Queensland College of Art and Design
Portfolio entry requirements
Queensland College of Art and Design portfolio entry
Whether you're drawn to industry-focused design, experimental studio practice or culturally grounded artistic expression, our creative degrees offer a range of pathways to help you achieve your goals.
Admission to our design programs is based on ATAR/Rank only, while our Visual Arts and Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art degrees also offer an optional portfolio pathway for students who want to demonstrate their creative ability beyond academic results.
See requirements for:
Please note: international students are required to apply via the international application process.
Design
Admission to our design programs is by ATAR/Rank only.
Portfolio entry is no longer available for design degrees from Trimester 1, 2027.
Admission to our design programs is by ATAR/Rank only.
We encourage you to review the relevant degree pages for requirements and application information including whether Guaranteed Admission Schemes apply (VET Guarantee and Early Offer Guarantee) and any other pathway or eligibility advice:
Visual Arts
Admission to our visual arts programs is by ATAR/Rank entry (primary pathway), or portfolio entry (optional pathway).
The primary pathway for admission to visual arts degrees is by ATAR/Rank.
We encourage you to review the relevant degree pages for requirements and application information including whether Guaranteed Admission Schemes apply (VET Guarantee and Early Offer Guarantee) and any other pathway or eligibility advice:
*Admission to the Diploma of Visual Arts is via ATAR/Rank only.
Optional portfolio entry – Visual Arts
If you're not on track to meet the ATAR/Rank, you can apply via optional portfolio submission that demonstrates your creative capability. This pathway gives you the opportunity to meet with visual arts staff, talk about your work and the degree.
How to apply by (optional) portfolio
For study in Trimester 1, 2027, Visual Arts portfolios are open for submission from 4 August until 10 September 2026.
Step 1
Submit your application via QTAC or UAC.
See degree pages for details:
Step 2
Pay your portfolio submission fee
Applications for Visual Arts have a $55 portfolio submission fee, payable via GriffithPay.
This fee is due within the noted application period. If you are experiencing financial hardship, or need help with this step, contact us: portfolioadmissions@griffith.edu.au
Fees and deadlines apply for all portfolio entry applicants (including via internal transfer).
Step 3
Upload your portfolio and written responses
When portfolios are open for submission, upload your portfolio and written response via the online portal, Slideroom.
Step 4
Attend an interview
Portfolio applicants will be invited to attend a group interview on campus or via Teams.
Preparing your portfolio
Preparing a portfolio can be daunting, but we want to be clear—we’re looking for potential, not the finished article. Don’t be deterred if you feel like you don’t have enough knowledge or experience to meet the requirements. The ability to respond creatively to the brief is more important than access to equipment or software.
Remember, we want to get to know you and your ideas, so be sure you present only work that is 100% your own and give credit to those whose ideas, words and images you reference.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio is comprised of 6-10 images of your own work in any media (either completed or work in progress) and a short description and the year in which the work was created.
Your portfolio is assessed on:
- Originality and creativity
- Technical competence and skill level
- Potential for further development
Written response
The written response comprises 600-800 words addressing this question:
- Discuss the work of two artists who have influenced your work. In your response explain why they are important to you and if possible, how they are significant in art history.
Your written response is assessed on:
- Knowledge and critical thinking
- Written expression
Interview
You'll be invited to attend a group interview on campus or via Teams to discuss why you want to study at QCAD.
This group interview is assessed on:
- Ability to communicate
- Self-motivation and self-awareness.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA)
These programs are for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples only.
Admission to our contemporary Australian Indigenous arts programs is by ATAR/Rank entry (primary pathway), or portfolio entry (optional pathway).
If you are an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander who has not recently completed year 12, you have the option to apply for direct admission.
ATAR/Rank entry – Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art
The primary pathway for admission to Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art programs is by ATAR/Rank.
We encourage you to review the relevant degree pages for requirements and application information including whether Guaranteed Admission Schemes apply (VET Guarantee and Early Offer Guarantee) and any other pathway or eligibility advice:
Optional portfolio entry – Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art
If you’re not on track to meet the ATAR/Rank, you can apply via optional portfolio submission that demonstrates your creative capability. This pathway gives you the opportunity to meet with our Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA) staff, talk about your work and the degree.
How to apply by (optional) portfolio
For study in Trimester 2, 2026, Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art portfolios are open for submission until 22 June 2026.
For study in Trimester 1, 2027, Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art portfolios are open for submission from 4 August 2026.
Step 1
Submit your application via QTAC or UAC
See degree pages for details:
Step 2
Upload your portfolio and written responses
Upload documents to the online portal, SlideRoom.
No portfolio fees apply for applications to Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art programs.
Step 3
Attend an interview
Staff will reach out to organise a mutually agreeable time for a conversation.
