Undergraduate Admissions
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Bachelor of Fine Arts
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a four-year degree program that pairs a creatively focused liberal arts education with demanding studio art training in one of our six areas of study. Students graduate with the foundational skills, intellectual context, discipline and creativity needed for a lifelong pursuit of making art.
PAFA-Penn BFA
Since 1929, PAFA and the University of Pennsylvania have offered a unique Bachelor of Fine Arts program which combines PAFA’s rigorous fine arts training and a final year of liberal arts through Penn, culminating with earning a BFA degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Certificate Programs
Two one-year Certificate Programs, Fine Arts Foundations and Studio, offer immersive art-making experience. Whether students are looking to develop their artistic voice, or build experience in the studio or prepare for future art careers, these programs will elevate their creative and technical artistic skills.
Pursue Your Artistic Vision
Located in the heart of Center City Philadelphia, PAFA is a fine arts college with a diverse, close-knit community of 300 students and a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio. PAFA's academic campus provides 11 floors of classrooms, studios, workshops, galleries, and performance spaces for students to learn, create, and grow. Undergraduates pursue four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees or a one-year certificate, to extend their study further.
At PAFA, you gain the tools and knowledge you need for creating a successful, rewarding, and lifelong career in the arts.
Picture Yourself at PAFA
World Class Faculty
The 7:1 faculty to student ratio means PAFA students have individualized mentors who are dedicated educators, practicing artists, and scholars.
A student-run Visiting Artist Program offers exposure to a wide range of artistic approaches and fosters discussion about contemporary art and ideas.
A Museum as Your Classroom
Career Services
Robust and practical career support allows PAFA students to develop the skills necessary to advance their careers in whatever direction they choose. Resources include project-based learning and financial support like the Venture Fund.
First Year
First Year Foundation
The first-year curriculum at PAFA provides you with an unparalleled foundation on which to build and explore. Develop strong traditional fine art making skills, in combination with contemporary practices, to prepare for innovation, experimentation, and finding your own personal voice.
Upper Level Undergraduate Years
Areas of Study
After their first year, students focus on studio arts training across our 6 different concentrations: Animation, Drawing, Illustration, Painting, Printmaking, and Sculpture. Students also have the option to select a minor or design their own course of study.
Individual studio spaces for upper level undergraduates.
Student Exhibitions
Opportunities to exhibit in PAFA’s Museum.
Application Deadlines
| December 1 | Spring semester applications Early Action Fall semester applications |
| February 1 | Regular Decision Fall applications Scholarship Priority Fall applications |
| July 22 | Rolling Admissions Fall Application |
Ready to Start Your Application?
Picture Yourself at PAFA
The Admissions and Financial Aid staff at PAFA are available to assist you during all stages of the application and enrollment process.
Email:
Telephone: (215) 972-7625
Fax: (215) 569-0153
Financial Aid Telephone: (215) 972-2019