Admissions Process

FIDM seeks to admit individuals who have the capacity and determination to complete FIDM's specialized curriculum and graduate from our college. The admissions process is designed to help the student and college reach an informed decision about a student's likelihood for success.

To be considered for admission to FIDM, students must be at least 17 years of age upon matriculation and must have earned or be enrolled in coursework leading to a high school diploma or GED (or the equivalent). Final transcript/proof of high school graduation is required before beginning classes.

APPLICATION STEPS

  1. Complete and submit the online application and pay the initial $50 application fee (nonrefundable). FIDM strongly encourages applicants to contact the college for assistance and to promptly respond when contacted by an Admissions Advisor from FIDM. The Advisor will help the student navigate the admissions process.
  2. Submit requirements
    •  Official high school and if applicable, college/ university transcripts.
    • Admissions Essay maximum of two (2) page essay addressing the following questions:
      1. What are your expectations, goals, hobbies and special interests;
      2. What are your reasons for choosing FIDM;
      3. What appeals to you about the major you are considering; and
      4. What are your goals and aspirations upon graduation from FIDM.
    • Two Professional Letters of Recommendation from teachers, counselors, employers, etc.
    • Portfolio Access the portfolio requirements at FIDM.edu under Admissions. Contact your Admissions Advisor for guidance or with any questions.
  3. Interview/File Review for Admissions Decision Accepted students must submit the final application fee of $200 (non-refundable).

Program Specific Admissions Requirements:

ADMISSION TO THE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE PROGRAMS

Open to high school graduates (or equivalency) or high school graduates who are transferring prior to obtaining a degree from another college.

ADMISSION TO THE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATION DEGREE PROGRAMS

Open to candidates who have a U.S. accredited degree or a minimum of 45 semester units (67 quarter units) of

general studies coursework in various categories of academic breadth, or international bachelor's degree (or higher) with certification of U.S. equivalency. More information may be obtained from the Office of Admissions.

ADMISSION TO THE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS ADVANCED STUDY DEGREE PROGRAMS

Open to candidates who possess a prior academic degree from FIDM or another accredited college or university in a related discipline. Portfolio submission and/or an interview with the Department Chairperson may also be required. For further information, contact the Admissions or Student Advisement Office. (See pg. 19)

ADMISSION TO THE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE AND BACHELOR OF ARTS DEGREE PROGRAMS

All B.S/B.A. programs are open to qualified transfer students and FIDM A.A. graduates. Please contact Admissions or Student Advisement for further information about specific requirements.

ADMISSION TO THE MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM

Admission to the MBA program is open to graduates who have a Bachelor's degree (or higher) from FIDM or another accredited college or university. Students with undergraduate business degrees are eligible for the oneyear MBA program. Students with a Bachelor's degree in non-business majors will be eligible for the 15-month MBA program which provides a foundation quarter of study. The application process for FIDM's MBA program includes submission of an official university transcript, admissions essay, professional resume, demonstration of graduate-level skills in English, and recommendations from professionals such as faculty, staff, or employers. A meeting/interview with the Department Chairperson may also be required. For further information, contact Admissions or the Student Advisement Office.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

FIDM is federally authorized to enroll nonimmigrant students. Transcripts from outside the U.S. that are not in English must be accompanied by an English translation along with the original language. International transcripts will be subject to U.S. equivalency evaluation. All students must demonstrate English proficiency. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by successfully completing a Test of English as a Foreign Language TOEFL (or equivalent). Please contact Admissions for acceptable equivalent English tests and minimum score requirements.

Upon acceptance, international students must provide FIDM with a confidential statement of finances— an official bank letter or statement indicating adequate funds available for tuition and living expenses for one academic year. This along with a copy of the student's passport will be required in order for FIDM to process an I-20 for purposes of applying for an F-1 student visa.