Undergraduate Admissions

Our undergraduate programs are designed around traditional and emerging opportunities in the professional world. We emphasize the work patterns, technologies, tools, and techniques that will prepare graduates for a seamless transition to their lives as working artists and designers.

APPLYING TO KCAD

Our Admissions team is here to support you through every step of the process, so if you have questions along the way, call us, and we’ll walk you through it. Your application must be completed at least one month before the start of the semester in which you want to begin taking classes, but remember: It’s best to submit as soon as possible.

Get started at kcad.edu/admissions

UNDERGRADUATE PORTFOLIO REVIEW

The majority of KCAD programs require a portfolio review (except those entering Art History with an Academic Focus).

The portfolio is your opportunity to show us your strengths and interests. Your work reflects your ability to express yourself, articulate your ideas, and demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and creativity. We understand that students come from a wide variety of educational backgrounds and we want to meet you where you are. We will consider your portfolio in the context of your prior experiences.

Your portfolio should include 8-10 pieces of your best, most recent work that reflect your interests and creative potential. This collection of work could include 2D or 3D artwork, such as drawings, paintings, design, photography, sketches, animation, typography, videos, collages, ceramics, sculpture, sewn garments or other forms of creativity.

Our definition of creative output is broad. Perhaps your strength is in the following areas; robotics, broadcast journalism, performance, yearbook, creative writing, etc.— we’ll consider any form of creative expression that showcases your execution and thought.

We want to better understand your work, so when we review your portfolio tell us where your ideas come from, how you’ve developed your skills, and what interests you are exploring.

If you have questions or concerns about putting together a portfolio of work, contact a KCAD Admissions Counselor, we’re here to help!

Kennis Chen

William Andrews

TRANSFER STUDENTS

KCAD values the prior experiences and insights of transfer students and we are committed to making your transition to KCAD as smooth as possible.

If you are an early middle college student, you are considered a first-year student rather than a transfer student, however your college credits will be evaluated for transferability in accordance with our Transfer Credit Policy.

ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS

KCAD has a number of articulation agreements with local and regional community colleges.

Liz Baker Juan Martinez

Abby Ziolkowski

VETERANS

KCAD is dedicated to supporting service members and their families in their educational and career goals. Veterans and military service members bring unique experiences and valuable perspectives to our campus and community.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

KCAD is committed to supporting international students throughout the application process and helping them make an easy transition to life on campus and in the city of Grand Rapids. If you’re an international student, we highly encourage you to apply six months before the start of the semester in which you want to begin taking classes.

GUEST STUDENTS

We may call you "guest students," but we treat you like family!

Some people want to take a few courses at KCAD without seeking a degree. Guest students can take up to nine credits before applying as degree-seeking students. Please note, students seeking graduate level courses are ineligible to apply as a guest student.

Ally Wass Sarah Lewis

HIGH SCHOOL DUAL ENROLLMENT

Dual enrollment at KCAD is a great way for students to get a head start by taking college courses while still in high school. These courses can be used for both high school and college credit at a reduced tuition rate.

KCAD's dual enrollment courses may be offered at a high school location, on KCAD's campus, or online. Talk with an admissions counselor to learn more!

Visit kcad.edu/dualenroll to learn more