CCA Acceptance Rate

The California College of the Arts (CCA), located in San Francisco and Oakland, California, is known for its competitive admissions process, particularly for its specialized programs in art and design. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), CCA reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 75.7%, reflecting a moderately selective process. This rate is influenced by factors such as the size of the applicant pool, which has remained relatively stable in recent years, and a growing interest in creative and design-focused education. While CCA does not always publish detailed admission statistics publicly, some data can be accessed through sources like the Common Data Set or the official admissions website at cca.edu/admissions.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 75.7% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 2,000 applicants and 1,514 admitted students, consistent with prior years.
• Early Action/Decision Rate: Data unavailable for the most recent cycle. Based on historical trends, early applicants may see a slightly higher acceptance rate, estimated at 78.0%.
• International Student Rate: Specific data unavailable. Given CCA's appeal to global creatives, the rate is estimated at around 70.0%, potentially lower due to additional admission requirements.

Over the past few years, CCA's acceptance rate has hovered around 75-80%, indicating moderate selectivity compared to other art and design schools. While not as competitive as top-tier institutions like Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with rates below 20%, CCA remains a sought-after choice for students pursuing creative careers. Trends suggest a slight increase in competitiveness as more students apply to specialized programs, though the lack of detailed early action or international data makes it challenging to assess specific impacts. Prospective applicants are encouraged to focus on portfolio strength and personal statements, as these are critical in CCA’s holistic review process.