How to Apply (BFA)
Honours BFA in Visual Arts
Admission to the Visual Arts Studio (BFA) program at York University is based on both academic and artistic criteria. The University reviews your academic history, while artistic admissibility is assessed locally in the each Fine Arts department. The application process for Visual Arts (Studio) therefore involves two steps:
1. Application to York University
If you are currently enrolled full-time in an Ontario secondary school, contact your Guidance office to apply for admission to York University.
Other candidates, including international applicants, can apply through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) or York University’s Admissions Office.
International applicants are also encouraged to visit York University's website for international students.
2. Departmental Evaluation
You must complete an online supplementary application to help us learn about youracademic and artistic background as well as specific interests and goals as they relate to the visual arts. You can submit your supplementary application as soon as you receive an acknowledgement of your application from the university along with your York Reference Number.
(A "domestic student" is someone who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident/landed immigrant)
(An "international student" is someone who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident/landed immigrant)
You will be asked to pay an evaluation fee before you can submit the supplementary application.
If you are a domestic student, you will be directed to schedule your portfolio evaluation appointment once you submit the supplementary application and the evaluation fee. If distance precludes an on-campus evaluation, other arrangements can be made by emailing visarts@yorku.ca.
If you are an international student, you will be able to upload your portfolio online as part of your supplementary application. You can also email visarts@yorku.ca to schedule an in-person interview if you wish to come to the campus instead.
Portfolio Requirements:
Applicants are asked to present a portfolio of 8 art works that illustrates their current technical and creative abilities. Slides or photographs are acceptable for large or awkward pieces but original, unmounted artwork is preferred. At least two different media should be represented from the following:
- drawing
- photography
- sculpture
- digital art
- video
- print media
- painting
- performance
- mixed media
- collage
A current sketchbook, idea book or journal is required and will count as one of the 8 pieces.
Applicants will have an informal interview with a Visual Arts faculty member to discuss their portfolio and their goals.
Additional Program Information:
Have more questions about the application or evaluation process for this program? Want to know more about your next steps? Ask us at finearts@yorku.ca
What's Next?
Come and Meet Us
If you haven't already, book a tour of our facilities.
Check out our exhibitions and other events taking place throughout the year.
Visit us at York University's Spring Open House on April 6, 2013.
Apply for Scholarships
York University and the Faculty of Fine Arts offer an array of scholarships for incoming students. In addition to 15 Fine Arts Talent Awards of $1000, scholarships are available based on academic performance or by application. Further information can be found on the York University Admission website.
Think ahead
Wondering what you can do with a degree in Fine Arts? Find out more about your career options.