Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design admits students who have a desire to explore new possibilities; work hard to realize their personal best; and are eager to produce original, innovative work. Although a variety of evaluation criteria are necessary for a sound admission decision, evidence of a student’s potential is the primary consideration in the admissions process.
Declaration of Modality for Admissions
Students who apply to RMCAD will be asked to select either the campus or online modality at the time of application.
Students who need to change their modality must contact their Student Advisor to facilitate the change in modality. For specific requirements for a change of modality, please consult your Student Advisor.
Major Declaration for Admissions
Students who apply to RMCAD will be asked to select a major at the time of application. If students do not know which program they wish to pursue, they may apply for General Admission or “Undeclared”. Students must declare a major by the end of their first academic year, or two semesters, and prior to earning 30 credits. Note: All Financial Aid students are required to be degree seeking.
Undergraduate Admissions
U.S. Applicants
- Application for Admission
Applicants must submit a completed Application for Admission and a $50 application fee. Applications must be completed online at www.rmcad.edu.
- Transcripts
Official transcripts should be sent directly to RMCAD via email at transcripts@rmcad.edu or mailed directly to the RMCAD campus. Transcripts opened or emailed by the student will not be considered official. Transfer students may be asked to submit a high school transcript as well as a transcript(s) from the institution(s) of higher education previously attended, pending a review of completed college credits and college GPA.
New students must submit official transcripts from every institution of higher education that the student has attended in order to complete the registration and enrollment process. In special circumstances, submission of official transcript(s) can be waived at the President’s discretion. If the student is a recent high school graduate, an official high school transcript showing a graduation date is acceptable. Students who do not provide official transcripts from every institution previously attended before their scheduled start date are eligible to change their start date one time to allow time for the submission of required official transcripts.
All transcripts submitted by students from previously attended schools become a part of their official record. RMCAD does not re-release official or unofficial transcripts earned from other institutions.
- Cumulative GPA
All applicants must either possess a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher or possess a high school equivalency diploma with a GED score of 165 or higher if taken in 2016 or 500 or higher if taken before 2016. Home-schooled students must submit satisfactory GED scores or submit proof of graduation by an accrediting body that is recognized by RMCAD.
- Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) Program (updated October 2021)
Applicants who are admitted with a cumulative grade point average below 2.0 or a GED with a score less than 165 taken in/after 2016 or less than 500 if taken prior to 2016 will be required to participate in the Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) program and are considered an “admit provisional”. Students participating in the Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) program will be given an individualized Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) plan from the Office of Student Advising. Students admitted as “admit provisional” receive additional academic advising through their first semester. After their first semester, all students fall under the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy. Students who meet the minimum 2.0 GPA are considered “SAP Met;” students who do not meet the minimum 2.0 GPA are considered “SAP Not Met.”
Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) Program At A Glance
The Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) Program supports students and their academic preparedness and success through enhanced awareness of support services and policies regarding low GPAs that may affect their financial aid eligibility, their academic success, and their ability to graduate.
Students enrolled in the Provisional Academic Success Strategies (PASS) program will engage in regularly scheduled, proactive academic advising conducted by the Office of Student Advising. Additionally, students will receive an individualized Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) plan notifying them of the individualized academic metrics they need to achieve in order to be considered in good academic standing. Students will also receive weekly newsletters to their RMCAD Gmail account that offer them additional engagement opportunities and academic support.
- ACT or SAT test results
RMCAD does not require but accepts the submission of ACT or SAT scores for undergraduate U.S. applicants.
- Portfolio
Applicants to the BFA programs are encouraged to submit a statement of intent and a portfolio demonstrating the basic skills needed to succeed in art and design coursework. Students who fail to submit a portfolio of artistic work may not be eligible for scholarships. See the “Submitting a Portfolio ” section of this publication for further instructions. Applicants who do not have portfolio work should contact their Admissions Counselor.
- Interview with an Admissions Counselor
An interview with an Admissions Counselor, either in person or by telephone, is required. Through the personal interview, applicants will gain a better understanding of the visual arts education at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design. To arrange an interview time, please contact the Admissions Office at 800.888.2787 or admissions@rmcad.edu.
