Key information about undergraduate admissions:

Beginning Fall 2009 all incoming students will be required to purchase a mac laptop computer. The UIC bookstore has the current specs. Accepted students should watch the bookstore web site, MicroStation, for changes as new computers and software become available. All students must also purchase Adobe CS4 Design Premium. The software is available through the bookstore at a discounted price.

Applications are submitted to the UIC Admissions office. Applications are available online. A written statement of intent indicating Art or Design as an area of interest. Please do not sumbit a portfolio as they will not be reviewed. All timelines are established by the Admissions office.


All students are admitted to the Art Foundation program. At the end of the first year (generally in late April) a portfolio review is held. Each student must pass the review for the area in which they wish to major. Once they have done so, they will then enter into the sequence of courses required for the specific major.

Those interested in the School of Art and Design are encouraged to attend preview days which are sponsored by the Admissions Dept. Staff from Art and Design will be present.

Freshmen:
Admission is based on a combination of things: ACT/SAT score, high school GPA, class rank, personal statement and recommendation letters.

Transfer students:
Admission is based on GPA from transfer institution, personal statement, and recommendation letters.

Transfer students will be given a Degree Audit Report at orientation which will explain what courses are being accepted for credit. This review will not take place prior to that time.

Students who have completed a minimum of four(of six) of the first year program courses (Graphic Design I, Industrial Design I, Photo I, Drawing I, Sculpture I and Time Based Visual Arts) will be notified about the option of a summer portfolio review.

Once accepted, students should carefully read each piece of correspondence they receive. There are several things that will need to be returned to UIC to be fully admitted and to reserve a place at an orientation session.

Inter-collegiate transfers:
Anyone who is presently a student at UIC and wishing to transfer to the School of Art and Design must complete an application form. (These are available in 208 Jefferson Hall) Admission is based on GPA, no portfolio will be reviewed. The minimum GPA is a 2.75.