SAIC Admissions and Financial Aid Viewbook 2024/25
Applying to SAIC
Step-by-Step Guide
Your Timeline to Apply Admissions & Aid
So, you’re ready to apply?
Step 1
Check your timeline to apply
Page 2
Step 2
Let’s connect Page 4
We know that the college selection process is a journey, and for creative individuals, the process can be a bit different.
Step 3
Follow our checklist
Page 5
Step 4
Start your Common Application
Page 5
Step 5
Prepare your portfolio
Page 6
Step 6
Write your Artist’s Statement Page 8
Step 7
Submit your Common Application & portfolio Page 9
Step 8
Consider financing options
Page 11
saic.edu/ug
Don’t worry, our Admissions team is ready to guide you through submitting your application, preparing your portfolio, and to answer your questions.
Contact information on page 16.
saic.edu/sfs
Our Student Financial Services team will partner with you and your family from day one to provide the support you need to make your college ambitions a reality. Find out more on page 10.
Your timeline to apply
We love to help
Throughout the year visit us in Chicago, attend one of our one-on-one meetings, or schedule an online portfolio review. Gain insights into SAIC’s curriculum, receive portfolio prep tips for Merit Scholarship, and ask us your questions.
Apply: saic.edu/ugapp
Step 1 OCT 01
AUG 01 NOV 15
Common Application opens Freshmen Transfer
JAN 15
FEB 01 Housing contracts sent to all Early Action students Freshmen Transfer saic.edu/ugapp
Estimated date the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens online Freshmen Transfer
IT’S A FACT
For incoming freshmen, SAIC accepts up to 12 credit hours for work you have done through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, College Level Examination Program or pre-college or dual enrollment.
Early Action & Priority Merit Scholarship deadline
Freshmen Transfer Non-binding; offers larger Merit Scholarships, priority housing, and early firstsemester course registration
Final Merit Scholarship deadline for first-time freshmen Freshmen Estimated priority deadline to submit FAFSA
Are you transferring to SAIC?
Whenever you come to SAIC, we will make your transition as smooth as possible.
For students transferring from any accredited university or college, SAIC will accept up to a maximum of 60 transfer credits with a grade of “C” or better. These may include 30 studio elective credits.
For more information about transferring to SAIC:
FEB 15 JUN 01
Merit Scholarship deadline for transfer students Transfer
Freshmen Transfer APR 15
Final Application deadline for freshmen
Freshmen Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a caseby-case basis
Attend our Pre-Registration Day in April to begin planning your fall schedule
saic.edu/transfer JUN 15
Enrollment deposits ($450) are due
Freshmen
Visit saic.edu/ugnext for instructions on how to submit SAIC begins registration for the fall semester on May 1
Freshmen Transfer
Spring applications
Final Application deadline for fall transfers
Transfer Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
01 JAN 01 NOV 01
Priority Merit Scholarship deadline
Freshmen Transfer
Deadline to sign up for an appointment to register for classes Freshmen Transfer If you have not already visited the SAIC campus, make sure you take a school and residence hall tour or virtual tour. Find out how to do this on page 4
Final Merit & Application deadline
Freshmen Transfer
Step 2
The next step of your journey is to meet with us or find time for a chat. From your application and portfolio to financing, we’ll give you all the information you need.
Come visit!
Our campus is open year-round for students who want to see life at SAIC.
saic.edu/visit
Meet us at SAIC Days
Across the U.S. and around the world, we’ll bring our team to a city near you, so you can come learn what makes SAIC different. Bring your portfolio; we’ll advise you on how to best prepare your work for applications and scholarships.
saic.edu/ugevents
National Portfolio Days
Join us for in-person and virtual National Portfolio Days hosted by schools nationwide. These meetups are a great opportunity to showcase your work, introduce yourself, and get some valuable feedback.
saic.edu/ugevents
saic.edu/ug
Step 3 Step 4
Application
Freshmen submit the Common Application and transfer students submit the Transfer Common Application
Portfolio
Requirements vary by degree. Visit saic.edu/ug_portfolio
Artist’s Statement
One letter of recommendation
High-school transcript
For every high school attended OR GED
Test scores
SAIC does not require the submission of either ACT or SAT scores. If you believe your scores provide additional insight into your academic abilities, please feel free to submit them.
