QUICK ANSWER
The fastest way to spot weak academy marketing is to check it against the schools’ current rules. An academy that still advertises the Parsons Challenge, the RISD home test or TOEFL 93 for RISD is working from old information, whatever its results claims say.
Other warning signs are promises no one can keep, such as guaranteed admission, and numbers with no base or date. A careful family can check most of them in an afternoon.
RED FLAG · 1
Outdated-Rule Red Flags
| If marketing says | What the school says now |
|---|---|
| “We prepare the Parsons Challenge.” | Parsons now asks for 8–12 pieces and two essays of 300–400 words |
| “RISD home test practice.” | RISD’s first-year requirements are a portfolio, the Common App essay and a recommendation |
| “TOEFL 93 for RISD.” | RISD now states its minimum as 5 on the new TOEFL scale |
| “Apply to CCA in 2027.” | CCA will close at the end of 2026–27 |
| “Use AI to finish your portfolio.” | SVA does not accept AI-generated work; RISD and Parsons ask you to describe AI use |
From the official pages of Parsons, RISD, SVA and CCA, checked October 2026.
RED FLAG · 2
Claims-Based Red Flags
- Guaranteed admission. No academy controls admissions decisions.
- Rates without counts. “90% acceptance” means nothing without the number of students and years.
- Summer programmes presented as admissions. RISD Pre-College has no portfolio requirement, so a place there is not a RISD admission.
- Unverifiable stories. Named success stories without consent or detail cannot be checked.
- Fees not posted. Under Korea’s Academies Act, registered academies must display their tuition.
FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
Bring this list to every academy visit. An academy with real experience will welcome the questions. See five tests for acceptance claims and contract and refund checks.
RED FLAG · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Parsons still have the Parsons Challenge?
No. Parsons asks for 8–12 pieces and two essays of 300–400 words.
Does RISD still have a home test?
RISD’s current first-year requirements are a portfolio, the Common App essay and a recommendation.
Can an academy guarantee admission?
No. Admissions decisions are made by the schools.
Is a RISD Pre-College place a sign of RISD admission?
No. RISD Pre-College states that it has no admission tests or portfolio requirements.
Must Korean academies post their fees?
Yes. Under the Academies Act, registered academies must display their tuition.
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.
From the official pages of Parsons, RISD, RISD Pre-College, SVA and CCA, and Korea’s Academies Act. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: Checking Acceptance Claims · Contract and Refund Checks · 8 Admissions Mistakes · RISD Questions · Royal Blue Results