English and the Visual Arts
Applicants who meet the academic and creative requirements for admission to School of Visual Arts (SVA) and have a good grasp of English, but do not yet meet the English proficiency requirements for undergraduate study, may qualify for the English and Visual Arts Program (EVA).
The score requirements for the English and Visual Arts Program are a score of 60–79 on the internet version of Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or TOEFL iBT Home Edition, a score of 6.5–8.0 on the TOEFL Essentials Test, a score of 46–52 on the Pearson PTE Academic, a score of 95–110 on the Duolingo English Test or a 6.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
The English and the Visual Arts Program is a three-semester program that begins in the summer. The program offers intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) study during the summer and combines ESL and BFA studio coursework for the fall and spring semesters. The program allows artistic development through required BFA studio courses while improving English skills through ESL courses.
Logistics
How to Apply
To apply for admission to the English and the Visual Arts Program (EVA) for the summer semester, applicants must submit the following materials:
- Application for Undergraduate Admission
- Statement of Intent
- Transcripts all high schools/colleges attended
- Portfolio (15–20 images)
- Demonstration of English proficiency (TOEFL, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, Pearson PTE test results)
Accepted students who enroll will be required to submit financial documents. For more information about the financial documents requirement, please see the undergraduate application requirements.
Recommended Deadline: April 1
Applicants who apply directly to the undergraduate program but do not meet the English proficiency requirements for degree study will automatically be reviewed for admission to the English and the Visual Arts Program.
Transition to BFA Program
Students who successfully complete the summer, fall, and spring semesters of the English and the Visual Arts Program will continue their studies in the BFA program the following fall semester.
Testing Out of EVA
Students that begin the English and the Visual Arts Program in the summer may choose to test out of the program between the summer/fall and fall/spring semesters by submitting a new BFA-qualifying English proficiency exam score. Students are required to report the new test score to the Assistant Director of Special Programs via email at eva@sva.edu in order to have their application reevaluated for placement in the BFA program.
Enrollment
Accepted EVA students who have paid their enrollment fee will receive an invitation to request their I-20 in the online Terra Dotta portal. Once all required information has been submitted, the International Students Office will review your materials and contact you if any additional documents are required.
In order to register for classes, students will first need to submit a tuition payment to the Office of Student Accounts.
More information regarding this process may be found here.
If you have any questions about the I-20 and F-1 visa process, please contact the International Students Office at iso@sva.edu.
In order to register for classes, incoming students must submit the SVA Student Health Form. You may find more information here.
For questions regarding the SVA Student Health form, please contact Student Health and Counseling Services at health@sva.edu.
EVA Summer Program Course Listing
English and the Visual Arts: Summer
The following course listing reflects the 2025-2026 curriculum. For further details on individual courses, such as meeting days and times, please refer to the Undergraduate Course Listing.
The English and the Visual Arts Summer Program may be completed in-person on SVA’s campus or online via a combination of synchronous and asynchronous instruction. Both options are outlined in the sections that follow.
English and the Visual Arts Summer In-Person Program
This seven-week immersion into the English language will also serve as an introduction to New York’s vibrant art scene. The studio courses grant 6 undergraduate studio credits upon successful completion. The program includes six English and the Visual Arts classes per week.
EVD-0010
Acting and Improvisation
No credit
Through guided exercises in acting and improvisation, students will work on developing their pronunciation, fluency and confidence in speaking English.
EVD-0013
Public Speaking Workshop
No credit
This course will cover public speaking including informative, persuasive, demonstrative and motivational speeches. Students will learn to speak clearly and confidently by using notes or scripted speech. Planning will include speaking from a personal point of view or from your own expertise as well as relaying ideas and information found through research. Learning to relax and feel comfortable while “speaking on one’s feet” will be an important part of this course.
EVD-0015
Bridge to the Humanities
No credit
This course will introduce students to courses and disciplines offered by the Humanities and Sciences Department while improving academic vocabulary, note-taking and listening comprehension skills. Each week, students will view a new academic lecture and will be required to participate in asynchronous discussion threads and complete written assignments that display comprehension of the lecture and acquisition of new vocabulary. Lecture subjects include education, literature, science, sociology and the law as it relates to artists.
