About

Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Art at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a summer studio program that mirrors the structure and intensity of a college-level fine arts curriculum. Held on CMU’s campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the program provides immersive instruction in traditional and contemporary practices, helping students develop technical proficiency and personal artistic voice in a collegiate environment.

The program is offered in two formats: a three-week session (June 20 – July 11, 2026) and a six-week session (June 20 – August 1, 2026). The curriculum is divided into two halves. Session One (Weeks 1–3) focuses on Drawing, Sculpture, Animation, and Concept Studio. Session Two (Weeks 4–6), which is exclusive to six-week students, introduces Painting, Digital Photography, and Printmaking, alongside an advanced continuation of Concept Studio. Classes meet Monday through Thursday, with elective workshops held on Fridays.

Pre-College Art is open to current high school sophomores and juniors who are at least 16 years old by June 20, 2026. Admission is competitive and requires a portfolio of recent work samples, along with a transcript and recommendation. For 2026, the Early Deadline is February 1 and the Final Deadline is March 1. The 6-week residential cost is $12,204, while the 3-week residential option is $7,945. Full-tuition, need-based scholarships are available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who apply by the February 1 deadline.

Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Art offers a rigorous introduction to professional studio practice. By working alongside accomplished faculty and peers, students refine their technical skills and build the conceptual portfolio necessary for successful collegiate art school applications.