APPLY TO CIA

Apply through the Common App or the CIA Application. Both options are free!

Your portfolio should be your best 12 to 20 pieces of work. The selections should highlight your technical skills, problem solving skills, and how you use your chosen mediums. 

Your admissions counselor will be glad to answer any questions.

Get Portfolio Tips 

For First-Year Students: You must submit your official high school transcript or GED equivalent.

For Transfer Students: You must submit high school transcripts with proof of graduation or GED equivalent. You must also submit official transcripts from all colleges, universities, and post-secondary schools attended.

Transcripts must be sent directly from your school(s). They can be submitted through the Common App, by email to admissions@cia.edu, or by mail:

Office of Admissions
Cleveland Institute of Art
11610 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44106

• Official SAT or ACT test scores.
• A letter of recommendation from an art teacher, a counselor or someone who understands your desire to pursue an education in art and design.

If English is not your native language, you must demonstrate proof of English language proficiency with one of the following:

• TOEFL iBT minimum score: 60
• IELTS total band score: 5.5
• Duolingo English Test minimum score: 95
• SAT scores may replace TOEFL/IELTS scores if the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Score is at least 520
• ACT scores may replace TOEFL/IELTS scores if the combined English and Reading scores are at least 39
• Any other documents will be considered on a case by case basis