Overview
DigiPen Institute of Technology is a less selective for-profit four-year institution in Redmond, Washington. The school accepts 66.4% of applicants and enrolls 1,032 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,287
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,170–1,403
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 29
- Total Enrollment
- 1,032
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
DigiPen requires a portfolio submission that carries more weight than your test scores or grades. Your portfolio should showcase technical skills in programming, art, or game design depending on your intended major. Include projects that show progression over time rather than just your best work.
The Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation program stands out as DigiPen's flagship offering, preparing you for AAA game development careers. Computer Engineering focuses on hardware-software integration for gaming systems. The Digital Art and Animation program connects directly to major studios like Nintendo, Valve, and Bungie, which actively recruit from campus.
DigiPen operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall for the best chances. The school requires a supplemental essay asking about your game development interests and career goals. Be specific about which games inspire you and explain the technical aspects you want to master.
Campus culture revolves around game development projects and competitions. Students form teams to create games for senior capstone projects, with many projects winning awards at industry competitions like the Independent Games Festival. Expect long hours in labs working alongside classmates who share your obsession with games and interactive media.
You'll fit well here if you already spend time coding, creating digital art, or modding games. The curriculum assumes you have some technical background, so complete online courses in programming languages like C++ or learn game engines like Unity before arriving. Studios and internship opportunities cluster around the Seattle area, providing direct pathways to industry jobs.
Visit campus to experience the game development labs and meet current students working on projects. The small size means you'll know most students in your major personally. Faculty members have industry experience at companies like Microsoft, Nintendo, and Pixar, bringing real-world projects into coursework.
Apply for the merit scholarships available specifically for incoming students with strong portfolios. Financial aid becomes important given the high tuition costs, but graduates typically secure well-paying positions in the gaming industry immediately after graduation.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $42,033/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $37,400
- Students Receiving Aid
- 22%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 51.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $79,878/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 73.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DigiPen Institute of Technology require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
DigiPen requires either SAT or ACT scores for most undergraduate programs. Check specific program requirements as some may have different testing policies.
What is the application deadline for DigiPen Institute of Technology?
DigiPen has rolling admissions with priority deadlines varying by program. Apply early as some competitive programs may fill before the final deadline.
Can you transfer credits to DigiPen Institute of Technology?
DigiPen accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, but credit transfer is limited due to the specialized nature of their programs. Most students need to complete the majority of coursework at DigiPen.
Does DigiPen Institute of Technology offer early decision or early action?
DigiPen does not offer traditional early decision or early action programs. The school operates on rolling admissions where applications are reviewed as they are received.