<p>I decided to go to RISD. I figured I needed to let go of CCAD because I needed to get out there, and not USC because they didn’t stress versatility in my opinion. I also decided against Massart because I didn’t like my major’s offerings as much as the others, and I didnt like the animation work I saw at MICA. I figured RISD teaches kids to be good thinkers, and I like how diverse the work there was. I also liked the liberal arts offerings better than every school except USC. I also am excited to be surrounded by a group of very talented people and I hope to learn a lot from my peers. It’s going to cost a bit more than the other schools, but I think that the opportunities are worth it.</p>
<p>Did you get any scholarship and financial aid from RISD? I know it is very expensive.</p>
<p>Yes I did. I know RISD gets a bad name for its price and aid, but my aid is good enough for me to attend. I have to take some more federal loans than I would at MassArt or CCAD, but I won’t be swamped in debt like I would at SCAD or Ringling.</p>
<p>I just wonder what was your GPA if you don’t mind? Does it have to be very high to be considered for RISD scholarship? You mentioned you were awarded some federal grants
as well. What should be expected family contribution to be considered for those? Are you graduating from high school with honors? I am sorry for so many questions but if you would like to let me know, it definately will help me understand the process and chances for RISD.</p>
<p>My gpa is a 3.973. Federal grants are determined by your FAFSA. When you fill that out, you’ll know what you are eligible for, like the Pell. I am not the valdevictorian of my class but I’m one of the top ten of around 200 kids. I don’t know how much grades are worth to RISD, but I can definitely say they are important. But there are kids who receive scholarships or admission with really great portfolios but less than stellar grades but your portfolio needs to be amazing for that. Scholarships are based on financial need and merit. 40% of the student body is on on scholarship that can go up to 38 k a year. If you are applying just apply. You really cant be sure what you’ll get until you do. And if you want a better offer there is no problem in appealing. Check out Conceptart.org’s thread for accepted portfolios and they have a deal of RISD ones there. I hope I was helpful.</p>
<p>Now that you have been there for a while, how do you like being at RISD?</p>
<p>Sorry I have absent here recently because of school. It’s a lot of work, but I cannot express how rewarding it is. I am continually amazed by the talents of my classmates and they continue to inspire me. We’re in the middle of Wintersession right now and I am having a blast. I am so happy I decided to go here.</p>
<p>I’ll chime in too. My son was able to attend RISD because of their very generous financial aid. I am sure that he would say exactly what Bowman said above.
I am forever grateful to RISD for making this possible. My son is extremely engaged and is surrounded by talented, inspiring, smart (and kind!) friends.</p>
<p>exactly - top schools are rigorous</p>