| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Downtown Chicago, Illinois, USA
Situated in the heart of Chicago’s cultural and artistic hub.
Close to top museums, galleries, and creative spaces.
SAIC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in art and design, including:
Fine Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, etc.)
Graphic Design
Fashion Design
Photography & Film
Architecture & Interior Architecture
Art History & Visual Studies
Performance Art & Sound Design
Illustration & Animation
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art
Master of Architecture (MArch)
Master of Design (MDes) in Fashion, Object, & Material Studies
Master of Art Education (MAAE)
Master of Arts in Modern and Contemporary Art History
SAIC allows students to experiment with multiple disciplines, encouraging a multimedia and cross-disciplinary approach.
SAIC has a competitive admission process, and applicants are assessed based on creativity, academic performance, and artistic potential.
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Portfolio (Required) – 10-15 pieces of original artwork
Statement of Purpose (Essay)
Letter(s) of Recommendation (Optional but Recommended)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students) – TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo
Bachelor’s Degree (In Related or Any Field, Depending on Program)
Portfolio (Required for MFA & Design Programs)
Statement of Intent & Research Proposal
Letters of Recommendation
Resume or CV
Acceptance Rate: Around 57% (Selective but accessible for strong applicants).
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$53,550 per year
Graduate Tuition: ~$50,000+ per year (varies by program)
Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships available for domestic & international students
SAIC offers financial aid, grants, and assistantships to support students.
Located in Downtown Chicago – Close to galleries, museums, and creative industries.
Access to the Art Institute of Chicago – One of the world’s best art museums.
Exhibitions & Galleries – Students showcase work in SAIC’s galleries.
Diverse & International Community – Students from over 60+ countries.
Student Housing Available – Campus residence halls in central Chicago.
SAIC alumni include famous artists, designers, filmmakers, and architects, such as:
Jeff Koons (Contemporary Artist)
Cynthia Rowley (Fashion Designer)
Georgia O’Keeffe (Renowned Painter)
Nick Cave (Multimedia Artist)
Graduates work in top design firms, museums, tech companies, and creative industries worldwide. SAIC provides internships, career guidance, and strong industry connections.
1 Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Programs
A flexible and customizable program where students can explore multiple disciplines. Specializations include:
Painting & Drawing
Sculpture
Printmaking
Ceramics
Fiber & Material Studies
Photography
Film, Video, New Media, and Animation (FVNMA)
Fashion Design
Sound Design & Experimental Music
Performance Art
2 Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual and Critical Studies
A research-focused program combining art history, theory, and studio practice.
3 Bachelor of Interior Architecture (BIA)
Focused on spatial design, interior environments, and architecture.
1 Master of Fine Arts (MFA) – 2 to 3 Years
A highly customizable program in studio arts, with concentrations in:
Painting & Drawing
Sculpture
Printmedia
Performance Art
Photography
Fashion, Body & Garment
Film, Video, New Media, & Animation (FVNMA)
Sound Art & Experimental Music
Fiber & Material Studies
2 Master of Architecture (MArch)
A professional NAAB-accredited program preparing students for careers in architecture.
3 Master of Design (MDes)
Fashion, Body & Garment
Designed Objects
Communication Design (Graphic & Interaction Design)
4 Master of Arts (MA) Programs
Modern & Contemporary Art History
Art Education (MAAE)
Arts Administration & Policy
Visual & Critical Studies
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Painting & Drawing |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Sculpture |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Photography |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Film, Video, New Media & Animation (FVNMA) |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Fashion Design |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Printmedia |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Ceramics |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Fiber & Material Studies |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Sound Design & Experimental Music |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Performance Art |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Visual Communication Design (Graphic & Interaction Design) |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Interior Architecture |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
BFA in Designed Objects |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual and Critical Studies |
4 years |
$53,550 |
|
Bachelor of Interior Architecture (BIA) |
4 years |
$53,550 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Painting & Drawing |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Sculpture |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Printmedia |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Photography |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Film, Video, New Media & Animation (FVNMA) |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Fashion, Body & Garment |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Performance Art |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Fiber & Material Studies |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MFA in Sound Art & Experimental Music |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
Master of Design (MDes) in Designed Objects |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MDes in Fashion, Body & Garment |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MDes in Communication Design (Graphic & Interaction Design) |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
Master of Architecture (MArch) |
3 years |
$54,160 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Modern & Contemporary Art History |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MA in Art Education (MAAE) |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MA in Arts Administration & Policy |
2 years |
$54,160 |
|
MA in Visual & Critical Studies |
2 years |
$54,160 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Art History, Theory, and Criticism |
4 – 5 years |
$54,160 |
|
PhD in Fine Arts (Low-Residency Program) |
4 – 5 years |
$54,160 |
Top-Ranked Art & Design School – Recognized among the best in the world.
