Submit Your Portfolio
Don't panic, you can do this!
The majority of KCAD programs require a portfolio review (except those entering Art History with an Academic Focus).
The portfolio is your opportunity to show us your strengths and interests. Your work reflects your ability to express yourself, articulate your ideas, and demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and creativity. We understand that students come from a wide variety of educational backgrounds and we want to meet you where you are. We will consider your portfolio in the context of your prior experiences.
Your portfolio should include 8-10 pieces of your best, most recent work that reflect your interests and creative potential. This collection of work could include 2D or 3D artwork, such as drawings, paintings, design, photography, sketches, animation, typography, videos, collages, ceramics, sculpture, sewn garments or other forms of creativity.
Our definition of creative output is broad. Perhaps your strength is in the following areas; robotics, broadcast journalism, performance, yearbook, creative writing, etc.— we’ll consider any form of creative expression that showcases your execution and thought.
We want to better understand your work, so when we review your portfolio tell us where your ideas come from, how you’ve developed your skills, and what interests you are exploring.
If you have questions or concerns about putting together a portfolio of work, contact a KCAD Admissions Counselor, we’re here to help!
SlideRoom Review
Submit an electronic portfolio through Slideroom. Simply select the Undergraduate Portfolio Review for the correct term of admission you are seeking.
Virtual One-on-One Reviews
This option combines the use of SlideRoom with a scheduled virtual appointment with
an Admissions Counselor using Zoom. We’d like to talk with you about the work you’ve
done and what you’d like to do in the future. First schedule the virtual appointment, then follow the steps to submit your portfolio in SlideRoom.
In-Person One-on-One Reviews
Interested in reviewing your work one-on-one with an Admissions Counselor at KCAD? Email us, call us, or use our online scheduling system to set up a portfolio review appointment. Plan on spending 45 minutes to 1 hour with us.
Phone: 616.259.1118
Email: [email protected]
Schedule an In-Person Appointment online
Other review opportunities
We review portfolios during visits to area high schools (ask your art teacher), as well as at National Portfolio Days at colleges throughout the U.S. and Canada. Learn more about National Portfolio Day events and find one near you.
Contact Admissions
Phone: 616.259.1118
Email: [email protected]
Schedule a Virtual Appointment with Admissions
Admissions Office Hours:
Monday–Friday
8am–5pm