Overview
Massachusetts College of Art and Design is a less selective public four-year institution in Boston, Massachusetts. The school accepts 78.6% of applicants and enrolls 1,812 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 78.6%
- Total Enrollment
- 1,812
Admission Guide
Massachusetts College of Art and Design requires a portfolio alongside your standard application materials. Submit 15-20 pieces of your best artwork through SlideRoom, including both observational work from life and pieces that showcase your personal artistic voice. The portfolio deadline aligns with the February 1 application deadline for fall admission.
Your portfolio carries more weight than test scores or grades in the admissions process. Include a variety of media and approaches rather than focusing on just one technique or subject matter. Write a brief artist statement explaining your creative process and artistic influences.
All incoming students participate in the Foundation Year program during their first year, regardless of intended major. This program covers drawing, 2D and 3D design, and art history before you declare your concentration. Some students find this transition challenging if they expect to jump directly into their chosen medium.
Housing fills quickly, so submit your housing application immediately after your admission deposit. The residence halls connect directly to studio spaces, making late-night project work more manageable. Most upperclass students live off-campus in nearby neighborhoods like Mission Hill or Jamaica Plain.
Financial aid packages at MassArt often include work-study positions in campus studios, galleries, or the library. These jobs provide valuable experience alongside funding for your education.
The campus sits in the Fenway Cultural District, putting you within walking distance of major museums including the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Many students take advantage of free or discounted admission to build their visual knowledge outside the classroom.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,764/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $14,960
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $42,180
- Students Receiving Aid
- 28%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 69.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $43,582/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 84.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Massachusetts College of Art and Design require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
MassArt has a test-optional admissions policy, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required for most applicants.
What is the application deadline for Massachusetts College of Art and Design?
The regular decision application deadline for MassArt is February 1st. Early action applications are due December 1st.
Does Massachusetts College of Art and Design require a portfolio for admission?
Yes, all applicants to MassArt must submit a portfolio as part of their application. The portfolio requirements vary by intended major and specific guidelines are available on the admissions website.
Can you transfer to Massachusetts College of Art and Design from another college?
MassArt accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts, a portfolio, and meet the same portfolio requirements as first-year students.