QUICK ANSWER
What art schools look for has not changed much since 2025: original work, visible process, and writing in the applicant’s own voice. The rules around it have. For the 2027 cycle, TOEFL has a new 1–6 scale, schools have written explicit AI rules, Parsons has replaced the Parsons Challenge with a standard portfolio and two essays, and CCA is closing.
An application built on 2025 advice can therefore be wrong in its details even if its idea is right. Here are five changes to check before submitting.
2027 CYCLE · 1
Five Changes for the 2027 Cycle
| Change | What it means |
|---|---|
| TOEFL 1–6 scale (from January 2026) | Minimums are now quoted in both scales: RISD 5, Pratt 92 or 5, FIT 4 with each section at 4 |
| Written AI rules | Pratt bans AI writing tools in its essay; SVA does not accept AI-generated work; RISD and USC require disclosure; PNCA rejects AI-generated images |
| Parsons portfolio | The Parsons Challenge is gone: 8–12 pieces and two essays of 300–400 words |
| CCA closure | CCA winds down after 2026–27; no four-year entry for 2027 |
| Korea’s Hongik | The 2027 미술우수자 track has no practical drawing test |
From each school’s official pages and Hongik’s 2027 admissions plan, checked October 2026.
2027 CYCLE · 2
What Has Not Changed
- Original work. RISD still discourages master copies, fan art and drawing from photographs.
- Observation. Pratt still asks for 3–5 works from direct observation; ArtCenter Illustration asks for 8–12 live figure drawings.
- Process. RISD accepts up to 3 process uploads; ArtCenter asks to see research and sketches.
- Your own writing. The essay must be the applicant’s own; PNCA, for example, requires it to be written entirely by the applicant.
FOR KOREAN STUDENTS
If an academy is still teaching the Parsons Challenge or quoting TOEFL 93 for RISD, its information predates these changes. See red flags in academy marketing and the TOEFL guide.
2027 CYCLE · 3
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Parsons Challenge still required?
No. Parsons now asks for 8–12 pieces and two essays of 300–400 words.
What TOEFL score does RISD need now?
5 on the new 1–6 scale, or IELTS 7 or Duolingo 120.
Can I use AI in my application?
Rules differ: Pratt bans AI writing tools in its essay, SVA does not accept AI-generated work, and RISD and USC require you to disclose AI use.
Can I still apply to CCA?
Not for a four-year degree from 2027; CCA winds down after 2026–27.
What has not changed?
Schools still want original work, observation where they ask for it, visible process and your own writing.
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 RISD, Pratt, FIT, SVA, USC Cinematic Arts, PNCA, Parsons, ArtCenter and CCA, and Hongik University’s 2027 admissions plan. Checked October 2026. If something here has changed, tell us and we will correct it.
Related reading: Red Flags in Academy Marketing · TOEFL Guide 2026 · Beyond the Portfolio · CCA Closure Guide · Royal Blue Results