international students

The College of Visual Arts welcomes students from around the world. Admissions decisions are individualized and take into account all aspects of the applicant's background. International students are encouraged to apply for admission as early as possible in order to have enough time to process the admissions requirements. The Priority Scholarship deadline is February 15, 2013 for the Fall 2013 semester starting in September.

Online Application and $40 Application Fee

You initiate the admissions process by submitting a completed application form with a $40 nonrefundable application fee. After your application is received, an admissions counselor will contact you about your remaining requirements. Online Application

Statement of Interest Essay

As a prospective student, you are required to submit a one- or two-page essay that describes what excites you about art and design, your goals and why attending CVA will help you achieve them.

Transcripts

Original or certified transcripts from all postsecondary and secondary institutions attended. Certified English translations must be provided for transcripts in another language.

Test Score

International applicants must show proof of English language proficiency. Students who have attended an English-medium secondary school for at least three years can submit an ACT or SAT score in place of the TOEFL. Unless English is a prospective student’s first language, the student must achieve a minimum score for the following tests:

• Test Of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) The College’s TOEFL code number is 6108.
  • TOEFL Paper: 500
  • TOEFL Computer: 213 
  • TOEFL iBT: 79 - 80
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.0

Students that fall below the minimum score are required to participate in the completion of the English and academic preparation instruction program through the Global Language Institute. A solid command of oral and written English is necessary for success in CVA’s programs.

Letter of Recommendation

Applicants wanting to be considered for scholarship must include a letter of recommendation. The recommendation can be mailed to the Admissions Office or emailed from the teacher to the admissions@cva.edu email.

Portfolio Review

A portfolio for admission into CVA may include (but is not limited to) drawing, painting, graphic design work, digital work, photography, printmaking, sculpture, websites, video and documentation of installation. You may either submit a variety of media or concentrate on one. Your portfolio should include 12 – 20 examples of artwork. The portfolio does not need to be complete before applying but we encourage you to submit it before the priority scholarship deadline of February 15, 2012. Your portfolio can be reviewed on campus, sent through the mail or reviewed online.

• In person:If you are able to submit your portfolio in person, contact the admissions office to schedule an appointment. 
• By mail:Mail a Macintosh - compatible CD of your work with an inventory list that details the title, size, materials, and date of completion for each piece on the disc. Do not send originals artwork. 
• Online Portfolio: CVA accepts online portfolios through our Slideroom portal athttps://cva.slideroom.com. The Admissions Office will not accept portfolios sent by email. · 

Please mail all admissions materials to:
College of Visual Arts
Admissions Office
344 Summit Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55102

admissions@cva.edu
800-224-1536