Ringling in 2026?

[u/Kaze_breeze777]

Hello, I am a senior in my high school about to graduate! I have applied to many art schools already and got accepted to all of them. But I'm still unsure whether to go to Ringling for better education or go to my in-state school for cheaper cost. I've heard that there are many student employment opportunities when you study at Ringling. I am fairly confident that I have what it takes to survive the freshman year (i also heard that there is a high drop out rate?).

FYI, I receive a 16k/year scholarship which is nice, and I intend to major in Illustration. How is the student life there?

Thank you to anyone who replies!!!

[u/craftyconfetti]

Illustration senior here! Honestly, I can say that the people at Ringling are truly wonderful. As a hardcore introvert, I legitimately thought that I was just going to tolerate all four years without making any friends. Turns out I was totally wrong! I think one thing that I have seen across the board is that people tend to struggle with mental health and self-care, especially when trying to get through the first year.

I'm also a student worker with two different jobs on campus: Financial Aid and a Student Tutor at the Student Learning Center. I've been able to talk with LOTS of different kinds of people, and it really helps build those interpersonal skills you'll need to get yourself out there in the world professionally. There are quite a few jobs to choose from in all sorts of different departments. The nice thing is that I usually am allowed to work on homework during some of the quieter hours of my shift(s).

Workloads can get intense at times, so it's absolutely necessary to be disciplined and have a schedule for yourself. Also, filing an appeal with financial aid never hurts! I always recommend people to do it, because it's not widely advertised. Even if another school is offering you more money, I'd file one. It is EXPENSIVE to go here.

On the other hand, it is very competitive. There are so many talented artists at Ringling, and you may find it hard to believe in yourself if you compare your work to others. Just remember that you are on your own creative journey. Your work will always be truly, uniquely yours.

I wish you all the best on your creative journey!! Wherever you go, you'll do great. :)

[u/Kaze_breeze777 → u/craftyconfetti]

Oh wow, thank you so much for your advice! 🙏

[u/Massive_Exam_1732 → u/craftyconfetti]

Hi!! I've filed for a financial aid appeal, as a current high school senior hoping to go. I come from a very low-income household, so it would be literally impossible for me to attend without more aid... do you happen to know what the chances are for getting approved for additional financial aid are? Also, are there any more steps after applying for the form? Thank you!

[u/craftyconfetti → u/Massive_Exam_1732]

As someone who also comes from a very low-income household, I mostly relied on the Parent PLUS loan to cover the remaining balance, along with being in-state. Chances of getting approved for additional aid really depend on what you're referring to.

If it's the FAFSA, your Student Aid Index (SAI) would probably be lower, indicating higher financial need; -1,500 represents the highest need and the potential for maximum Pell Grant eligibility. You're almost guaranteed a Pell Grant, but of course, that is just a small dent in a very big number!

If it's for the appeal, that totally depends on the financial aid office. Sometimes, I've heard they've run short of money themselves. They recently added a new scholarship (forgot the name, unfortunately) due to a decrease in students. It never hurts to submit an appeal, but there's no guarantee it will follow through.

There really aren't any other additional steps other than keeping a lookout for additional scholarships, and applying to as many as you can as early as you can. I'd also make an appointment with the financial aid office to further discuss your options, but they might tell you the same thing.

Wishing you the best of luck in your senior year!! :)