| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
NSCAD University (pronounced "N-Scad") stands for Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University. It is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious art and design universities, known for its innovation in fine arts, media arts, craft, and design education.
Founded in 1887, it is located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a historic and vibrant coastal city on the east coast of Canada.
Type: Public, specialized art university
Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Language of instruction: English
Student population: Approx. 900–1,200
Student-to-faculty ratio: Very low (great for personalized instruction)
Campus: Urban and studio-based — includes galleries, design labs, and workshops
NSCAD offers degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and non-degree levels focused entirely on creative disciplines.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in:
Fine Art (Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture)
Media Arts (Photography, Film, Animation)
Interdisciplinary Design
Textiles/Fashion
Ceramics, Jewelry/Metalsmithing
Bachelor of Design (BDes) in:
Graphic Design
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in:
Art History and Contemporary Culture
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Master of Design (MDes)
Part-time and summer courses in art, design, and portfolio development
Youth and teen programs
NSCAD welcomes students from around the world and offers:
Support with study permits and immigration
International student orientation and advising
Cultural and community engagement opportunities
English-language support resources (if needed)
All programs are taught in English. International students must show proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).
Undergraduate programs:
$14,000 – $17,000 USD per year
Graduate programs:
$12,000 – $15,000 USD per year
Living expenses in Halifax:
$8,000 – $10,000 USD per year
NSCAD is considered affordable compared to many art and design universities in North America.
One of Canada’s top art and design schools with a global reputation
Small classes with direct access to faculty and mentors
Access to professional studios, galleries, and cutting-edge technology
Located in Halifax — a creative, coastal city full of culture and history
Strong community of artists, designers, and innovators
Opportunities to exhibit your work, collaborate, and build your portfolio while studying
All undergraduate degrees at NSCAD are studio-based and emphasize hands-on learning, creativity, and conceptual development.
Major in Fine Arts
Painting
Drawing
Printmaking
Sculpture
Major in Media Arts
Photography
Film
Animation
Sound and Digital Media
Major in Craft
Ceramics
Jewelry/Metalsmithing
Textiles/Fashion
Interdisciplinary Arts
Combines various disciplines across fine art, media, and craft
Major in Interdisciplinary Design
Graphic Design
User Experience (UX) & Interface Design
Product Design
Environmental & Communication Design
Major in Art History and Contemporary Culture
Ideal for students interested in art theory, curating, criticism, and writing
A 2-year, interdisciplinary, studio-based program
Includes independent practice, theory, and thesis exhibition
A professional program focused on design thinking, research, and practice
Includes user-centered design, sustainability, and innovation
All undergraduate students start with a Foundation Year Program, where they learn core skills in drawing, color, form, and design. After that, they declare their major.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Fine Arts |
4 years |
$14,500 – $15,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Media Arts |
4 years |
$14,500 – $15,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Craft (Textiles, Ceramics, Jewelry) |
4 years |
$14,500 – $15,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Interdisciplinary Arts |
4 years |
$14,500 – $15,500 |
|
Bachelor of Design (BDes) – Interdisciplinary Design |
4 years |
$14,500 – $15,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Art History and Contemporary Culture |
4 years |
$14,000 – $15,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) |
2 years |
$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Design (MDes) |
1 year |
$12,000 – $13,500 |
NSCAD University, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is one of the most respected and historic art and design universities in Canada. For over 135 years, it has been a hub for artists, designers, and thinkers from around the world. It’s especially appealing to international students who are passionate about fine arts, design, craft, media arts, and contemporary art culture.
NSCAD is home to students from dozens of countries, and the community is known for being inclusive, diverse, and supportive. The International Student Office helps with:
Study permit and visa guidance
Orientation and cultural transition
Health insurance and student wellness
Academic advising and career planning
There are also peer mentors, workshops, and art-focused events to help you feel connected both socially and professionally.
NSCAD offers:
Bachelor’s degrees (BFA, BDes, BA) in painting, sculpture, graphic design, film, textiles, jewelry, and more
Graduate degrees like the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Master of Design (MDes)
A Foundation Year Program to help all undergrads build core artistic skills before choosing a major
Small class sizes mean you get one-on-one feedback, close access to faculty, and lots of hands-on studio time.
