TRANSFER TO CIA
Application Requirements
Apply through the Common App or the CIA Application. Both options are free!
Tell us why you want to attend CIA. You can share an optional second piece on any topic of your choice!
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 kwellman@cia.edu, or by mail:
Office of Admissions
Cleveland Institute of Art
11610 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44106
Using the online catalog of your college, cut and paste (into a Word document) descriptions of art and design classes you’ve taken. Please email the document to kwellman@cia.edu, so that we can review for credit evaluation and placement.
You do not need to send course descriptions for liberal arts/general education classes.
Your portfolio should include 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.
Our transfer admissions counselor will be glad to answer any questions.
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 your artwork.
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 and the appropriate minimum score:
- TOEFL iBT: 60
- IELTS total band: 5.5
- Duolingo English: 95
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 520
- ACT English and Reading scores: 39
Articulation Agreements
Transferring from Cuyahoga Community College, Davis University or Lakeland Community College? See how you can get accepted to CIA as a sophomore.
- Cuyahoga Community College Course Options (pdf)
- Davis University Course Options (pdf)
- Lakeland Community College Course Options (pdf)
Transfer Credit Information
As a transfer student, your transcripts are reviewed to determine which courses will transfer into our program. Please note that not all credit you earned prior to attending CIA may apply towards your degree and therefore may not be transferable. Credits are divided into two categories:
- General Education Credit: General education credit earned at another accredited institution that may transfer as long as you earned a C or higher.
- Studio Credit: Credits for studio coursework are reviewed based on transcript and rigor of program from the transferring institution.
Meet Staff
Questions about the application process?
Contact our Transfer Admissions Counselor, Karen Wellman at kwellman@cia.edu or 216.421.7422
Admissions Office Hours:
Monday–Friday: 8:30am to 4:30pm