Application Form
Filling out the application is your first step toward being considered for admission to PAFA. Please be sure to read over the directions and write your information clearly. We strongly recommend that you look over your application to make sure the information you have provided is correct and complete (don’t forget to check the boxes for your program and semester of interest). Sign and date your application when it's complete.
Portfolio
The portfolio is your platform to showcase your artistic talents and convey who you are as an artist. It is important that you be selective when choosing work to include in your portfolio, as it is the cornerstone of your application. We have created guidelines to direct you on how the portfolio should be presented but it will be up to you, the artist, to decide what works best reveal your talent, ambition and desire to attend PAFA.
Certificate and BFA Guide Download the Undergraduate Portfolio Guide
Post-Baccalaureate and MFA Guide Download the Graduate Portfolio Guide
Image Inventory
As a supplement to the portfolio, every applicant must submit an image inventory detailing the title, medium, size and date of each piece of work. Print your image inventory on a separate sheet, listing the details in order of appearance in your portfolio.
Statement of Purpose
Every applicant must submit a written statement of purpose that addresses the program-specific question listed on the application (No. 28). We encourage you to personalize your statement by reflecting on your artistic interests and future aspirations. Our Admissions Committee seeks not only talented artists, but also those who can communicate intelligently about their work and educational pursuits. Your statement should be 1-2 pages typed, double-spaced.
Letters of Recommendation
PAFA requires every applicant to submit two letters of recommendation. These letters are opportunities for others to speak on your behalf and tell us more about you and should come from individuals who are familiar with you and your artistic abilities, such as: teachers, mentors, guidance counselors and employers.
Since our application is self-managed, we advise you to ask those writing on your behalf to mail the sealed letters directly to you, for inclusion in your application packet. Please give your recommenders enough time to write their letters and send them to you well before the deadline.
Transcripts
Everyone applying for admission must submit official transcripts, which convey academic history and serve as proof of eligibility for your intended program.
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Certificate and BFA applicants must provide proof of graduation (a final, official high school transcript showing date of graduation) or high school equivalency (GED).
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MFA and Post Baccalaureate applicants must provide proof of their bachelor’s degree.
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Currently enrolled applicants should submit official transcripts with their courses in progress and official, final transcripts upon graduation.
Only transcripts in a sealed envelope will be considered official.
The following candidates are not required to submit high school transcripts:
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Certificate or BFA applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher
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Transfer students who have, or will have, earned 30 semester credits before enrolling at PAFA.
Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have any questions about transcript requirements. It is important to keep in mind that our application is self-managed and transcripts must arrive with your completed application by the appropriate deadline.
Application Fee
All applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of $50 that is to be included with your completed application. You may pay your fee by check, money order or credit card. If you wish to pay by credit card, please contact the Office of Admissions at 215-972-7625.
Resume (Optional)
Submitting a resume is an optional, but helpful, way for you to enlighten us about your life experiences and accomplishments. A resume may be especially helpful if you have been out of school for some time or are looking to pursue graduate studies.