College transcripts
When applicable
Application fee
$65 — domestic students
$85 — international students
International students
For international students whose first language is not English, we’ll need to see proof of your English proficiency through the submission of one of the following:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT: 82*
TOEFL Essentials Minimum Score: 9
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5
Duolingo English Score: 110
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic Exam: 55
* For the BA in Art History degree, a 96 TOEFL IBT or equivalent is required.
To apply to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, please start and submit your application online through the Common Application at saic.edu/ugapp
Step 5
No matter how you express your ideas, we’re here to help you craft your portfolio for admission and Merit Scholarship.
Preparing your portfolio for admission and Merit Scholarship
Degree Requirements
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio (BFA)
BFA with an Emphasis in Art Education (BFAAE)
BFA with an Emphasis in Writing (BFAW)
The portfolio for students choosing a fine arts, design, or art education pathway may consist of one or a combination of the following: Drawings / Prints / Photographs / Designed Objects / Paintings / Film+Video+Audio recordings / Sculpture / Architectural Drawings / Ceramics / Fashion Design / Graphic Art / Video Games / Scripts / Storyboards / Zines
The portfolio may consist of one or a combination of the following:
+ 10 pages of poetry
+ 20 pages of prose (fiction, creative nonfiction, or drama)
+ 10 pages of a graphic novel
+ Optional visual portfolio if you also engage in studio practices (5 digital images)
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual and Critical Studies (BAVCS)
Bachelor of Arts in Art History (BAAH)
1. Studio-based portfolio (see BFA and BFAAE portfolio requirements above) AND a writing sample that illustrates your critical thinking skills; or
2. Alternative portfolio of collected images or objects, along with a critical writing sample that contextualizes the contents in the portfolio.
The portfolio should include a writing sample AND a visual portfolio:
1. Submit an expository essay that incorporates research — a writing sample in art history is not required (though it is encouraged, especially for transfer applicants). Writing samples should be 5 – 7 pages (1,250–1,750 words). Relevant illustrations and bibliography should be included with the text, but are not considered when calculating page limits.
2. Submit 5 – 10 pieces of your best and most recent visual art work.
TOP TIPS
Our
best advice on putting your portfolio together
» First, check the requirements at saic.edu/ug_ portfolio to ensure you follow the guidelines of the degree you are applying to.
» There is no universal formula or answer for creating the ideal portfolio. Your portfolio should feel unique to you and should help us see your individual passions and interests, because no one else has your experiences and perspectives.
» Consider themes in your work. Some artists, designers, and scholars focus on themes. You might be interested in political, social, or environmental issues and make videos, paintings, sculptures, or write about those topics. Maybe you are interested in portraits—you could present a portfolio that consists exclusively of paintings—or maybe combine portraits that are sculpted, filmed and incorporated into performance. All approaches are welcome.
» Experiment boldly with different materials or focus on your favorite. Your unique approach is what makes your portfolio shine. Some schools ask students to show technical proficiency across a broad range of media—we don’t require that of you.
» IMPORTANT: Double-check your portfolio before you hit the submit button.
» Still not sure? Want advice? Talk to us.
We’re here to help. For further information, visit: saic.edu/portfolioprep
DID YOU KNOW?
Our Merit Scholarships are based on a review of your portfolio, grades, and your Artist’s Statement. You have done a lot of hard work to prepare your application and that matters to us.
Step 6
Write your Artist’s Statement
An artist’s statement is a brief (250 – 500 words) written description of your work. Tell us about what we are seeing, what inspires you, and why you are motivated to make the work you do.
You may submit your artist’s statement via the Common Application (within the member-specific questions) OR through your SlideRoom ePortfolio submission.
