School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States of America

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), established in 1866, is one of the leading art and design schools in the United States. It offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in various creative disciplines.
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Tuition Fees, Cost of Living & Accommodation at School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Cost Of Living

$ 20500

Undergraduate Fees International Students

$ 55440

Post Graduate Fees International Students

$ 57780

Bachelors

  • $ 55440
  • $ 55440
  • $ 55440
  • $ 55440

Masters

  • $ 57780
  • $ 57780
  • $ 57780
  • $ 57780

School of the Art Institute of Chicago Departments

  • Department of Painting and Drawing
  • Department of Sculpture
  • Department of Photography
  • Department of Graphic Design
  • Department of Fashion Design
  • Department of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects
  • Department of Art History, Theory, and Criticism
  • Department of Printmedia

Distinguished Alumni of School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Step-by-Step Guide to Admission Requirements at School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Documents Required:
Applicants must submit high school transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a portfolio showcasing their artistic work. International students need proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) and a copy of their passport.

Entrance Test:
SAT/ACT scores are optional and not required for admission. The focus is on the portfolio and artistic potential.

Language Test:
Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL (minimum 82 iBT), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or Duolingo (minimum 110) scores.

Additional Requirements:
Some programs may require an interview or additional materials, such as a writing sample or sketchbook.

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School of the Art Institute of Chicago Corporate Partnership

  • SAIC : In 2018, SAIC and the University of Chicago were selected to commission Dimensions of Citizenship at the US Pavilion of the Venice Architecture Biennale. This collaboration showcased innovative architectural designs and concepts on an international stage
  • North Lawndale neighborhood : A community-based organization in Chicago's North Lawndale neighborhood, focusing on urban agriculture and sustainability. SAIC collaborates with Homan Rails Farm to engage students in community-based projects and initiatives.
  • Free Spirit Media : Free Spirit Media A nonprofit organization that empowers youth through media production and storytelling. SAIC collaborates with Free Spirit Media to offer students opportunities to work on media projects and mentorship programs
  • UCAN : UCAN An organization dedicated to empowering youth and families through education and social services. SAIC partners with UCAN to offer art therapy and creative expression programs for at-risk youth
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Notable Achievements of School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Achievements

01.
Alumni Success in the Venice Biennale

SAIC alumni have consistently achieved success at the Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world. The Biennale is known for showcasing groundbreaking works in contemporary art, and SAIC graduates have been featured as artists, curators, and commissioners over the years. Their work has contributed to global dialogues about contemporary art, often exploring critical themes such as identity, politics, and social change.

Year
2024
02.
Awarding of the MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship to SAIC Faculty and Alumni

Several SAIC faculty members and alumni have received the MacArthur Foundation’s “Genius” Fellowship, which is awarded to individuals with extraordinary creativity in their field. This achievement highlights the caliber of individuals associated with SAIC and recognizes the school’s ability to foster exceptional talent. The fellowship allows artists to pursue their work without financial constraints, enabling them to create groundbreaking contributions to the field of art.

Year
2023
03.
SAIC’s Role in Chicago’s Urban Development and Public Art

SAIC has played a key role in shaping Chicago’s urban development and public art initiatives. The school’s faculty and alumni have contributed to the city’s vibrant public art scene, including projects like the Cultural Plan for Chicago and public artworks scattered throughout the city. SAIC’s commitment to community engagement through art has helped Chicago maintain its status as an international center for public art.

Year
2021

Notable Innovation, Research & Development School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Notable Innovation

01.
Wind Portal

Tatsu Aoki’s Wind Portal was an innovative environmental sculpture that used natural forces, like wind, to bring life to the installation. By blending technology, culture, and nature, the project explored themes of interconnectedness and transformation. It was featured at the Chicago Cultural Center and involved the use of kinetic elements that responded to the wind, creating a dynamic experience. This project represents Aoki's creative fusion of performance, multimedia art, and urban engagement, pushing the boundaries of traditional sculpture.

Year
2017
02.
The Floating Piers

Christo and Jeanne-Claude, famous for their environmental works of art, created The Floating Piers, a temporary installation on Italy’s Lake Iseo. The project consisted of walkways made of golden fabric floating on the water, allowing people to walk on water and experience the landscape from a new perspective. This massive, interactive installation exemplified the artists' ability to transform the environment into an experience. Their work engaged thousands of visitors and became one of the most celebrated large-scale art projects of its time.

Year
2016
03.
Sky Mirror

Another remarkable work by Anish Kapoor, Sky Mirror, is an elliptical mirror sculpture that reflects the sky above it, creating an interactive piece of art that changes with the weather and the viewer’s perspective. This project combined Kapoor's fascination with reflection and the fluidity of space. The sculpture's ability to transform its surroundings led it to be featured in several prominent locations around the world, including the Rockefeller Center in New York. It represents Kapoor's exploration of surface, reflection, and perception.

Year
2006

Explore Programs & Courses at School of the Art Institute of Chicago

Program name
Tuition Fees
Deadlines
BA in Art History 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$46560
(Annual cost)
15th Apr
BA in Visual and Critical Studies 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$46560
(Annual cost)
15th Apr
$46560
(Annual cost)
15th Apr
BFA in Studio 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$46560
(Annual cost)
15th Apr

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