Access to the Art Institute of Chicago Museum – A world-class museum for research & inspiration.
Flexible & Interdisciplinary Curriculum – Combine multiple disciplines like fine arts, fashion, film, and architecture.
Diverse International Community – A welcoming environment for students from all cultural backgrounds.
Career & Internship Support – Strong connections with top creative industries.
SAIC offers a variety of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, including:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art
Master of Design (MDes) in Fashion, Body & Garment
Master of Architecture (MArch)
PhD in Art History, Theory, and Criticism
Full List of Programs: www.saic.edu/academics
Completed Online Application (SAIC Application or Common App)
High School Diploma/Transcripts (Translated into English if needed)
Portfolio (Required) – 10-15 pieces of original artwork
Statement of Purpose (Essay) – About your artistic journey and goals
Letter(s) of Recommendation (Optional but Recommended)
English Proficiency Test Scores (For Non-Native Speakers)
TOEFL iBT: 85+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 115+
Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field
Portfolio (Required for Art & Design Programs)
Statement of Intent & Research Proposal
Letters of Recommendation
Resume or CV
English Proficiency Test Scores (Same as undergraduate requirements)
Application Deadlines:
Fall Intake: Priority Deadline – January 15
Spring Intake: Limited programs available
Apply Here: N/A
SAIC offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in Fine Arts, Design, Architecture, and Art History. Choose the program that best suits your creative and academic goals.
Apply through:
SAIC Application Portal (www.saic.edu/apply)
Common Application (For undergraduate applicants)
Application Fee:
Undergraduate: $65
Graduate: $90
(For First-Year & Transfer Students)
Official High School Transcripts (Translated if needed)
Portfolio (Required) – 10-15 pieces of original artwork
Statement of Purpose (Essay) – About your artistic journey & goals
Letter(s) of Recommendation (Optional but recommended)
English Proficiency Test Scores (For Non-Native English Speakers)
TOEFL iBT: 85+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 115+
Bachelor’s Degree (In Related Field)
Portfolio (Required for Art & Design Programs)
Statement of Intent & Research Proposal
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 Required)
Resume or CV
English Proficiency Test Scores
Master’s Degree in Art History, Fine Arts, or Related Field
Academic Writing Sample (Research Paper or Published Work)
Portfolio (For Fine Arts PhD Applicants)
Statement of Research Interest
Letters of Recommendation (3 Required)
SAIC requires a strong portfolio for admission to art and design programs.
Submit 10-15 pieces showcasing your creativity, concepts, and skills.
Include a variety of mediums, techniques, and experimental work.
Upload digitally through SAIC’s online portal (SlideRoom).
Some programs, especially graduate programs, may require an interview with faculty.
Interviews are conducted in-person or online.
SAIC operates on a rolling admission basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received.
Decision Notification: Typically 4-6 weeks after submission.
If accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter & I-20 for visa processing (for international students).
Secure your spot by paying the enrollment deposit.
Undergraduate Deposit: $300
Graduate Deposit: $500
Start preparing for housing, course registration, and orientation.
Intake |
Priority Deadline |
Final Deadline |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
January 15 (Priority) |
Rolling Admissions |
Most Undergraduate, Graduate, and PhD Programs |
|
Spring (January Start) |
November 1 |
Rolling Admissions |
Limited Undergraduate & Graduate Programs |
|
Summer (June Start) |
(Program-Specific) |
N/A |
Some Graduate & Continuing Education Programs |
Note: Applying by the priority deadline increases your chances of scholarship consideration.
For First-Year & Transfer Students
High School Diploma or Equivalent (e.g., GED, IB, A-Levels)
GPA Requirement: No minimum GPA, but 3.0+ preferred for scholarships
Portfolio (Required) – 10-15 pieces of original artwork
Statement of Purpose (Essay) – Explaining artistic goals & inspirations
Letter(s) of Recommendation – Optional but encouraged
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 85+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 115+
Transfer Applicants:
Must submit college transcripts and a portfolio showing prior coursework.
Bachelor’s Degree (In Art, Design, or a Related Field)
Minimum GPA: 3.0 preferred (Some programs may accept lower GPAs with a strong portfolio)
Portfolio (Required for Art & Design Programs) – Showcasing artistic research & development
Statement of Intent & Research Proposal
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 Required)
Resume or CV (For professional experience & exhibitions)
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 85+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 115+
Architecture (MArch) Applicants: Must also submit a design portfolio and GRE scores (optional).
