For Fall Semester Admissions
- Application deadline:
June 1 - Portfolio submission deadline (for scholarship consideration):
February 1 - Portfolio submission deadline:
June 1
For Spring Semester Admissions
- Application deadline:
November 1 - Portfolio submission deadline:
November 1
Admissions Process for Transfer Students
When you apply as a transfer student to the Tyler School of Art and Architecture, our admissions team and the one for Temple University as a whole work together to review your transfer application and supporting materials.
Start Your Application
See the transfer student admissions checklist below to find out if your planned major requires a portfolio (or not). Then, you can use these important links to learn more and get started on your application when you’re ready!
Contact Tyler Admissions
Here’s how to contact the Admissions Office at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture with any questions about transfer student application requirements. Call us: 215-777-9090 or email us: tyleradmissions@temple.edu.
Undergraduate Transfer Student Admissions Requirements
Follow these steps to apply for admission to Tyler as a transfer student:
1. Apply to Temple University using the Common Application
2. Choose your Tyler major from the drop down option.
Tip: Choose Art BFA Undeclared for all studio majors
3. Gather and submit your supporting documents to the Temple University Admissions Office
- Transcripts from any college or university you have attended
- Application essay
- Standardized test scores (only if Temple requests them)
- Letter(s) of recommendation (optional!)
- High school transcript (only if Temple requests them)
4. Upload your portfolio online via Temple SlideRoom, if applicable
Portfolios are required for transfer students seeking to receive transfer credit for architecture studio coursework. Portfolios not required for transfer students in Art History, Landscape Architecture, Community Development or Horticulture
Please DO NOT send portfolio materials or original work by mail! We cannot accept, review, or return such materials.
Portfolios required for transfer students in these majors:
- Art Education
- Art Therapy
- Studio Arts
- Visual Studies
Get Portfolio Advice
Rather than wing it when compiling your portfolio — if required. Simply schedule an unofficial portfolio review with one of Tyler’s admissions team members. They can offer insights and guidance on how to build and improve your portfolio before you officially upload it for a final transfer admissions decision.
Transfer Portfolio Requirements
Your portfolio represents where you stand now as a visual thinker and creative. Choose recent work — completed in the last year or two — that expresses your range of abilities, life experiences and perspectives, and experimentation with your talents and craft. Show us:
- What interests you as a creative?
- What technical skills do you already possess?
- How do you use your talents and visions in your work?
- How have you grown over time?
What to Submit
The Tyler School of Art and Architecture considers works of all sizes, subject matters, and media. Feel free to include work completed from your studio practice or from prior coursework.
- 8-12 pieces of original, finished work that’s been completed within 1-2 years
- Any methods or media that demonstrate your strengths and interests
- At least one drawing (recommended)
- Supplemental sketchbooks — not counted as standalone portfolio items, but show initial stages of ideas for completed works in the portfolio
Transfer Admissions FAQ
Congratulations on taking steps toward earning your degree at a school that better fits your creative needs, personality and budget.
Does Tyler require standardized tests scores for transfer students?
Transfer students applying to the Tyler School of Art and Architecture do not need to submit SAT/ACT test scores — unless the admissions team at Temple University requests them.
How does Tyler evaluate my transfer credits?
The admissions team for Temple University evaluates your prior coursework based on overall academic standards and alignment with equivalent credits here. Then, the Tyler admissions team steps in to consider your portfolio and a comprehensive review of your application, including portfolio and transfer credits.
Admitted students get access to the TUPortal that lists your accepted transfer credits and Temple course equivalencies.
For studio course transfer credits, the Tyler admissions team emails admitted students a Studio Equivalency Check Sheet.
Why do I need to submit a portfolio?
If required for your major or degree program, your portfolio provides a glimpse into how your creative mind works. It provides a testament to your talents and technical skills. It gives us an idea of your potential — even when you may not see your full potential yourself. It’s your chance to shine.
Are Tyler transfer students eligible for scholarships?
Tyler makes some scholarships available to transfer students for fall admissions only. They get awarded based on portfolio submissions.
PLEASE NOTE: To be considered for portfolio-based scholarships from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture, you must submit your transfer student application, all supporting materials and portfolio by February 1.