For international students:
Tuition is approximately $14,000–$15,500 USD per year for undergraduate programs and $12,000–$14,000 USD per year for graduate programs
Living expenses in Halifax (including housing, food, transportation) are about $8,000–$10,000 USD per year
NSCAD is considered more affordable than many art and design schools in the U.S. and Europe.
NSCAD doesn’t have on-campus dorms, but many students live in downtown Halifax, just minutes from the university. The school provides a housing guide and resources to help students find:
Apartments or shared housing
Homestay options (occasionally)
Affordable places close to campus
The school is right in the artistic heart of Halifax, surrounded by galleries, museums, studios, and music venues.
Student life at NSCAD is deeply rooted in creative expression and collaboration. There are:
Exhibitions and student shows
Film screenings and public talks
Artist-run centers and events
Clubs, peer networks, and social events
Interactions with Halifax’s vibrant arts scene
Whether you’re into traditional art, digital media, or fashion, you’ll find a supportive network of creators to grow with.
International students at NSCAD can work:
Up to 20 hours/week during school
Full-time during breaks
After graduation, you’re eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years — a great chance to build your career in Canada.
Graduates from NSCAD go on to work as:
Professional artists and designers
Filmmakers and photographers
UX/UI designers, illustrators, and art directors
Curators, educators, and entrepreneurs
The career services office helps with job prep, resume building, and connecting to exhibitions or internships.
Top-tier art and design education in Canada
Creative, studio-focused environment
Welcoming and diverse student community
Affordable tuition and safe, friendly city
Access to PGWP and Canadian permanent residency pathways
A strong legacy and network of successful alumni
Start by selecting the degree you want to pursue:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Bachelor of Design (BDes)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Master of Design (MDes)
All undergraduate students begin with NSCAD’s Foundation Year Program, which helps build core artistic skills before entering a major.
High school diploma (Grade 12 or equivalent)
Transcripts (translated to English if needed)
Portfolio submission (10–15 pieces of recent artwork)
Statement of intent (1–2 pages)
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 iBT)
A recognized bachelor’s degree in art/design or related field
Portfolio (10–20 pieces of advanced work)
Statement of purpose / research proposal
CV/resume
2–3 letters of recommendation
Transcripts and proof of English proficiency
Visit the NSCAD application portal: nscad.ca/apply
Choose the appropriate application type (undergraduate or graduate)
Create an account and complete the online form
Upload your portfolio, documents, and pay the application fee:
$95 CAD for undergraduate applicants
$125 CAD for graduate applicants
Required documents may include:
Academic transcripts (official or certified copies)
English language test scores
Portfolio (submitted digitally via SlideRoom or NSCAD portal)
Statement of intent
Letters of recommendation (for graduate programs)
Passport copy (for international applicants)
Application reviews begin after the deadline, especially for programs that require portfolio review.
You’ll receive an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) if admitted — which is required to apply for your Canadian Study Permit.
If accepted, you’ll be asked to confirm your spot by paying a tuition deposit (credited toward your tuition fees).
Details will be included in your acceptance package.
With your Letter of Acceptance, apply for a Canadian Study Permit through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). You’ll need:
Valid passport
Proof of funds
Letter of Acceptance
Biometrics and medical exam (depending on your country)
NSCAD University offers two main intakes per year:
Most programs (BFA, BDes, BA, MFA, MDes) are available
Recommended for all international students
Best chance to secure space in programs and access scholarships
Application deadline:
Undergraduate: March 1 (for priority and scholarships)
Graduate: Varies by program, typically February to April
Available for select undergraduate programs only
Not all majors or courses are open
Check directly with admissions for eligibility
High school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12)
Minimum overall average of 70% or higher (or equivalent international GPA)
Subject-specific requirements may apply based on country of origin
Submit a portfolio of 10–15 recent works showcasing your artistic ability, creativity, and personal interests
Can include drawing, painting, photography, digital media, fashion, sculpture, etc.