Master’s Degree in Art History, Fine Arts, or a Related Field
Minimum GPA: 3.5 preferred
Portfolio (For Fine Arts PhD Applicants)
Statement of Research Interest & Academic Writing Sample
Letters of Recommendation (3 Required)
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 96+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 125+
PhD applicants must demonstrate advanced research skills and original contributions to their field.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking Position |
Category |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 10 Worldwide |
Art & Design Schools |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 5 in the USA |
Art & Design Schools |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top 5 in the USA |
Fine Arts Programs |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top 50 Nationally |
Best Graduate Art Schools |
|
The Princeton Review |
Highly Rated |
Best Art & Design Colleges |
|
Forbes |
Top Art School |
Art & Design Institutions |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SAIC Merit Scholarship |
Strong academic record & portfolio |
Up to $25,000/year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Outstanding artistic & academic achievement |
Up to $25,000/year |
Undergraduate |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
High academic achievement & portfolio |
$10,000 – $15,000/year |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
International Merit Scholarship |
Exceptional international students |
(Partial tuition) |
International Students |
|
Talent-Based Grant |
Strong artistic portfolio & faculty review |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required) |
N/A |
U.S. Citizens & Residents |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Research/teaching assistance |
Tuition Waivers/Stipend |
Graduate Students |
|
Endowed & Named Scholarships |
Program-specific scholarships from donors |
N/A |
Undergraduate & Graduate |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Downtown Chicago, Illinois, USA |
|
Libraries & Research Centers |
The John M. Flaxman Library with art and design resources |
|
Art Studios & Workshops |
State-of-the-art studios for painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media |
|
Exhibition Spaces |
Galleries for student exhibitions and events |
|
Student Center & Lounges |
Common areas for socializing, studying, and relaxing |
|
Fitness & Wellness Center |
Gym, mental health services, and counseling |
|
Dining Services |
Cafeteria with meal plans and diverse food options |
|
Security & Safety |
24/7 security, ID access for buildings |
Residence Hall |
Room Type |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Jones Hall |
Double Occupancy |
$7,550 |
$15,100 |
|
Jones Hall |
Single Occupancy |
$8,550 |
$17,100 |
|
The Buckingham |
Studio Apartment |
$9,000 |
$18,000 |
|
The Buckingham |
Shared Apartment |
$8,000 |
$16,000 |
|
162 North State Street Residences |
Single Room |
$8,800 |
$17,600 |
Note: Costs include utilities, Wi-Fi, and security services.
Meal Plan |
Meals Per Week |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Gold Plan |
Unlimited |
$2,150 |
$4,300 |
|
Silver Plan |
14 Meals/Week |
$1,750 |
$3,500 |
|
Bronze Plan |
10 Meals/Week |
$1,350 |
$2,700 |
Meal plans are optional for students living off-campus.
SAIC’s campus is integrated into the city of Chicago, providing students with access to cutting-edge studios, libraries, galleries, and cultural institutions. The John M. Flaxman Library serves as a creative hub for research, while the SAIC Galleries showcase student work throughout the year.
SAIC fosters a collaborative and inclusive community, encouraging students from different artistic disciplines to interact and exchange ideas. The school's downtown location allows students to be part of Chicago’s vibrant art scene, including museums, theaters, fashion districts, and music festivals.
SAIC offers a variety of student-run clubs, organizations, and activities for students to explore their passions outside the classroom. Popular groups include:
Student Government – Representing student voices and organizing campus events.
Exhibition & Gallery Clubs – Providing opportunities to curate and showcase student artwork.
Media & Film Groups – Supporting aspiring filmmakers and video artists.
Cultural & Identity-Based Organizations – Fostering diversity and inclusion.
Fashion & Design Societies – Promoting collaboration among design students.
Performance & Experimental Arts Groups – Encouraging innovative art forms.
Students are encouraged to start their own clubs if they have a unique idea!
SAIC regularly hosts student exhibitions, art shows, lectures, and cultural festivals. Key events include:
Annual Fashion Show – Featuring student-designed collections.
BFA & MFA Thesis Exhibitions – Showcasing graduating students' final projects.
Visiting Artists Program – Bringing world-renowned artists and designers to speak on campus.
Chicago Art Week – Engaging with the city’s broader art community.
Workshops & Panel Discussions – Covering topics like portfolio development, digital art, and career growth.
These events provide students with real-world exposure, networking opportunities, and industry connections.
SAIC supports student well-being through fitness and wellness programs:
24/7 Student Health & Counseling Services – Mental health support, therapy, and wellness coaching.
Gym & Fitness Classes – Yoga, pilates, and meditation sessions.
Outdoor Activities – Field trips to Chicago’s parks, beaches, and cultural hotspots.
SAIC promotes a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that students can focus on both their artistic and personal development.
With students from 60+ countries, SAIC is a truly global institution. The International Affairs Office helps students adjust to life in the U.S. through:
Cultural Exchange Programs
Language Support Services
International Student Orientation
Visa & Immigration Assistance
SAIC’s diverse campus fosters an environment where students from different backgrounds learn, create, and grow together.
