QUICK ANSWER
Whether Kyewon School of the Arts (계원예고, Seongnam) or any Korean arts high school is “preparing you for the U.S.” depends less on its art classes than on the documents it can give you. U.S. art schools need records they can read, recommendations from people who know your work, and, for many, approved translations of anything not in English.
Most of these are simple if requested early and difficult if requested in November of the final year. This page lists what to ask your school for, and when.
PAPERWORK · 1
Documents U.S. Applications Need From Your School
| Document | What schools say |
|---|---|
| Transcript | Required for applications; RISD requires documents not in English to be translated by an approved translator |
| Teacher recommendation | RISD requires 1 (accepts up to 3); CalArts animation programmes ask for 2; MICA calls letters optional but important |
| Proof of English study | RISD can waive its English test after three consecutive full-time years at an English-medium secondary school |
| Graduation proof | First-year applicants need a diploma or equivalent before starting (RISD) |
From RISD’s first-year and international applicant pages, CalArts programme requirements and MICA’s admission page, checked October 2026.
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A Timeline for Requests
- Second year, spring: Ask the school office how it issues English transcripts and how long translation takes.
- Second year, end: Identify one or two art teachers who know your work well and ask whether they can write in English or work with a translator.
- Final year, September: Give recommenders your school list, deadlines and a short summary of your portfolio.
- Final year, before November 1: Have transcripts and translations ready for RISD Early Decision or Pratt Early Action on November 15.
- After graduation: Request final transcripts and graduation documents for the school you choose.
FOR KYEWON AND OTHER 예고 FAMILIES
The art training at a Korean arts high school builds skills U.S. schools ask for, especially observation. The paperwork is where many families lose time. Start early, keep copies, and check each school’s own instructions. See also questions to ask arts high schools and Seoul vs Gyeonggi arts high schools.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do U.S. art schools accept Korean-language transcripts?
Check each school. RISD requires documents not in English to be translated by an approved translator.
How many recommendations do I need?
RISD requires 1 and accepts up to 3; CalArts animation programmes ask for 2; MICA calls them optional but important.
Can my Korean art teacher write my recommendation?
Yes, a teacher who knows your work is usually the best choice; plan for English or translation early.
When should I request documents?
Start in the second year and have them ready before the first deadlines in November.
Is Kyewon better or worse than other arts high schools for U.S. applications?
U.S. schools publish no preference between Korean high schools; the same requirements apply to every applicant.
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 at 95 schools. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
Requirements from RISD’s first-year and international applicant pages, CalArts programme pages and MICA’s admission page. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: Seoul Arts vs Sunhwa · Seoul vs Gyeonggi Arts High Schools · 예고 and U.S. Applications · Gap Year Before U.S. Art School · Royal Blue Results