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Applying to PNCA

We can’t wait to learn more about your creative vision and goals. At PNCA, we’re looking for students with creative and technical skills, academic dedication, and the motivation and potential to be successful artists and designers. The application process varies depending on a few factors, such as if you’re applying to a BFA or graduate program or if you’re a first-year or transfer student.

The Pacific Northwest College of Art in downtown Portland, a large white stone building at the intersection of a street

Admissions Information

In-Progress Applicants: Pick Up Where You Left Off

Already started your application? You can log into our system anytime to continue the process or check your status.

Admitted Students: Get Ready for PNCA

If you’ve been accepted to PNCA, you can explore next steps and find resources just for you at our Admitted Students page, including orientation and housing information, here:

Admissions Requirements & Portfolio Preparation

Your application and portfolio materials give us a glimpse into your creative mind and an excellent idea of your potential at PNCA. Here's a closer look at what you need to apply.

  • Undergraduate Requirements

    First-year and transfer BFA students should gather 10-15 portfolio items—as well as an artist statement—to submit along with their application.
    A PNCA BFA student wearing a beanie and carrying a backpack takes photos in the ceramics studio

  • Graduate Requirements

    MFA and MA applicants will complement their admissions materials with program-specific requirements, which could include portfolio items, essay questions, a statement of purpose or writing samples.
    A person working on a computer.

  • Post-Baccalaureate Requirements

    Applicants to our post-bacc residency program should gather or prepare their resume/CV, reference letters, statement of purpose and portfolio materials.
    A smiling PNCA student stands in front of four prints of graphic novel pages and holds a card with a similar illustration

Scholarships & Financial Aid

A premier art and design education is within reach at PNCA. We offer merit and equity scholarships at the undergraduate and graduate level. And students may be eligible for federal financial aid programs like grants, loans and work-study.
A PNCA student works on their laptop on a colorful illustration of two people embracing

Transfer Students & Pathway Programs

We welcome transfer students to continue their art and design education at PNCA. Our team will help you transfer as many of your previous college credits as possible. With more than 30 transfer partner colleges, we also offer a guided pathway from associate degree to BFA.
Three men stand around a poster and one points to it in an art gallery during PNCA's First Thursday event

Life at PNCA

In and out of the classroom, you’ll be part of a vibrant community of makers, creators and changemakers. Explore what it’s like to live and learn at PNCA—and in the amazing city of Portland.
PNCA students stand in a circle chatting at a First Thursday event

Next Steps

Discover PNCA

Learn more about studying at PNCA—or come visit to see this inspiring place for yourself.
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