Getting In To a Top Fashion Design Degree Program
If your goal is to get in to the most elite of fashion design degree programs in the country, you had better be prepared to work extremely hard to reach your goals.
There is a huge amount of competition out there these days when it comes to admission in to a fashion design degree, and this means that if you are going to stand a chance when it comes to the best of the best programs, you'll need to go the extra mile - further than anyone else - to secure your spot.
Should I Even Try?
We all know someone who breezed in to an elite fashion design school because of contacts, family friends, or insider assistance by people who had influence in the industry.
Many people are often admitted on scholarships, and therefore don't have to pay a cent for their education. Unfortunately, very few people are admitted with no history of fashion design work and no referees to back up their ability or performance.
The Best Way to Approach an Elite Design Degree
Applying for a fashion design degree at an elite institution is something which should be treated differently from a standard, common fashion design school. Just as you would expect a top quality education from that institution, they are also expecting your application to be top of the class.
Therefore, as a guideline, successful applicants should look at doing the following things:
- Putting together an exceptional portfolio and design catalogue.
- Limiting the number of works included in the catalogue to keep the judges wanting more.
- Appearing in person (looking presentable) to explain your work.
- Including a detailed list of referees and sponsors.
Why You Should Include Referees?
Referees (or sponsors) are an important part of the application process. In this section of your application, you should avoid including family members, and opt for professionals (preferably in the fashion design industry themselves) who are able to back up your work.
If you are unable to immediately think of referees, simply find a few professionals to show your work to - as well as your passion and drive - and then ask if it would be ok for these people to be listed on your application.
All going well, these people will provide a huge support, if the design degree judges opt to investigate your work further.