How to Apply
We appreciate your interest in our programs at UIC College of Architecture, Design, and the Arts (CADA).
CADA is made up of the School of Architecture, School of Art, School of Design, School of Theatre and Music, and Department of Art History and Museum and Exhibition Studies. We look forward to providing you with a holistic review of your application in collaboration with UIC Admissions.
Stay connected with first-year requirements and transfer requirements, and use the information below to help you prepare your application for one of our creative degree programs within our schools and departments at CADA. Please note that this page focuses primarily on undergraduate degree programs.
Applications and all required documents must be electronically dated or postmarked by November 3. This includes test scores if including. UIC is test optional. Please note submitted materials will not be reflected on the checklist immediately due to processing delay.
Application opens December 15, 2025.
- UIC requires a completed Common Application or UIC Application, official transcript, fee or waiver, personal statement, and program essay. (Not sure where to start with your program essay? Check out our essay writing workshops, available virtually on Discover UIC.)
- School of Theatre and Music degrees require auditions for admission. Audition information will be received after you submit your application to UIC.
- Recommendation letters are not required, but they are encouraged!
- Portfolios are not required (or reviewed) for undergraduate student admission to the School of Architecture, School of Art, School of Design, or Department of Art History and Museum and Exhibition Studies.
- UIC is test optional.
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
At UIC, we’re proud of our tradition of welcoming students from every ethnic and racial group, religion, gender, sexual orientation, physical condition, and age. We’ve been recognized as one of the most diverse colleges in the U.S. But what really matters is the way diversity supports and enriches our students’ lives.
The commitment of the University of Illinois to the most fundamental principles of academic freedom, equality of opportunity, and human dignity requires that decisions involving students and employees be based on individual merit and be free from invidious discrimination in all its forms. The University of Illinois will not engage in discrimination or harassment against any person because of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military, or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders, and regulations. This nondiscrimination policy applies to admissions, employment, access to, and treatment in the University programs and activities.