Frequently asked questions

All locations

Where are classes held?

SCAD Rising Star students will attend classes in various SCAD buildings depending on the courses in which they have enrolled.

Are there accommodations for disabled students?

Yes. SCAD offers educational services that provide equal opportunity for people with disabilities. Students will work with the office of counseling and student support services to set up accommodations.

Application

What is SCAD looking for in an applicant?

SCAD is looking for highly motivated and dedicated rising high school seniors to participate in SCAD Rising Star. The program is rigorous, and students work at an accelerated pace. Within four weeks, students will have completed two full-course workloads, which the regular SCAD student has 10 weeks to complete. Grades for the program are included on a student's official college transcript.

What are the application requirements?

In addition to the completed online application and US$100 nonrefundable application fee, applicants must submit official high school transcripts through first semester of their junior year. For students whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency must be provided. Supplemental materials may be submitted, which can include a visual portfolio of at least 10 pieces, a statement of purpose, a list of achievements, one letter of recommendation, or official report of SAT or ACT scores.

When is it too late to apply?

There is no official application deadline to apply for SCAD Rising Star. Students are encouraged to apply at least 30 days before the start of the program. The earlier a student applies, the more time they will have to complete their admission file before the payment deadline (below). The online application, application fee, and all supporting documents are required to complete a file for admission.

When is the program deposit due?

The deadline for the SCAD Rising Star program deposit is May 30, 2025. You may submit payment online. 

When are tuition, housing, and meal fees due?

Any remaining balance, including tuition, housing, and meal fees, is due May 30, 2025.

I attended the program last year. Can I reapply?

Only rising high school seniors can participate in the SCAD Rising Star program. Students may not attend the program twice.

When will I be notified of an admission decision?

All applicants are notified two to three weeks after completing the application file.

Financial

Are payment plans available?

All payment options can be discussed with the admission adviser assigned upon application.

How much do books and course materials cost?

Supply expenses vary by course. A list of supplies is provided with the course syllabus, which is located in Blackboard via MySCAD, and supplies may be purchased at the SCAD bookstore upon arrival.

Will participating in SCAD Rising Star help me get into SCAD?

Students who participate in SCAD Rising Star will gain valuable experience, as well as build and enhance their portfolio, all while refining their skills under the guidance and instruction of SCAD faculty. Satisfactory completion of SCAD Rising Star with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or higher may qualify students for admission to SCAD for further undergraduate study if they have submitted all required first-time, first-year application materials. Completion of Rising Star with a cumulative program GPA of less than 3.0 may impact future admission and scholarship consideration. Please discuss any academic concerns with your admission adviser prior to enrolling.

What is the cancellation/refund policy?

The application and program fees are nonrefundable. The Rising Star cancellation/refund policy follows the official policy and schedule for SCAD summer quarter, which can be found online. 

Residence life

If I am under 18, may I live in a residence hall?

As long as applicants qualify as rising seniors, they may reside in the residence hall.

May I check into the residence hall before the check-in dates?

Early check-in is permitted on a case-by-case basis for international students. International students should reach out to their admission adviser or email the Pre-College Programs team to receive approval, atlsummer@scad.edu or savsummer@scad.edu.

Are sheets, towels, pillows, and toilet paper supplied?

No. Students need to bring their own toiletries and linens. There will be additional weekend shopping excursions available to students who need the essentials.

How much supervision is provided?

Several SCAD pre-college assistants, resident mentors, and a residence director stay in the residence hall with students. SCAD pre-college assistants have residence life experience and training. They enforce SCAD policies and assist students during the program.

Do I need to bring my computer?

Students have access to the computer lab but also are encouraged to bring a personal computer for any work they would like to do outside of the classroom.