Korean students preparing for US art school need to know exactly what test scores top art schools require — which are mandatory, which are optional, and which are irrelevant. This post provides a clear, specific breakdown of test score requirements across the major US art school programs.
What Test Scores Top Art Schools Require: TOEFL vs SAT/ACT
For Korean international students, there are effectively two categories of test scores:
English proficiency tests (TOEFL or IELTS): Required at virtually every major US art school for students whose primary language is not English. This is non-negotiable — a score below the minimum disqualifies an applicant regardless of portfolio quality.
SAT/ACT: Test-optional at most US art schools, test-blind at CalArts. These tests are relevant primarily for US domestic students and for Korean students who also plan to apply to academic universities.
TOEFL Requirements by School
| School | Minimum TOEFL iBT | IELTS Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RISD | 93 | 7.0 | Duolingo also accepted (120) |
| Parsons (The New School) | 92 | 7.0 | — |
| CalArts | No fixed minimum | No fixed minimum | Proof of proficiency required |
| SVA | 80 | 6.5 | — |
| Pratt | 80 | 6.0 | — |
| Cooper Union | 80 | 6.5 | — |
| MICA | 80 | 6.5 | — |
| SAIC | 79 | 6.5 | — |
The most important number for RISD applicants: 93 on the TOEFL iBT. This is the most demanding TOEFL requirement of any major US art school. Most Korean students need 3 to 6 months of dedicated TOEFL preparation to reach 93 consistently.
CalArts’ unusual position: CalArts requires proof of English proficiency but does not specify a minimum score. In practice, a TOEFL iBT of 80 or above is generally sufficient.
SAT/ACT Requirements by School
| School | SAT/ACT Policy | Typical Range (if submitted) |
|---|---|---|
| RISD | Test-optional | SAT 1370–1540 (middle 50%) |
| Parsons | Test-optional | Not consistently reported |
| CalArts | Test-blind (not considered) | N/A |
| SVA | Test-optional | Not required or emphasized |
| Pratt | Test-optional | Not required or emphasized |
| Cooper Union | Test-optional | — |
| MICA | Test-optional | — |
| SAIC | Test-optional | — |
Key takeaway: SAT/ACT scores are optional at every major art school and not considered at CalArts. TOEFL is required everywhere. Korean students should allocate preparation time accordingly.
The RISD Hometest: Not a “Test Score” but a Critical Requirement
The RISD Hometest is neither a standardized test nor a GPA component — but it functions as one of the most important evaluation instruments in RISD’s admissions process. It is a timed, at-home observational drawing assignment that changes annually:
- Part 1: Draw the space in front of you (1 hour)
- Part 2: Draw your hand holding an object (1 hour)
Both parts are submitted as part of the portfolio. The Hometest evaluates observational drawing ability directly and cannot be curated or polished after the fact. Students who have not specifically practiced timed observational drawing in the Hometest format are at a significant disadvantage.
For Korean students applying to RISD, the Hometest deserves as much specific preparation as the portfolio itself.
The Parsons Challenge: A Different Kind of Requirement
The Parsons Challenge is not a standardized test but a mandatory application component that functions similarly:
- Choose one portfolio piece
- Create a new visual work inspired by it
- Write a 500-word essay describing your creative process
This component tests design thinking, creative development, and English writing ability simultaneously. It requires specific preparation — not just a strong portfolio.
Preparation Timeline for Korean Students
| Test/Requirement | When to Start | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL | End of 10th grade | 3–6 months |
| Portfolio | Beginning of 10th grade | 18–24 months |
| RISD Hometest prep | 4 months before deadline | 4 months |
| Parsons Challenge prep | 8 weeks before deadline | 8 weeks |
| SAT (optional) | Only if applying to academic universities too | 3–6 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important test score for Korean students applying to RISD? TOEFL — specifically, reaching the minimum score of 93 iBT. This is the score below which RISD will not admit international students regardless of portfolio quality.
Can IELTS replace TOEFL at RISD? Yes. RISD accepts IELTS with a minimum score of 7.0. Duolingo English Test is also accepted with a minimum score of 120.
Do I need to take both TOEFL and SAT? No. For art school applications, TOEFL is required and SAT is optional. You do not need to take both unless you are also applying to academic universities that require SAT.
What happens if my TOEFL score is below the minimum? You will not be eligible for admission. TOEFL minimum scores are requirements, not guidelines — applications from students who do not meet the minimum proficiency threshold are not considered regardless of portfolio quality.
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