General Application Requirements:
(Some school's have specific requirements be sure to check the applications for specifics)

* A portfolio of twenty slides of your work and typed slide list with return envelope (make sure the envelope is large enough) and return postage. Slides must be clearly labeled with name, media, size and title (where applicable). Intermedia applicants may submit videos or CD-ROM and Photography applicants may submit CD-ROM.

* Three letters of recommendation. These letters may be submitted along with your portfolio or mailed directly from your recommender. Recommendation letters must also be postmarked by a specific date be sure to get your request in early enough for the person to meet that deadline.

* A statement of intent pertaining to your educational objectives. Please designate area of concentration in your statement.

Statement of Purpose:
Why do you wish to continue your studies? Why this university? What is your short term and long term goals?

Recommendations:
Choose wisely

Portfolio:
2 School of thought...

Some schools prefer to see a consistent vision from the get go. 20 slides of a single project and coherent visual style (i.e. RISD, Art Institute Chicago) where some schools prefer to see 10 slides of a consistent project vision / style and then 2 sets of 5 slides of what else you can do well. Even if this is the case have the images relate but highlight expertise in a different area. For example: 10 silver prints, 5 alternative and 5 studio images would be a good mix.

Programs:
MFA in Studio/Visual Arts vs. MFA in Photography

A school offering an MFA in Visual/Studio Arts- is a program where they offer photography along with several other media and you may use it as your concentration. (much like UML’s BFA currently) On the whole it is a more generalized program.

A school offering an MFA in Photography is a more specific degree. It means the school has more of a commitment to photography as a medium will offer more variety of courses and/or instruction in the photography itself and generally (though not always) means that the school will have superior facilities for photography.