For International Students

At the Cleveland Institute of Art, we are especially pleased to receive applications from international students as we believe you contribute greatly to our school environment. As a student at CIA, you will live and learn in University Circle, the cultural hub of Cleveland, Ohio, where creativity and innovation meet in one of the most concentrated and renowned cultural districts in the United States. 

With curriculum dedicated to excellence in art and design education and a 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you will receive exceptional personal attention at CIA. Your professors will know you by name and nurture your interests, potential, and goals. 

As an international student, we also recognize your concerns about adjusting to cultural, social, and environmental changes. Our Office of Academic Services and International Programs staff will help you adapt to life at CIA and serve as a resource for helpful information. 

International Student Application Process

If you are not a citizen of the United States, you are an international student. You are also a first-time freshman or a transfer student. Follow these three steps to apply to the Cleveland Institute of Art: 

1. Follow the admission procedures, deadlines, and portfolio guidelines that are relevant to you as a freshman applicant or transfer applicant. 

2. Download and complete two additional forms for international students: 

• International Student Supplemental Application
• Certification of Finances

3. If English is not your native language, demonstrate proof of English language proficiency with one of the following:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of at least 525 PBT (paper-based test), 213 CBT (computer-based test), or 80 IBT (Internet-based test)
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) band score of 6.0 or higher
• SAT or ACT test scores
• Completion of Level 112 ESL coursework

Send all application materials to: 

Office of Admissions
The Cleveland Institute of Art
11141 East Boulevard
Cleveland, Ohio 44106 

If you have any questions about our application process, please contact our Office of Admissions. 

International Student Scholarships

As an international student, you are not eligible for federal, state, or institutional need-based financial aid. However, you may compete in all merit-based scholarships administered by CIA. See a full list of available scholarships. 

If you have any questions about our scholarships, please contact our Office of Financial Aid. 

More About Us

For your convenience, we have made the following brochures available in Mandarin Chinese:

CIA Overview 2011-12 (Mandarin)
Industrial Design Products (Mandarin)
International Student Profile (Mandarin)  

Have Questions?

We pride ourselves on providing a personal connection to our prospective and current students, so if you have any questions about our requirements, please contact our Office of Admissions.