School of Art Scholarship Portfolio Review

Thank you for your interest in the School of Art Portfolio Review Day at Kent State University on Friday, February 13, 2026!

You may attend a session either to receive feedback on your portfolio (if you have not yet been accepted for admission to KSU) or for scholarship consideration (if you have been accepted for admission to KSU.)

Portfolio Guidelines: 

• Submit/Bring 10-15 pieces of your best artwork created in the last 1-2 years. You may include a variety of media (painting, drawing, 3D, digital, photography, etc.) 

• Of the 10-15 pieces, at least 2-3 Observational Drawings (made in real-time, from live observation, not drawn from photographs) are encouraged. 

• We love to see your actual pieces in person, but digital images are also acceptable for your review; just bring a computer or tablet to share. Make sure if you are photographing your work, you have clear, crisp, well-lit images.  

SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO have a successful interview/review: 

• Submit a sketchbook as a portfolio piece. 

• Draw with charcoal, graphite, and erasers.  

• Experiment with mediums, sizes, ideas, and colors.  

• Show enthusiasm when talking about your work.  

• Be prepared to answer questions like:  

  • What do you like about your art?  

  • Who or what is your inspiration?  

  • How often do you make art?  

  • What materials do you most often work with?  

  • Who are your favorite artists?  

  • How do you start a new work of art?

On the day of your portfolio review, you will meet one faculty member for 15 minutes. Be prepared to introduce your portfolio and talk about your work and your goals for study.