SAIC provides extensive career development resources, including:
Internship & Job Placement Programs – Connecting students with top companies, galleries, and design firms.
Career Counseling & Resume Workshops – Helping students prepare for the professional world.
Alumni Networking Events – Offering mentorship and industry connections.
Entrepreneurship Programs – Assisting students in launching their own creative businesses.
Many SAIC graduates go on to work for leading art studios, fashion brands, film companies, and tech firms, while others become independent artists, curators, and educators.
Being in Chicago, students have access to:
The Art Institute of Chicago – One of the world’s best museums.
Millennium Park & Theaters – Home to live performances and art installations.
Music & Cultural Festivals – Including Lollapalooza and Chicago Jazz Fest.
Fashion & Design Hubs – A thriving community for creative industries.
Chicago’s artistic energy makes it an inspiring place for students to explore, network, and create.
High Employment Rate – Many graduates secure jobs within 6 months of graduation.
Internships with Top Companies – SAIC has partnerships with global brands, museums, galleries, and design studios.
Alumni Network of 22,000+ Graduates – SAIC’s alumni work in leading creative industries worldwide.
Career & Portfolio Support – Personalized resume-building, interview coaching, and professional portfolio reviews.
SAIC graduates work in fine arts, fashion, architecture, film, gaming, animation, and digital media industries. Many secure jobs in prestigious firms, museums, and creative agencies such as:
Fine Arts & Museums
The Art Institute of Chicago
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Whitney Museum of American Art
Guggenheim Museum
Tate Modern
Fashion & Design
Louis Vuitton
Nike
Gucci
Burberry
Cynthia Rowley
Film, Animation & Media
Pixar Animation Studios
Walt Disney Studios
Netflix
HBO
Adobe
Architecture & Interior Design
Gensler
SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill)
Zaha Hadid Architects
Studio Gang
Technology & Digital Media
Apple
Microsoft
Meta (Facebook)
Electronic Arts (EA Games)
Many graduates also become independent artists, entrepreneurs, curators, and creative business owners.
SAIC provides a dedicated Career and Professional Experience (CAPX) Center, which offers:
Internship & Job Placement Assistance
One-on-One Career Coaching & Resume Help
Networking Events with Employers & Alumni
Student Art Sales & Public Exhibitions
Freelance & Entrepreneurship Support
Recent Internships Secured by SAIC Students:
Curatorial Intern at the Art Institute of Chicago
Graphic Design Intern at Nike
Fashion Design Intern at Gucci
3D Animation Intern at Pixar Studios
Architectural Design Intern at Gensler
Many students secure full-time jobs after completing internships.
Salaries for SAIC graduates vary by industry, experience, and location:
Industry |
Average Starting Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Fine Arts & Museum Curation |
$40,000 – $60,000 |
|
Graphic Design & Visual Arts |
$50,000 – $70,000 |
|
Fashion & Textile Design |
$45,000 – $65,000 |
|
Architecture & Interior Design |
$55,000 – $80,000 |
|
Film, Animation & Digital Media |
$55,000 – $90,000 |
|
Technology (UX/UI, Digital Arts) |
$60,000 – $100,000 |
Many SAIC graduates see salary growth as they gain experience and build their creative careers.
SAIC encourages entrepreneurship and self-employment in the arts. The school provides:
Startup Grants for Artists & Designers
Business & Marketing Workshops
Student Art Markets & Galleries
Connections with Art Collectors & Investors
Many SAIC alumni become successful independent artists, designers, and creative business owners.
SAIC has produced many world-famous artists, designers, and filmmakers, including:
Jeff Koons – Contemporary artist (One of the highest-paid living artists)
Cynthia Rowley – Fashion designer & entrepreneur
Georgia O’Keeffe – Iconic modernist painter
Nick Cave – Performance & multimedia artist
Elizabeth Murray – Renowned abstract painter
Acceptance Rate: 57% (Moderately Selective)
SAIC has a competitive admission process, with acceptance based on a strong portfolio, academic performance, and creative potential. While the school has a moderate acceptance rate, applicants with exceptional artistic work and a compelling statement of purpose have a high chance of being admitted.
Portfolio Quality – The most crucial part of the application. A strong, unique, and innovative portfolio increases admission chances.
Academic Performance – A GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred, but SAIC focuses more on artistic ability than grades.
Statement of Purpose – A well-written essay explaining your artistic vision and goals.
Letters of Recommendation – Not required but recommended for a stronger application.
English Proficiency (For International Students) – TOEFL (85+), IELTS (6.5+), Duolingo (115+).
Main Campus Address:
36 S. Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
