Our admissions process isn't just about forms and numbers and what you did in high school. It's about you, the individual. Yes, we look at your academic background and work. But we also take the time to sit down and find out what's important to you. We help you assess your career possibilities...what holds the most promise, what's realistic, and what isn't. Together we will define your goals and professional objectives.

Admissions Requirements and Procedures
Each individual who seeks admission to The Art Institute of Seattle is required to complete or submit the following:

1. Admissions Interview (in person or over the phone) The purpose of the interview is to:
   
   
   • Explore the prospective student's background and interests as they relate to the programs offered at The Art Institute of Seattle;
   
   
   • Assist prospective students to identify the appropriate area of study consistent with their previous education, background, and stated or demonstrated interest in our program offerings;
   
   
   • Provide information concerning curriculum offerings and support services available at The Art Institute.
   
   
2. High school graduation or a General Education Development (GED) is a prerequisite for admission. Applicants must provide a copy of their official high school transcript, GED scores, or college transcripts indicating achievement of an associate's degree or higher.


3. Admissions application and $50 application fee.


4. Essay. A written paragraph of approximately 150 words describing what the prospective student's career goals are and how The Art Institute of Seattle can help the student achieve those goals, as well as how the student will commit to and participate in their education to be successful.


5. Enrollment Agreement.


6. A $100 tuition deposit (due within 10 days after the application is submitted).


7. For advanced placement, college transcripts and course descriptions will be required.


8. Test scores. All degree seeking students are required to submit official scores of either the SAT, ACT, Compass or Asset. Transfer credit may be accepted in place of test scores.


9. English Proficiency. All applicants, regardless of nonimmigrant or immigrant status, must demonstrate that English is their "first" language. Demonstration that English is an applicant's "first" language can be satisfied if the applicant has earned a diploma from a secondary/high school (or above) in a system in which English is the official language of instruction. If English is not the applicant's "first" language, the applicant will need to meet the minimum English Language Proficiency Requirements as outlined for nonimmigrant, international students here.

The Art Institute of Seattle does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability or any other characteristic protected by state, local or federal law in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities or with respect to admission and employment.

Applicants who have not yet submitted all transcripts and/or other required documentation may be allowed to begin class conditionally, but must provide all required transcripts or documentation by a date established by the Director of Admissions, not to exceed one quarter.

Preparatory College classes may be required for some students. Click here for more information about the Preparatory College classes and the department of Education Services.

The Art Institute of Seattle reserves the right to request any additional information necessary to evaluate an applicant's potential for academic success.

Prospective students are encouraged to visit The Art Institute, although a visit is not a condition of enrollment. Arrangements for an interview and tour of The Art Institute may be made by telephone, or by letter addressed to: Director of Admissions, The Art Institute of Seattle, 2323 Elliott Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121. Call toll-free 1-800-275-2471, or locally 206-448-6600, or email aisadm@aii.edu

Admissions Decisions
Admissions decisions are made by the admissions committee, which is comprised of members of the college's faculty and staff. The committee determines whether an applicant has a reasonable chance to be successful based upon his or her academic record, essay, and the appropriateness of the applicant's stated career goals as they relate to the chosen program of study. The committee may request additional information or require the applicant to meet with an academic director prior to making a final decision. The committee meets weekly and admissions decisions are usually communicated to the applicant within two weeks.

Admissions Requirements for Returning Students
The Re-Admissions Office provides assistance to those students wishing to return to school after a leave of absence, withdrawal or suspension. For a smooth transition back into the academic mainstream, students must contact this office, located in the Admissions Department, for all information needed to return to classes.

Orientation
An orientation program is held for all new students. Students are advised of the dates and times of all orientation activities. The purpose of orientation is to ensure that all new students receive the information and support necessary for a smooth transition into The Art Institute community. Orientation activities begin the month prior to each quarterly start and extend throughout the first quarter.

Your involvement in all orientation activities can play an important role in achieving success as a student. We strongly encourage your participation.

Student Body
Students come to The Art Institute from all over the world. The student body is comprised of men and women who have enrolled directly after completing high school, have transferred from colleges and universities, or have left employment situations to prepare for a new career. Our fall 2005 student body will consist of approximately 2,050 students representing more than 40 states and more than 30 countries.