
1700 Lida Street, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA


Art Center College of Design holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This accreditation affirms that the institution meets specific standards of educational quality and institutional integrity essential for higher education. Additionally, the college's programs in design are recognized by specialized accrediting bodies that evaluate curriculum relevance and academic rigor tailored to the creative disciplines.
For prospective students, accreditation by WSCUC is a crucial factor as it ensures that the education provided complies with rigorous regional standards, which can affect credit transferability, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the recognition of degrees by employers and other institutions. The college's standing with specialized accreditors also highlights its commitment to maintaining industry-specific excellence, which is vital for students pursuing careers in design and related fields.
Prospective students seeking admission to Art Center College of Design must have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Submission of high school records is required, and while class rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. The college also requires applicants to demonstrate certain competencies as part of the admission process.
Applicants must provide TOEFL scores to verify English language proficiency. Although other standardized admission test scores are not strictly required, they are recommended to strengthen the application. The college does not operate an open admission policy, thereby maintaining selectivity in its acceptance process.
College credit, including Advanced Placement (AP) credits, is accepted, though dual credit is not offered. While a computer is not required for admission, the college does offer computer leasing options.
The Art Center College of Design requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admission process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. For students concerned about the financial burden, the college offers fee waivers under specific conditions.
Fee waivers are available to applicants who demonstrate financial hardship or meet eligibility criteria outlined by the institution. These waivers ensure that economic challenges do not restrict qualified students from applying. To obtain a waiver, applicants typically need to provide documentation supporting their request and follow the procedures indicated by the admissions office.
Art Center College of Design does not offer Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly on its campus. Prospective students interested in participating in ROTC are typically advised to explore options through nearby universities that have established ROTC branches. This arrangement allows students enrolled at Art Center College of Design to take part in ROTC training and commissioning programs by coordinating coursework and training schedules with partner institutions.
Art Center College of Design permits transfer students to enroll primarily in the fall and spring terms, providing some flexibility for those planning their transition. The institution does accept transfer credits, which can facilitate a smoother academic progression for incoming students. It is important to note that gaining admission as a transfer student is considered very difficult, reflecting the college's competitive standards and rigorous selection process.
Art Center College of Design offers several opportunities for students interested in international study experiences tailored to enhance their creative education. The institution facilitates semester-long study abroad programs designed to immerse students in diverse cultural and artistic environments, allowing them to gain global perspectives relevant to their fields.
These programs emphasize hands-on learning, encouraging students to engage directly with local design practices and industry professionals. By participating, students can explore new methodologies and broaden their creative outlook, which contributes significantly to their professional growth.
The college also supports faculty-led international trips and workshops that provide shorter, intensive experiences outside the traditional semester framework. These options are structured to complement the core curriculum while offering flexibility for students wishing to expand their global engagement without a long-term commitment abroad.
Overall, the study abroad opportunities at Art Center College of Design are structured to integrate seamlessly with students' academic plans, ensuring that international study elements contribute meaningfully to their design education and career aspirations.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
HardGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring