The New School is made up of several colleges, each with its own areas of study. The main schools include:

• Parsons School of Design (for design, fashion, architecture, etc.)

• Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts (for humanities, social sciences, creative writing, etc.)

• College of Performing Arts (for music, drama, and jazz studies)

• Schools of Public Engagement (for media, management, international affairs, etc.)

If you’re unsure which school offers your program of interest, check The New School’s website or contact admissions for guidance.

• Bachelor’s Degree (BA, BS, BFA, BM, etc.) – For students looking to earn a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Associate’s Degree (AAS, AA, etc.) – Some programs, like those at Parsons, offer two-year associate degrees.

• Other Options – Some programs have unique pathways, so review your program details carefully.

If you’re not sure, reach out to The New School admissions team before submitting your application.

Military-affiliated students might have additional considerations. If you have taken courses through military institutions (e.g., CCAF, MOL, Marine Online Courses), be sure to check how they align with your program selection.

Your emergency contact should be someone who:

• Can make important decisions on your behalf if needed

• Knows how to reach you in case of an emergency

• Is comfortable handling medical or administrative situations if required

Most students list a parent, guardian, spouse, close relative, or trusted friend.

Special Considerations for Military-Affiliated Applicants:

• If you are active duty, a veteran, or a military-affiliated student, you may consider listing a commanding officer, squad leader, or another person who understands your situation.

• If your spouse or dependents will be relocating with you, listing them may be helpful in case of family-related emergencies.

No, this section is entirely optional. If you choose to include links, it could be helpful if you have a portfolio, personal website, or professional presence related to your field of study.

Most students list a parent, guardian, spouse, close relative, or trusted friend.

Special Considerations for Military-Affiliated Applicants:

• If you are active duty, a veteran, or a military-affiliated student, you may consider listing a commanding officer, squad leader, or another person who understands your situation.

• If your spouse or dependents will be relocating with you, listing them may be helpful in case of family-related emergencies.

This is an optional section where you can describe how major events—such as military deployments, social movements, economic hardships, or personal challenges—have influenced your academic journey.

• You do not have to complete this section if it doesn’t apply to you.

• If you choose to write something, focus on how challenges have shaped your goals and academic ambitions.

This program allows highly motivated students to begin taking graduate-level courses while completing their bachelor’s degree, saving time and money. If you are interested, select "Yes" and review the program’s requirements.

The Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program allows students to earn college credit for learning experiences outside of the classroom, such as:

• Work experience

• Military training

• Independent study or certifications

If you believe your background qualifies, selecting "Yes" could allow you to receive transfer credit and shorten your time to graduation.

• List the high school where you earned your diploma as the first institution.

• If you attended multiple high schools, list only the one where you graduated.

• If you have fewer than 24 U.S. college credits, you must submit your final high school transcript.

• Contact your high school directly, or if the school is closed, check with the nearest Board of Education office.

• You can typically request an electronic copy or pick it up in person for faster processing.

• If you have taken courses through CCAF (Community College of the Air Force), Military Online Learning (MOL), or other military institutions, be sure to list them.

• If you are unsure how to obtain your transcripts from a military institution, reach out to your education officer or JST (Joint Services Transcript) portal.

• Before uploading your transcript, make sure the file is saved and closed to avoid errors.

• The transcript must include both your name and the institution’s name to be considered valid.

Your 500-650 word essay should address the following:

1. Why The New School?

   • What drew you to this university and program?

   • How does The New School’s approach align with your goals?

2. Your Academic & Professional Background

   • Briefly highlight your accomplishments.

   • Explain why you are continuing your education now.

3. Your Goals After Graduation

   • What do you hope to achieve with your degree?

   • How will The New School help you reach these goals?

4. How You Would Customize Your Education

   • Review the Current Course Offerings and list five courses you are interested in.

   • Explain how these courses fit into your learning path.

5. Anything Else You Want the Admissions Committee to Know

   • Special experiences, achievements, or challenges that shaped your journey.

Start by brainstorming your story:

• What led you to this moment?

• Why is The New School the right fit for you?

• What unique perspective or experience do you bring?

Use a clear structure:

• Introduction (Who you are and why you’re applying)

• Main Body (Your background, goals, and interest in courses)

• Conclusion (Why The New School and how it will support your future)

That’s okay! Focus on how your life experiences, work, or military background have shaped your goals. Many applicants have taken time away from school before returning.

This essay is about your story, not a writing test. While clear communication is important, don’t stress about perfection—focus on being genuine and specific about your journey.

Your résumé should highlight:

• Education – Schools attended, degrees earned (or in progress), relevant coursework

• Work Experience – Jobs, internships, military service, leadership roles

• Skills – Technical skills, languages, certifications, industry tools

• Extracurricular Activities – Clubs, volunteer work, creative projects, research

• Awards & Achievements – Scholarships, honors, or special recognitions

For military-affiliated applicants, relevant military experience (MOS, leadership roles, specialized training) can be included under work experience or a separate military experience section.

• Keep it clear and professional (1–2 pages max).

• Use bullet points and consistent formatting for easy reading.

• Include dates for education and work experience.

Yes! If possible, highlight experiences relevant to your intended field of study. However, if you are switching careers or fields, focus on transferable skills.

If you need a template, consider using:

• Canva (free, professional templates)

• Microsoft Word or Google Docs (built-in résumé templates)

The New School does not require a specific format, so use what works best for you!

No, but if you’re listing military experience, use clear language and avoid acronyms when possible. If listing MOS roles, briefly describe responsibilities in civilian terms.

• Graduate Applicants – Some programs require two academic references, while others may accept professional references. Check with The New School Admissions Office for specific program requirements.

• Transdisciplinary Design Applicants – Recommendations are optional but encouraged for this program.

• Undergraduate Applicants – Not required, but you may submit letters if you wish.

• For Academic References: Professors, teachers, or advisors who can speak about your academic strengths and potential.

• For Professional References: Employers, supervisors, or mentors who can highlight your work ethic, leadership, and skills.

• For Military-Affiliated Applicants: Squad leaders, platoon sergeants, or team leaders may be good options, especially if you’re transitioning from active duty. If enlisted, try to keep it on the enlisted side of the chain of command.

Tip: Avoid asking family members or friends—your recommenders should be able to provide an objective, professional perspective on your qualifications.

Click “Add Recommender” and provide their name, email, and relationship to you. Your recommender will receive an email with instructions on how to submit their letter.

Yes, but quality matters more than quantity. Stick to strong, relevant recommendations.

Follow up with them politely. If needed, you can resend the request through the application portal.