Tuition and fees

Application Fee

A non-refundable fee is required for each application submitted, made payable to CalArts. The fee schedule is as follows:

 

Applications meeting the Preferred Deadline of December 1, 2008:

$50 for each domestic application

$65 for each international application

 

Applications meeting the Regular Deadline of January 5, 2009:

$70 for each domestic application

$85 for each international application

CalArts considers only the date on which your application and other materials are actually received, not the date of the postmark.

Students applying online may submit their fee with a credit card or send a check or money order after submission. Those students applying with our downloadable application must submit a check or money order with their application. Applications received without payment will not be processed. Fee waivers must be submitted in writing, and should accompany the paper application, or be sent after applying online. CalArts will accept the standard College Board fee waiver, or a letter from a high school/transfer counselor who can verify family financial hardship.

Apply online

You may also download a PDF of the application and mail it to:

CalArts

Office of Admissions

24700 McBean Parkway

Valencia, CA 91355-2340

Tuition

Tuition at CalArts is established annually by the Board of Trustees and is subject to change each year. Tuition in 2008–2009 is $32,860 for full-time enrollment. It is anticipated that tuition will increase in successive years. New and prospective students will be notified when a change in the tuition rate occurs.

Tuition covers instruction, facilities, and some materials used within the regular programs. Students should be prepared to supply materials required for most projects. Tuition and fees (less any financial aid awarded) are due before or upon registration each semester. For new students, a nonrefundable admission deposit of $500, to be applied toward tuition, is due with the Statement of Intention to Register. Partial deferment of tuition, with interest charged on the amount deferred, is available by special arrangement. Inquiries about such deferment should be made at least 60 days in advance of registration, directly to the CalArts Controller's Office. Upon registration, new students must make a deposit of $300 to cover loss or damage to CalArts property (keys, library books, equipment, etc.). It is refundable at the time of graduation or withdrawal.

Payment Plan

CalArts offers payment options that can help you afford your education. Once accepted, you may enroll in one of the monthly payment plans offered by our partner, Tuition Management Systems.  The payment option is available for a small enrollment fee and includes personal account service, automated account information 24 hours a day and access to your account through their website at www.afford.com/calarts.  Please visit the Tuition Management website for more information on payment options.

Health insurance fee

$1,119 (payable with tuition)

Lab Fees

May be assessed when necessary in certain courses, such as the Color Photo Lab, Mac Lab, and Critical Studies Lab.