
2501 Stevens Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA


Minneapolis College of Art and Design holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring it meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education. This regional accreditation validates the institution's commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement. Additionally, the college programs are recognized by specialized accrediting bodies pertinent to art and design education, which supports the credibility and professional value of its degrees for prospective students.
Minneapolis College of Art and Design requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or its equivalent. Prospective students must submit their secondary school transcripts and maintain a certain grade point average, while providing recommendations and demonstrating required competencies. Although a high school class rank is encouraged, it is not mandatory. The college has an open admission policy set to no, indicating selective entrance criteria.
Applicants must provide Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores to demonstrate proficiency in English, and submitting other test scores is recommended but not compulsory.
The institution does accept Advanced Placement (AP) credits, but it neither offers dual credit opportunities nor college credit prior to enrollment. A computer is required for admission, and students have the option to lease one if necessary.
Admissions data show a low acceptance rate of 48%, placing the college in the bottom 15% nationally for selectivity. Out of 885 applicants, approximately 428 were admitted, and 169 ultimately enrolled. Women comprised the majority of both applicants and admissions, with 619 applying and 324 admitted, while men accounted for 217 applicants with 104 admitted. Enrolled women totaled 118, compared to 51 men.
The Minneapolis College of Art and Design requires prospective students to submit an application fee when applying. This fee is a standard part of the admissions process and is necessary to process an application. However, the institution recognizes that application fees may pose a financial barrier to some applicants and offers fee waivers to eligible individuals.
Fee waivers are typically granted based on financial need or circumstances that qualify an applicant for assistance. Students may request a waiver by providing appropriate documentation or by meeting certain criteria outlined by the college. This approach helps ensure that talented applicants are not discouraged from applying due to cost considerations.
Minneapolis College of Art and Design does not offer Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on its campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC opportunities will need to consider affiliated institutions or nearby universities that host these programs, as Minneapolis College of Art and Design focuses primarily on art and design disciplines and does not provide military training programs.
Minneapolis College of Art and Design welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring terms, allowing individuals to continue their education without interruption during those periods. The institution accepts transfer credits, facilitating smoother transitions for students moving from other colleges or universities. While the admission process is considered moderately difficult, prospective transfer applicants should prepare accordingly to meet the institution's standards.
Minneapolis College of Art and Design offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' artistic education by exposing them to global perspectives and diverse cultural influences. These programs typically focus on immersive experiences that complement the college's curriculum, allowing students to engage directly with international art scenes and practices.
Students can participate in faculty-led trips or partner with established overseas institutions where they can study disciplines such as fine arts, design, and visual culture. These programs emphasize hands-on learning and often include workshops, studio time, and visits to galleries and museums. The college encourages students to integrate these experiences with their academic goals, enhancing both their creative development and global awareness.
While details about specific destinations and program durations vary, the study abroad options aim to provide meaningful exposure to different artistic traditions and contemporary practices worldwide. This approach supports Minneapolis College of Art and Design's commitment to preparing students for a dynamic, interconnected art and design community.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
16%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
3%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
Data not availableRecommendations
RequiredFormal 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
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy 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