the program
the students
the business
the city
admission & fees school calendar copywriting art direction design meet the director to contact us
 

How to Apply

Tuition and Loans

 

   
  How to Apply
 
 

Previous industry experience is not a requirement for admission. Admission is based on applicant’s interest and talent, as demonstrated by samples and an interview.

Along with the application, and $100 non-refundable application fee, applicants should submit 5-10 samples of work that best demonstrate their ability and enthusiasm. If you do not have any advertising or art samples that you feel would be appropriate, please submit examples of creative writing, journalism or art work, candidates are encouraged to submit examples of their best, most professional work that may include (but not limited to) advertising, design, creative writing, photography, poetry, or journalism.

Please include a brief resume along with your 5-10 samples.

Rest assured, samples are NOT the most important factor in judging applicants. Some of our students have had no prior ad making experience and have not made any spec ads. We don't expect our incoming students to have already mastered ad making skills -- that's why they are here.

Interview
A personal interview is also required. The interview is an informal introduction to the school, the program, and the city. While travel to Chicago is suggested, the interview may be completed by phone.

  BACK TO TOP
 
  Tuition & Costs
 
 

Fees
The Chicago Portfolio School program consists of four quarters. You must take a minimum of four classes a quarter in order to complete the program in a year.

A fee of $100 must be included with the application.

Tuition for each quarter is $3,600. Tuition includes all coursework, tutorials and guest speakers. Students can make the quarterly tuition in four payments of $1,200. All tuition for each quarter is due by the end of the fourth week of classes.

The Chicago Portfolio School also accepts Mastercard and Visa. (Charges of tuition payments carry a 2.5% processing fee.)


Student Loans
Chicago Portfolio School students are eligible for Sallie Mae Career Training Loan Program. There is more loan information on our Financial Aid page.

Other Fees and Expenses
Owning a computer or digital camera is NOT required. There are Mac OS computers, equipment and software on site which are available for students to use. However, it is strongly recommended that students have their own Mac OS equipment and software, especially for art direction and design students.

Not included in tuition are costs associated with producing student work including disks, printouts, art materials, and some entry fees.

  BACK TO TOP
 
 

 

home FAQ's to contact us