QUICK ANSWER
MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art) in Baltimore combines three things that matter to Korean families. It starts every student in a foundation-level First Year Experience, its English minimum is lower than SVA’s, Pratt’s or RISD’s, and in our record it funds most of the students it admits: 51 of 64 Royal Blue admits (80%) received an award, averaging $54,290 (n=51).
The 2026–27 cost of attendance on campus is $86,436, including tuition of $58,310.
MOUNT ROYAL AVE · 1
How a MICA Degree Is Structured
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| First Year Experience (FYE) | A foundation-level exploratory art and design programme building practical and conceptual skills, digital literacy and visual communication |
| Make Cool Stuff Lab | An FYE maker space with 3D printers and laser cutters for learning digital fabrication |
| Choosing a major | Students explore in the first year and usually confirm a major by March 1, before sophomore registration |
| Staying undeclared | Possible until the second semester of sophomore year, though it may delay graduation |
| Double major | GPA of 3.0 or higher at declaration; one BFA; two years of senior thesis work |
From MICA’s First Year Experience and Declaring & Changing Majors pages, checked October 2026.
MOUNT ROYAL AVE · 2
Cost and Funding
| Item | 2026–27 |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $58,310 |
| Fees | $2,185 (student life $1,375; technology $810) |
| Housing | $13,000 |
| Food | $8,436 |
| Cost of attendance (on campus) | $86,436 |
From MICA’s Undergraduate Cost of Attendance, 2026–27.
| School | Our admits | With an award | Average award |
|---|---|---|---|
| MICA | 64 | 51 (80%) | $54,290 (n=51) |
| SAIC | 81 | 56 (69%) | $46,775 (n=56) |
| Parsons | 63 | 38 (60%) | $53,116 (n=38) |
| Pratt | 102 | 40 (39%) | $67,638 (n=40) |
Royal Blue results record, 2009–2026, all majors combined. Award rates are shares of our admits, not admission rates.
FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
MICA’s English minimum is TOEFL 4 on the new scale (72 before January 21, 2026), IELTS 6.0 or Duolingo 105, and it can be waived with SAT English 470 or ACT English 18. With its award rate in our record, MICA is a strong school to anchor a list that also includes lower-award schools. Our MICA application checklist covers the portfolio and documents.
MOUNT ROYAL AVE · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
When do MICA students choose a major?
After exploring in the First Year Experience; majors are usually confirmed by March 1 of the first year.
How much does MICA cost in 2026–27?
The on-campus cost of attendance is $86,436, including tuition of $58,310.
Does MICA give scholarships to international students?
In our record, 51 of 64 MICA admits received an award, averaging $54,290 (n=51).
What English score does MICA require?
TOEFL 4 on the new scale (72 on the old scale), IELTS 6.0, PTE 58 or Duolingo 105, with waivers for SAT English 470 or ACT English 18.
Can I double major at MICA?
Yes, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher at declaration and two years of senior thesis work.
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 64 at MICA. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From MICA’s First Year Experience, Declaring & Changing Majors, Undergraduate Admission and Cost of Attendance pages (2026–27). 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: MICA Application Checklist · Lessons from Our Record · QS Rankings vs Funding · Debt and Art School · Royal Blue Results