Pre-College: Living on campus

Whether you come from California or Cleveland, you'll have the opportunity to experience the amazing cultural hub of University Circle. Named in 2021 as the "Best Arts District in the Country" by USA Today, CIA is just a moment's walk to museums, dining and shopping.

CIA's residence halls

Just steps from our studios, our residence halls features apartment-style suites with kitchenettes and two bedrooms, each with their own bath. Students are paired two per bedroom, so we include a roommate matching form with your acceptance packet to make sure you and your roommate share common interests, hobbies, and living preferences.

Beyond your suite, you'll enjoy an onsite print center, free laundry facilities, workout machines and decks overlooking University Circle and the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland.

Can you commute? Yes!

We have many full-time commuter students at CIA. Take advantage of gaining the same academic experience as residential Pre-College students, while returning home each evening.

Commuter students will need to arrive on time for their 9am class. Parking is provided. For the rest of the day, all students will follow the same schedule; dining together for lunch followed by afternoon class, dinner, and studio time from 6 to 9pm. At 9pm, commuter students will return home for the evening. Rest + repeat!

Students who live with a parent/guardian in Ohio's Cuyahoga County are welcome to commute. Questions about housing or commuting?

Contact our office at 216.421.7460 or precollege@cia.edu

Meals during Pre-College

Students will use our Case Cash meal option, where your CIA ID card is preloaded with funds that can be used at any of the following restaurants located within the campus boundaries. Plum Market Kitchen, located directly across the street from CIA, is not only a great option for made-to-order or grab-and-go meals, but you can also use your Case Cash to stack up on snacks or groceries for your suite!