International applicants for campus programs are persons who are not residents of the United States and who already have or will be applying for, a temporary U.S. student visa (F-1 visa). RMCAD only considers international applicants for admission to our campus-based programs who are degree seeking and plan to attend as a full-time student. RMCAD welcomes international students to apply to our online programs, however online students are not eligible to apply for a student visa.
All international students studying on an F1 student visa will be required to attend RMCAD full time during the spring and fall semesters. This means international students will be required to be enrolled full-time taking twelve credits each eight-week term during the fall and spring semesters. Students on an F1 student visa are entitled to a vacation term of one semester during the summer semester only, provided they intend to register for classes in the fall semester.
- Application for Admission
Applicants must submit a completed Application for Admission and a $50 application fee. International applicants must provide their full legal name, birth date, and place of birth. When applying online, this information should be entered under the comments section of the online application, and a signature page requested from the Admissions Counselor. Online applications must be submitted through the RMCAD website at www.rmcad.edu.
- Transcripts
International applicants must provide official transcripts as well as the official transfer credit evaluation. Official transcripts for all courses completed at colleges outside of the United States must be submitted to an approved evaluation agency before transfer credit will be awarded by RMCAD. International applicants are required to submit official transcripts for translation and evaluation. Applicants must use a credential evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) http://www.naces.org/members.html.
Credentialed evaluation services prepare evaluation reports that identify the United States equivalents of education completed in other countries. Applicants should request a course-by-course evaluation for college/university studies. A general evaluation may be used for high school/secondary school transcripts. Applicants must submit official transcripts from each college attended to RMCAD’s Office of the Registrar (transcripts will not be forwarded to RMCAD) and must request that a copy of their evaluation be sent directly to RMCAD. Applicants are responsible for paying all fees incurred for evaluations. Evaluation turnaround time may be up to five weeks (or more), so early submission is recommended. Upon receipt of the evaluation, RMCAD’s Office of the Registrar will determine which credits will be accepted based on the guidelines outlined by policy. For more information about transcript evaluation agencies, contact the RMCAD Office of the Registrar at 303.754.6046 or registrar@rmcad.edu.
International students with a cumulative GPA less than 2.0 will not be admitted to the college. All transcripts submitted by students from previously attended schools become a part of their official record. RMCAD does not re-release official or unofficial transcripts earned from other institutions.
- Portfolio
All international applicants to BFA programs must submit an artist statement and portfolio of visual work that demonstrates the basic skills needed to succeed in art and design coursework. Students who fail to submit a portfolio of artistic work may not be eligible for scholarships. See the “Submitting a Portfolio ” section in publication for further instructions. Applicants who do not have portfolio work should contact their Admissions Counselor.
- Interview with an Admissions Counselor
An interview with an Admissions Counselor, either in person, by email, or by telephone, is required. Through the personal interview, applicants will gain a better understanding of the visual arts education at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to schedule an interview at 303.753.6046 or admissions@rmcad.edu.
- Official TOEFL Scores or Acceptable Equivalent
International applicants must provide acceptable TOEFL scores or must provide proof of English language proficiency by way of successful completion of a college-level English Composition course, or ESL equivalent. Please note courses taken to demonstrate English proficiency must be approved by the academic department before TOEFL waiver and acceptance.
Because English is the language of instruction at RMCAD, all students are required to be proficient in English. Non-U.S. resident students must submit proof of English proficiency by providing official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or other proof of English proficiency. TOEFL must reflect a minimum score of 213 on the computerized test, a score of 550 on the written test, a score of 75 on the internet-based test, a score of 6 on IELTS, or successful completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) course. Each situation is handled on a case-by-case basis.
- Official Financial Documents
International applicants applying for admission to the College must submit an official bank statement verifying sufficient funds to cover the cost of attending RMCAD and living expenses for one year. Contact the Admissions Office for information on the current amount required.
- Immigration Documents
Immigration documents will be issued once RMCAD has received all required documents and the applicant has been accepted. Once the College has accepted the applicant, they will be sent an I-20 form, which is needed to obtain a student visa. The I-20 form can be issued only to regular full-time students admitted into a degree program. International students transferring to RMCAD from another school in the United States should contact the Admissions Office immediately to determine eligibility to transfer. Immigration documents will only be issued to the applicant, RMCAD does not work with 3rd party sponsors or recruiters. RMCAD only issues F1 student visas.
