Application Deadlines
March 1st Priority Deadline for Admission Fall 2026 Onsite Programs
March 1st Deadline for Scholarship applications Fall 2026 Onsite
Check the current available scholarships here
April 1st Decision Release for Priority Application for Admission and Scholarship
April 1st Rolling admission starts for onsite programs.
*Applications will be reviewed case by case while space permits
July 1st Application Starts for Online Programs
Oct 18th Priority Deadline for Admission Spring 2027 Online Programs
Application Checklist
Online Application Portal
Start application via Slideroom here.
Portfolio Requirement
Creative Practices
A portfolio of 12-20 photographic images.
Documentary Practices and Visual Journalism
A portfolio of 15-20 photographic images.
Documentary Practice: Visual Storytelling Online
A portfolio of 15-20 photographic images.
Portfolio tips:
- Focus on Long Form Story: Showcase 1 significant project, up to 20 images.
- Quality Over Quantity: Choose your most compelling projects that best represent your vision.
- Storytelling & Vision: Display your approach to topic selection, character identification, relationship development, and visual storytelling.
- Originality: Select artwork that authentically represents you, not what you think the admissions committee will like.
- Each image should be a jpeg not exceeding 5mb and no larger than 1280 x 1280 at 72ppi. Videos up to five minutes in length may also be submitted. Please test all digital materials before submitting
Curatorial Practices in Photography (Online)
Submit one curatorial project proposal, or up to three—either from your previous curatorial work or a new curatorial concept demonstrating your curatorial vision, approach, and potential. The complete portfolio submission may be up to 30 pages total.
Writing and the Photographic Image (Online)
Writing Sample - Submit one writing sample or up to three—on any topic that demonstrates your writing skills (each no more than 2,000 words).
Statement of Purpose
A one-page Statement of Purpose with less than 500 words describing your reasons for applying to the program and elaborating on the influences on your work, its current direction, and your research interests.
Letters of Recommendation
Two recommendation letters required.
Submit two letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant's personal and artistic strengths.
Recommenders should be familiar with the applicant's work and may include professionals from any field, such as employers, professors, mentors, or practicing artists—not necessarily limited to photography. Recommenders are encouraged to assess the applicant's academic abilities, creative vision, and potential for success in the program.
Proof of High School Completion
Copy of Transcript or Diploma from High School, College, University or any equivalent. This document must be in English. Upload only one diploma/transcript from your qualifalied educational documents.
Resume or CV
A summary of education, professional, and other relevant experiences
English Language Proficiency Requirement (International student ONLY)
In addition to the general admission requirements, all international applicants whose primary/native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. International applicants must submit valid English language proficiency test results taken within the past two years. We permit applicants to submit one of the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS and Duolingo English Test.
TOEFL iBT – 68 (or updated score scale: 4) *MyBest® scores accepted
IELTS – 6
Duolingo – 95
For Writing and the Photographic Image (Online) :
Minimum required scores: TOEFL iBT – 86 (or updated score scale: 4.5 ) | IELTS 6.5 | Duolingo 115
Application Fee
$60 Application Fee
We offer one application fee waiver under certain circumstances:
- The applicants applied for ICP’s One-Year Certificate programs previously.
- The applicant is interested in applying to both programs. Once you’ve submitted one application, simply reach out to the admissions office [email protected], and we’ll review your progress and waive the fee for the additional application.
- We will waive the application fee for the applicants who have successfully completed the Turin Summer Intensive Program in Visual Storytelling.
Application FAQ
Where do I apply?
You can start or continue your application Here. The application auto-saves, allowing you to continue working on it at any time.
Can I start my application and then finish it later?
Yes. The application auto-saves, allowing you to continue working on it at any time.
What resources do you offer if I need additional guidance on application?
You can explore and join us for the upcoming virtual info session. Event Calendar.
For a one-on-one consultation, please book a time with the Program Manager Here.
Do you require official transcripts to be mailed to the International Center of Photography?
No, you can upload unofficial transcripts to the application as long as your full name and school name, as well as all grades, are listed. Official transcripts are required if you decide to enroll.
How can I apply for scholarships and fellowships?
ICP offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships and fellowships for both domestic and international students. These awards provide partial tuition support to selected, highly qualified applicants. For more information, please visit HERE. The SlideRoom application form includes a section for scholarship-related questions under the basic application information. Once you submit your application, you will automatically be considered for all eligible scholarships—no additional forms are required. The scholarship committee evaluates applicants based on overall performance, including their portfolio, writing sample and statement of purpose.
Is FAFSA available?
No, ICP is not an accredited institution like a college or university, so the One-Year Certificate program does not qualify for federal student loans through FAFSA.
How will I be notified about financial aid or scholarships?
ICP Admission results, including information about eligibility for scholarships, will be sent via email. If you are accepted into the program and have applied for a scholarship, your acceptance letter will include details about any scholarships you qualify for. Please note that decision letters are only sent via email from [email protected]— make sure to check your inbox for your admission results.
When do I need to submit my application by?
ONSITE - Priority Deadline for Admission and scholarship consideration is March 1st
ONLINE - Priority Deadline for Admission and scholarship consideration is October 18th
Can I submit my application form and then submit my portfolio later?
No, your application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.
How do I submit letters of recommendation?
In the SlideRoom application form, under the References section, simply enter your recommender's name, email address, and other required details, then click the 'Send Request' button. SlideRoom will automatically email your recommenders with instructions on how to submit their recommendation letter on your behalf.
Do you accept application fee waiver?
We offer one application fee waiver under certain circumstances:
- The applicants applied for ICP’s One-Year Certificate programs previously.
- The applicant is interested in applying to both programs. Once you’ve submitted one application, simply reach out to the admissions office [email protected], and we’ll review your progress and waive the fee for the additional application.
- We will waive the application fee for the applicants who have successfully completed the Turin Summer Intensive Program in Visual Storytelling.
Are full-ride scholarships available?
It depends on the type of scholarship or fellowship, as well as the specific admission cycle. All currently available scholarships and fellowships are listed on our website under >> Scholarships & Fellowships
For example, ICP’s merit-based Director’s Fellowships are not full-ride awards. We offer partial tuition scholarships to help support students in funding their education.
When will I hear back about a decision?
ONSITE - April 1st for Priority Application for ONSITE Admission and Scholarship
ONLINE – Nov 1st for Priority Application for ONLINE Admission and Scholarship
Rolling admission: Applications will be reviewed case by case while space permits
ICP Admissions will notify applicants via the email address used for their application submission. The school does not send decision letters by postal mail. Please let us know any change to your email address by reaching out to [email protected].