Transfer student requirements

Apply through the CCAD Application or the Common App. The application fee is $50 and is nonrefundable.

A portfolio is how you show your creative skills and ideas. It can include anything that you have created or made such as drawings, paintings, photos, inventions, robots, installations, films, animations, comics, sculptures, ceramics, furniture designs, things you’ve built, clothing designs, stories, scripts, poetry, etc. If it’s creative, you can include it! Not quite sure what to include? Talk to your Admissions Counselor. They are happy to help! Use your best work, show us how you think, what you’re passionate about and what defines you as a creative individual. 8-15 pieces are required. While a few writing samples (poetry, short stories, script writing, etc.) are acceptable, all or the majority of your portfolio should be some form of visual art! More tips can be found here.

• If you have 30 or more college credits (obtained after graduating from high school), please submit just the official transcript from any and all colleges/ universities you have attended.
• If you have less than 30 college credits (obtained after graduating from high school), please submit your official transcripts from both high school and  all colleges/ universities you have attended.
• CCAD requires a 2.5 GPA or higher. Please contact us if your GPA does not meet the minimum requirement and you’d still like to apply. 
• We also accept proof of a GED. 
• In addition to the standard application materials, home-schooled students must submit any state-required documentation as proof of high school equivalency. For the state of Ohio home-school documentation information can be found here. 
• If you are admitted to CCAD, you will need to submit final, official copies of all of your transcripts before you begin classes.

• A written essay
• ACT or SAT test scores.
• Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exam results. If you have results from either exam, we encourage you to send them in case your scores qualify you for academic credit.
• A letter or letters of recommendation. This should be from a teacher, counselor, employer, mentor, or coach – someone who knows you well and is not a family member.

All paper credentials must be sent to:

Attn: Admissions Office
Columbus College of Art & Design
60 Cleveland Ave.
Columbus, OH 43215

CCAD uses official transcripts, art portfolios, and other measures to determine both admission and the transfer of credits and course equivalencies. An official transfer credit evaluation will be delivered to a student after admission. If you are looking for guidance as to what courses transfer to CCAD, get started by checking out these transfer credit guidelines or reaching out to [email protected]

CCAD currently has transfer credit agreements with: 

• Sinclair Community College for Advertising & Graphic Design, Fine Arts and Interior Design
• Kalamazoo Valley Community College for Advertising & Graphic Design, Animation, and Illustration
• Columbus State Community College for Advertising & Graphic Design and Photography
• North Central State College for Advertising & Graphic Design
• Hocking College for Fashion Design