AdmissionsApply to MFA

How to Apply to MFA

What could an MFA program do for your work?

View of an MFA studio with in-progress paintings covering the walls.
Large wooden sculpture of angled frames.
An MFA student installing a large sculpture depicting a snake.

As of September 2024, we are accepting new applications for Summer 2025 entry. Please review the instructions on this webpage as you work towards your application. You can start your application with the button below, or continue your application via the Applicant Portal. If you have any questions, please be in touch with us at GraduateAdmissions@meca.edu.

Overview

Applicants to the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at Maine College of Art & Design must submit the following materials to be reviewed by the MFA Admission Review Committee:

  • Complete Program Application
  • Digital Portfolio
  • Personal Essay
  • Current Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • College Transcripts

International applicants are asked to submit additional materials in order to be offered admission. See Requirements for International MFA Applicants.

In this page, you will find important dates and helpful notes as you work toward completing your application.

Questions? Email our Graduate Admissions Coordinator at joel.tsui-staff@meca.edu.

Apply Today

Ready to get started? Learn more about application requirements and begin your application at the links below.

Application Package Start Your Application

Summer 2025 Dates & Deadlines

Full Tuition Scholarship deadline: Sunday, January 19, 2025

Anyone who completes an application by this deadline will be considered for our one Full Tuition Scholarship, regardless of low or full residency interest. Applicants may also be invited to have a brief interview with members of the MFA Admission Review Committee.

Google Calendar Event

For applications received before the Full Tuition Scholarship deadline, we aim to provide an admission decision starting late-February, 2025.

Priority Application deadline: Sunday, February 23, 2025

Applicants may be invited to have a brief interview with members of the MFA Admission Review Committee.

Google Calendar Event

For applications received after the Priority Application deadline, we aim to provide an admission decision within a month of receiving your complete application.

Rolling Admission

After the Priority Application Deadline, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits. Interviews will not be arranged during this application period.

Program Orientation: Friday, June 6, 2025

The program begins with a student orientation and classes begin on the following Monday (June 9).

Tips & Notes

  • To learn more about our MFA program, visit Program Overview.
  • To learn more about the financial commitment and funding opportunities, visit Scholarships​, Tuition & Fees​, and Financial Aid. Please review carefully to make sure you meet the inclusion criteria.
  • If you are eligible for the US Federal Student Loan, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid​. Our School Code is 011673.
  • All incoming MFA students will start during the Summer Intensive in June 2025. We do not offer Fall or Spring entry into the program.
  • Please consider completing your application by the earliest deadline. The sooner you apply, the sooner you receive an admission decision and the more time you have to prepare for enrollment. While we are often able to offer admission during the rolling admission period, we cannot guarantee decision extensions, deferral requests, or graduate housing.

Questions?

Contact GraduateAdmissions@meca.edu or call 207.699.5023.