QUICK ANSWER
CalArts is organised as six schools, and each programme sets its own portfolio. The clearest example is figure drawing. Character Animation requires at least 15 observational pieces including life drawing; Experimental Animation says figure and still-life drawings are generally not acceptable; BFA Art asks applicants to avoid routine life drawings and still lifes unless the approach is distinctly personal; Graphic Design asks for 20–30 slides showing a designer’s point of view.
Each programme is a separate application with its own fee, submitted only through CalArts’ own application; SlideRoom, PDFs and external links are not accepted. Choose the programme first, then build the portfolio.
SIX SCHOOLS · 1
Four Programmes, Four Portfolios
| Programme (school) | Portfolio | On figure drawing |
|---|---|---|
| Character Animation (Film/Video) | At least 15 observational pieces; filmed sketchbook up to 10 minutes | Required: life drawing from life, not photos |
| Experimental Animation (Film/Video) | Project-based work with written materials | Generally not acceptable, with landscape, still life and perspective drawings |
| Art (Art) | About 20 slides, preferably from the last three years; videos up to 7 minutes total | Avoid routine life drawings and still lifes unless distinctly personal |
| Graphic Design (Art) | 20–30 slides, preferably from the last three years; videos up to 7 minutes total | Not mentioned; shows point of view and technical ability |
From CalArts BFA admission requirement pages, checked October 2026.
SIX SCHOOLS · 2
What Every CalArts Application Shares
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application | One per programme, each with its own fee, through the CalArts Application only |
| Deadlines | Preferred December 1, 2026 ($65); regular January 5, 2027 ($85) |
| Video introduction | 30–90 seconds, speaking to camera, no edits or effects; a phone is fine |
| Artist statement | 500–1,000 words for Art and Graphic Design; Character Animation answers three set questions |
| Recommendations | Two, at least one from someone who knows your work |
| Cost of attendance | $90,455 (2026–27) |
From CalArts admission requirements, deadlines and cost of attendance pages, checked October 2026.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
A portfolio that leans on life drawing is an asset for Character Animation and a liability for Experimental Animation and BFA Art. Applying to two CalArts programmes means two portfolios. See CalArts vs USC for animation and the Experimental Animation guide (Korean).
SIX SCHOOLS · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CalArts want figure drawing?
It depends on the programme: required for Character Animation, generally not acceptable for Experimental Animation, and discouraged as routine work for BFA Art.
Can I apply to two CalArts programmes?
Yes, but each is a separate application with its own fee and portfolio.
Does CalArts use SlideRoom?
No. CalArts accepts portfolios only through its own application, not SlideRoom, PDFs or external links.
How long is the CalArts artist statement?
500–1,000 words for BFA Art and Graphic Design; Character Animation asks three specific questions.
How much does CalArts cost?
CalArts lists a 2026–27 cost of attendance of $90,455.
ROYAL BLUE ART & DESIGN
For 19 years we have prepared Korean students for U.S. art schools from our studio in Apgujeong, Seoul. Our public record lists 1,099 acceptances confirmed directly with students, including 15 at CalArts. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From CalArts BFA admission requirements (Character Animation, Experimental Animation, Art, Graphic Design), application deadlines and fees, and cost of attendance. Royal Blue figures from our results record (2009–2026). Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: CalArts vs USC · Experimental Animation (Korean) · CalArts Questions · CalArts Faculty · Royal Blue Results