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Ready to apply to VPA? Our Office of Recruitment and Admissions is here to assist you with the undergraduate application process, including portfolio and audition requirements.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us for information. Undecided about which of our majors is right for you? Explore your interests.

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Syracuse University General Requirements

Prospective undergraduate students applying to VPA must also meet Syracuse University’s general requirements and complete the Syracuse University application.

SAT or ACT Requirements

SAT/ACT scores will not be required for students applying for Fall/Spring 2024 or Spring 2025 admission. Students who choose not to submit test scores will not be disadvantaged and will remain eligible for merit scholarships. Read the full details surrounding this update.

Audition, Portfolio or Interview Requirements

All students applying to the School of Art’s B.F.A. programs, the School of Design’s B.F.A. and B.I.D. programs, the Department of Film and Media Arts, the Department of Drama, or the Setnor School of Music must submit additional materials (a portfolio, audition, or departmental interview) to complete your application. Please view your area of interest for further details.

Students applying to the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies, the School of Art’s B.S. in studio arts program, and the School of Design’s B.S. in design studies program are not required to submit additional materials.

Select your area of interest below for specific program requirements.

International Students

Syracuse University and VPA have a long tradition of welcoming international students from around the world. The total student population at Syracuse represents all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. Because international students are such an important part of our community, the University has a number of offices and programs dedicated to helping you make the transition and have a safe and fulfilling experience in the United States, including the Office of Multicultural Affairs and our English Language Institute (ELI), an option for students who wish to study English that is also available to international students who are offered conditional admission, but need to complete required levels of English proficiency before they are fully admitted to their program of study. Refer to International Student Admissions for more information.

Intra-University Transfer Students

Students currently attending Syracuse University who are interested in applying for an intra-University transfer (IUT) into the College of Visual and Performing Arts must meet certain requirements. Learn more about intra-University transfer requirements.