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 

WHEN TO SUBMIT YOUR PORTFOLIO

• Submitting through CIA’s application: You will upload your artwork through the Online Application. You can do this at the same time that you submit the application, or return to the Applicant Status Page at a later date. You may also upload your artwork through SlideRoom.
• Submitting through the Common Application: You will receive instructions for uploading your portfolio within 48-72 hours of submission. You will use the Applicant Status Page or SlideRoom to upload this artwork.

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