Pre-College Program

Our Pre-College program, open to high schoolers aged 15–18, is a three-week summer experience designed to help you discover what life would be like as a Maine College of Art & Design undergraduate student. Through immersive studio courses, hands-on projects, and critiques led by experienced faculty, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a working artist or designer in a collegiate setting. During Pre-College, you’ll develop your admissions portfolio with guidance from professional artists, strengthening both your technical skills and creative voice. You’ll also refine your ability to analyze and discuss artwork by developing language for artistic critiques—an essential skill for both college and professional settings. Beyond the classroom, you'll connect with like-minded peers from across the country, forming friendships that often last well beyond the summer. Throughout the program, you’ll stay on campus in our residence halls, giving you the full college experience. Living in a creative community with fellow students, you’ll have access to shared spaces for collaboration, independent work, and social activities. Based in the beautiful city of Portland, Maine, you’ll be immersed in a thriving arts and culture scene, with opportunities to visit galleries, museums, and artist studios. The city's vibrant creative community provides an inspiring backdrop for your work, while its proximity to the state’s beaches, hiking trails, and scenic landscapes offers the perfect balance of exploration and self-discovery.