QUICK ANSWER
MICA’s first-year application is simpler than most: a portfolio of 10–15 pieces with no set prompts and no home exam, uploaded to the Applicant Portal after you apply. SAT and ACT are optional, recommendation letters are optional but described as important, and the preferred filing date for Fall 2027 is February 1, 2027.
Because there are no prompts, every piece is your choice. The details MICA gives about documenting work matter more than usual.
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Application Checklist
| Item | MICA requirement |
|---|---|
| Portfolio | 10–15 pieces; no prompts or home exam; upload through the Applicant Portal after applying |
| File types | Image, sound and video files accepted |
| Captions | Do not put titles or descriptions in the images; add them in the portal |
| Recommendations | Optional; MICA says letters from teachers or counsellors who know your art and academic work are important |
| SAT / ACT | Optional (SAT code 5399, ACT code 1710) |
| English | TOEFL 4 (72 before Jan 21, 2026), IELTS 6.0, PTE 58 or Duolingo 105 |
| English waiver | SAT English 470, ACT English 18, or two full years of study in English |
| Fall 2027 date | Preferred filing date February 1, 2027 |
From MICA’s Undergraduate Admission and first-year Portfolio Preparation pages, checked October 2026. Check MICA’s international pages for Early Decision or Early Action dates.
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Documenting 10–15 Pieces Well
- Remove older or unfinished work. MICA asks for this directly.
- Photograph clearly. Well lit, against a neutral background.
- Show installations and performances in context. Document time-based work as it was meant to be seen, using video where needed.
- Keep text out of the images. Use the portal’s fields for titles, media and descriptions.
- Choose a range you can explain. With no prompts, the selection itself shows your interests.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
MICA’s 10–15 range sits between Parsons (8–12) and RISD (12–20), so a portfolio built for RISD can usually be cut down for MICA. Ask a teacher who knows your art for a letter even though it is optional. For cost, structure and funding, see our MICA guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many pieces does MICA want?
10–15 pieces of artwork, with no set prompts.
Does MICA have a home exam?
No. MICA says no home exam is required for first-year applicants.
Are recommendation letters required?
They are optional, but MICA describes letters from people who know your art and academic work as important.
Is the SAT required for MICA?
No. SAT and ACT are optional, though they can waive the English test requirement.
When should I apply to MICA for Fall 2027?
The preferred filing date is February 1, 2027. Check MICA’s international pages for earlier rounds.
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 Undergraduate Admission and Portfolio Preparation pages. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: MICA Guide · Parsons Portfolio Guide · 8 Admissions Mistakes · Copying Sample Portfolios · Royal Blue Results