Entrance Requirements for the Master's Degree, Postgraduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate

Required Documentation

• Academic transcripts/mark sheets from all post-secondary academic institutions attended.
• Two letters of academic reference.
• A writing sample. Art History majors or minors should submit a marked/graded paper for review. Applicants with no formal art history background must submit a 1,000 word review of a gallery or museum exhibition of their choice.
• A CV/resume that includes all relevant art related background.
• English language proficiency exam. All applicants whose native language is not English and who have not completed an undergraduate degree in an English speaking curriculum, must submit results of the TOEFL or IELTS exam and must achieve an appropriate score. Click here for further information on required English language proficiency levels.
• An Interview. This is an opportunity for candidates to discuss their interests and abilities as well as to explore ways in which the Institute can help them meet their educational and career goals. Interviews may be conducted by members of the admissions staff, a faculty member or the director of the applicant’s programme of choice and generally include a discussion of art historical or art related subjects and images. In person interviews are preferable and encouraged although telephone interviews may be arranged in cases where travel to either the London or New York campus is a hardship.
• A non-refundable application fee of £50 (GBP) for the London campus and $100 (USD) for New York campus.
  

  Online Application

  
  
  

  Sotheby’s Institute of Art accepts applications for the Master’s Degree (London & New York), Postgraduate Diploma (London) / Graduate Certificate (New York) online. 
  
  The online application system allows candidates to submit scanned copies of all required documents, with the exception of recommendations. If necessary, transcripts, recommendations and other relevant documents may be submitted separately from the application and at a later date. However, it is preferable that all documents be received prior to an applicant’s interview.
  
  Please review the application instructions carefully. They will explain the application process in detail and provide information on required documents, deadlines and other requirements.
  
  Applications may only be submitted for admission to one campus although applicants may select a first and second programme choice. Applicants wishing to be considered for an alternate campus may request a change of status prior to July 1.
  
  For more information please review our Frequently Asked Questions.
  
  

  After you Apply

  
  
  

  Applicants will receive an email from the admissions team acknowledging receipt of their application within 24 hours. This email will include an update on any documents or required information that may still be outstanding. These should then be sent directly to the campus at which the application was submitted.
  
  Interview
  After the admissions team has received sufficient documentation, eligible candidates will be contacted for an interview.
  
  Admissions Decisions
  The admissions committee reviews and processes applications on a “rolling basis.” This means that applications are considered throughout the year as long as space is available. Applicants whose documentation is complete generally receive an admissions decision within two weeks of their interview.
  
  Confirmation of Attendance and Deposit
  Admissions Committee decisions will be sent by mail. A deposit of £500 (London) and $1,000 (New York) is required of accepted applicants and must be returned with the Admissions Reply Form within three weeks of the acceptance letter’s receipt In order to hold a place in the department and campus of choice. Accepted applicants who require additional time to make this decision and deposit must contact the Office of Admissions to request an extension.
  
  Visas
  Students who require visas will receive visa documentation after they confirm their intention to enroll by returning their reply forms and deposits.
  
  Online Welcome Site
  Applicants who have confirmed their intention to attend the Institute by returning the Admissions Reply Form and deposit will be given access to the New Students’ Welcome Site. This site will provide an opportunity to meet other entering students and to access important information about accommodations and health care. Reading lists and other academic information will be posted on the site during the summer.
  
  

  Contact Details

  
  

  London Applicants

  Admissions Office
  Sotheby's Institute of Art
  30 Bedford Square, Bloomsbury
  London
  WC1B 3EE United Kingdom
  
  Cara Gillespie, Admissions Manager
  c.gillespie@sothebysinstitute.com
  Tel: +44 (0)20 7462 3250
  
  

  New York Applicants

  Admissions Office
  Sotheby's Institute of Art
  570 Lexington Avenue, 6th Floor
  New York, NY 10022
  
  Jessica Patterson, Assistant Director of Enrollment and Alumni
  j.patterson@sothebysinstitute.com
  Tel: +1.212.897.6646