Parsons portfolio requirements
New York, New York
What Parsons asks for in an art portfolio: piece count, mediums, deadlines and the extra application steps.
At a glance
- Regular decision
- Jan 15th 2027
- Acceptance rate
- 54.2%
- Portfolio pieces
- 8-12
What Parsons wants to see
Parsons wants experimentation and range across subject, approach, skill, and materials. The first-year portfolio does not have to match your major. BFA portfolios are 8 to 12 slides, and several images or process photos can share one slide. Up to five extra slides of process are welcome.
Write a short description of the idea, the process, and the materials for at least two pieces. If any work uses AI, describe the process and the tools. Fully generative images are a weak fit for this review. Also leave out copies of other artists, anime drawings, AutoCAD drawings, Roblox or Sims renders, UX research decks, and styling of purchased clothes.
January 15 is the regular-decision priority date for fall. Parsons continues to read applications after that date when a program still has space. Upload the portfolio as soon as the Admission Hub link arrives. The submission cannot be edited afterward.
Requested mediums
2D & 3D mediums of any kind (drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.)
Which majors need a portfolio
A portfolio is required for BFA programs. It is optional for the BBA in Strategic Design and Management, which accepts 2 to 12 slides.
How to apply
Online via the Common App. After you submit, upload the portfolio in the Admission Hub.
Beyond the portfolio
Submit two essays, 300 to 400 words each. These are the essays Parsons reads.
Essay 1: In your study or work at The New School, what social issue or system would you make the focus of your efforts to effect change?
Essay 2: What specific aspects of The New School's academic programs or community drew you to apply? Write about the college and program you chose.
Portfolios that got into Parsons
Work by Prima Materia students who were accepted to Parsons. Each student builds a large body of work, and we choose the pieces that fit each school.
Want help building your Parsons portfolio?
2 Prima Materia students have been accepted to Parsons. In our Portfolio Program, instructors turn these requirements into a week-by-week plan, give feedback on every piece, and help with your artist statement and submission. We'll choose which of your pieces fit Parsons's requirements and your major.