Graduate Admissions
To apply for graduate programs, applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an institutionally accredited college or university.
U.S. Applicants
- Application for Admission
Applicants must submit a completed Application for Admission and a $50 application fee. Applications must be completed online at www.rmcad.edu.
- Transcripts
To apply for graduate programs, applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an institutionally accredited college or university. Official transcripts should be sent directly to RMCAD at transcripts@rmcad.edu or mailed directly to the RMCAD campus. New students must submit official transcripts to be registered for classes. Students who do not provide official transcripts before their scheduled start date are eligible to change their start date one time to allow time for the submission of required official transcripts.
All transcripts submitted by students from previously attended schools become a part of their official record. RMCAD does not re-release official or unofficial transcripts earned from other institutions. Students who have completed coursework at colleges outside the United States should ask their Admissions Counselor for more information about transfer credit evaluation.
- Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is required. In 500-750 words, the applicant should concisely describe his or her academic and career goals and how those goals align with the mission of the program.
- Cumulative GPA
All applicants for admissions to RMCAD’s graduate programs must possess a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Exceptions to the GPA requirement can be made based on applicants’ other documents including CV/Resume, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, statement of purpose, and other documents the candidate would like to submit for review.
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Test Scores
The GRE and other standardized test scores are not required for admission. However, applicants may submit any material they wish to have reviewed in the admissions process, including test scores, letters of recommendation, or other documents attesting to the applicant’s academic goals.
- Professional Evidence
All applicants for admission to RMCAD’s graduate programs must submit a professionally formatted resume or curriculum vitae. Students may select to submit letters of recommendation.
International Applicants - Graduate
International applicants are persons who are not residents of the United States. Credentials written in languages other than English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Translations must be literal, not interpretive.
All international students studying on an F1 visa will be required to attend RMCAD full time during the spring and fall semesters if the students are registered as campus students. This means international students will be required to be enrolled full-time taking six credits each eight-week term during the Fall and Spring semesters. Students on an F1 visa are entitled to a vacation term of one semester during the summer semester only provided they intend to register for classes in the fall semester.
- Application for Admission for International Applicants
Applicants must submit a completed Application for Admission and a $50 application fee. International applicants must provide their full legal name, birth date, and place of birth. When applying online, this information should be entered under the comments section of the online application, and a signature page requested from the Admissions Counselor. Online applications may be submitted through the RMCAD website at www.rmcad.edu.
- International Transcripts
International applicants must provide official transcripts as well as the official transfer credit evaluation. Official transcripts for all courses completed at colleges outside of the United States must be submitted to an approved evaluation agency before transfer credit will be awarded by RMCAD. International applicants are required to submit official transcripts for translation and evaluation. Applicants must use a credential evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) http://www.naces.org/members.html.
Credentialed evaluation services prepare evaluation reports that identify the United States equivalents of education completed in other countries. Applicants should request a course-by-course evaluation for college/university studies. A general evaluation may be used for high school/secondary school transcripts. Applicants must submit official transcripts from each college attended to RMCAD’s Office of the Registrar (transcripts will not be forwarded to RMCAD) and must request that a copy of their evaluation be sent directly to RMCAD. Applicants are responsible for paying all fees incurred for evaluations. Evaluation turnaround time may be up to five weeks (or more), so early submission is recommended. Upon receipt of the evaluation, RMCAD’s Office of the Registrar will determine which credits will be accepted based on the guidelines outlined by policy. For more information about transcript evaluation agencies, contact the RMCAD Office of the Registrar at 303.754.6046 or registrar@rmcad.edu.
- Official TOEFL Scores or Acceptable Equivalent
International applicants must submit acceptable TOEFL scores or must provide proof of English language proficiency by way of successful completion of a college-level English Composition course, or ESL equivalent. Please note courses taken to demonstrate English proficiency must be approved by the academic department before TOEFL waiver and acceptance. All transcripts submitted by students from previously attended schools become a part of their official record. RMCAD does not re-release official or unofficial transcripts earned from other institutions.
