Financial aid for international students is very limited and highly competitive. Since they are not eligible for federal or state financial assistance, international students are eligible only for CalArts scholarship funding, if they qualify.

We encourage international students to be fully prepared to fund their education and living expenses for the entire length of their time at CalArts. International students coming to the U.S. on a student visa are expected to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds available to them to support their living costs as well as their educational expenses while in the U.S. It is very important that international applicants plan for their overall financial needs for the entire length of the program.

There is no separate scholarship application for international students; CalArts scholarships are determined by the School based on a review of admission materials. 

Tuition Payment Plan

CalArts offers a payment plan through Tuition Management Systems that allows students to divide their tuition (and on-campus housing) payments into monthly installments. The payment option is available for a small enrollment fee and includes personal account service, automated account information 24 hours a day and access to your account through their website.

Other Resources

The best source of financial assistance for international students is often in their home country. Most grants, scholarships, and loans from public and private sources in the United States are restricted to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Therefore, students should make every effort to identify potential funding sources before coming to the United States.