School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

A leader in educating artists, designers, and scholars since 1866, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers nationally accredited undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate programs to more than 3,200 students from around the globe. Located in the heart of Chicago, SAIC has an educational philosophy built upon an interdisciplinary approach to art and design, giving students unparalleled opportunities to develop their creative and critical abilities, while working with renowned faculty who include many of the leading practitioners in their fields.

Virtual Tour

Academic Programs

Art & Design
Design
Education
Liberal Arts
Visual Arts

Student experience

Co-op/Internship Opportunities
Disability Services
Night Class Offerings
On-Campus Housing
Study Abroad

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

First-year

SAIC's application allows students to be considered for both admission and merit scholarship consideration. Students should submit their completed application, portfolio, artist's statement, language test scores (if applicable), high school transcripts, and one letter of recommendation. Merit scholarships are awarded based on a holistic review of all application materials, and are annually renewed as long as students maintain successful academic standing.

Transfer

SAIC's application allows students to be considered for both admission and merit scholarship consideration. Students should submit their completed application, portfolio, artist's statement, language test scores (if applicable), one letter of recommendation, and official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended, along with an official high school or GED transcript.
Merit scholarships are awarded based on a holistic review of all application materials, and are annually renewed as long as students maintain a successful academic standing. Merit scholarships range from $2,000 to $25,000 per year.

Additional Information

SAIC is proud to be ranked the #2 art school in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report, and
among the top 10 schools in the world for art & design by QS World University Rankings.

What makes us distinct?

Interdisciplinary Curriculum: At SAIC, you won’t declare a major, and are free to choose from a range of media to fulfill your vision.
Global Internship Opportunities: SAIC has one of the most successful art-related internship programs in the country.
Liberal Arts: 25% of your degree is comprised of liberal arts courses to ensure you are prepared for a fulfilling and sustainable creative career.
The Art Institute of Chicago Museum: The world's third largest collection of art is an integral part of your education.
Chicago: Faculty and alumni connections throughout the city provide you with a multitude of networking opportunities.
Facilities and Resources: From pouring molten metal and throwing clay, to 3D printing and laser cutting, plus a huge array of professional equipment, you have great tools available to you.

Visit us

Take a live, virtual tour of our campus and residence halls with our current students, and ask any questions you have live!

"I’ve had classes and the teacher takes us to the Art Institute, and we’re analyzing this piece, looking at this beautiful Van Gogh in person and just talking about it. I can’t even think of a greater privilege than to be able to study these paintings in person."
Trinidad Vasconez, SAIC student, Art Education