QUICK ANSWER
Before applying to CCA, know that a four-year CCA degree is no longer possible for new students. California College of the Arts announced on January 13, 2026 that it will wind down after the 2026–27 academic year. Students on track to graduate by then can earn CCA degrees; CCA is working on transfer and teach-out pathways for the rest.
Vanderbilt University agreed to acquire the campus and plans a San Francisco branch from 2027–28, pending regulatory approvals, expecting about 1,000 students. It will also operate the Wattis Institute and maintain CCA’s archives. That branch is a Vanderbilt operation, not a continuation of a CCA degree.
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What the Closure Means
| Who | What applies |
|---|---|
| Prospective first-years | No four-year CCA degree; apply elsewhere for 2027 |
| Students finishing by 2026–27 | Can earn CCA degrees |
| Other current students | Transfer or teach-out pathways arranged by CCA |
| International students | A transfer needs the SEVIS record moved to the new school; see CCA’s student FAQ |
| The campus from 2027–28 | Planned Vanderbilt San Francisco branch, pending approvals |
From Higher Ed Dive (January 14, 2026) and CCA’s transition FAQ, checked October 2026.
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CCA in Our Record, as History
| CCA | |
|---|---|
| Acceptances, 2009–2026 | 50 |
| With an award | 24 (48%) |
| Average award | $57,167 |
Royal Blue results record, 2009–2026, confirmed directly with each student. Kept as a historical record.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
If CCA was on your list, the nearest comparisons in our record are Otis (82% funded) and CalArts. See California options after CCA and the CCA 2027 closure guide (Korean).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to CCA for fall 2027?
A four-year CCA degree is not possible; CCA winds down after 2026–27.
What happens to current CCA students?
Those on track to graduate by the end of 2026–27 earn CCA degrees; CCA is arranging transfer and teach-out pathways for others.
Is Vanderbilt continuing CCA?
Vanderbilt agreed to acquire the campus and plans a San Francisco branch from 2027–28, pending approvals; it is a Vanderbilt operation.
What do international students need to do to transfer?
Arrange a SEVIS record transfer to the new school, following CCA’s student FAQ and the new school’s instructions.
How did CCA fund your students?
24 of our 50 CCA admits (48%) received an award, averaging $57,167.
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 50 at CCA. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From Higher Ed Dive (January 14, 2026) and CCA’s transition FAQ. 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: California After CCA · CCA Closure Guide (Korean) · Otis Guide · CalArts vs Otis · Royal Blue Results