Ames School of Art & Design
Admission Guidelines
Portfolio Review
- A portfolio review is required for admission into the Illinois Wesleyan School of Art & Design B.F.A. degree program and/or to qualify for art scholarships.
- Students applying for a B.A. degree in art are not required to submit a portfolio, but it is an option for talent scholarship consideration.
- Transfer students into the B.F.A. or B.A. art program are required to submit a portfolio.
- To create a digital portfolio, we suggest using a high-quality digital camera to photograph artwork against a neutral background. The resolution should be sufficiently high to identify the smallest details of the original work of art. The portfolio should consist of a minimum of ten examples of your best and most recent work.
- Digital portfolios may be uploaded as part of the admission application.
- Students may also present their work in person. To arrange an in-person portfolio review, call 309-556-3077 or email Amy Burk (aburk@iwu.edu).
- Visit the À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ site for additional Application Guidelines.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
- We offer Alumni Talent Scholarships in Art to deserving students. These renewable scholarships are awarded on the basis of a portfolio review and academic background, with awards up to $39,000.
- Over 90% of incoming students from all backgrounds qualify for scholarship or grant assistance. Over half of tuition, on average, is covered by scholarships and grants for incoming Illinois Wesleyan students.
- Apply for the McLean County Scholarship.
- In addition, À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ helps students obtain grants, campus employment and loans based on financial need. Families must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance (FASFA) and an À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ Financial Aid Application or CSS Profile.
- Learn more about financial aid at IWU.

J. Kline - Interim Dean of Fine and Performing Arts
Department - Provost And Dean Of Faculty