Pre-College Program
Pre-College Program Description
Curious if an art and design school is the right path for you?
Our Pre-College program, open to high schoolers aged 15–18, is a three-week summer experience designed to help you discover what life would be like as a Maine College of Art & Design undergraduate student. Through immersive studio courses, hands-on projects, and critiques led by experienced faculty, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a working artist or designer in a collegiate setting.
During Pre-College, you’ll develop your admissions portfolio with guidance from professional artists, strengthening both your technical skills and creative voice. You’ll also refine your ability to analyze and discuss artwork by developing language for artistic critiques—an essential skill for both college and professional settings. Beyond the classroom, you'll connect with like-minded peers from across the country, forming friendships that often last well beyond the summer.
Throughout the program, you’ll stay on campus in our residence halls, giving you the full college experience. Living in a creative community with fellow students, you’ll have access to shared spaces for collaboration, independent work, and social activities.
Based in the beautiful city of Portland, Maine, you’ll be immersed in a thriving arts and culture scene, with opportunities to visit galleries, museums, and artist studios. The city's vibrant creative community provides an inspiring backdrop for your work, while its proximity to the state’s beaches, hiking trails, and scenic landscapes offers the perfect balance of exploration and self-discovery.
Pre-College Program Information
Program Dates
July 12 – August 2, 2025
Majors
- Animation
- Comics & Graphic Novels
- Painting
- Printmaking
- Ceramics (Hand Building)
- Fashion & Textile Design
- B&W Darkroom Photography
- Metals & Jewelry Design
All students will take an additional figure drawing course to support their majors
Tuition and Fees
$5,100 (Tuition, Most Studio Supplies, Activities, *Single Room & Board) $4,600 (Tuition, Most Studio Supplies, Activities, *Shared Room & Board)
$500 Program Deposit and the Roommate Questionnaire are due upon acceptance to secure your spot in the Pre-College art program. The deposit will be applied to the full tuition cost above.
Refund Policy
Requests for refunds must be received in writing by June 7, 2025. No refund requests will be considered after that date. Application fees ($40) and program deposits ($500) are not refundable.
Application and Deadlines
- Priority Application and Scholarship Deadline: March 3, 2025
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
- Paperwork and Full Payment Due: May 1, 2025
Scholarships
Limited scholarships are available based on financial need. Completed applications with supporting materials must be received by March 3, 2025, to be considered for a scholarship. Completed applications and supporting documentation received after March 3, 2025, will be considered if funds are still available. Students wishing to apply for a need-based scholarship must submit a copy of their parent/guardian’s most recent available tax forms.
Brochure
Apply
If you have any questions about deadlines, programs, or financial aid, please call us directly at 800.699.1509 or email us at admissions@meca.edu. We are here to help!
Pre-College Art Program FAQ
Do I have to be in a specific grade level to join the Pre-College program?
The Pre-College program for high school students is available to those currently in their sophomore, junior, or senior year. This ensures that participants are at a stage in their education where they can fully engage in college-level coursework and benefit from the experience of preparing a portfolio for future applications.
How many majors can I explore while enrolled in the program?
Each student selects two Pre-College majors to focus on throughout the program, allowing for an in-depth exploration of different artistic disciplines. Alongside their chosen majors, all students develop foundational skills in figure drawing, broadening their creative perspective. The program culminates in a final exhibition, where participants showcase their best work from their time at Maine College of Art & Design.
Will I earn college credits while in the Pre-College program?
Yes. Upon successfully completing the program, you will earn three college-level studio elective credits. These credits can help jumpstart your college education and provide valuable experience in an intensive art and design environment.
What kind of support is available for students during the program?
Students have access to faculty, residential staff, and admissions counselors who are there to offer academic and personal support. Faculty members provide one-on-one feedback on your work, while residential staff ensures a smooth transition to living on campus. Our admissions counselors are available to meet for portfolio reviews. If you have any concerns—whether artistic, academic, or personal—there is always someone available to assist.
Will I have free time to explore Portland?
Yes! While your days will be full of studio work and activities, you will have free time to explore Portland’s dynamic arts scene, shops, cafés, and waterfront areas. The city is highly walkable, and program staff can recommend cultural events, galleries, and other local experiences to enrich your stay.
Apply for Our Pre-College Program
Immerse yourself in three weeks of creativity, collaboration, and college-level artistic exploration.
Our Pre-College program is your chance to refine your skills, build your portfolio, and experience life as an art and design student—all while earning college credit.
Whether you're preparing for a future in the arts or looking to challenge yourself in a professional studio environment, this program will give you the tools and confidence to take the next step.