
511 NW Broadway, Portland, OR 97209, USA


Pacific Northwest College of Art is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the institution meets established standards for academic quality, institutional effectiveness, and student support services. Prospective students can be assured that the college's degree programs have undergone comprehensive evaluation to maintain these standards.
Admission to Pacific Northwest College of Art requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent high school credential. While submission of secondary school grade point average (GPA) is mandatory, providing class rank is recommended but not compulsory. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate certain competencies as part of the admission process. Although official admission test scores are not strictly required, they are suggested to strengthen the application.
English proficiency must be demonstrated through a required Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score for non-native speakers. Other standardized tests may be recommended but are not mandatory. The college does not have an open admission policy, indicating a selective process rather than universal acceptance.
Students are encouraged to have some college program experience prior to applying; however, this is a recommendation rather than a requirement. Pacific Northwest College of Art does not offer dual credit or college credit options for applicants, but it does accept Advanced Placement (AP) credits under certain conditions.
Prospective students applying to Pacific Northwest College of Art are required to pay a nonrefundable application fee. The fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing an application. However, there are opportunities for applicants to have this fee waived under certain conditions, which can significantly reduce the initial financial burden of the application process.
The college offers application fee waivers to eligible candidates, including those demonstrating financial hardship or participation in specific outreach programs. These waivers are designed to increase access and encourage diversity by making the application process more affordable for students from various socioeconomic backgrounds.
Applicants interested in fee waivers typically must provide documentation supporting their eligibility, such as proof of income or participation in recognized programs. It is advised that prospective students inquire directly with the admissions office to confirm eligibility criteria and to obtain instructions for requesting a waiver.
Given the importance of the application fee in the admissions process, understanding the waiver options can play a key role in the decision-making process for many applicants considering Pacific Northwest College of Art.
Pacific Northwest College of Art itself does not host an ROTC branch unit but participates as a cooperating host institution. This means students interested in ROTC can enroll in programs offered by nearby partnering universities that maintain active ROTC units. Through this arrangement, students at Pacific Northwest College of Art have access to ROTC training and commissioning opportunities while pursuing their art and design education.
Pacific Northwest College of Art welcomes transfer students during the fall and spring terms, providing opportunities for those seeking to continue their education there. The admissions process for transfer applicants is considered to be minimally difficult, which may appeal to students looking for a relatively accessible transfer experience.
Additionally, the college accepts transfer credits, allowing students to carry over relevant coursework from their previous institutions. This policy facilitates smoother transitions and can potentially shorten the time required to complete a degree.
Pacific Northwest College of Art offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' artistic and cultural perspectives. These programs provide immersive experiences through partnerships with international institutions, enabling students to engage directly with different artistic traditions and practices abroad.
The college emphasizes programs that integrate studio work with cultural exploration, allowing students to continue their coursework while gaining new insights overseas. Destinations often include cities known for their rich art scenes and historic significance, fostering a global understanding of contemporary art movements.
Students interested in study abroad can expect tailored support to align these experiences with their academic goals, ensuring credits earned overseas contribute toward their degree requirements. The programs are structured to accommodate various durations, ranging from summer sessions to a full semester, providing flexibility depending on the student's individual plan and schedule.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
Data not availableCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
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
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
NoDisabilities services
NoOff-campus study
NoROTC-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
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
EasyGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring