Admissions

Admissions

At the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), we offer a variety of academic programs designed to support your creative and intellectual growth. Whether you’re interested in pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, our programs provide rigorous, hands-on fine arts training, complemented by opportunities to engage with the wider arts community in Philadelphia. For more information, contact Maddy Schierl, Admissions Counselor.
 

Undergraduate Study at PAFA

PAFA’s Undergraduate Certificate Programs and pathways provide a comprehensive arts education that prepares students to develop their personal artistic voice. Through both studio practice and academic study, you’ll gain the skills needed to pursue a professional career in the arts or continue your education at other institutions.

Programs Offered:

  • Foundation Certificate: A 30-credit (1-year) immersive program in painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media.
    Learn More & Apply →
  • Studio Residency Certificate: A 30-60 credit (1-2 years) program designed for students interested in deepening their independent studio practice with faculty mentorship.
    Learn More & Apply →
  • PAFA/Penn BFA: A unique collaboration between PAFA and the University of Pennsylvania, offering students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree while studying at both institutions. 
    Learn More & Apply →
     

Graduate Study at PAFA

PAFA's Graduate Certificate Program is designed for artists who wish to refine their practice, build a professional studio portfolio, and engage in the intellectual rigor of art-making. Students are immersed in PAFA’s vibrant community while gaining access to world-class faculty and peer mentorship.

Program Offered:

  • Post-Baccalaureate Certificate: A 30-credit (1-year) program for students looking to develop a competitive portfolio and gain advanced studio practice.
    Learn More & Apply →

Application Process

How to Apply

Applying to PAFA’s academic programs is a simple process, whether you’re applying for undergraduate or graduate study. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Submit an Application: Complete the online application for your chosen program.
  • Submit Materials: Include your portfolio, personal statement, transcripts, and any other required documents. Application Materials & Info →
  • Admissions Decisions: After reviewing your application, we will notify you of the admission decision.

Step-By-Step Instructions & Materials Checklist

PAFA-Penn BFA Program

The PAFA-Penn BFA program is a unique collaboration between the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and the University of Pennsylvania. This partnership allows students to earn their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree while studying across both esteemed institutions, benefiting from diverse academic opportunities and world-class art education.

  • Here’s how to apply:
    • Apply to PAFA: First, apply and be accepted to PAFA’s undergraduate programs.
    • Apply to PAFA-Penn BFA: After completing 30 credits (one year) at PAFA, you may apply to the PAFA/Penn BFA program.
  • Maintain Academic Performance: You must maintain a B (3.0) average in both PAFA and Penn courses to remain eligible for the program.
  • Application Materials: Include your resume, essays, PAFA transcript, high school transcript, and other supporting materials.
  • For more detailed information about the PAFA-Penn BFA program, please visit the PAFA-Penn BFA Program page.

 

Tuition

Tuition for the 2025-2026 school year is $35,000 for 30 credits. All applications received by the priority scholarship deadline will be considered for merit-based scholarships based on the overall strength of the submission.

For priority scholarship consideration, submit your application by June 1, 2025. All applications received by this deadline will be reviewed for institutional scholarships based on the overall strength of the application.

Transfer Credit Policy

PAFA will consider credit earned in accredited certificate programs, colleges, or universities for transfer to the Foundation Certificate and Studio Residency Certificate programs. Transfer credits will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and approved upon review of transcript and portfolio.  

Transfer Credit Eligibility:  

  • A grade of C or better is required in order to transfer credits from other institutions. A grade of C minus will not be accepted.  
  • In order to transfer, the course must be equivalent to a course offered by PAFA.  
  • Credit will be considered in conjunction with an evaluation of the applicant’s portfolio.  
  • Credits awarded at a previous institution through internal placement tests are not eligible for transfer credits.  
  • Coursework must have been completed in the past ten years to be eligible for transfer credits.  
  • AP Art scores of 4-5 will be considered for credit upon transcript and portfolio review.  

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