Applying to art school requires careful planning and portfolio development that should begin well before high school graduation. The application process for visual arts, design, animation, and other creative programs demands not just academic preparation but also a well-crafted portfolio that showcases your artistic vision and technical skills.

Why Art School Applications Need Early Preparation

Portfolio development takes time. Unlike standard university applications that primarily assess grades, art schools require portfolios that demonstrate your artistic abilities and creative thinking. These cannot be rushed in the final months before graduation.

Timeline: When to Start the Art School Application Process

Grade 10-11

• Begin serious development of your artistic skills and exploration of different media
• Start documenting your work professionally (high-quality photography)
• Attend open houses at McKenzie College to understand expectations
• Take specialized art courses at your high school or community center
• Take advantage of our student for a day options

Summer Before Grade 12

• Research specific requirements for each program you are interested
• Begin assembling your portfolio based on program guidelines
• Attend pre-college summer programs at McKenzie College – the cost of these are usually deducted from your tuition.
• Create a portfolio website or digital portfolio
• Make an appointment with our educational recruiter to talk about your options.

Grade 12

• September-October: Apply for your program of choice.
• November-December: Complete early applications and entrance scholarship applications
• December-February: Complete regular applications and upload digital portfolios
• April-May: Apply for residence if required
• June: Confirm your enrollment and submit any final materials

Key Components of Art School Applications

Digital portfolio: 10-20 pieces of your strongest work, professionally documented

Creating a Standout Portfolio

Showcase range and depth: Include work in various media that demonstrates both technical skill and conceptual thinking

Follow specific guidelines: follow them however, we want to see you as an artist

Include process work: Sketchbooks, concept development, and iterations show your creative thinking

Curate thoughtfully: Quality over quantity—include only your strongest work

Document professionally: Use proper lighting, clean backgrounds, and high-resolution images

Avoiding Common Art School Application Pitfalls

Procrastinating on portfolio development: This is the most critical component and cannot be rushed

Submitting generic portfolios: Tailor your portfolio to each program’s specific requirements and focus

Overlooking foundation skills: Even digital art programs want to see traditional drawing abilities

Final Thoughts

Applying to art school requires significant advance planning, particularly for portfolio development. Start documenting your creative work early, seek feedback from art teachers and professionals, and carefully research each school’s specific requirements. Remember that your portfolio should demonstrate not just technical skill, but also your unique creative voice and potential for growth. By starting the application process well before graduation, you’ll have time to create thoughtful, refined work that truly represents your artistic abilities and vision.

CONTACTS

Educational Recruited:  Annie – afrise@mckenzie.edu

Registrar: Carrie – capplebee@mckenzie.edu