QUICK ANSWER
CalArts has a high sticker price, but in our record its listed awards have also been large. Our results list 16 CalArts acceptances (2015–2026); 7 list a scholarship, averaging $86,857 (n=7), and every listed award since 2021 has been $88,000 or more except one of $12,000.
For fall 2027, apply by December 1, 2026 (preferred, reduced fee) or January 5, 2027 (regular). Every applicant is considered for merit awards automatically.
VALENCIA NOTES · 1
Key Facts for Fall 2027
| Item | CalArts rule |
|---|---|
| Preferred deadline | December 1, 2026 · $65 fee · not early decision |
| Regular deadline | January 5, 2027 · $85 fee · rolling after, until each program closes |
| Spring 2027 | October 15, 2026, select programs only |
| English (BFA) | TOEFL iBT 4 (tests from Jan 21, 2026) or 80 before, IELTS 6.5, PTE 53, Duolingo 105 |
| SAT/ACT | Not required |
| Cost, 2026–27 | Tuition $62,954; cost of attendance $90,455 |
| Scholarships | Merit-based; all applicants considered, no separate form |
From CalArts application deadlines, international applicants and cost pages, checked October 2026.
VALENCIA NOTES · 2
Each Program Reads the Portfolio Differently
- BFA Art guidance tells applicants to avoid routine life drawing and still lifes. Work driven by your own questions matters more.
- Film/Video asks for about 10 minutes of finished work, including at least one piece you shot yourself, with a 500–1,000-word statement.
- Animation programs add a 30–90 second video introduction.
- Apply to more than one program only if you can meet each set of rules; each application carries its own fee.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
Target the December 1 date. It costs less, and the full file is in early.
Plan the finance document early. After enrolling, international students submit a Declaration of Finances covering at least one year at the off-campus cost of attendance.
Compare like for like. See CalArts vs USC Animation and who can apply to top film schools.
VALENCIA NOTES · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
What are CalArts deadlines for fall 2027?
Preferred December 1, 2026 and regular January 5, 2027, with rolling review after that until programs close.
What TOEFL score does CalArts require?
For BFA applicants, 4 on the new scale (tests from January 21, 2026) or 80 before. IELTS 6.5 and Duolingo 105 also qualify.
Do international students get CalArts scholarships?
Yes. Merit awards are open to international students, and every applicant is considered automatically.
How much does CalArts cost?
Tuition is $62,954 in 2026–27, with a cost of attendance of $90,455.
Should my CalArts art portfolio include life drawing?
CalArts BFA Art guidance tells applicants to avoid routine life drawing and still lifes.
ROYAL BLUE ART & DESIGN
Our director has taught Korean students for U.S. art schools for 19 years, from our studio in Apgujeong, Seoul. Our results page lists 1,099 acceptances, 2009–2026, each confirmed directly with the student, including 16 at CalArts. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From CalArts application deadlines and fees, international applicants, cost of attendance and program portfolio 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 vs USC Animation · Top Film Schools · UCLA vs CalArts MFA · ArtCenter for Korean Students · Royal Blue Results