QUICK ANSWER
RISD and OCAD University differ in more than price. They ask for different portfolios on different calendars. RISD wants 12–20 pieces with some direct observation, with Early Decision on November 1 and Regular Decision on January 20. OCAD U asks most programmes for 8–10 finished pieces plus process work, with applications through Ontario’s OUAC by February 1, 2027 and portfolios by February 10.
On cost, RISD’s 2026–27 tuition is $66,460 and it made awards to only 4 of our 68 admits. OCAD U charges international undergraduates CAD 6,049.64 per credit for 2026–27. The two can be applied to in the same year without conflict.
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Side by Side
| RISD | OCAD University | |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio | 12–20 recent works; some drawing or painting from direct observation; up to 3 process uploads | Most programmes: 8–10 examples of finished work plus process work such as a sketchbook; about 50 words per piece |
| Writing | Common App essay (up to 650 words); 1 recommendation | Statement of intent, up to 300 words |
| Application | Common App; portfolio via SlideRoom | OUAC (international applicants apply as “105” applicants); portfolio via SlideRoom |
| Deadlines | Early Decision Nov 1; Regular Jan 20 | Applications Feb 1, 2027; portfolio Feb 10, 2027; decisions from March 2027 |
| Tuition | $66,460 (2026–27) | CAD 6,049.64 per credit for new international students (2026–27) |
From RISD’s first-year application page and Student Financial Services, and OCAD U’s admissions guide, high school applicant page and 2026–27 international tuition schedule, checked October 2026.
OCAD U charges by credit, so the annual figure depends on course load. A student taking 5.0 credits in a year would pay about CAD 30,248 in tuition, before levies and fees; that is our calculation from the published rate, not an OCAD U figure.
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What Our Record Shows
RISD appears 68 times in our record of 1,099 acceptances. Only 4 of those admits received an award, so we report no average (n=4). A RISD offer should usually be planned at close to full cost. OCAD U does not appear as a tracked line in our record, so we publish no figure for it.
FOR KOREAN FAMILIES
Because the calendars do not overlap, one portfolio can serve both: build 12–20 pieces for RISD in the autumn, then select 8–10 with process work for OCAD U in February. Remember that OCAD U asks for process material and short descriptions, which RISD treats as optional. After graduation, Canada’s PGWP is open to bachelor’s graduates in any field, subject to an English CLB 7 requirement. See our University of Alberta guide for another Canadian route.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many portfolio pieces does OCAD U want?
Most programmes ask for 8–10 examples of finished work plus process work. Design and Digital Futures have additional guidelines.
When is OCAD U’s deadline for Fall 2027?
Applications by February 1, 2027 for most applicants, portfolios by February 10, and transcripts and language tests by March 1.
How much does OCAD U cost for international students?
CAD 6,049.64 per credit for new international undergraduates in 2026–27; the yearly total depends on course load.
Does RISD give scholarships to international students?
In our record only 4 of 68 RISD admits received an award, too few to report an average.
Can I apply to both RISD and OCAD U?
Yes. The deadlines fall at different times, and the same body of work can be edited for each.
ROYAL BLUE ART & DESIGN
For 19 years we have prepared Korean students for U.S. and Canadian art schools from our studio in Apgujeong, Seoul. Our public record lists 1,099 acceptances confirmed directly with students, including 68 at RISD. We help students plan one body of work for both calendars. Call 02-3446-5929 or book a consultation.
RISD requirements, deadlines and tuition from RISD (2026–27); OCAD U requirements, deadlines and tuition from OCAD U admissions and Student Accounts (2026–27); PGWP from IRCC. 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: RISD Housing 2026–27 · University of Alberta (Korean) · Canada Art Schools (Korean) · Questions Before Committing · Royal Blue Results