AdmissionsOS Culinary Institute of America vs School of Visual Arts
| Culinary Institute of America | School of Visual Arts | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 91% | 93% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 928-1,183 | 1,188-1,490 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 17-23 | n/a |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $36,113 | $57,914 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $58,790 | $78,051 |
| Graduation rate | 63% | 76% |
| Retention rate | 70% | 85% |
| Undergraduates | 3,011 | 3,244 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 18:1 | 9:1 |
| Setting | Hyde Park, NY | New York, NY |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private for-profit |
| Application fee | $50 | $50 |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Culinary Institute of America or School of Visual Arts harder to get into?
Culinary Institute of America is more selective, with a 91% acceptance rate versus 93% at School of Visual Arts. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Culinary Institute of America or School of Visual Arts?
Culinary Institute of America has the lower average net price ($36,113 versus $57,914). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.