Apply

We encourage you to start your process of applying to CalArts by creating an application account. 

Create an Application Account

Create an application account to register your interest and to receive communication from us about your application-in-progress. 

The email address you use to create your application account will be the primary method we will use to communicate with you. You should select an email account you plan to check regularly throughout the application process.

When you apply to CalArts, you must select a specific program of study in one of our six schools: Art, Critical Studies, Dance, Film/Video, Music, or Theater. We do not offer a general program of study nor a “foundation year” program.

All Programs of Study

Research and identify the program or programs at CalArts you would like to join.

Not sure where to start? Check out the webpages for any CalArts School that matches your general area of interest:

• School of Art
• School of Critical Studies
• School of Dance
• School of Film/Video
• School of Music
• School of Theater

You can also find out more about CalArts, our unique creative community, and your program of interest by attending an admissions information session, event, or visiting our Explore webpage for prospective students.

Your next chance to attend CalArts as a full-time student will be for this coming spring 2025 (in select programs) or the fall 2025 semester.

Application Deadlines & Fees

Note our application deadlines, in addition to associated fees.

Start an application for your program of interest. (It's okay to start one now and submit before the deadline.) Starting now will allow us to best help you as you prepare your application materials.

Start Your Application

It is also possible to apply to more than one program at CalArts. To do so, simply start two applications, one for each of your programs of interest. Please note, an application fee is required for each application.

A critical part of the application is the audition and/or portfolio of creative works, as well as the accompanying artist statement. Each program at CalArts has its own specific requirements: some programs require an audition, some a portfolio, and some require both. 

Portfolio / Audition + Artist Statement Requirements

It may take you some time to prepare these materials. You can find out more about preparing these creative and written materials by reaching out to your admissions contact or attending an event.

There are many ways to finance a CalArts education, and we encourage you to explore potential funding sources as you prepare your application.

Undergraduate (BFA) Financial Aid

Graduate (MFA, MA, DMA) Financial Aid

International Student Financial Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form typically opens in October. If you are a US citizen or eligible non-citizen, complete the FAFSA to be considered for the most financial aid possible.

The CalArts Office of Financial Aid is here to help. For additional assistance, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@calarts.edu.

Within the online application, you will:

• Upload your portfolio and/or plan your audition

• Upload unofficial transcripts showing all academic work

• Request at least two letters of recommendation be sent to CalArts

• We do not require the SAT, ACT, or GRE as part of your application

• If you are a transfer student, you should review our Transfer Applicant Guidelines

• If you are an international applicant, you should review our International Applicant Guidelines

Access Your Application

Request, gather, and submit these materials well in advance of the application deadline.

You’re almost there! Take a moment to make sure that all of the information in your application is correct and that you have uploaded the final versions of any audition, portfolio, or writing pieces. Then send it to us as soon as you are ready! We look forward to receiving your completed application.

Finish & Submit Your Application

Complete your online application form and attach all required materials.

You made it! Thank you for your patience as our faculty review committee considers your application and supporting materials. Applications often take several months to process.

Check Application Status

After you apply, you can check your application status at https://apply.calarts.edu/apply/status. If you have any missing materials be sure to send them to us.

You are also welcome to connect with us on social media or to subscribe to 24700 for news from CalArts.

Thank you for applying to CalArts!