QUICK ANSWER
Northwestern and Parsons answer different questions. Northwestern is a research university where studio art is one major among many, taught as a BA (Art Theory and Practice) inside a broad liberal-arts degree. Parsons is a design school where most of the degree is studio and design work, entered through a portfolio of 8–12 pieces and two 300–400-word essays.
Cost and funding differ too. Northwestern’s 2026–27 tuition, fees and standard room and board add up to $96,003; Parsons tuition is $62,348 before housing, and in our record Parsons funded 60% of admits through merit awards.
EVANSTON / NEW YORK · 1
University BA vs Design-School BFA
| Northwestern | Parsons | |
|---|---|---|
| Degree | BA, Art Theory and Practice (within Weinberg College) | BFA programmes in art, design and fashion |
| Admission | Application to the university; check current arts supplement guidance | Portfolio of 8–12 pieces and two Parsons essays |
| Testing | Test-optional (per Northwestern’s FAQ for the 2025–26 cycle); English test required for non-native speakers | Check The New School’s testing page for your year |
| 2026–27 cost | Tuition $71,802; with fees and standard room and board $96,003 | Tuition $62,348 (two semesters) |
| Funding | Meets need for eligible undergraduates without loans | Merit considered for international students; 60% of our admits funded |
From Northwestern news (2026–27 tuition), Northwestern admissions FAQ and Parsons How to Apply and tuition pages, checked October 2026.
EVANSTON / NEW YORK · 2
Who Fits Where
A student who wants art alongside serious study in another field, such as computer science or economics, may fit a university BA. A student who wants to spend most of the day in the studio and leave with a professional portfolio fits a design school. Neither path is “better”; they lead to different kinds of graduates.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
A university application weighs the whole academic record, so plan both tracks early. See Parsons for Korean students and the Parsons application process.
EVANSTON / NEW YORK · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Northwestern offer a BFA?
Its studio major is a BA in Art Theory and Practice within the liberal-arts college.
How much does Northwestern cost in 2026–27?
Tuition $71,802; with fees and standard room and board, $96,003.
Does Northwestern require the SAT?
Its testing FAQ, written for the 2025–26 cycle, says it is test-optional; confirm for your year.
Which is better for a design career?
Parsons is built around studio and professional design work; Northwestern combines art with broad study.
Does Parsons fund international students?
Parsons considers international students for merit; 60% of our Parsons admits received an award.
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 63 at Parsons. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
From Northwestern’s 2026–27 tuition announcement and admissions FAQ, and Parsons How to Apply and tuition 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: Parsons for Korean Students · Parsons Application Process · Building a School List · Studying Art in the U.S. · Royal Blue Results