Overview
Laguna College of Art and Design is a accessible private four-year institution in Laguna Beach, California. The school accepts 88.4% of applicants and enrolls 776 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 88.4%
- Total Enrollment
- 776
Admission Guide
Apply through the Common Application or directly through Laguna College of Art and Design's website, with priority deadlines typically in March for fall admission and November for spring. You'll need to submit a portfolio of 15-20 pieces showcasing your artistic development and personal vision, along with your transcripts, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation.
Your portfolio carries the most weight in admissions decisions. Include observational drawings, work in your intended medium, and pieces that show creative problem-solving. The admissions office reviews portfolios year-round, but submitting earlier gives you more housing options and financial aid consideration.
The Animation and Game Art programs attract the highest number of applicants, making them more competitive than other majors. Illustration and Fine Arts also draw strong interest. Transfer students make up about half of each incoming class, and the college accepts credits from most accredited institutions.
Housing fills quickly at this small campus in Laguna Beach. Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance to secure a spot in the residence halls. Many students live off-campus in nearby areas like Mission Viejo or Irvine, though this requires a car since public transportation is limited.
Plan for higher living costs than typical college towns. Laguna Beach restaurants and shops cater to tourists, making everyday expenses significant. The college's location provides access to museums, galleries, and art communities throughout Orange County and Los Angeles, but factor transportation costs into your budget.
New students attend a week-long orientation covering studio safety, software access, and academic planning. You'll register for classes during this period, and popular studio courses fill fast. The college operates on a semester system with small class sizes averaging 15 students per section.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $42,354/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $35,650
- Students Receiving Aid
- 31%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 63.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $47,867/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Laguna College of Art and Design require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Laguna College of Art and Design is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. The school focuses primarily on portfolio review and academic transcripts for admissions decisions.
What is the portfolio requirement for Laguna College of Art and Design admissions?
Applicants must submit a portfolio of 15-20 original artworks that demonstrate technical skill and creative development. The portfolio should include observational drawings and works in the student's preferred medium.
Does Laguna College of Art and Design accept transfer students?
Yes, Laguna College of Art and Design accepts transfer students and will evaluate college-level coursework for potential credit transfer. Transfer applicants must still submit a portfolio along with official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
When is the application deadline for Laguna College of Art and Design?
Laguna College of Art and Design has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Applications received after these dates are reviewed on a space-available basis.