📖Introduction

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is a prestigious institution renowned for its comprehensive arts education and innovative programs. With a strong emphasis on creativity and experimentation, CalArts provides students with a platform to explore their artistic interests and develop their unique creative voices.

At CalArts, students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and push the boundaries of traditional artistic practices. The university boasts a faculty of experienced artists and industry professionals who provide valuable guidance and mentorship to students, nurturing their artistic development and helping them thrive in their chosen fields. With its vibrant artistic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on fostering a culture of artistic innovation, California Institute of the Arts continues to be a leading institution for aspiring artists seeking to make a meaningful impact in the creative world.

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📚About the Program

The Aesthetics and Politics Program offers a dynamic and intensive experience that develops a shared vocabulary and critical framework in which we discuss phenomena ranging from the Arab Spring to neo-benshi, from bioart to neoliberalism, from human rights to queer hiphop and third world cinema. Students develop ideas through presenting ongoing written work in a discursive environment with peers and are encouraged to focus their work by choosing credits from a list of elective courses. The Program offers a set of core courses in aesthetic theory, political thought, critical discourse in the arts and the media, and theoretical writing that are the foundation of the degree. In addition, students are able to specialize in one of three areas of concentration—critical theory, global studies, or media and urban studies—to work towards a written thesis (a 5,000-word/50-page scholarly work) submitted at the end of the program. The Program values individual development by providing one-to-one mentorship with specialists within your field, student fora and a rich variety of internationally renowned visiting speakers. Show less
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🏫About California Institute of the Arts

Founded by Walt Disney, the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) has established itself as a pioneering force in arts education, fostering a vibrant and collaborative environment for emerging artists across a wide spectrum of disciplines. With an emphasis on experimental and boundary-pushing approaches, CalArts offers comprehensive programs in art, dance, film, music, and theater, providing students with the freedom to explore their creative potential and develop their artistic voices. The institution's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative expression allows students to challenge conventional norms and create impactful work that resonates in the contemporary art world. CalArts' distinguished faculty, consisting of accomplished artists and industry professionals, actively mentor and guide students, providing them with invaluable insights and knowledge to excel in their respective fields. The institute's rich cultural landscape, state-of-the-art facilities, and a robust network of industry connections contribute to an immersive educational experience that prepares students for successful careers in the arts. By nurturing a spirit of artistic exploration and experimentation, CalArts continues to inspire the next generation of creative visionaries and remains a pivotal institution for shaping the future of the arts landscape.

🏠 Accommodation

You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

How to book:

  • Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
  • Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it
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💰 Fees

Application Fee:

653 RMB

Tuition fee:

33,674 USD per year

67,347 USD in total

Insurance is 2,755 USD.

Entry Requirements

You are not eligible to apply to this program because:

The minimum age is 18.

English fluency is required.
You need to be either:
- A native English speaker
- Studied a degree in English before
- Can demonstrate a high level of English
- Having an English certificate such as IELTS level 6 or TOEFL 95 and above is an advantage.

Minimum education level: Bachelor's.

The program is quite competitive, you need to have a high grades of Average B, 60%, or a high GPA.

All students from all countries are eligible to apply to this program.

Is this not correct? You can edit your profile or contact us.
Or see the list of programs you are eligible for here .
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📬 Admissions Process

3 Steps to Apply to a University

Application step 1

Application step 2

Application step 3

Please choose the programs here , "You are advised to select 2-3 programs to increase your chances of getting accepted.

Required Documents:

  • Passport
  • Graduation certificate
  • Passport size photo
  • Official transcript
  • Personal statement
  • English certificate (You can take the English test online)
  • Guarantor letter
  • 2 Recommendation letters

Preparing documents:

You can start your application now and send the application documents during your application. Some documents you can send later if you don’t have them right away. Some more info about preparing application documents is here

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Application process:

Applying Online is simple in just a few steps. More information is available here.

The first steps are to choose the programs, pay the application fee and upload the application documents.

Once submitted to Global Admissions, we will review your application within 2-3 days and proceed to the university or ask you for further clarification

After it has been processed to the university you will receive your unique application ID from each university.

The university may contact you directly for further questions.

We will then follow up each week with the university for updates. As soon as there is any update we will let you know. If you have made other plans, decide to withdraw / change address at any time please let us know.

After you have been accepted you will receive your admissions letter electronically and asked to pay the non-refundable deposit to the university.

Once you have paid the deposit the university will issue you the admissions letter and visa form to your home country.

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Here is some more information about the enrollment process after you have been accepted.

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