Helpful Links
Essential Resources for Art School Applicants
Navigating the art school application process can be overwhelming, but the right resources can make all the difference. Below is a collection of trusted organizations, programs, and tools to help students research schools, prepare portfolios, find scholarships, and plan for a career in the arts. Whether you’re looking for college rankings, portfolio guidance, or funding opportunities, these links will provide valuable support on your journey.
Portfolio & Application Resources
National Portfolio Day Association (NPDA) – nationalportfolioday.org
Offers free portfolio reviews from top art schools to help students strengthen their applications.The College Board – BigFuture – bigfuture.collegeboard.org
Search and compare art schools, explore majors, and learn about application requirements.Common App for Art Schools – commonapp.org
Many art colleges accept applications through the Common App, streamlining the process for students.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Fastweb – fastweb.com
A scholarship search tool that includes funding opportunities for students pursuing the arts.The Art Career Project – Art Scholarships – theartcareerproject.com
A curated list of scholarships for students entering creative fields.Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – studentaid.gov
Official site for federal financial aid, grants, and student loans.
Professional Art & Design Organizations
American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) – aiga.org
A leading professional organization for designers, offering student memberships, mentorship programs, and career resources.Society of Illustrators – societyillustrators.org
A resource for aspiring illustrators, including competitions and networking opportunities.Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) – idsa.org
A hub for students interested in product and industrial design careers.National Art Education Association (NAEA) – arteducators.org
A great resource for art educators and students looking for guidance in art education.
Portfolio Building Tools
Behance – behance.net
Showcase your work and connect with industry professionals.Adobe Portfolio – portfolio.adobe.com
Create a professional portfolio website to display your artwork.DeviantArt – deviantart.com
Share artwork and get feedback from a creative community.
Art Contests & Fairs
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards – artandwriting.org
One of the most prestigious student art competitions, offering scholarships and national recognition.YoungArts – youngarts.org
A national competition that provides mentorship, financial awards, and career opportunities for emerging artists.College Art Association (CAA) Fairs – collegeart.org
Hosts art school fairs and networking events for students interested in pursuing higher education in the arts.
Illustrators of the Future – writersofthefuture.com/illustrators-of-the-future
A global competition for emerging illustrators, offering cash prizes and career development opportunities.Art Renewal Center Salon – artrenewal.org
A premier international competition focused on realist art, with cash prizes and exhibition opportunities.The Congressional Art Competition – house.gov/educators-and-students/congressional-art-competition
An annual nationwide high school art competition where winners have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol.
Have a Resource to Recommend?
If you know of additional helpful links for art students, let us know! ArtBound is committed to providing the best tools and guidance for aspiring artists.