In recent years, arts programs in U.S. colleges have increasingly attracted parents and students. This trend not only highlights the appeal of arts education but also reflects society’s growing demand for creative talent.
According to the 2022-23 enrollment data for U.S. college freshmen released by the National Student Clearinghouse, arts majors, particularly in visual and performing arts, have seen an average increase of 2% since the pandemic. The top five programs with the highest growth are Fashion Design, Digital Arts, Photography and Film, Game and Interactive Media Design. In contrast, enrollment numbers for other majors have generally remained stable. Since December 2020, search volume for Design and Visual Communication programs has consistently ranked high, even surpassing traditional popular fields like Engineering, Social Sciences, and Education in June 2023. Arts programs are attracting more young people, showcasing vitality and development potential.


The stereotype of “starving artists” is outdated; arts majors now offer highly flexible career paths. According to data from the American Community Survey (ACS), only 7% of fine arts graduates pursue careers directly related to their major (such as Art, Drama, and Music Teachers; Artists and Related Workers; and Fine Artists, including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators). Many fine arts graduates also work as Marketing Managers, Web Developers, and Market Research Analysts. The ACS reports that fine arts graduates earn an average salary of $66,100, over $1,000 higher than the average for all college graduates.

In recent years, SEED has noticed that more and more students and families are interested in arts majors. Arts programs in U.S. colleges are known for their broad perspectives, diverse viewpoints, and rich expressions. These institutions not only focus on cultivating students’ creativity but also provide a vibrant learning environment. However, compared to other majors, arts programs typically require more specialized application materials. To help families better understand the application process for U.S. arts colleges and programs, SEED has invited Ms. Stella, an renowned artist and art coach whose students have gained acceptance to prestigious institutions such as Yale University, Stanford University, UCLA, RISD, The New School, CalArts, and more. to share her insights and advice on applying to arts programs. We hope that her experience can provide confidence and support for students on their application journey.
Do you need to submit a portfolio when applying to college?

If your child is applying for an arts major, most schools will require a portfolio, typically consisting of 10 to 18 pieces. If the student isn’t applying for an arts major but wants to submit a portfolio as a supplementary component to showcase diversity in their background, it’s essential to read the school’s policies carefully. For example, USC explicitly states that if the intended major isn’t in arts or design, admission officers won’t review the portfolio, even if it’s submitted. Yale, on the other hand, allows portfolios as supplementary material regardless of the intended major, with a review by faculty rather than admission officers. Yale suggests submitting a portfolio only if it is crucial to the application and demonstrates a high level of skill as a high school artist. This means that for non-arts applicants, a portfolio can enhance an application if it showcases artistic talent and unique perspectives.
What makes a “strong” arts portfolio?
Ms. Stella, who has teaching and artistic experience in China, Japan, and the U.S., notes that the standards for judging portfolios in the U.S. are unique, leading many students and parents to misunderstand what makes a portfolio “strong.” Often, technical skill is thought to be the most important factor. However, in the U.S. education system, especially in comprehensive universities, arts admission officers look more closely at the student as an individual—their unique perspectives, creative thinking, and the personal qualities reflected in their work.
Therefore, students should focus on expressing their artistic vision without stressing too much about technical skills. While a solid foundation in techniques can enhance artistic expression and offer more possibilities, the core of a portfolio lies in its artistic statement, serving as a personal manifesto that shows your understanding of society and thought process. Experimenting with different approaches, expressing ideas innovatively, and exploring new media are encouraged. By doing so, students can reflect their values, interests, experiences, and attitudes, and demonstrate their awareness of social, environmental, and human issues, showcasing their potential as an artist.
How to Prepare an Outstanding Portfolio
1. Match the required number of pieces
Each school has different requirements, but it’s generally recommended to prepare at least 10 pieces as a foundation. Additionally, include 5 to 8 extra pieces tailored to specific requirements for programs like Fashion Design, Architecture, or Game Design. Ensure each piece uniquely showcases your diversity and depth.
2. Show diverse styles
While traditional media like sketches, watercolor, and oil painting are classic choices, consider adding mixed media or 3D pieces like sculpture or installation art. These various expressions can make your portfolio stand out in terms of materials and techniques, offering a richer visual experience.
3. Emphasize material and technique integration
Using multiple materials in one piece can add depth and compensate for any technical weaknesses, creating a striking effect.
4. Display varied perspectives and creativity
Your portfolio should include different expressive styles and innovative viewpoints. Think about how your work can reflect complex ideas simply and powerfully, and convey profound concepts from a high school student’s perspective.
5. Highlight your uniqueness
A portfolio should reflect personal qualities. Showcase your unique values and ways of thinking, so that viewers can remember your standout characteristics.
By following these strategies, your portfolio will become more than a collection of artwork—it will be an expression of your life story, infused with creativity and emotion, marking an important milestone in your artistic journey.
Common Questions from Students and Parents

Q1: How to choose an arts major, especially considering AI’s impact?
Common arts majors include Fine Art, Illustration, and Design fields like Fashion Design and Product Design. AI affects various industries, including the arts. Original content tied to human emotions, physicality, and thought is less likely to be replaced by AI. Arts may be a stable career choice, although repetitive tasks in design might be replaced. Focus on creativity and human-centered directions when considering arts careers, avoiding easily replaceable tasks.
Q2: How can I tell if my child has potential in the arts and should pursue it?
All children have artistic potential; the key is nurturing it. Before age 6-7, when imagination is richest, avoid focusing solely on techniques and allow free exploration with various materials. Around age 10, they can begin exploring foundational skills, but don’t rush. If your child shows a long-term, passionate interest in art and a strong personal voice, you might consider it as a career direction.
Q3: How to assess a 9th or 10th grader’s drawing skills for portfolio readiness?
Any student can create a portfolio—there is no absolute standard. Students with foundational skills might find the process easier, but those without can also succeed. Good teachers help maximize each student’s potential. Starting earlier allows more time to gather materials, but beginning in 10th or 11th grade is also sufficient.
Q4: How to balance high school academics with arts preparation?
Though arts applications may have slightly lower academic requirements, grades are still important. For top comprehensive universities (e.g., Yale, Princeton, Stanford), academics remain crucial. While nurturing artistic interests, students should take rigorous courses (AP or Honors) where possible. Even if math and science are challenging, aim for good grades in regular courses. Targeted schools’ standards will guide specific academic requirements.
Q5: Does attending summer art schools help with college applications?
Yes, especially if the program offers credits. Participating in summer programs at target schools can demonstrate interest and provide portfolio guidance.
Q6: Should I choose an art school or a comprehensive university for an arts major?
It depends on the student’s interests and plans. If they’re focused solely on the arts, art schools offer specialized resources. If interested in other fields or uncertain, comprehensive universities provide more options. Schools like UCLA and USC also have strong arts programs, so consider resources, program offerings, and personal goals.
Conclusion
In today’s increasingly competitive world, arts professionals must combine technical excellence with personal insight and a unique perspective. As Ms. Stella shared, preparing a successful portfolio isn’t just about creating quality application materials but building a platform to showcase talent and vision. For students aspiring to a future in the arts, a portfolio is a vital way to present themselves. Embrace new media and viewpoints, and focus on the connection between inner thoughts and the external world. This approach will help them create a standout portfolio that leaves a unique, memorable impression on the artistic world.