TOP TIPS
Haven’t created an Artist’s Statement before?
Don’t worry, here are some guidelines to follow:
» Your statement should be between 250 and 500 words.
» Use it to inform, describe, and reflect on your artistic process.
» Avoid statements like “I’ve known I wanted to be an artist since I first picked up a crayon…” We want to hear about the art we’re seeing.
» Don’t be afraid to be humorous, creative, or provocative.
» Proofread! We can’t stress this enough. An Artist’s Statement with errors can lessen the impact of how your work is received.
Step 7
Submit your Common Application & portfolio
When you’re ready, you’ll submit your application via the Common Application and upload your work electronically through SlideRoom, which you will access through SAIC’s member screen within the Common Application under the Portfolio section.
Type of media Accepted file types Preferred file size
Images .jpg, .gif, .png
Video .flv, .wmv, .mov
Audio .mp3
Text Documents MUST be .pdf
72 dpi, no more than 600 pixels in any direction
Five minutes total for all submitted pieces
Five minutes total for all submitted pieces
No more than 1mb per .pdf. PDFs may be broken down into multiple documents
Title, year, dimensions, medium, and description must be provided for each piece. If any of these are not applicable, enter N/A.
Always include the names of any other artists who contributed to the completion of any piece included in your portfolio if the work is collaborative.
Do not submit your entire portfolio as a single .pdf. Do not mail original work to SAIC.
For questions about the ePortfolio, email us at: admiss@saic.edu
The long-term benefits of pursuing a college education are undeniable.
If you and your family have concerns that you may be unable to meet the cost of education with your financial resources alone, we encourage you to partner with the Student Financial Services office at SAIC.
Families may be eligible for need and/or non-need based financial aid, and the majority who apply will receive some form of assistance including scholarships, grants, loans, and employment (work-study).
Online virtual and telephone appointments can be scheduled in the “Contact Us” section at
Step 8
Consider financing options
Understanding your options and conducting thorough research are key to confidently paying for college.
We’re here to help you understand the various forms of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge necessary to navigate the financial aid process effectively, ensuring you can make informed decisions about funding your education.
of undergraduate students are awarded some form of aid
Scholarships
Scholarships are financial awards given to students based on their portfolio, academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or other criteria, helping to offset the costs of education.
Review the various scholarship opportunities available to you from both SAIC and external benefactors.
FALL DEADLINES
First-time Freshmen
Priority — November 15
Final Merit — January 15
Final — April 15
Transfer students
Priority — November 15
Final Merit — February 15
Final — June 1
SPRING DEADLINES
First-time Freshmen & Transfer students
Priority — November 1
Final Merit — January 1
Applications received after these deadlines will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
saic.edu/ugmerit
REMEMBER
We are available in-person and virtually to help you prepare a merit portfolio that best represents your work!
SAIC Merit Scholarships
All students who have successfully completed the admission process by our deadlines are automatically considered for Merit Scholarships.
SAIC awards its most substantial Merit Scholarships to incoming students — freshmen and transfer, domestic and international. Merit Scholarships are awarded based on a holistic review of your application including:
» Portfolio
» Academic history, including test scores and/or transcripts
» Artist’s Statement
» Letter of Recommendation
This award is annually renewable as long as you maintain your academic standing, as outlined in your award letter and merit guide. We encourage you to begin a dialogue with your Admission Counselor about how to craft a merit-worthy application as soon as you decide SAIC might be the school for you!
SAIC Phi Theta Kappa scholarship for transfer students
Admitted Phi Theta Kappa (ptk.org) applicants may qualify to receive a $2,000 PTK Scholarship per academic year, in addition to any other Merit Scholarships awarded through SAIC Admissions. A separate application is not necessary for this award, although PTK membership will be verified. saic.edu/scholarships-grants
saic.edu/outsidescholarships
Outside
scholarships
In addition to scholarships from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, we suggest that students explore outside scholarships as an additional source of funding for their education well in advance of the term for which the funding is desired.
