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Cleveland Institute of Art logo

Cleveland Institute of Art

Cleveland, Ohio · Private (nonprofit)

Mar 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

C-Value
N/ACampus
BAcademics
C+Admissions
B+Student Life
B-Overall

About

Cleveland Institute of Art is located in Cleveland, Ohio. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 560 students.

cia.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$47,880
Out-of-state tuition$47,880
Room & board$12,520
Avg aid package$41,646
Students receiving aid38%
Pell grant recipients38%

The average net cost to attend Cleveland Institute of Art is $33,527 per year, factoring in tuition, room and board, books, and financial aid. Tuition is approximately $46,600 per year, but 100% of students receive financial aid, with the average total aid awarded being $29,439. The institution also offers a limited number of Say Yes Cleveland scholarships.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1060–1300
4001600
ACT · middle 50%22–26
136

Application info

Acceptance rate56%
Average GPA3.43
Student–faculty ratio9:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Application dates

Regular DecisionMar 1

Cleveland Institute of Art has a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of 56%. The school looks for students with artistic talent and a passion for design, considering portfolios, essays, and transcripts. SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required, and the Common App is accepted.

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Academics

Graduation rate70%
Retention rate86%
Student–faculty ratio9:1
Full-time faculty47%

The Cleveland Institute of Art offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum that blends studio work, art history, and liberal arts courses. Students are encouraged to explore their artistic visions and challenge conventions. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, students receive personal attention from working professionals, fostering critical thinking and technical proficiency.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$42,509
Job placement rate94%
Internship rate80%
Earn more than HS grad56%
Loan default (3 yr)3%
Loan repayment (3 yr)60%

Cleveland Institute of Art prepares students for professional success with a focus on career services and real-world experiences. Graduates find employment within six months of graduating, with starting salaries averaging $35,000. The school's Cores + Connections approach emphasizes faculty mentorship, studio rigor, and extensive connections for experiential learning and professional projects.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
560Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 73%Male 27%
65% WhiteRacial diversity
White 65%Black 13%Hispanic 11%Asian 3%Other 7%
Campus housingYes

Campus life

Industrial Design vs Engineer. What’s the difference?? #ClevelandInstituteOfArt #IndustrialDesign #Engineers

@cleinstituteart

First year move-in is one of our favorite days every year! 🙌🧡#ArtSchool #Dorm #Apartments #DesignSchool #MoveIn #Unive

@cleinstituteart

Nothing like having a full kitchen! #ArtSchool #Dorm #Apartments #DesignSchool #MoveIn #University #CollegeLife #Clevel

@cleinstituteart

+7 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

The Cleveland Institute of Art fosters a strong, supportive community where students feel welcomed and supported by peers and faculty. The campus is located in Cleveland's University Circle, providing access to cultural venues and restaurants. Students can also participate in activities at Case Western Reserve University, broadening their social and academic experiences.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Overall i've had a pretty positive experience with CIA, The academics have done wonders for me as a growing artist. I hope to have a positive full four year sof nothing but amazing academics and with an amazing community.

Student

Honored to be a part of the Cleveland Institute of Arts Illustration program. Just having the opportunity to share my experience with other artists and creators in this community.

Campus and vibes

Student

I think I'm bias with my experience considering I left after going after a career better suited for myself rather than the one I was trying so hard to go after for other people at this school. This school is great for people that actually want to go into art and the businesses of the arts, with having amazing resources and connections with various companies within each major at CIA. Ranging from in the state of Ohio and as far as Japan even!

Current Student

I’m new to the area and already feel safe and welcomed. As a transfer student, I was nervous entering a space where everyone seemed familiar, but the warm atmosphere here is a refreshing change from my previous program, where students were often unfriendly. While not every major has dedicated studio spaces, the Illustration department stands out in this regard, and I see the school actively working to provide more studio access for everyone.

Current Student

Although I have only been at The Cleveland Institute of Art for two years, I can confidently say that I am happy I chose this school. I feel supported by all of the staff around me. I don't feel a need to hide parts of my authentic self. The community here is welcoming to all groups of people. I enjoy being here because I feel supported and loved by this community that is built here at The Cleveland Institute of Art.

Current Student

Being at the Cleveland Institute of Art gives me a sense of community! Whether it's through the welcoming faculty and fellow students or even through the different activities and groups where everyone comes together and understand one another! All professors are very understanding and only want what is best for your future.

Current Student

Cleveland Institute of Art has a welcoming and warm community that supports one another in our interests and goals. There are many ways for us to uplift our peers, such as clubs. Overall I’ve felt welcomed, accepted for who I am, and respected.

Current Student

So far so good! Being an older student, it’s nice to have a deeper connection with your professors and peers. I am looked to for reassurance, guidance, and encouragement. It feels great to be a part of a school that wants me to be a part of it. The community is very welcoming and close.

About Cleveland Institute of Art

Cleveland Institute of Art prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour emergency services and trained officers. The University Circle Police and CWRU Security provide additional support. The school also offers a Safe Ride program for evening and nighttime transportation around the University Circle area.

Information on a specific honors program is not readily available, but CIA encourages students to explore their vision through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Students can participate in study abroad programs, mobility programs, and internships to enhance their academic experience.

Cleveland Institute of Art welcomes international students, though specific support services are not detailed. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores. The school's diverse community and location in University Circle provide a welcoming environment for students from around the world.

Endowment$37,215,824
Avg faculty salary$87,144

Cleveland Institute of Art FAQ

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