FAQs

If you’re getting ready to apply to MassArt, you may have questions about the process, requirements, and what to expect.

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions from prospective students—including how to determine your applicant type, important deadlines, financial aid information, what a BFA means, and how MassArt prepares you for your major. You’ll also find dedicated FAQ sections for undergraduate and graduate applicants, along with helpful next steps such as touring campus, requesting information, or connecting with Admissions staff.

Explore the questions below to learn more and feel confident as you move forward with your MassArt application.

You may apply to MassArt as either a first time undergraduate student, transfer student, or graduate student depending on your level of education.

You’re a first time undergraduate if:

You’re still in high school (even if you completed dual-enrollment credits), or You graduated from high school or earned your GED, and didn’t enroll in college-level coursework.

You’re a transfer applicant if:

You enrolled in university coursework (after your high school graduation).

You’re a graduate student if:

You have completed (or about to complete) a 4 year Bachelor’s degree program.

Note: You are considered an International student if you are not currently a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States

Undergraduate FAQs Expand all

First time undergraduate:

Early Action December 1, Regular Decision February 15 (first time undergraduates may only apply for fall admission)

Transfer:

Spring admission, October 15; Fall admission, March 1

Graduate:

Priority Deadline January 2

Financial Aid (FAFSA):

March 1 for Fall admission

There are two types of aid awarded: merit-based and need-based.

All applicants to MassArt will be automatically reviewed for the merit scholarships for which they are eligible. No additional application is necessary for consideration.

We offer a variety of merit scholarships to Massachusetts, New England, out-of-state and international applicants. Some scholarships are awarded based strictly on merit; others require a student to also have financial need.

To be considered for need-based aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).Prospective students should apply for financial aid at the same time they are applying for admission to the College. Don’t wait until you have been admitted to a program to apply! Read more about how to apply for financial aid. Please note that only U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents are eligible to file the FAFSA.

Apply for Financial Aid

If you are applying as a first time undergraduate, and MassArt is your first-choice college you may want to consider Early Action. This option is intended for students in good academic standing who have finalized their portfolio by December 1st. Admissions decisions for Early Action applicants are released in early January.

Regular Decision is a good option for students who would like a bit more time to prepare their portfolio or other aspects of their application.

The criteria for admission is the same for both early action and regular decision, and no matter which deadline you choose, you will have until May 1st to decide

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a specialized degree and the degree offered at MassArt at the undergraduate level.

About two thirds of your classes will be in art and design and one third in the liberal arts and history of art.

All first time students-and some transfers students- will complete the required Studio Foundation Program during their first year; students then start their intended major their second year.

If you are a transfer student, please refer to the transfer credit guidelines to learn more about Studio Foundation credits.

As an undergraduate student, about two thirds of your classes will be in art and design and one third in history of art and liberal arts, which includes math, science and humanities classes.

You may schedule an in-person tour or register for a virtual info session or portfolio review here massart.edu/visit

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How to Apply

Apply to MassArt with confidence. Get a clear, step-by-step guide for first-time undergraduate applicants and start your creative journey today.

Graduate FAQs Expand all

Priority Deadline:

January 2

We will accept applications after this deadline, on a space available basis

Scholarships

Students admitted to MassArt Graduate Programs are automatically reviewed for all available merit scholarship opportunities as part of the admission process. Scholarships are determined by the Graduate Admissions Committee and Dean.

Financial Aid

US Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents can apply for financial aid through the Federal Government. International students can apply for a private student loan with a creditworthy U.S. Citizen or a non-citizen permanent resident as a co-signer.

To be considered for need- based aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Prospective students should apply for financial aid at the same time they are applying for admission to the College. Don’t wait until you have been admitted to a program to apply! Read more about how to apply for financial aid.

Yes! The MassArt Graduate Programs fund a range of opportunities each semester to students from all programs, providing an important workforce to the college, offering valuable professional and academic experience to our grads, and building long-term relationships with MassArt faculty and staff.

Graduate assistantships are currently paid at a rate of $18/hour, and involve an average of 3–10 hours of work per week, depending on the nature of the position.