Overview
Cornish College of the Arts is a less selective private four-year institution in Seattle, Washington. The school accepts 71.1% of applicants and enrolls 480 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 71.1%
- Total Enrollment
- 480
Admission Guide
Cornish College of the Arts accepts applications through their online portal with rolling admissions, though you should submit materials by February 15 for priority consideration for financial aid and housing. The application requires your transcripts, a personal statement, and program-specific portfolio or audition materials that vary significantly by department.
Your portfolio or audition carries the most weight in admission decisions. Music students must complete live auditions or submit recorded auditions with specific repertoire requirements listed on the program pages. Visual arts applicants submit 10-20 pieces showing technical skill and creative development. Theater students audition with prepared monologues, while dance applicants demonstrate technique in ballet, modern, or their chosen style.
Housing fills quickly at Cornish since the college only has one residence hall with limited capacity. Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance if you want guaranteed campus housing. Many students live in nearby Capitol Hill apartments or share housing with other students.
Financial aid applications require the FAFSA, and the college offers both merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. Submit financial documents early since funds are distributed on a first-come basis after admission.
The college operates on a trimester system rather than semesters, so you'll take fewer courses at once but move through material more intensively. Classes start in late September, with breaks in December and March. Studio and practice spaces stay open extended hours, and you'll have 24-hour keycard access to your department's facilities after completing safety training.
Orientation includes department-specific sessions where you'll meet faculty, learn studio protocols, and register for required foundation courses. Most programs require you to take core liberal arts classes alongside your major coursework throughout your time at Cornish.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,060/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $39,913
- Students Receiving Aid
- 30%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 52.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $33,696/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 68.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cornish College of the Arts require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Cornish College of the Arts is test-optional, so SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission. The school focuses primarily on portfolio review and artistic talent for admission decisions.
What portfolio requirements does Cornish College of the Arts have for applicants?
Portfolio requirements vary by program at Cornish College of the Arts. Visual arts applicants typically submit 15-20 pieces of recent work, while performance majors audition live or submit video recordings.
Does Cornish College of the Arts offer early decision or early action?
Cornish College of the Arts uses rolling admissions rather than early decision or early action programs. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier increases your chances of acceptance and financial aid.
Can transfer students get into Cornish College of the Arts programs easily?
Transfer students are welcome at Cornish College of the Arts and must submit portfolios or auditions just like first-year applicants. Credits from previous coursework are evaluated on a case-by-case basis for transfer.