Admissions
Admissions
The School of Art at UIC offers undergraduate and graduate programs for students interested in art, art education, interdisciplinary education in the arts, and a Master's in Fine Arts. Whether you are beginning your college journey, transferring to UIC, or pursuing graduate study, our programs provide pathways to develop your creative, scholarly, and professional goals within Chicago’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Because of the high demand for limited spaces in our programs, we encourage students to submit an application as early as possible.
Application Requirements – Undergraduate programs
You will need to apply through the University of Illinois Chicago to study at the School of Art & Art History. Please see the College of Architecture, Design, and the Arts website for application instructions, deadlines and requirements.
All applicants must submit a statement of interest. This should include an indication of why you’re interested in UIC and in one of our specific degrees. Portfolios are not required (or reviewed) for undergraduate student admission to the School of Art for undergraduate students.
Application Requirements – MFA program
Applicants are considered on an individual basis. In addition to the Graduate College minimum requirements, applicants must meet the following program requirements:
- Letters of Recommendation Three required. Submission is through the application portal by the applicant's recommenders.
- Personal Statement This artist's statement of purpose should outline the applicant’s current or previous work as relevant to plans and objectives for advanced study; describe professional goals and how these goals were developed; and state why applicant would like to study in the chosen area of the school. 500 word maximum.
- Resume/CV Required.
- Transcripts Unofficial, from all university level schools attended.
- Portfolio 12 images of current work.
- Baccalaureate Field No restrictions; however, individuals who apply must demonstrate an advanced level of competence in the arts (painting, sculpture, drawing, installation, social practice, mixed media, interdisciplinary arts, photography, film/video, and new media arts) through their portfolio submission.
- Grade Point Average At least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for the final 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of undergraduate study.
- Tests Required None.
- English Proficiency Additional information on the English proficiency test requirement for international students can be found on the UIC Admissions website.
For the current MFA application cycle, the deadline is:
December 15, 2026
We are not able to review links or any work in advance, as we adhere to important protocols for reviewing applicants’ portfolios. As much as we will focus on the applicant’s portfolio, we will also carefully review the application essay.
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the Director of Graduate Studies with any questions or to schedule a tour of the school.
Beate Geissler
Professor
Director of Graduate Studies, MFA Program
beate@uic.edu