Incoming freshman applying to any of the School of Art & Design’s degree programs are eligible for talent and merit-based scholarships. To be considered you need only submit a digital portfolio through SlideRoom or participate in one of our in-person portfolio review days. Applying for a School of Art and Design scholarship is your opportunity to show us how you think, create, and see the world. Scholarships are based on a holistic review that includes your portfolio, academic background, experiences, and personal statements. 

General Guidelines for Preparing your Digital Portfolio 

Your portfolio should showcase your strongest, most original work; pieces that reflect both your technical skill and your creative vision. As you curate your selection, focus on work that communicates ideas, demonstrates curiosity, and reveals your individuality as an artist or designer. While we value technical skill and talent, we’re most inspired by portfolios that also show exploration, creativity, and a clear sense of personal voice. Above all, we want to understand who you are as a creative thinker and how you use your art or design practice to engage with the world around you. While there is no one single recipe for a perfect portfolio, here are some general guidelines:

• Include 8-15 works that that highlight your creativity, technical skill, and unique point of view.
• Each piece should include a title, medium and brief description that provides context. Briefly discuss technique, purpose, concept and intent.
• You may include works from a wide range of mediums, or a narrower selection. Ask yourself which approach best represents your interests and talents. See specific program recommendations below.
  
• Include works that illustrate your interests beyond the world of art such as political concerns, societal issues or themes such as personal identity, history, philosophy or science.
  
• Try to minimize derivative subjects, cliché themes or fan art. We want to see your imagination and your passion.