If English is not your first language, you must provide:
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
Or completion of a recognized English preparation program
A bachelor’s degree in fine arts, design, or a closely related field
Minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent)
Strong background in independent creative work
Portfolio: 10–20 pieces of advanced creative work
Statement of intent (outlining your research/creative goals)
CV/resume
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Interview may be required for shortlisted candidates
Same as undergraduate requirements, with some graduate programs possibly requiring a slightly higher language level for academic writing.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
Application Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NSCAD Entrance Scholarship |
New undergraduate students with strong grades & portfolio |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Automatically considered |
|
Renewable International Student Scholarship |
Outstanding academic record; renewable based on GPA |
$2,000 – $4,000/year |
Yes |
|
In-Course Scholarships & Awards |
Current students with GPA ≥ 3.5 and strong studio work |
$500 – $2,000 |
Yes (annually) |
|
Graduate Fellowship (MFA / MDes) |
Based on portfolio strength, proposal, and academic performance |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
Automatically considered |
|
NSCAD Financial Need Bursary |
Demonstrated financial need (open to all students) |
$500 – $1,500 |
Yes |
|
External Scholarships (Nova Scotia/Canada) |
Government or third-party scholarships for international students |
($1,000 – $10,000) |
Yes (apply separately) |
Facility Type |
Location/Details |
Features |
Estimated Cost/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NSCAD University Campus |
Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia |
Studio-based campus; classrooms, labs, galleries, library |
Included in tuition |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not available |
— |
— |
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
Near downtown Halifax, walking distance to campus |
Private/shared rentals; self-catering |
$5,500 – $8,500 |
|
Student Residence Partnerships |
Through Dalhousie University or other Halifax colleges |
Furnished dorms with meal plans (subject to availability) |
$6,500 – $9,500 |
|
Homestay (optional) |
Local families, meals included |
Private room, meals, utilities |
$7,000 – $9,000 |
|
Meal Plan |
Self-catered (no meal plan at NSCAD); shared kitchens available |
Students cook or eat at local cafés |
$2,000 – $3,000 (optional) |
Student life at NSCAD University is unlike any traditional university experience. You’re surrounded by artists, designers, filmmakers, thinkers, and makers — all working together in a vibrant, collaborative environment. The university has a studio-based culture, meaning most of your learning takes place in creative spaces where hands-on practice and experimentation are encouraged daily.
Classes are small, so you’ll know your professors and peers by name, and you’ll often collaborate with other students across disciplines — like fashion designers working with photographers, or painters teaming up with sculptors.
NSCAD’s urban campus is located in downtown Halifax, right in the cultural heart of the city. The buildings are full of energy and filled with studios, print shops, metal and wood workshops, photo darkrooms, editing suites, and exhibition spaces.
There’s always something happening on campus — student exhibitions, gallery openings, public talks, film screenings, and critique sessions. These aren’t just for show — they’re part of the learning process and help you grow as a creative professional.
While NSCAD is intensely creative, student life also includes plenty of ways to relax, connect, and get involved:
The Student Union (SUNSCAD) runs social events, workshops, and student initiatives
There are clubs and collectives focused on everything from environmental activism to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Open mic nights, zine fairs, artist markets, and film nights are common
Student-led publications, gallery shows, and pop-up shops let you showcase your work outside the classroom
You’ll also have access to inter-university activities with nearby institutions like Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s University, expanding your social circle beyond NSCAD.
Halifax is one of Canada’s most artistic, student-friendly, and walkable cities. As a coastal capital with a strong indie music and arts scene, it’s the perfect backdrop for art students. You’ll find:
Affordable galleries and art collectives
Local cafes and vintage shops
Music festivals, public art walks, and community events
Ocean views and historic streets to spark your creativity
Most students live in shared apartments or student housing within walking distance of campus. Halifax is also safe, welcoming, and easy to get around — either on foot, by bike, or via public transit.
NSCAD’s International Student Office provides personal and academic support including:
Immigration and visa assistance
Cultural orientation and social integration
Health insurance and wellness services
Academic advising and English-language resources (if needed)
As an international student, you’ll never be alone — NSCAD has a strong community of international creatives from across the globe, and you’ll be welcomed from day one.
