
11610 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA


The Cleveland Institute of Art holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which specifically evaluates institutions offering art and design education. This accreditation ensures that the institute meets established standards of quality in its curriculum, faculty, and facilities. Additionally, the institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accrediting body recognized for assuring academic quality and institutional effectiveness across various types of higher education institutions. Such accreditations are important indicators for prospective students assessing the academic credibility and recognition of the institute's programs.
Prospective students aiming to enroll at Cleveland Institute of Art must have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or its equivalent. The submission of a secondary school transcript is necessary, and while a specific high school rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. Applicants should meet certain competencies, and a minimum secondary school GPA is required for admission consideration.
International students must provide TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Other standardized tests are suggested but not obligatory, and there is no open admission policy, meaning application review is selective rather than automatic. Dual credit courses are not accepted for admission purposes, though credit may be granted for qualifying Advanced Placement (AP) courses and certain college-level programs, which applicants are encouraged to pursue.
Additionally, access to a computer is expected, with an option to lease one if needed. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1155, showing balanced strengths across sections with an average math score of 545 and an average writing score of 610. The average ACT score is 23. The acceptance rate stands at 56%, reflecting a moderately selective admission process. Approximately 963 applicants apply annually, with 542 admitted and around 123 enrolling, representing lower levels compared to many institutions.
The Cleveland Institute of Art charges an application fee of $50 for prospective students submitting their materials. This fee is required to process the application and is standard among art-focused institutions.
Fee waivers are available under specific circumstances. Prospective students who demonstrate financial need can request a waiver by submitting the appropriate documentation during the application process. Additionally, high school counselors or college advisors may facilitate fee waiver requests to ensure eligible applicants are not burdened by the cost.
It is important for applicants to verify their eligibility for a fee waiver early in the process to avoid delays. The institute aims to support diverse talent by reducing financial barriers where possible through these waivers.
Cleveland Institute of Art hosts an ROTC branch unit as a cooperating host institution. Students interested in ROTC programs have the opportunity to participate through this affiliated unit, which provides military training and leadership development alongside their academic pursuits.
The Cleveland Institute of Art permits transfer students to apply for admission primarily for the fall and spring terms. Prospective transfers should be prepared for a moderately difficult entrance process, reflecting the institution's selective nature.
Transfer credits are accepted, which facilitates the continuation of academic progress for students coming from other institutions. However, details regarding acceptance of specific credit types such as CLEP or DANTES exams are not provided.
Cleveland Institute of Art offers study abroad opportunities designed to expand students' artistic perspectives and cultural understanding. These programs provide immersive experiences in international locations where students can engage directly with local art scenes and traditions. Participants have the chance to work alongside artists from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their creative techniques and conceptual approaches.
Programs typically combine studio work, field studies, and cultural excursions, allowing students to integrate practical skills with global artistic contexts. The institute emphasizes experiential learning that challenges students to adapt and innovate within new environments.
While specific destinations and program durations may vary, the study abroad options are structured to complement the institute's curriculum, ensuring academic credit is earned and applied toward degree requirements. These opportunities support students in developing a broader worldview, essential for careers in contemporary art and design fields.
Median composite SAT score
1155Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
14%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
20%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (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
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring