The Common App for Art Students: What You Need to Know

If you’re applying to art school, you’ve probably heard of the Common Application (Common App)—a widely used online system that allows students to apply to multiple colleges in one place. But how does it work for art students, and what do you need to know about submitting your portfolio through this platform?

This guide will walk you through how the Common App works, what to prepare, and how to ensure your application—and your portfolio—makes the best impression.

What Is the Common App?

The Common Application is an online college application system used by over 1,000 colleges and universities. It simplifies the process by allowing you to:

✔ Fill out one main application and send it to multiple schools.

✔ Submit essays, transcripts, and recommendation letters all in one place.

✔ Track deadlines and application statuses for all your schools.

For many art schools and universities with strong art programs, the Common App is the primary way to apply. However, some dedicated art schools use their own application systems, so always check your school’s website for specific requirements.

Do Art Schools Use the Common App?

Many art and design colleges accept the Common App, but some have their own application systems. Here’s how it breaks down:

✔ Some top art schools, like Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), accept the Common App.

✔ Others, like CalArts and Pratt, use their own portals.

✔ Universities with strong art programs, such as UCLA, NYU, and SCAD, often require applications through the Common App but may also use a separate portal for portfolio submissions.

Pro Tip: Even if your school accepts the Common App, you may still need to upload your portfolio separatelythrough platforms like SlideRoom (more on that below).

What Goes in the Common App?

For most schools, your Common App will include:

✔ Personal Information – Basic details about you and your education.

✔ School Information & Grades – Your high school transcript, GPA, and coursework.

✔ Letters of Recommendation – Usually from teachers or mentors.

✔ Extracurricular Activities – Clubs, volunteer work, and anything that shows your passions.

✔ Essays & Personal Statement – Some schools require a general essay, while others ask for supplemental essays related to your field of study.

For art students: While your portfolio is the most important part of your application, your essays and activities should still highlight your creative process, passion for art, and artistic influences.

Where Do You Submit Your Portfolio?

Most art schools and university art programs require portfolios, but the Common App itself doesn’t have a built-in portfolio uploader. Instead, portfolios are submitted through external platforms, most commonly SlideRoom.

✔ SlideRoom is an application tool connected to the Common App where you can upload and organize your portfolio.

✔ Some schools have their own portfolio submission portals, so check each school’s instructions carefully.

✔ Portfolio deadlines may differ from general application deadlines—double-check them to avoid last-minute stress!

💡 Pro Tip: Even though you submit your portfolio separately, make sure your artist statement and essays align with your portfolio theme and artistic direction. Consistency matters!

Deadlines & Planning Ahead

While the Common App opens on August 1st each year, art school deadlines vary. Some follow the traditional January-March deadlines, while others have early decision or rolling admissions.

✔ Create a deadline calendar for each school on your list.

✔ Start your portfolio early—waiting until the last minute leads to rushed work.

✔ Check if schools require supplemental essays or additional materials.

✔ Ask for recommendation letters early so your teachers have time to write strong, thoughtful letters.

Pro Tip: Many schools offer portfolio reviews before you apply—take advantage of these to get professional feedback1

The Common App & Your Portfolio: Final Thoughts

The Common App makes applying to multiple colleges easier, but for art students, the portfolio submission process is just as important as the application itself.

✔ Check if your school uses the Common App or has its own application system.

✔ Make sure your portfolio is submitted correctly through SlideRoom or another platform.

✔ Use your essays and activities section to highlight your creativity and passion.

✔ Plan ahead to meet deadlines, and take advantage of early portfolio reviews.

Need Help Preparing Your Portfolio?

Your portfolio is the key to getting into art school, and we’re here to help. At ArtBound, we specialize in portfolio coaching, online courses, and expert resources to help you present your work professionally and make your application stand out.

Want expert guidance? Check out our coaching, courses, and resources to help your portfolio shine.