Overview
American College of the Building Arts is a less selective private four-year institution in Charleston, South Carolina. The school accepts 76.7% of applicants and enrolls 140 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 76.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,119
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,043–1,195
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 23
- Total Enrollment
- 140
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
American College of the Building Arts requires a completed application, official high school transcript, and SAT or ACT scores. The school operates on rolling admissions, so you can apply throughout the year, but earlier applications receive priority consideration for housing and financial aid.
You'll choose from five specialized majors: architectural carpentry and millwork, forged architectural ironwork, masonry and lime mortar, plasterwork, or timber framing. Each program combines hands-on craft training with academic coursework in a three-year bachelor's degree format that includes summers.
The college's unique structure means you'll work intensively in specialized workshops from your first semester. Expect to spend significant time in the craft studios learning traditional building techniques alongside modern applications. Your coursework includes liberal arts requirements, but the emphasis stays firmly on mastering your chosen trade.
Housing fills quickly at this small college. Submit your housing application as soon as you're accepted if you want to live on campus. The residence hall houses most students, and living on campus helps you access workshop facilities during extended hours.
Financial aid packages typically include work-study opportunities that let you earn money while gaining additional hands-on experience in your craft area. These positions often involve working on real restoration projects around Charleston's historic district.
Plan for higher expenses beyond tuition for specialized tools and materials required for your major. Each program has specific tool requirements you'll need to purchase during your first year. The college provides some equipment, but you'll build your own professional toolkit as you progress through the program.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $26,389/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $20,572
- Students Receiving Aid
- 20%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 64.0%
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 100.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does American College of the Building Arts require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
American College of the Building Arts has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What are the application deadlines for American College of the Building Arts?
American College of the Building Arts operates on rolling admissions. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier increases your chances of acceptance and scholarship consideration.
Can I transfer credits to American College of the Building Arts?
American College of the Building Arts accepts transfer students and will evaluate credits from other accredited institutions. The school focuses on traditional building arts programs, so relevant coursework in construction, craftsmanship, or related fields may transfer more readily.
What makes admissions to American College of the Building Arts different from other colleges?
American College of the Building Arts evaluates applicants based on their interest in traditional building crafts and trades rather than just academic metrics. The school looks for students committed to hands-on learning in areas like timber framing, stone carving, and blacksmithing.