How much do schools take into consideration your material from previous applications?

[bunkerhill]

Last year I applied with a rather weak portfolio and was denied entry by almost every school. I am reapplying this year with much stronger works but worried those records will still hurt my chances

[RM17]

I applied to a couple programs that rejected me last year, and this year I've received interview invitations for those schools. I don't know if/how much they consider previous applications - they obviously have a lot to do during admissions time - but if they do I think they would look favorably upon improvement and the commitment that takes. Of course it's hard to say for sure, but it's definitely not something that rules you out!

EDIT: I am in a very different (STEM) field so YMMV (came here from recent activity) but I HOPE that what I said is somewhat generally applicable!

Edited December 28, 2016 by RM17
Clarifying field

[turnip]

I don't know for certain, but I'm of the mind that re-applying with newer, stronger works shows that you are dedicated to your practice and to being a part of the community at the schools for which you have previously applied. 

This is my second time applying as well, though there was a 7 year gap between then and now. My approach includes noting all of the professional development, (residencies, grants, etc) that I have received in that time. I'll know in a couple of months how well it works. 

Good Luck!

[Xxanderr]

People have been rejected from MFA programs and then accepted the next admission cycle.  You should be cool.