The PICA Applicant: We Seek the Unconventional Thinker
Paris International College of Art seeks candidates whose intellectual profile is defined by curiosity, rigour, and a demonstrable capacity for cross-disciplinary thought. We are not simply looking for the best artists or the best mathematicians; we are searching for individuals who recognise the artificiality of the boundaries between these fields and are eager to work at their confluence. Our admissions process is intentionally holistic, acknowledging that excellence manifests in various forms—be it a meticulously engineered sculpture, a groundbreaking piece of code, or a deeply researched economic analysis. We view the application as a narrative of intellectual and creative ambition.
Our Holistic Review Process
The Admissions Committee is composed of senior faculty from across our academic schools, ensuring that each application is assessed not just on its specific discipline requirements, but on its interdisciplinary potential. We carefully weigh three primary components:
1. Academic Transcript and Rigour
We require evidence of exceptional academic performance (e.g., Baccalauréat, A-Levels, IB, or equivalent) with a demonstrable commitment to challenging coursework. For technical programmes (B.Arch, B.Sc.), advanced proficiency in Mathematics and Physics is mandatory. For arts programmes (B.A., M.A.), evidence of rigorous foundational study and strong critical writing skills is essential.
2. The Interdisciplinary Portfolio/Statement
This is perhaps the most crucial component of the PICA application. We require a submission that goes beyond the standard.
- For Art/Design Programmes: The portfolio should demonstrate technical mastery and conceptual depth. We encourage submissions that incorporate unusual materials, code, data visualisation, or reflect on sociological/economic themes.
- For Science/Economics Programmes: Instead of a traditional art portfolio, candidates must submit a Creative Problem-Solving Statement. This document (e.g., 5,000 characters) should detail a complex problem they have attempted to solve, using a methodology that combines analytical rigour with creative or aesthetic principles (e.g., designing an algorithm to optimise urban space, or using artistic techniques to communicate complex scientific data).
3. The Interview and Personal Essay
Shortlisted candidates are invited for a mandatory interview with faculty. This conversation is designed to assess intellectual humility, self-awareness, and the ability to articulate complex ideas under pressure. The Personal Essay should clearly address the applicant’s motivation for choosing an interdisciplinary institution located in Paris and their specific vision for how their work will impact global society. We advise applicants to demonstrate, rather than merely state, their passion for synthesis.
Admission Requirements by Level
| Programme Level | Specific Requirements | Portfolio/Statement Requirement |
| High School (Lycée) | Excellent academic records, proficiency in French/English, and a recommendation from a core subject teacher (Maths or Art). | A small portfolio demonstrating visual literacy or a brief written project on a public interest topic. |
| Undergraduate (Bachelor/Licence) | Completed high school diploma with strong marks, mandatory subject pre-requisites for chosen degree (e.g., Maths for B.Sc.). | A comprehensive portfolio or a detailed Creative Problem-Solving Statement (as outlined above). |
| Postgraduate (Master/Ph.D.) | An earned Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:1 equivalent) in a related discipline, a comprehensive Statement of Research Intent, and a writing sample. | An advanced portfolio of practice or a published academic paper/significant professional report demonstrating depth and originality. |
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The Application Cycle
PICA maintains a single application cycle with a strict deadline, acknowledging the intensive, faculty-led review required for such bespoke applications. We strongly recommend prospective students begin preparing their portfolios and statements well in advance. While we are committed to providing feedback where possible, the sheer volume of high-calibre applications means we cannot guarantee individual critiques for all unsuccessful candidates—a difficult but necessary constraint in maintaining a rigorous, focused evaluation.