mccathabee

The graphic design program at CalArts is absolutely different than SDSU's, pretty unique and conceptual/form-driven compared to most institutions. It is my dream school, but I can't justify being probably 80K+ in debt once I graduate, especially when I'm not entirely certain if I will find a good job. It is a gamble. SDSU obviously doesn't have a big name but I have friends who have studied graphic design there, and I know some of the instructors - it is a small program but it is decent, and I'd find a way to make the most out of it. CalArts would have of course more connections and resources, and is in close proximity to LA, but I'm not sure if it's worth the 80K in student loans. I guess I'm the type to just err on the side of caution and I don't want to stress about being in debt when getting an MFA is already so energy-intensive as is. It's also really difficult knowing you got into the program of your dreams after all the work you put in, only to find out you can't go because of money. Sometimes I hate this country. >.<

Wow, thank you. That really opened my eyes to a lot of things since I was wondering where all the money CalArts gets is going, since it obviously isn't going towards much scholarship aid. I think I may move forward with SDSU, where the money is.

The program I applied to for CalArts is the MFA in Graphic Design. I was offered 24,000 in scholarship and 20,500 in loans. Assuming I get the same aid for each year for the 3-year Graphic Design program, that's roughly $61,500 in loans (plus whatever interest that accrues). The other option I'm currently considering is an MFA in Visual Arts at SDSU, with an emphasis in graphic design - I received enough financial aid there to cover all of tuition.

Pulling my hair out. Was offered 24k in scholarship and 20.5k in loans for CalArts. San Diego State University (SDSU), which is in my town, however, pretty much gave me full tuition. Both are MFA programs in Graphic Design. I'm stuck between the school of my dreams and a local school with a small reputation - should I jump the gun and take loans for CalArts or take the full ride at SDSU? Any advice or thoughts would be appreciated!

I applied to the Graphic Design program and really fell in love with the place. It's hard not to feel inspired by all these creative disciplines being housed closely together and I found the design studios sufficient and comfortable enough to work in. You really get the "art school" experience; walking from the design department, I'll find myself in the dance department or near the animation studios. I think like 40 people attended the Interview Day for the design program and honestly, I felt really, really tiny and intimidated since there were applicants from all over the world, and those who had more experience than me. I had mixed feelings about how I did in the interview, but I was accepted on Thursday and am completely floored.

I GOT INTO CALARTS 3-YEAR MFA GRAPHIC DESIGN! HOLY GOD. Hypervenilating.

I got my ID number at the very bottom of the email CCA sent me once I submitted my application.

Thanks so much! I was admitted!

How do we login? Did they send us login information?

I was accepted by Otis yesterday with some sort of $5000 annual scholarship. Hoping they'll process financial aid soon so I can consider how much that actually helps.

Sorry for the delayed response! Here is what my email said, and I'm pretty sure there's a brief interview involved. "Dear ___, I am delighted to inform you that the California Institute of the Arts faculty committee has completed the initial review of your application to the Program in Graphic Design - 2 Year MFA and invites you to visit the school for an interview. The interview is a requirement for MFA candidates and is an important component of the final selection process. The Interview Day will provide an opportunity to meet the faculty, current MFA students, and your potential peers. The MFA Graphic Design Interview Day is scheduled for Friday, March 6, 2015, beginning at 9:00am. We strongly encourage an on-campus interview; however if you are unable to attend, please contact Brian Gershey as soon as possible to schedule a skype interview. In your subject line please write "MFA GD request for alternate interview." Include your full name and skype address in your email..."

Hi everyone, I was just notified today that I'm a finalist for CalArts's MFA Graphic Design interviews. I was wondering if anyone has had experience with this process and what I can expect from it? Also, was wondering if anyone would happen to know how many people are typically asked to interview, and how many people are then selected from that pool for final admission? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!