Overview
Otis College of Art and Design is a accessible private four-year institution in Los Angeles, California. The school accepts 83.3% of applicants and enrolls 1,242 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 83.3%
- Total Enrollment
- 1,242
Admission Guide
Submit your application through the Common Application or Otis's online portal along with your portfolio, which carries the most weight in admissions decisions. Your portfolio should include 15-20 pieces of original artwork that demonstrate technical skills and creative development across different media.
Apply by February 1 for priority consideration for scholarships and housing, though the college accepts applications on a rolling basis through late spring. You'll also need to submit transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining your artistic interests and career goals.
All undergraduate programs maintain similar admission standards since the college focuses exclusively on art and design disciplines. The most popular majors include Fashion Design, Graphic Design, and Illustration, but none require separate applications or have significantly different requirements.
Housing fills quickly, so submit your housing application immediately after acceptance if you want to live on campus. The college guarantees housing for first-year students who apply by the deadline. Orientation includes portfolio reviews with faculty and course placement sessions specific to your major.
Financial aid packages typically include merit scholarships based on portfolio strength rather than test scores. The college offers payment plans to help manage tuition costs, and many students work part-time in LA's entertainment and fashion industries while enrolled.
Location in the Westchester area of Los Angeles puts you near LAX but requires a car or rideshare to reach major art districts like Downtown LA or West Hollywood. The campus includes professional-grade facilities for digital media, fashion design, and fine arts that mirror industry standards.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $45,864/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $55,513
- Students Receiving Aid
- 31%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 60.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $58,152/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 72.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Otis College of Art and Design require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Otis College of Art and Design is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Standardized test scores are not required for admission consideration.
What is the application deadline for Otis College of Art and Design?
Otis College of Art and Design has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of February 15 for fall semester and November 15 for spring semester. Applications submitted after these dates are reviewed on a space-available basis.
Does Otis College of Art and Design offer early decision or early action?
Otis College of Art and Design does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applicants are considered through the regular rolling admissions process.
Can you transfer credits to Otis College of Art and Design?
Otis College of Art and Design accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. A maximum of 90 quarter units can be transferred, and studio art courses require portfolio review for credit approval.