How to Apply

Please review the admission and registration requirements for the Illustration/Design: Elements & Applications Program (IDEA) in the Capilano University calendar; however, please see below for current application dates.

For September 2012 admission, apply online or apply in person or by mail to the Registrar's office by March 31, 2012. Late applications will not be accepted. If you have questions you may contact the Registrar's Office at 604 984 4900 or the IDEA program at 604 990 7820.

You may download an Application for Admission form or pick one up from the Registrar's Office at the main campus in North Vancouver or at the regional campuses in Sechelt and Squamish.

Supporting documents required are official high school and post-secondary transcripts, and if applicable an English Language Assessment Test (ELAT) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Contact the Advising Centre at 604 984 4990 for further information.

Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work and other documents directly to the IDEA department. Instructions will be sent to you after we receive your Application for Admission.

Portfolio Submission Dates

Portfolios must be submitted between April 23 – 25, 2012. Portfolios will not be reviewed if proper documentation has not been received by the University by March 31, 2012. Late portfolio submissions will not be accepted.

Portfolio Content

• Portfolios should contain no fewer than 15 original samples of work, and no more than 20.
• Work must have been produced, drawn, designed or photographed by the applicant and must represent current abilities.
• Imaginative, experimental designs and drawings using a variety of mediums are encouraged.
• At least one third of the portfolio must include drawings/paintings from life (still life and figure), not from photographic reference.
• A sketchbook must also be submitted with the portfolio.

Presentation Format

• Portfolio size must not be larger than 20 x 26 in (50 x 66 cm)
• Samples must be flat, not rolled.
• Do not 'flap' work, unless it uses a soft medium like charcoal or chalk.
• Where possible, present all work on the same size of matt board.
• Large format work should be represented by good quality photographs.
• Label each piece of work on the back with your name.
• Do not include slides or electronic files of your work.

Sending your Portfolio

• Print your name and address on the outside of your portfolio in large letters, or use the IDEA address sticker provided
  
• Include items requested in the IDEA application package (an application form, two letters of reference and a sketchbook)
• Send or deliver your portfolio to:
  IDEA Program
  Capilano University
  Arbutus Building, Room 106
  2055 Purcell Way
  North Vancouver, BC
  Canada V7J 3H5

Portfolio Pick-Up Dates

Portfolios may be picked up between May 2 – 4, 2012, or they can be returned to the applicant if sufficient postage is provided (e.g. a cheque to cover the cost of return postage, or a prepaid courier waybill). Capilano University cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to an applicant's work.

Portfolio Review

Portfolios are reviewed by an admissions panel on the basis of drawing, design, colour, creativity, media variety, skill and presentation. Applicants whose portfolios meet the standards of the program will be required to attend an interview and participate in tests evaluating drawing, creative thinking and communications skills.

Other Important Dates

Interviews and tests will take place during the week of May 7, 2012. Successful applicants will be notified during the week of May 14, 2012.

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