QUICK ANSWER
Getting into MICA is a portfolio-first process with few extra hurdles. MICA asks for 10–15 works and states there are no prompts and no home exam. Applicants apply through the Common App ($60) or the free MICA Application and upload the portfolio to the MICA Applicant Portal. Early Action is November 16, 2026; Regular Decision is February 1, 2027, with applications accepted on a rolling basis after that.
MICA also says a well-curated portfolio can increase both the chance of admission and merit scholarships, so curation is the single most important step.
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MICA Application Checklist, Fall 2027
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application | Common App ($60) or MICA Application (free) |
| Portfolio | 10–15 works via the Applicant Portal; no prompts, no home exam |
| Deadlines | Early Action November 16, 2026; Regular Decision February 1, 2027; rolling afterwards |
| Portfolio timing | A two-day grace period after the application deadline |
| Recommendations | Optional, though MICA calls them important |
| AI | No admissions statement on AI was found on MICA’s undergraduate pages |
From MICA undergraduate admissions and portfolio pages, checked September–October 2026.
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Curating 10–15 Works
- Open with your strongest work. Put the pieces you most want seen at the start.
- Show range inside a direction. Several media, one recognisable voice.
- Include drawing. MICA’s Illustration major, for example, requires Life Drawing in the curriculum.
- Leave out weak pieces. Ten strong works beat fifteen uneven ones.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
In our record MICA admitted 64 of our students and funded 51 (80%). Because the portfolio also drives merit, apply by Early Action if the work is ready. See MICA for Korean students and RISD vs MICA.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many works does MICA want?
10–15, with no set prompts and no home exam.
When is MICA Early Action?
November 16, 2026, for fall 2027 entry.
Is there a fee to apply to MICA?
The MICA Application is free; the Common App fee is $60.
Does the portfolio affect scholarships at MICA?
Yes. MICA says a well-curated portfolio can increase admission chances and merit scholarships.
Are recommendations required?
They are optional, though MICA describes them as important.
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, including 64 at MICA. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From MICA undergraduate admissions, portfolio and academic catalogue pages. 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 for Korean Students · RISD vs MICA · Parsons vs MICA · RISD Portfolio · Royal Blue Results