Frequently Asked Questions

We offer 19 master’s degree programs. Explore our programs for more information.

The deadline is January 6. Learn more about the application process to get started.

No, we do not accept new applications in the spring.

No, we do not have rolling admissions at RISD. All applications for the upcoming academic year are due January 6.

No, we do not offer any online degree programs at RISD. Instruction for all graduate degree programs is in person.

No, we only offer full-time graduate degree programs.

Anyone with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is eligible to apply to our graduate degree programs.

For our programs that require a portfolio, experience related to your intended major is helpful. The portfolio and statement of purpose are the most important parts of those program applications. 

Learn more about the application process to get started. 

No, we do not accept transfer students or transfer credits for any RISD graduate degree program.

No, we do not require a minimum GPA for admission to RISD graduate degree programs.

We do not require the GRE for any of our degree programs. However, if you would like to submit your scores, you are welcome to do so.

Recommendation letters should be written by teachers or other professionals who have firsthand knowledge of your academic and/or professional achievements in art, design or related field of study. They should be able to comment on your preparedness and potential for graduate study.

Graduate applicants to studio programs are generally required to submit 10–20 examples of visual work. Certain graduate programs have more specific portfolio requirements or suggestions about what to include. We use SlideRoom for portfolio submissions.

Not all departments have program-specific portfolio requirements. If you do not see specific requirements then you will need to submit 10–20 examples of your work, per our general requirement.

This varies depending on the program you are applying to. You can learn more or discuss your portfolio with someone from RISD by attending on of our portfolio review days, or viewing recordings of past events.

Initially, you must provide unofficial transcripts of all undergraduate and/or graduate study indicating satisfactory completion, or evidence of anticipated completion, of an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Enrolling students will later be required to submit official transcripts.

Use the RISD applicant portal to upload your unofficial transcripts.

Visit our estimated costs for an overview of expenses. Note that these figures reflect the current academic year (not the year for which you are applying).

The listed amounts represent the estimated costs of one academic year. Some programs that start in the summer require additional fees that are also listed on the linked page above.

Yes, tuition is the same for international and domestic students.

Financial assistance is available for students who qualify. Learn more about the options available for financing your education. 

If you have further questions, you can reach out to Student Financial Services at sfs@risd.edu or 401 454-6661.

All students admitted to RISD, including international students, are eligible to receive fellowships and assistantships.

You do not need to submit an additional application to be considered for an assistantship or fellowship. They are awarded as part of the review process and are based on merit. Award amounts vary but typically don’t cover the full cost of attendance.

If you have further questions, reach out to Student Financial Services  at sfs@risd.edu or 401 454-6661.