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School of Visual Arts, located in the heart of New York City, has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for over seven decades. With a faculty of more than 1,100 distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of nearly 4,000 degree-seeking students at its Manhattan campus and 43,000+ alumni in 100+ countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
About School of Visual Arts (SVA)
School of Visual Arts, located in the heart of New York City, has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for over seven decades. With a faculty of more than 1,100 distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of nearly 4,000 degree-seeking students at its Manhattan campus and 43,000+ alumni in 100+ countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
SVA reviews applicants for admission on a rolling basis and for as long as space is available in our programs. Priority is given to applications submitted by the below postmark deadlines:
Fall Admission
· December 1 - Early Action Deadline (non-binding early admission for first-time freshmen)
· February 1 - First-time Freshmen Deadline for Scholarship Consideration
· March 1 - Transfer Applicant Deadline for Scholarship Consideration
Spring Admission
· October 1 - Deadline for International Applicants
· November 1 - Deadline for Freshmen and Transfer Scholarship Consideration
Please visit sva.edu/howtoapply for details regarding our admissions requirements including the following:
6. Demonstration of English Proficiency (if English is not your primary language)
Graduate Admissions:
Each graduate program has its own application requirements. You can find application requirements for all programs here.
SVA maintains state-of-the-art facilities and the latest technology to support its students’ creative endeavors. Our campus features a green screen studio, Digital & 3D Printing studio, Fibers Lab, Bio Art Lab, Metal shop, Ceramics Studio, and more. These spaces are regularly updated with the newest equipment and software to ensure that students have access to the best tools for their artistic and technical development.
Student life
The Student Engagement and Leadership Office provides a diverse range of programming designed to enrich the SVA student's experience. Students are offered the opportunity to tap into a multitude of social, cultural, educational and recreational activities. Students are encouraged to take advantage of all New York City has to offer.
The Visual Arts Student Association (VASA), the student government, represents the students' point of view at SVA. Participating in VASA gives students the opportunity to develop leadership skills by coordinating events and activities. VASA funds and supports a number of clubs and activities that are organized by students.
SVACareer Development supports students and alumni in building their professional networks while providing them with the information and resources they need to prosper as creative professionals. In addition to offering educational workshops and career counseling, the office facilitates industry networking opportunities that directly connect students with professionals. Recruiters from top creative companies visit campus (in person or virtually) to meet with students, review portfolios and promote their employment opportunities.
Career Development also manages the College’s Internship-for-Credit Program , allowing qualified juniors, seniors and graduate students to earn credit while gaining hands-on experience working with creative professionals. You may also find information on Career Development’s Resources , Employer Services and Fulbright at SVA on their respective pages.
The School of Visual Arts uses College Central Network as its official résumé and job posting service. It gives students and alumni access to thousands of new job listings each year by reputable creative companies who seek SVA talent.
Tuition fee and scholarships
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
2024-2025 Undergraduate Tuition: Full-time Tuition: $25,700 per semester (full-time registration is considered 12-15 credits; 12-16 for Visual & Critical Studies).
For Graduate program tuition, please visit this page.
Merit Scholarships:
Our merit-based scholarship is awarded on the strength of the applicant's portfolio and academic performance. There is no separate application form for this award. To be automatically considered for this scholarship, an applicant must possess a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit all application materials, including their portfolio, by the corresponding deadline.
The scholarship consideration deadline for fall entry is February 1 for first-time freshmen applicants and March 1 for transfer applicants. The scholarship consideration deadline for spring entry is November 1.
All applicants interested in need-based financial aid must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA may be completed online at studentaid.gov. For more information on financial aid, please visit our financial aid web page here.
School of Visual Arts (SVA) is one of the top private universities in New York City, United States. It is ranked #20 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2024.
A portfolio is simply a collection of work that represents an individual‘s creative and technical experiences and accomplishments. No two portfolios are alike and each is reviewed based on an applicant’s unique background and education. The ideal portfolio will consist of 15 to 20 images, including a minimum of 3 pieces created from direct observation. Though applicants may want to include examples of work from past years, especially to demonstrate growth, it is more important to submit work that represents current skills and experiences. It is also important to submit work that speaks to an applicant’s strength. You can see our full portfolio guidelines here.
What are the English Proficiency Requirements for international students?
A Demonstration of English Proficiency is required for all applicants whose primary language is not English.
The following are acceptable ways to demonstrate English proficiency for our BFA programs:
A minimum score* of 80 on the iBT or Special Home Edition TOEFL, or an 8.5 or higher on the TOEFL Essentials Test.
