
204 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA 17603, USA


Pennsylvania College of Art and Design holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which is a recognized agency specializing in art and design education. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards specific to its academic programs in the visual arts. Additionally, the college is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a regional accrediting body that evaluates the overall quality and integrity of higher education institutions in its jurisdiction.
Admission to Pennsylvania College of Art and Design requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or equivalent. Applicants must submit their secondary school records and meet minimum competencies as part of the evaluation process. While a specific secondary school GPA is required, the school recommends but does not require submission of admission test scores such as the ACT or other standardized exams. English language proficiency demonstrated through TOEFL scores is mandatory for non-native speakers.
The college maintains a selective admissions policy and does not operate an open admission system. Dual credit or college credit for prior learning is not accepted, although Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized. Applicants must have access to a computer as it is a required component, though the college does not offer computer leasing options.
Overall, Pennsylvania College of Art and Design receives a relatively low number of applications and enrollments compared to other institutions, with an acceptance rate of approximately 46%, placing it in the lower tier nationally for selectivity.
The Pennsylvania College of Art and Design charges an application fee for prospective students submitting their materials. This fee is a standard part of the admissions process and must generally be paid at the time of application submission.
For students concerned about the financial burden of application fees, the college offers options to waive these charges under certain conditions. Fee waivers may be granted to applicants demonstrating financial need, which helps ensure that economic factors do not prevent qualified students from applying.
Prospective students interested in obtaining a waiver should inquire directly with the admissions office about eligibility criteria and the process for requesting a fee waiver. This allows applicants to receive clear guidance and support tailored to their individual circumstances.
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus. This presence allows students interested in military training and leadership development to access ROTC programs directly through the institution. Details beyond the existence of this branch unit, such as specific military branches represented or program structures, are not provided in the available data.
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design welcomes transfer students and accepts transfer credits from other institutions. Prospective transfer students have the opportunity to begin their studies in the fall and spring semesters. While specific entrance requirements and acceptance of recommendation letters are not detailed, the college does provide pathways for students to continue their education without starting anew.
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design offers prospective students opportunities to enhance their education through study abroad programs that focus on expanding artistic and cultural perspectives. These programs provide immersive experiences in international settings, allowing students to engage directly with diverse artistic traditions and contemporary practices outside the United States.
Participants typically have the chance to work alongside local artists, explore new media, and participate in workshops or exhibitions that broaden their creative horizons. The college emphasizes experiences that integrate professional development with cultural exchange, thereby enriching the academic curriculum by situating art education in a global context.
While specific program durations and destinations may vary, the study abroad offerings aim to foster both creative growth and personal development, preparing students for careers that can thrive in increasingly interconnected art and design fields.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary 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
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
NoWeekend/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
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring