QUICK ANSWER
A strong art school list balances three things at once: chance of admission, chance of funding, and total cost. The numbers differ widely. Fall 2024 IPEDS admission rates run from 18.66% at RISD to 92.64% at SVA; in our record the share of admits with an award runs from 6% at RISD to 84% at MassArt; and 2026–27 tuition runs from $42,975 at SCAD to $66,460 at RISD.
A list built on admission rate alone can end with offers the family cannot afford. Build it in four steps.
THE LIST · 1
Four Steps
- Fit first. Shortlist schools whose portfolio rules match the student’s work, for example observational drawing at Pratt and SVA, or idea-led work at CalArts.
- Spread by admission rate. Include schools across the range, using dated figures.
- Spread by funding pattern. Include schools that fund often, not only those that fund rarely.
- Check total cost. Compare cost of attendance, not tuition alone.
THE LIST · 2
The Same Schools on Three Measures
| School | Admission rate (IPEDS, fall 2024) | Royal Blue admits with an award | Tuition 2026–27 |
|---|---|---|---|
| RISD | 18.66% | 6% (4 of 68) | $66,460 |
| CalArts | 32.34% | 44% (7 of 16) | $62,954 |
| MICA | 76.79% | 80% (51 of 64) | $58,310 |
| SCAD | 82.98% | 81% (34 of 42) | $42,975 |
| SVA | 92.64% | 29% (41 of 140) | $55,270 |
From IPEDS (fall 2024), each school’s 2026–27 tuition page and the Royal Blue results record (2009–2026).
Two patterns stand out. A high admission rate does not mean easy funding: SVA admits most applicants but funded 29% of ours. And the most selective school in this table funded the fewest. A balanced list includes at least one school that is likely to admit and likely to fund.
FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
Set a cost ceiling before applying to binding Early Decision. See researching schools at the source and dated admission rates.
THE LIST · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
How many schools should be on an art school list?
Enough to cover a range of admission rates and funding patterns; fit comes first.
Is a school with a high admission rate a safe choice?
For admission, often; for funding, not necessarily. SVA funded 29% of our admits.
Which schools funded Royal Blue students most often?
MassArt (84%), Otis (82%), SCAD (81%) and MICA (80%).
Should I compare tuition or total cost?
Total cost of attendance, including housing, fees and insurance.
Where do admission rates come from?
Federal IPEDS data or the school’s own reports; always note the year.
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. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From IPEDS (fall 2024), RISD, CalArts, MICA, SCAD and SVA 2026–27 tuition pages, and the Royal Blue results record (2009–2026). Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: Researching Schools · Hardest Art Schools · Our Record Explained · Beyond Rankings · Royal Blue Results