California Institute of the Arts
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Program Characteristics
Prescreen Required
No Audition
Interview Required
In-Person or Virtual
University App Required
Program Highlights
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
•First two years explore fundamental concepts through project-driven Studio Labs
•Highly individualized curriculum with faculty mentors in later years
•All students required to pass mid-residence and graduation review
SPECIALIZATIONS
•Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scene Design, Sound Design, Stage Management, and Technical Direction
PROGRAM RECOGNITION
•8:1 student-faculty ratio in School of Theater
•Notable alumni include Tony-nominated lighting designer Brandon Stirling Baker (BFA '10)
CREATIVE ECOSYSTEM
•Comprehensive exposure to live performance, film, dance, themed entertainment, and immersive environments
Key Info
University AppApplication
Apply atSchool Website
Deadlines
Regular DecisionJan 5, 2026
Rolling
Fee
$85Waiver
Waived for CalArts/CSSSA/CAP alumni and previous applicants
Program AppApplication
Deadline
Regular DeadlineJan 5, 2026
Prescreen Requirements
Submission Specifications
RECORDING FORMAT
•Duration: 60-90 seconds
•Speak directly to the camera
•Do not read from a prepared statement
TECHNICAL
•No edits or special effects
•No on-screen overlays
•Professional-level equipment not required — cellphone or consumer cameras are fine
Additional Materials
ARTIST STATEMENT (1 page single-spaced or 2 pages double-spaced)
•Discuss your goals and their relationship to your past experience
•Evidence of your interest in performance-based design (theater, film, installation, writing, or related forms)
RESUME
PORTFOLIO
•Drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, or other artwork
•Graphic and drafting skills
•Theater design: models, sketches, costume designs, light plots, prompt books, photographs of props, scenery, and costumes
•Sound design documentation with accompanying paperwork (cue sheets, equipment lists, drafting)
•Craft skills in scenery construction, painting, props, costuming, and lighting
•Created video work and installations
•Documentation of fully realized original work (video, slides, or photographs)
•Architectural drawing, textile work, performance art, and video work also welcome
VIDEO INTRODUCTION (60-90 seconds)
•Describe your interest in theater and its interrelated creative environments of immersive entertainment and experimental live performance
•Speak directly to the camera — do not read from a prepared statement
•No edits or special effects
Good to Know
PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION
•Upload portfolio materials to the portfolio section of the CalArts application
•Contact admissions@calarts.edu for technical difficulties
ROLLING ADMISSIONS
•Applications accepted on a rolling basis after the January 5 deadline until the program closes
What's The Process
INTERVIEW PROCESS
•You will be contacted directly if an interview is requested by the faculty
•Not all candidates will be invited to interview
•Interview format (virtual or in-person) determined after invitation
•Online application must be submitted before an interview will be scheduled
Scholarship Info
•Merit-based institutional scholarships and grants awarded based on artistic talent demonstrated in application
•Financial aid packages may include institutional, state, and federal funds
•Contact finaid@calarts.edu or 661-253-7869 for details
Program info updated 2 days ago
Academic School Information
26%
Admit Rate
64%
Grad Rate
881
Enrollment
$41,198
Earnings
10yr after
Tuition & Fees
$56,724
before aid
Average Annual Cost
$47,183
after typical aid
Average annual cost is often lower than tuition because it accounts for grants and scholarships most students receive. It includes tuition, room & board, books, and supplies.
Annual Cost by Family Income
Family Income $0 - $30k$33,802
Family Income $30k - $48k$37,082
Family Income $48k - $75k$35,788
Family Income $75k - $110k$44,448
Family Income $110k+$59,106