While studying, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) and full-time during breaks. NSCAD also provides:
Portfolio reviews and resume workshops
Career planning and internship support
Opportunities to exhibit your work publicly
Networking events with curators, galleries, and design firms
After graduation, you’ll be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
Student life at NSCAD is all about living creatively. It’s about working in studios late into the night, hanging your first exhibition, collaborating with other artists, and becoming part of a lifelong creative community. Whether you're into painting, fashion, film, or design — if you’re passionate about making art, NSCAD is the place where you’ll feel like you truly belong.
Like most Canadian art and design schools, NSCAD does not offer formal on-campus placement drives (like those in business or tech-focused universities). Instead, NSCAD focuses on helping students build real-world experience, professional portfolios, and creative networks while they study — which leads to meaningful career paths in Canada and abroad.
NSCAD’s Office of Opportunity and Engagement and Career Services provide resources to support your transition into the professional world:
Career advising and resume building
Portfolio development support
Job and internship listings in art, design, and creative sectors
Artist residency application support
Grant and funding resources for emerging artists
Entrepreneurship and freelancing guidance
Networking events with galleries, design firms, and arts organizations
Many NSCAD programs include internships, co-op placements, or community-based projects, especially in:
Graphic Design
Media Arts (film, photography, animation)
Fashion & Textiles
Sculpture, Ceramics, and Jewelry/Metalsmithing
Students often work with local businesses, studios, nonprofits, galleries, or public art initiatives in Halifax and across Nova Scotia.
As an international student in Canada, you’re allowed to:
Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during the academic year
Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Participate in on-campus jobs or assistantships (e.g., working in studios, libraries, or galleries)
NSCAD graduates are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit of up to 3 years, which allows you to stay in Canada and gain full-time work experience in your field.
This opens pathways to permanent residency through programs like:
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Atlantic Immigration Program
Graduates from NSCAD go on to successful careers in areas such as:
Graphic and UX/UI design
Fine art, galleries, and public exhibitions
Film, photography, and animation
Fashion and textile design
Illustration and publishing
Jewelry and ceramics studio practice
Art education and community arts
Museums and curatorial work
Art direction and creative marketing
Many also become independent artists, freelancers, or creative entrepreneurs, and NSCAD helps them apply for grants, residencies, and showcase opportunities.
NSCAD alumni have gone on to exhibit in:
National and international galleries (like MoMA, Tate, or AGO)
Major design studios and creative agencies
Film festivals and animation studios
Start their own labels, collectives, or online shops
The acceptance rate of NSCAD University (Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University) is estimated to be around 65% to 75%.
NSCAD has a moderately selective admission process. It’s very welcoming to international students, but your acceptance largely depends on the strength of two main components:
Your academic background (high school or previous degree grades)
Your portfolio (for art/design-based programs)
Even if your grades are average, a strong, creative portfolio can significantly boost your chances of admission, especially for programs like Fine Arts, Design, or Media Arts.
Academic qualifications that meet Canadian or international standards
Creative portfolio showing your artistic potential and technical skill
English proficiency (if you're from a non-English-speaking country)
A well-written statement of intent (especially for graduate programs)
NSCAD is known for its inclusive and supportive environment, and it accepts students from all over the world. If you meet the minimum entry requirements and submit a compelling portfolio, your chances of getting accepted are quite good.
Main Address:
5163 Duke Street,
Halifax, Nova Scotia,
B3J 3J6, Canada
City: Halifax
Province: Nova Scotia
Country: Canada
The campus is in downtown Halifax, in the heart of the city’s art, music, and cultural district.
NSCAD operates out of several buildings and studios, including:
Fountain Campus (main academic and studio spaces)
Academy Campus (film and media arts)
Port Campus (large studios and public gallery, located near the waterfront)
These are all within walking distance of one another and close to cafes, galleries, museums, and the historic waterfront.
Nearest Airport: Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
Approx. 30–40 minutes by car or shuttle to campus
Public transit and rideshare options are widely available
