a specific field (like sound design, makeup effects, or 3D modeling). Just keep in mind: not all credits may transfer to 4-year programs.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Before you apply, reflect on what you need most in a college experience:
Do I want a large or small campus community?
How important is mentorship and one-on-one instruction?
What facilities will support my growth (darkrooms, foundries, animation labs)?
How much does this school value my artistic potential vs. my academic record?
Pro tip: Don’t just look at rankings. Look for fit—programs that nurture your creativity and match your goals.
Your Portfolio Is the Heart of Your Application
Most art schools care more about your portfolio than your GPA. So how do you make yours stand out?
Tips for a Great Portfolio:
Start Early: Great portfolios take time—months, not weeks.
Draw from Life: Show observational work (not just from photos or your imagination).
Show Range: Use different media, subject matter, and approaches.
Go Beyond the Assignment: Include personal work that shows who you are.
Avoid Clichés: Clocks for “time.” Eyes crying blood. Floating hands. Try again.
Show Process: Include a sketchbook spread or unfinished studies.
Finish Strong: Incomplete work or poor presentation can hurt strong ideas.
Photograph Like a Pro: Clean, well-lit, high-res images matter.
Get Feedback: Ask teachers, mentors, or attend a National Portfolio Day.
Your portfolio doesn’t need to perfectly match your intended major—but it should demonstrate curiosity, technical skill, and voice.
Final Words of Advice
Be honest with yourself. Choose a school where you’ll thrive, not one that looks good on paper.
Ask questions. Admissions officers are here to help, not gatekeep.
Stay inspired. The application process is part of your creative journey—not a detour from it.
Ready to Apply?
At ArtBound.org, we help students like you build strong portfolios, explore art school options, and prepare for a future that honors your creativity. Whether you’re just starting or ready to hit “submit,” we’re here to help every step of the way.
Explore our mentoring services or online course today. Your future as an artist starts now.
