For fashion enthusiasts, FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising) is one of the best schools worth considering when looking into colleges. It is a private, for profit college in California, and offers majors in fashion, interior design, beauty, entertainment, and graphic design. Founded in 1969 by current president and CEO Tonian Hohberg, the college houses three locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Orange County. A majority of notable people have graduated from the school, including Amanda Bynes and Lauren Conrad.
For those interested in applying and potentially getting accepted into FIDM, we have highlighted all the information you would need below. Whether its the application process or fees, we have all the information ready for those individuals interested in getting accepted into FIDM.
Getting Started
Students interested in getting accepted into FIDM should schedule a visit with an admissions advisor as soon as possible. These advisors will be able to assist individuals in navigating majors and possible degrees. They will also assist in financial aid, tuition, and provide feedback on the application process. You can contact FIDM to schedule an appointment with an academic advisor here.
Time to Apply
High school seniors and other graduates are accepted on a rolling basis. Rolling admissions refers to a college’s application period meaning it has a large deadline window. While FIDM has a rolling admisions filing period, it is still important to submit applications early to make sure you get things such as financial aid and housing resolved in time. You can view current application deadlines here.
Application Process
The first step in the application process is the actual online application. You cannot get accepted into FIDM without submitting an application. It must be completed and submitted along with a $25 processing payment fee. Next, one must submit the required application materials either directly through an advisor, or through the Student Account. Setup instructions for the Student Account is available online, with options for both the AA/BA/BS degree, as well as the MBA degree. Lastly, applicants should meet with an admissions advisor to review the application materials, and prepare for the final admissions interview. This could be done either in person or by phone. Once you are accepted into FIDM, there is a final application fee of $200, which is due at the time of acceptance.
Transcripts
Prospective students are required to submit high school and college transcripts through mail or email. FIDM will only accept transcripts from schools that are accredited or found in the National Center for Education Statistics website. Next, you are to submit SAT/ACT test scores if available. It is not a requirement, but completing one of these nationally recognized tests could be used to determine whether you have the skills necessary to join FIDM. If you have been home schooled, you must have the following: your SAT or ACT scores, and high school proficiency or GED test results.
Letter of Recommendation
Prospective students will also need two letters of recommendation from counselors, teachers, or employers. You must submit the names and email address of these recommendations through either your student account, or you could send them to the admissions advisor.
Essay
Students must submit an essay in the Microsoft Word or Adobe format. Some of the areas that will be explored in the admissions essay will include the following: life expectations, goals, hobbies, special interests, reasons for choosing FIDM, appeal of chosen major, and long term goals. Individuals should submit their essay through the student account or admissions advisor. The length of the admissions essay must also be at least 2 pages.
Portfolio
The majority of students applying for various majors must create a portfolio to showcase their creativity and level of skill at the time of application. The portfolio should include 8 to 12 examples of your work, which reflect your thoughts, inspirations, and creativeness. You could focus on one medium, or show a variety of them. These do not need to be specific to the major you are choosing, and should reflect your overall creativity. Your changing interests and growth over time is also analyzed by the applicant review staff. Students can be assured that there portfolios are not compared to others when the college chooses an applicant. The Admissions Office will also assist with personal guidance on the portfolio process. Some majors require a portfolio that is specific to their major. These majors include: Merchandising & Marketing, Social Media, Beauty Marketing & Product Development, Merchandise Product Development, and Apparel Industry Management.
Fees
The fees for each person vary, and are non-refundable. For in-state students, the fee is $225, for out-of-state students, the fee is $375, and for international students, the fee is $625. These fee amounts are subject to change.
And that’s it! Pretty easy huh?
FIDM is a recognized name in the fashion world. Unlike many colleges for profit, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising is a great school that will help you secure a job or get you started on your fashion related journey. While the application process is not easy, all the hard work will be worth it once you are accepted into FIDM. With locations in major cities throughout California, it attracts all types of individuals looking to make their stance in the creative world. The application process is difficult for some, and easier for others. But those with a passion for fashion should definitely take the time to apply if they meet the basic requirements. Now that you know all the basic information of what it takes to get accepted into FIDM, are you ready to apply?