Overview
Maine College of Art & Design is a less selective private four-year institution in Portland, Maine. The school accepts 74.0% of applicants and enrolls 415 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 74.0%
- Total Enrollment
- 415
Admission Guide
Maine College of Art & Design accepts applications through the Common Application with a rolling admissions policy, meaning you can apply throughout the year rather than waiting for specific deadlines. Submit your portfolio, personal statement, transcript, and one letter of recommendation along with your application.
Your portfolio carries the most weight in admissions decisions. The college requires 15-20 pieces of original artwork that demonstrate your artistic development and technical skills across different media. Include observational drawings, as the school emphasizes strong foundational drawing abilities regardless of your intended major.
Housing fills up quickly despite the small student body size. Submit your housing application immediately after accepting your admission offer. The college guarantees housing for first-year students, but upperclassmen often compete for limited on-campus spots in downtown Portland.
The campus sits in Portland's Arts District with studio spaces spread across multiple historic buildings rather than a traditional campus layout. You'll walk between buildings for different classes, so prepare for Maine weather year-round.
All incoming students participate in Foundation Year, a required program covering drawing, design principles, art history, and critical thinking before declaring your major. This program has specific portfolio requirements and critique sessions that differ from typical college courses.
Financial aid awards typically include both need-based aid and merit scholarships based on portfolio strength. The college meets with families individually to discuss payment plans, as many art students graduate with significant debt given the post-graduation earning potential in creative fields.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $36,443/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $41,398
- Students Receiving Aid
- 27%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 48.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $40,778/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maine College of Art & Design require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Maine College of Art & Design has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Maine College of Art & Design?
Maine College of Art & Design has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 15 for fall admission and November 15 for spring admission.
Does Maine College of Art & Design offer early decision or early action?
Maine College of Art & Design offers early action with a December 1 deadline. The school does not have an early decision program.
What portfolio requirements does Maine College of Art & Design have for applicants?
Maine College of Art & Design requires a portfolio of 15-20 pieces of original artwork that shows technical skill and creative development. The portfolio should include observational drawing and can be submitted digitally through SlideRoom.