A minimum score of 115 on the Duolingo English Test is required for consideration to our BFA Programs.
Test results must be sent to SVA from the testing agency.
Applicants who meet the academic and creative requirements for admission to SVA and have a good grasp of English, but do not yet meet the English proficiency requirements for undergraduate study may qualify for the English and Visual Arts Program (EVA).
You are welcome to contact an Admissions Counselor if you have further questions regarding this requirement. The counselors' contact information and designated majors can be found here.
Where is SVA located?
SVA is an urban campus with 16 buildings across Manhattan. If you are interested in registering for a campus tour you can go to sva.edu/visit to see our schedule and reserve a spot. You can also take our virtual tour here .
Does SVA offer STEM majors for international students?
Yes, below is the list of STEM OPT extension-eligible majors at SVA.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Animation and Visual Effects
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design
Master of Fine Arts in Computer Arts
Master of Fine Arts in Design
Master of Fine Arts in Design for Social Innovation
Master of Fine Arts in Interaction Design
Master of Fine Arts in Products of Design
You can learn more about STEM majors on our International Student Page by scrolling down to the Resources at the bottom of the page and clicking on "STEM Majors at SVA."
Is housing available on campus?
SVA's Office of Residence Life is committed to providing comfortable, welcoming, and safe housing options for all students.
We offer students several housing options to fit all living preferences and budgets. Ludlow Residence is a traditional-style residence hall that offers single and double-room options. The 23rd Street and 24th Street Residences offer students apartment-style living. Housing room rates are based on room size and type. Details are available here.
We offer Gender-Inclusive housing (GIH) as one of our multiple options for students who would like to live on campus. GIH allows two or more students to share a multiple-occupancy room, suite, or apartment regardless of the students′ sex or gender. GIH furthers the College’s non-discrimination policy and provides housing options for students who may identify as transgender, are more comfortable living with another sex or gender, or do not wish to prescribe to gender classifications.
School of Visual Arts (SVA)advanced PrivateMedium0noM14792
School of Visual Arts (SVA)
Manhattan, New York City United States
# 20QS WUR Ranking By Subject
30Undergrad. & Postgrad. Programmes
About School of Visual Arts (SVA)
School of Visual Arts, located in the heart of New York City, has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for over seven decades. With a faculty of more than 1,100 distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of nearly 4,000 degree-seeking students at its Manhattan campus and 43,000+ alumni in 100+ countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
About School of Visual Arts (SVA)
School of Visual Arts, located in the heart of New York City, has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for over seven decades. With a faculty of more than 1,100 distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of nearly 4,000 degree-seeking students at its Manhattan campus and 43,000+ alumni in 100+ countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
Available programmes
Arts and Humanities (1)
BFA 3D Animation and Visual Effects
BFA Advertising
BFA Animation
BFA Comics
BFA Design
BFA Film
BFA Fine Arts
BFA Illustration
BFA Interior Design: Built Environments
BFA Photography and Video
BFA Visual and Critical Studies
Arts and Humanities (1)
MA Curatorial Practice
MA Design Research, Writing and Criticism
MA/MAT Art Education
MFA Art Practice
MFA Computer Arts
MFA Design
MFA Design for Social Innovation
MFA Fine Arts
MFA Illustration as Visual Essay
MFA Interaction Design
MFA Photography, Video and Related Media
MFA Products of Design
MFA Social Documentary Film
MFA Visual Narrative
MPS Art Therapy
MPS Branding
MPS Digital Photography
MPS Fashion Photography
MPS Film Directing
University information
Undergraduate Admissions:
SVA reviews applicants for admission on a rolling basis and for as long as space is available in our programs. Priority is given to applications submitted by the below postmark deadlines:
Fall Admission
· December 1 - Early Action Deadline (non-binding early admission for first-time freshmen)
· February 1 - First-time Freshmen Deadline for Scholarship Consideration
· March 1 - Transfer Applicant Deadline for Scholarship Consideration
Spring Admission
· October 1 - Deadline for International Applicants
· November 1 - Deadline for Freshmen and Transfer Scholarship Consideration
Please visit sva.edu/howtoapply for details regarding our admissions requirements including the following:
1. Application
2. Application Fee
3. Statement of Intent
4. Portfolio
5. High School/College Transcripts
6. Demonstration of English Proficiency (if English is not your primary language)
Graduate Admissions:
Each graduate program has its own application requirements. You can find application requirements for all programs here.
Student life
The Student Engagement and Leadership Office provides a diverse range of programming designed to enrich the SVA student's experience. Students are offered the opportunity to tap into a multitude of social, cultural, educational and recreational activities. Students are encouraged to take advantage of all New York City has to offer.
