QUICK ANSWER
The fact to settle before applying to CalArts is the total cost. CalArts lists a 2026–27 cost of attendance of $90,455. Four years at that rate would be about $361,820, before any increase, award or loan. Housing in that budget is $8,304; the meal plan is 10 meals a week for $4,550, and on-campus housing in Chouinard and Ahmanson halls is assigned by lottery.
In our record CalArts acceptances are few (15), so we publish no award rate. Ask CalArts directly what merit or need-based aid it offers international students, and compare offers on cost after aid.
COST OF ATTENDANCE · 1
What the $90,455 Includes
| Item | 2026–27 |
|---|---|
| Cost of attendance | $90,455 |
| Housing component | $8,304 |
| Meal plan | 10 meals a week, $4,550 |
| Housing | Lottery; application window March 13 – May 31; Chouinard and Ahmanson halls |
| Four years at the current rate | About $361,820 (our multiplication; excludes increases) |
From CalArts cost of attendance and housing pages, checked October 2026.
COST OF ATTENDANCE · 2
Applying, Briefly
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application | One per programme, each with its own fee; CalArts Application only, no SlideRoom |
| Deadlines | Preferred December 1, 2026 ($65); regular January 5, 2027 ($85) |
| Who decides | Programme faculty decide artistic acceptance; Admissions then reviews academics and English |
| Portfolio | Programme-specific; see our guide to CalArts’ four portfolios |
From CalArts admissions FAQs and requirement pages, checked October 2026.
FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
Put the four-year figure next to offers from schools that fund our students more often, such as Otis (82%) or MICA (80%). See CalArts’ four portfolios, CalArts housing and CalArts vs Otis.
COST OF ATTENDANCE · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does CalArts cost?
CalArts lists a 2026–27 cost of attendance of $90,455; four years at that rate is about $361,820.
Is housing guaranteed at CalArts?
On-campus housing is assigned by lottery, with an application window from March 13 to May 31.
What does the CalArts meal plan cost?
10 meals a week for $4,550.
When are the CalArts deadlines?
Preferred December 1, 2026 ($65 fee); regular January 5, 2027 ($85).
Who reviews CalArts portfolios?
Programme faculty decide artistic acceptance; Admissions then reviews academics and English.
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 cost of attendance, housing, admissions FAQ and application deadline pages. 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 Programs · CalArts Housing · CalArts vs Otis · CalArts Cost (Korean) · Royal Blue Results