Undergraduate

Digital
Computer-generated pieces may be submitted on CD, DVD or USB Flash drive. Images should be saved as high-quality JPEG files (with a file suffix of .jpg or .jpeg format), PDF files, or digital portfolios created in PowerPoint, Director, Flash or HTML. JPEG images are preferred. Images should be saved at 72 dpi screen resolution with a minimum height/width of 1,000 pixels. Digital portfolios should be checked to assure that links work properly and all necessary files are included. Applicants should indicate whether special instructions are necessary for the viewing of digital portfolios. An inventory sheet must be attached, including the applicant's name, title of each piece, media or programs used, size, date of completion, and a brief description of the piece and applicant’s role in development and execution. In the case of documented, professional or group projects, applicants should indicate personal responsibilities. Students should submit 10 to 15 images and should never exceed 20 images.

Multimedia
Multimedia work should be submitted in a platform-independent player format or in QuickTime with the file suffix labeled as .qt or .mov (.mpeg format also acceptable). Applicants interested in presenting a film and television portfolio should submit work in multimedia format or as a five-minute sample on DVD. Sound design portfolios should consist of a five-minute sample in digital or multimedia format. An inventory sheet must be attached, including the applicant's name, title, media or programs used, size and date of completion, as well as a brief description of the piece and explanation of the applicant's role in the development and execution of the project. In the case of documented, professional or group projects, applicants should indicate personal responsibilities.

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Building arts
Portfolios should demonstrate the applicant's personal creativity, ability to draw, and attention to detail. Portfolios should include drawings from observation and life, interiors and exteriors of buildings, and other work that expresses the applicant's individual style. Examples of work should include freehand sketches, renderings and CAD drawings.

Digital or time-based media
A strong portfolio includes foundation and graphics skills, where applicable, effective use of 2-D form and composition, and an understanding of additive and subtractive color theory. In addition, portfolios should demonstrate an aesthetic awareness and effective use of software and tools. A strong video portfolio includes an awareness of composition, storytelling and technical skills, with attention given to costumes, set and acting. Professional presentation of the cover, label and inventory sheet is recommended.

Equestrian
Equestrian studies applicants should contact the admission department to discuss appropriate video to submit to demonstrate experience and level of performance. A résumé of experience also should be submitted.

Fiction or non-fiction writing
Applicants may submit fiction or non-fiction writing samples such as research papers, short stories, dramatic writing, poetry or other forms of creative or professional writing. All samples must include applicant's name, title of work and class or teacher/supervisor, if produced as a class assignment or under the direction of a mentor. Research papers should provide a clearly stated premise, findings and conclusion; must be well organized; and must demonstrate consistent use of citation and documentation conventions according to a specific writing style. All writing samples must be submitted electronically in a typed, double-spaced format and should not exceed 15 pages.

Performing arts
Students intending to major in performing arts are required to audition prior to declaring the major and are encouraged to audition at time of application for admission to SCAD. Applicants should present a four-minute audition and interview. Audition dates may be found on the SCAD Web site at www.scad.edu/audition. Applicants who are unable to attend a SCAD audition may submit a four-minute performance on DVD.

Performing arts applicants should prepare two contrasting monologues or one monologue presented with song or dance. Applicants who plan to sing or dance in a SCAD audition, must supply the music for accompaniment in the rehearsed key. Auditions include a cold reading. A list of pieces that have been prepared, résumé and headshot (optional) must be submitted at the audition. Résumé of experience may include acting or other performance, directing, stage management, costume or set design, sound design or lighting design. Performance is reviewed on the following qualitative measures: voice production, movement, musicality, physical commitment, energy, relaxation, characterization, memorization and character portrayal.

Visual arts or design
Traditional visual art or design pieces may be executed in any medium, in black and white or color, and may include, but are not limited to, drawing, painting, design, printmaking, collage, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, fashion, furniture or fiber art. Portfolio pieces should represent classroom assignments as well as independent projects and emphasize fundamental drawing skills in still life, nature, portraiture and figure studies. Whenever possible, the portfolio should demonstrate drawing from life rather than from photographs.

Portfolios are reviewed on the following qualitative measures: aesthetic awareness, composition, drawing, design, color perception, spatial perception, quality of presentation, technique and originality. Favorable consideration is given to strong 2-D and 3-D work that shows attention to technique, drawing, scale and original design.  

Admitted new students may request and submit documentation for portfolio-based course exemption through the admission office. Currently enrolled students should request and submit documentation for portfolio-based course exemption to the appropriate department chair. Documentation should demonstrate mastery of skills and sufficient knowledge of content taught in a specific university-level course. A student who is exempted from a required course does not earn academic credit for that course, but may substitute a course from the same subject area as approved by the department chair to fulfill the number of hours required to complete degree requirements.