ADMISSIONS
Welcome to Design Institute of San Diego's admissions page. Choosing the right interior design school, where you will explore, develop skills and grow into a professional interior designer, is an important first step. Our CIDA accredited interior design program and staff of industry-practicing professionals are ready to prepare you for a rewarding career in interior design.
If you are a U.S. resident, and a new student or transferring student, you are in the right place. Please read the instructions on this page and download your Application Packet. For additional transfer student requirements, please review the Transfer Admission page.
International Student Admission: please visit the International Students page for requirements and to download the International Admissions Packet.

Our Interior Design school welcomes application from those whose personal interest is directed toward a professional career in interior design and whose previous background indicates a reasonable opportunity to benefit from the training offered. All candidates for admission to Design Institute of San Diego must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED). Previous training in art or design is not essential as this training is provided within the program.
As a part of the admission procedure, applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the school for an interview and a tour of the college facilities. During this interview, the prospective student's educational background, interests, and career goals are discussed. The student receives valuable information about the opportunities that exist in interior design and the student and Admissions Representative evaluate together the student's potential for successful professional study.
If you are unable to visit our campus for an interview and tour, please call to schedule a phone appointment.
Following the admission interview an interested student must submit:
- a completed copy of the Application for Admission
- a non-refundable Application Fee of $25
- official transcripts of all high school and college grades sent directly from the schools attended to Design Institute, Office of Admissions
- two professional references
- Personal Data and Interest Analysis form
- Personal Information form
A second interview, or phone appointment, is scheduled after the application has been submitted in order to discuss the application materials, the strength of the student's previous academic achievement, and to reconfirm the student's commitment to the program.
Students who are not able to visit the campus should feel free to contact the Admissions office by phone, fax or e-mail with any questions during the admission process.
VETERANS ADMINISTRATION
Veterans enrolled at Design Institute of San Diego may be eligible for educational benefits under the Veterans Administration Educational Benefits Program. Veterans and dependents are required to comply with Veteran Administration regulations in regard to attendance and acceptable academic progress.