The Visual Arts Student Association (VASA), the student government, represents the students' point of view at SVA. Participating in VASA gives students the opportunity to develop leadership skills by coordinating events and activities. VASA funds and supports a number of clubs and activities that are organized by students.
SVA Career Development supports students and alumni in building their professional networks while providing them with the information and resources they need to prosper as creative professionals. In addition to offering educational workshops and career counseling, the office facilitates industry networking opportunities that directly connect students with professionals. Recruiters from top creative companies visit campus (in person or virtually) to meet with students, review portfolios and promote their employment opportunities.
Career Development also manages the College’s Internship-for-Credit Program , allowing qualified juniors, seniors and graduate students to earn credit while gaining hands-on experience working with creative professionals. You may also find information on Career Development’s Resources , Employer Services and Fulbright at SVA on their respective pages.
The School of Visual Arts uses College Central Network as its official résumé and job posting service. It gives students and alumni access to thousands of new job listings each year by reputable creative companies who seek SVA talent.
Tuition fee and scholarships
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
In this guide you will find:
Where to look for scholarship opportunities
How to apply to scholarships relevant to you
A list of available scholarships around the world
A scholarship application checklist
2024-2025 Undergraduate Tuition:
Full-time Tuition: $25,700 per semester (full-time registration is considered 12-15 credits; 12-16 for Visual & Critical Studies).
For Graduate program tuition, please visit this page.
Merit Scholarships:
Our merit-based scholarship is awarded on the strength of the applicant's portfolio and academic performance. There is no separate application form for this award. To be automatically considered for this scholarship, an applicant must possess a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit all application materials, including their portfolio, by the corresponding deadline.
The scholarship consideration deadline for fall entry is February 1 for first-time freshmen applicants and March 1 for transfer applicants. The scholarship consideration deadline for spring entry is November 1.
Scholarship appeal opportunities are available by contacting an Admissions Counselor. For additional details, please see the scholarship information on our website.
Financial Aid:
All applicants interested in need-based financial aid must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA may be completed online at studentaid.gov. For more information on financial aid, please visit our financial aid web page here.
Rankings & ratings
School of Visual Arts (SVA) is one of the top private universities in New York City, United States. It is ranked #20 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2024.
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
School of Visual Arts (SVA)
Videos & media
Videos & media
Campus locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
A Demonstration of English Proficiency is required for all applicants whose primary language is not English.
The following are acceptable ways to demonstrate English proficiency for our BFA programs:
A minimum score* of 80 on the iBT or Special Home Edition TOEFL, or an 8.5 or higher on the TOEFL Essentials Test.
A minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS.
A minimum score of 53 on the Pearson PTE Academic.
A minimum score of 115 on the Duolingo English Test is required for consideration to our BFA Programs.
Test results must be sent to SVA from the testing agency.
Applicants who meet the academic and creative requirements for admission to SVA and have a good grasp of English, but do not yet meet the English proficiency requirements for undergraduate study may qualify for the English and Visual Arts Program (EVA).
You are welcome to contact an Admissions Counselor if you have further questions regarding this requirement. The counselors' contact information and designated majors can be found here.
SVA is an urban campus with 16 buildings across Manhattan. If you are interested in registering for a campus tour you can go to sva.edu/visit to see our schedule and reserve a spot. You can also take our virtual tour here .
Yes, below is the list of STEM OPT extension-eligible majors at SVA.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Animation and Visual Effects
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design
Master of Fine Arts in Computer Arts
Master of Fine Arts in Design
Master of Fine Arts in Design for Social Innovation
Master of Fine Arts in Interaction Design
Master of Fine Arts in Products of Design
You can learn more about STEM majors on our International Student Page by scrolling down to the Resources at the bottom of the page and clicking on "STEM Majors at SVA."
SVA's Office of Residence Life is committed to providing comfortable, welcoming, and safe housing options for all students.
We offer students several housing options to fit all living preferences and budgets. Ludlow Residence is a traditional-style residence hall that offers single and double-room options. The 23rd Street and 24th Street Residences offer students apartment-style living.
Housing room rates are based on room size and type. Details are available here.
We offer Gender-Inclusive housing (GIH) as one of our multiple options for students who would like to live on campus. GIH allows two or more students to share a multiple-occupancy room, suite, or apartment regardless of the students′ sex or gender. GIH furthers the College’s non-discrimination policy and provides housing options for students who may identify as transgender, are more comfortable living with another sex or gender, or do not wish to prescribe to gender classifications.