Preparing your portfolio
Preparing a portfolio can be daunting, but we want to be clear—we’re looking for potential, not the finished article. Don’t be deterred if you feel like you don’t have enough knowledge or experience to meet the requirements. The ability to respond creatively to the brief is more important than access to equipment or software.
Remember, we want to get to know you and your ideas, so be sure you present only work that is 100% your own and give credit to those whose ideas, words and images you reference.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio is comprised of 6-10 images of your own work in any media (either completed or work in progress) and a short description and the year in which the work was created.
Your portfolio is assessed on:
- Originality and creativity
- Technical competence and skill level
- Potential for further development
Written response
The written response comprises 600-800 words addressing this question:
- What is your understanding of Indigenous art practices and what are their role within contemporary society? Provide an example to support your argument.
Your written response is assessed on:
- Knowledge and critical thinking
- Written expression
Interview
You'll be invited to discuss why you want to study at QCAD.
This conversation is assessed on:
- Ability to communicate
- Self-motivation and self-awareness.
FAQs
Is there a minimum age to apply?
For details on minimum age requirements, please refer to the QTAC webpage.
Do I have to pay to apply?
A flat $55 fee will apply for each portfolio application for Design and Visual Arts on top of any QTAC fees that apply. In addition, you will be required to pay any QTAC application fees as advised by QTAC. No portfolio application fees apply for applications into the Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art programs.
Should you be experiencing financial hardship and need help with your application fees, please contact portfolioadmissions@griffith.edu.au.
Do I need to apply via portfolio if I'm an international student?
International students are required to apply via the international application process.
Does the TAFE Direct Admission scheme apply?
You can still apply directly for QCAD programs, without a portfolio, through the TAFE Direct Admission scheme if you have a completed TAFE AQF Diploma or Advanced Diploma or successfully completed a Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation (CATP) through TAFE QLD. We also work closely with local TAFEs and it's highly likely we have seen your work already.
Can I apply directly to Griffith University?
Most applicants for undergraduate QCAD degrees must apply via QTAC. Some degrees are offered via UAC. Current Griffith University students may apply directly for QCAD programs via the Internal Transfer application process. Mature applicants may be eligible to apply directly. Please refer to the Direct Pathways section on the relevant program entry on the degree pages as to whether you’re able to apply directly to the university.
It is likely that I will secure an ATAR of 65.00 or above. Do I still need to submit a portfolio and attend an interview?
Entry to our design programs is via ATAR/Rank only. Where optional portfolio entry is available for Visual Arts and Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art, it is an opportunity for you to showcase your talent and commitment to a creative arts degree, meet with our staff at an interview, and have the opportunity to secure a place.
Are there any required subjects?
No, but Any General or Applied English subject (Units 3&4, C) is Assumed Knowledge. While Assumed Knowledge is not assessed as part of your application, it is considered the equivalent level of knowledge that is expected to successfully complete a degree.
What if I miss the portfolio application deadline?
If you miss the portfolio admission deadline, you will still be able to apply for admission based on your ATAR /Rank.
Do I have to make a new creative piece just for my application?
You can submit existing creative work. You can also choose to make something new or use a mix of old and new works in your portfolio.
Can I get help with my portfolio?
Each year we host a workshop during the June-July school holidays. It is a great opportunity to develop a creative piece for your portfolio.
Find out more about portfolio workshops
Can I email my portfolio?
No, you must submit it via our online portal. The portal will help guide you through the submission process and help ensure you meet the portfolio requirements. Submissions made outside the portal will require written approval prior to the submission deadline.
What are the acceptable file formats and size limits for uploading media to the online portal (SlideRoom)?
To review media specifications, acceptable file formats, types, and sizes for compatibility and an optimal viewing experience, please refer to this document: SlideRoom technical media specifications (182.6KB)
Do I need to attend an interview in person?
If submitting an optional portfolio, local applicants are encouraged to attend the interview component in person. This is a great way to connect with our staff and you will see the campus and our studios. However, we understand that this might not be possible for everyone, particularly those from remote and regional Queensland and interstate. In these cases, we also offer online alternatives for in-person interviews.
Can I defer my studies once I get in?
You will be able to defer your commencement for up to 12 months. Should your program have a mid-year intake, you may be able to take 6 months, however your deferment must not exceed 12 months.
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On-demand Portfolio admission webinar
Watch our portfolio admissions on-demand webinar to hear from our expert teachers on what to include in your portfolio, how it's assessed and the insider tips that can give you the edge.
Applying via Portfolio or ATAR/Rank
Students can apply for the following degrees via ATAR/Rank application, or portfolio pathway:
- Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art
- Diploma of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art
- Bachelor of Design
- Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Business*
- Bachelor of Visual Arts
- Bachelor of Visual Arts/Bachelor of Business*
Applicants who wish to be considered via the portfolio pathway must submit by the related close date. Applicants who are not successful with their portfolio/interview will automatically be considered based on ATAR/Rank.
