Transfer Students

 
Transfer Day: Saturday, June 3

Learn about the transfer process, get portfolio advice, calculate your transfer credit & take a campus tour!
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We are excited to support your transition to the world’s most influential art and design school!

We welcome transfer students from two-year and four-year institutions, as well as students who are not currently enrolled or who already have a Bachelor's Degree from another school. Each year, approximately 25% of our incoming class is comprised of transfer students.


Student standing in colorful art installation

Interdisciplinary Curriculum

When you transfer to SAIC, you won’t declare a major, but will start with an idea and choose from a range of media to fulfill your vision.  Want to combine sculpture, ceramics and film?  Concentrate on painting only?  We teach you a way of thinking that prepares you for a successful future regardless of your life path.

Student stands and works on project

Generous Transfer Policy and Scholarships

Our flexible, generous transfer policy allows you to make the most of the credits you have earned. SAIC will accept up to a maximum of 60 transfer credits, including up to 30 studio electives, allowing you to customize your education and pursue your passion while you earn your Bachelor's degree at SAIC. In addition, all transfer students are automatically considered for annually-renewable transfer merit scholarships at the time of admission.

Students watching screen

Liberal Arts

You won't be giving up your passions outside of the arts. 25% of your degree at SAIC is comprised of courses in social science, natural science, and English to ensure your development as a person and maker prepares you for a fulfilling and sustainable creative career after graduation.

Museum visitors in gallery viewing art

2nd Largest Art Museum in the United States

At SAIC, the U.S.'s 2nd largest collection of art and artifacts is an integral part of your educational experience. Access to the Museum of the Art Institute, and over 300,00 works of art, means you will never lack for inspiration.

SAIC students pouring molten metal

Facilities and Resources

From time-honored processes like pouring molten metal and throwing clay, to state-of-the-art 3D printing and laser cutting, you have great tools at your disposal.  We also stock a huge array of photography and filmmaking equipment for loan from our 3 media centers.

Chicago Bean and Skyline

Chicago

Approachable and culturally rich, Chicago is an amazing city comprised of 77 distinct neighborhoods. SAIC is at the center of the city's art and design scene, with faculty and alumni connections providing you with a multitude of networking opportunities.

SAIC students at Machu PIcchu

Global Internship Opportunities

With one of the oldest and most successful art-related internship programs in the country, you can fill your resume with meaningful job experience before you graduate.