We regularly update our social media pages with scholarship information: facebook.com/SAICsfs twitter.com/SAIC_SFS
In addition, we encourage you to explore the following online scholarship search sites:
» affordablecollegesonline.org
» bold.org
» appily.com/scholarships
» careeronestop.org/toolkit
» collegeboard.org/scholarships
» collegexpress.com/scholarships
» college-scholarships.com
» fastweb.com
» niche.com
» salliemae.com/scholarships
» scholarshippoints.com
» scholarshipowl.com
» scholarships.com
» myscholly.com
» studentaid.gov/scholarships
» studentscholarships.org
» uncf.org/scholarships
» unigo.com
Types of financial aid
fafsa.gov
Federal Financial Aid
United States citizens and eligible non-citizens who would like to be considered for need-based and non-need based federal and state aid should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at fafsa.gov.
Please include SAIC’s FAFSA School Code #001753 so that your results are sent directly to our Student Financial Services office.
Tutorials and helpful information available at: studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out
saic.edu/finaid
Gift Assistance
Grants are awarded based on financial need and do not need to be repaid. In addition to SAIC’s scholarships and grants, the federal and state governments offer gift assistance to students who demonstrate need.
Examples include:
» SAIC need-based grants and scholarships
» Donor-supported scholarships
» Federal Pell Grants
» Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
» Veterans Benefits
» Monetary Award Program (MAP) for Illinois residents attending approved Illinois schools
» Other state-funded programs
Important dates
Some types of financial assistance are limited in funding, so the earlier you apply, the better.
OCT 01
Estimated date FAFSA becomes available
JAN 15
Estimated priority deadline to submit FAFSA
Employment Opportunities
On and off-campus positions are available throughout the year and can be found on Handshake, at saic.joinhandshake.com.
Career and Professional Experience (CAPX) advisors are available to help all SAIC students and alums with their internship and job search. You can make an appointment with a career advisor and attend events to help you prepare by accessing Handshake.
Federal Work-Study Program
This program provides jobs for students who demonstrate financial need. Jobs are available in many administrative and academic departments. Pay rates are based on job descriptions. We make every effort to assist students in finding employment, but the receipt of a Federal Work-Study award does not guarantee a job.
Jobs for International Students
We offer jobs to international students and students who do not demonstrate need during the fall and spring semesters. Institutional employment is also available to all students during the summer and winter terms as long as they are enrolled for the following term. saic.edu/loans
Loans
You may be eligible for loans at low interest rates. Eligibility, borrowing levels, and interest rates vary from program to program.
We will determine a student’s or parent’s eligibility based on the student’s demonstrated need and program regulations.
The following loans may be available:
» Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford Loan
» Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan
» Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
» Private Education Loans
Give us a call
800.232.7242 or 312.629.6100
Visit saic.edu/ugevents to get started
Digital versions of our publications and guides can be found at saic.edu/ugbackpack
To apply to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, please submit your application online through the Common Application.
saic.edu/ugapp
Glossary of Terms
Get to know some of the vocabulary terms you’ll see and hear a lot throughout your application process:
Artist’s Statement: A brief written description that provides insight into the ideas, themes, and creative processes behind your work, which may include your motivations, inspirations, techniques, and the message you hope to convey.
Common Application: An undergraduate college admission application platform that applicants use to apply to colleges, including SAIC.
Early Action: Non-binding admission deadline that offers larger Merit Scholarships, priority housing, and advance registration.
FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is an online form used to determine your eligibility for financial aid, including federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. For domestic students only.
Merit Scholarship: A kind of college funding that is not based on financial need but, instead, on a student’s merits or achievements. At SAIC, we will evaluate your application and portfolio when we consider you for admission.
Portfolio: A collection of your best and most recent work that showcases your skills, style, and the ideas behind your making.
SlideRoom: SlideRoom is an online platform that you will access through the Common Application to upload your portfolio for us to review.