*Double degree admission requirements vary to single degrees. Visit degree finder via the links above to view specific entry requirements for each double degree.
Applying via Portfolio or ATAR/Rank
Portfolio on-demand webinar
Hear from our expert teachers about what they are looking for in your portfolio application.
Portfolio requirements
Preparing a portfolio can be daunting, but we want to be clear—we’re looking for potential, not the finished article. Don’t be deterred if you feel like you don’t have enough knowledge or experience to meet the requirements. The ability to respond creatively to the brief is more important than access to equipment or software.
Remember, we want to get to know you and your ideas, so be sure you present only work that is 100% your own and give credit to those whose ideas, words and images you reference.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio is comprised of 6-10 images of your own work in any media (either completed or work in progress) and a short description and the year in which the work was created.
Your portfolio is assessed on:
- Originality and creativity
- Technical competence and skill level
- Potential for further development
Written response
The written response comprises 600-800 words addressing one of following questions:
- Visual Arts degrees: Discuss the work of two artists who have influenced your work. In your response explain why they are important to you and if possible, how they are significant in art history.
- Design degrees: What role should Design play in a changing world? Provide an example of a specific design to support your argument.
- Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art: What is your understanding of Indigenous art practices and what are their role within contemporary society? Provide an example to support your argument.
Your written response is assessed on:
- Knowledge and critical thinking
- Written expression
Interview
All applicants will be invited to a group interview to discuss why you want to study a creative arts degree at QCAD .
Your interview is assessed on:
- Ability to communicate
- Self-motivation and self-awareness.
Steps to apply
Submit your application via QTAC or UAC*
Important dates when applying for study:
For study in Trimester 1, 2026:
Design and Visual Arts portfolios are open for submission from 5 August - 9 September 2025.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA) portfolio is open for submission until 9 February 2026.
For study in Trimester 2, 2026:
Design and Visual Arts portfolios are open for submission from 1 April - 30 April 2026.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA) portfolio is open for submission until 22 June 2026.
Applicants who apply once portfolio application has closed can be considered via ATAR/Rank admission in subsequent offer rounds.
When applying via QTAC or UAC, choose your preferred degree.
First Peoples mature applicants (not directly from Year 12) may apply via First Peoples Direct Admission.
QTAC
- 241252 Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (South Bank)
- 241441 Diploma of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art/Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (South Bank)
- 241292 Bachelor of Design (South Bank)
- 236142 Bachelor of Design (Gold Coast)
- 241341 Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Business (South Bank/Nathan)
- 236131 Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Business (Gold Coast)
- 241381 Bachelor of Visual Arts (South Bank)
- 241391 Bachelor of Visual Arts/Bachelor of Business (South Bank/Nathan)
UAC (for NSW and ACT applicants)
- 283292 Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (South Bank)
- 283293 Diploma of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art/Bachelor of Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (South Bank)
- 283255 Bachelor of Design (Gold Coast)
- 283256 Bachelor of Design/Bachelor of Business (Gold Coast)
- 283288 Bachelor of Visual Arts (South Bank)
- 283289 Bachelor of Visual Arts/Bachelor of Business (South Bank)
*Griffith University students can apply via Internal Transfer. Fees and deadlines for portfolio admission outlined on this page will apply.
Please note, international students are required to apply via the international application process.
Pay your portfolio submission fee
Applications to Design and Visual Arts have a $55 portfolio submission fee, payable via GriffithPay. This fee is due within the noted application period.
No fees apply for applications to Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art Programs.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, or need help with this step, contact us: portfolioadmissions@griffith.edu.au
Upload your portfolio and written response
Your portfolio and written response are uploaded via the online portal, Queensland College of Art and Design - SlideRoom.
For study in Trimester 1, 2026:
Design and Visual Arts portfolios are open for submission from 5 August - 9 September 2025.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA) portfolio is open for submission until 9 February 2026.
For study in Trimester 2, 2026:
Design and Visual Arts portfolios are open for submission from 1 April - 30 April 2026.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art (CAIA) portfolio is open for submission until 22 June 2026.
Attend an interview
All applicants will be invited to interview.
Interviews for Design and Visual Arts are in a group setting.
Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art applicants will be contacted by the Program Director, to organise a mutually agreeable time.
Interviews for Trimester 1, 2026 Design and Visual Arts portfolio applicants will be held the week of 22 September 2025.
Interviews for Trimester 2, 2026 Design and Visual Arts portfolio applicants will be held on Wednesday 20 May 2026.
Portfolio admission at Queensland College of Art and Design
A short message from Queensland College of Art and Design Program Directors Dr Julie Fragar (Visual Arts) and Dr Petra Perolini (Design) about the portfolio admission process.