An art portfolio is a great way to stand out when applying to college and is required for most art programs. A portfolio is made up of 12-20 recent works that represent you. It should combine your technical and creative abilities. Emphasis on drawing from life and combining a cohesive body of 2D & 3D work helps. For more competitive art schools, having a high GPA in academic classes and being involved in extracurricular activities are necessary. However, that is not a replacement for your portfolio. Normally, junior year is when the bulk of a portfolio is made. Students should sign up for as many art classes as their schedule allows. Senior year is tying loose ends and working on additional assignments specific to the schools you are applying to. As a Senior, it is very helpful to attend a National Portfolio Day in the Fall. Click Here For Details. 

There are many great art schools but check out the ones below for a taste of what is expected from applicants. If you think I should add any other schools let me know?

Art and Design Schools:

www.risd.edu...

www.schoolofvisualarts.edu...

www.mica.edu

www.saic.edu

www.scad.edu...

www.parsons.edu...

www.pratt.edu

www.cca.edu...

www.massart.edu...

www.meca.edu

Universities With Art & Design Programs:

www.cmu.edu...

cooper.edu...

www.columbia.edu

www.yale.edu...

www.nyu.edu

www.syr.edu

cms.skidmore.edu...

www.alfred.edu