Because English is the language of instruction at RMCAD, all students are required to be proficient in English. Non-US resident students must submit proof of English proficiency by providing official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or other proof of English proficiency. TOEFL must reflect a minimum score of 213 on the computerized test, a score of 550 on the written test, a score of 75 on the internet-based test, a score of 6 on IELTS, or successful completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) course. Each situation is handled on a case-by-case basis. The language requirement may be met based upon interviews with the faculty and staff if the student’s native language is English, or if the applicant has graduated from a high school in the U.S. or obtained a degree from an accredited U.S. college or university.
- Official Financial Documents
International applicants applying for admission to the College, on campus, must submit an official bank statement verifying sufficient funds to cover the cost of attending RMCAD for one year. Contact the Graduate Admissions Office for information on the current amount required. Immigration documents will only be issued to the applicant, RMCAD does not work with 3rd party sponsors or recruiters.
- Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is required. In 500-750 words, the applicant should concisely describe his or her academic and career goals and how those goals align with the mission of their specific degree program.
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Test Scores
The GRE and other standardized test scores are not required for admission. However, applicants may submit any material they wish to be reviewed in the admissions process, including test scores, letters of recommendation, or other documents attesting to the applicant’s academic goals.
7. Cumulative GPA
All applicants for admissions to RMCAD’s graduate programs must possess a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Exceptions to the GPA requirement can be made based on applicants’ other documents including CV/Resume, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, statement of purpose, and other documents the candidate would like to submit for review.
8. Professional Evidence
All applicants for admission to RMCAD’s graduate programs must submit a professionally formatted resume or curriculum vitae. Students may select to submit letters of recommendation.
High School Dual Enrollment Program
RMCAD offers the opportunity for exceptional junior and senior high school students to enroll for college credit while still completing their high school degree. Dual Enrollment credit awards for courses taken at RMCAD may be used to satisfy high school subject or credit requirements, as determined by the student’s high school. Dual Enrollment students may take online courses and register for one class in an 8-week term and up to six credits per semester for a total of 12 credits in a calendar year (fall through end of summer). Financial Aid is not available and cannot be used to cover the cost of attendance, books, or supplies, although students may receive financial support from their high school. Dual enrolled students will automatically be accepted to RMCAD upon meeting the college’s admissions requirements. College credit is awarded for Dual Enrollment and will apply towards degree requirements at RMCAD.
The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is in good standing. The HLC sets high educational standards that the College abides by, including those that govern dual enrollment programs. Regional accreditation increases the likelihood that classes completed at RMCAD as part of Dual Enrollment will transfer to another college or university; however, acceptance of transfer credits is the sole discretion of the receiving institution and RMCAD cannot guarantee that credits will transfer to other institutions of higher education.
Students enrolling in Dual Enrollment courses must meet the course prerequisites when required.
Designated Dual Enrollment Courses are listed below. Additional courses may be considered for Dual Enrollment with Program Department Chair approval.
The Dual Enrollment program has been designed to enable current applicants to take one class for credit while the student is gathering the necessary documents required for official acceptance at RMCAD. Course tuition is not eligible for financial aid and must be paid for directly by the student.
- Student must have an active application on file for a future term and pay the tuition of $450 per class.
- Student is responsible for obtaining required book(s) and supplies
Contact RMCAD’s Admissions Department for more information at 800.888.2787 or admissions@rmcad.edu
Dual Enrollment Requirements
Students must meet standard undergraduate and Dual Enrollment admissions requirements. Requirements are as follows:
- Application for Admission
Applicants must submit a completed Application for Admission and a $50 application fee. Applications must be completed online at www.rmcad.edu.
- Transcripts
Official high school transcripts should be sent directly to the Admissions Department.
- Cumulative GPA
All applicants must possess a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher to reflect ability to succeed in a college environment.
- Interview with an Admissions Counselor
An interview with an Admissions Counselor either in person or by telephone, is required. Through the personal interview, applicants will gain a better understanding of the visual arts education at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design. To arrange an interview time, please contact the Admissions Office at 800.888.2787 or admissions@rmcad.edu.
- Parent/Guardian Consent
RMCAD requires parental or legal guardian consent to attend RMCAD for students under 18, as they may be working with nude models or subjected to works/lectures containing the nude body as artistic references.
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