EVD-0020
Writing and Speaking About Art
No credit
Through reading and research assignments, students will build the vocabulary to discuss and analyze art, including their own. We will also cover how to present artwork and write critiques.
EVD-0025
The Art of New York
No credit
This course will introduce students to New York City’s exciting art scene through field trips to museums and galleries. Lectures will be given at each venue and students will complete a written assignment in the museum or gallery.
EVD-0035
Developing the Essay
No credit
Students will develop the skills needed to write personal and persuasive essays. Reading, discussion, class presentations and assignments based on research with MLA citation will be part of this course.
FII-1005
Drawing with Mixed Media
3 studio credits
This course will help students to discard old habits and any fears about drawing, and discover the connection between the eyes (technique), the brain and the heart. A variety of mediums and subjects will be introduced to provide new perspectives and techniques in drawing.
PHI-1005
New York City Through Digital Photography
3 studio credits
Using digital photography to see and to explore New York City, students will visit various sites and neighborhoods and work on specific photographic assignments. Each student will produce a book that documents these experiences and that also represents the student’s artistic vision. Presentation of work and critiques will be included.
English and the Visual Arts Summer Online Program
Program Overview
The EVA online summer program will prepare students with the necessary English language skills to participate in studio, art history and humanities and sciences courses. Through class meetings and home assignments, students will gain confidence in everyday and academic conversations, accessing writing, reading, listening, speaking and vocabulary skills. Two studio courses, Drawing with Mixed Media and Digital Photography Fundamentals, are also included, and students can earn up to 6 undergraduate studio credits.
EVD-0012
Introduction to Academic Writing
No credit
Students in this course will explore essay writing fundamentals and the steps to create a short research-based paper, including correct citation, summarizing and paraphrasing techniques, and presentation. Editing skills and grammar will be included. Plan to complete up to two hours of home assignments for each session.
EVD-0014
Introduction to Writing and Speaking About Art
No credit
The vocabulary of art critique will be examined in this course, while students are introduced to artworks from American collections. Students will practice speaking and writing about notable artworks as well as their own art.
EVD-0015-C
Bridge to the Humanities
No credit
This course will introduce students to courses and disciplines offered by the Humanities and Sciences Department while improving academic vocabulary, note-taking and listening comprehension skills. Each week students will view an academic lecture and participate in asynchronous discussion threads and complete written assignments that display comprehension of the lecture and acquisition of new vocabulary. Lecture subjects include education, literature, science, sociology and the law as it relates to artists.
EVD-0016
Introduction to Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
No credit
The focus of this course is to build confidence, fluency and structure to present different types of speeches, including introductory, informative and persuasive presentations. Plan to complete up to two hours of home assignments per session.
EVD-0021-A
Building Fluency and the New York Art Landscape
No credit
The entire online student community will participate in this course that features fluency building group activities and discussions on social and academic themes. Students will also learn about the New York art scene through guest artists and virtual museum visits.
FII-1006
Drawing with Mixed Media
3 studio credits
This course will help students to discard old habits and fears about drawing and discover the connections among concept, technique and creativity. A variety of mediums and subjects will be explored and students will be introduced to different perspectives and approaches. Students will learn through a combination of live video conferences, media-based demonstrations and asynchronous activities. Each session will begin with lectures, demos and critiques. The remaining class time will be dedicated to discussion, execution of assignments and instructor feedback.
PHI-1007
Digital Photography Fundamentals
3 studio credits
In this course students will build their photographic knowledge and develop their skills using digital cameras. Topics will include lenses, light, and photographic terms and techniques, as well as Adobe software. Creating better images, both technically and aesthetically and expanding each student's visual literacy will be emphasized.
EVA Fall and Spring General Courses
English and the Visual Arts: Fall and Spring
General Course Listing
In the fall and spring semesters, students must register for a weekly minimum of 12 hours of study in English and the Visual Arts per semester. Students must register for EVD-0050/EVD-0055, Reading Strategies I and II, and EVD-0060/EVD-0065, Writing Strategies I and II. Students must also register for two EVA elective courses per semester in both the fall and spring semesters.
Students must register for studio and art history requirements in their field of study. Students must register for at least 12 credits per semester and may register for up to 15 credits per semester at no additional tuition charge.
The following course listing reflects the 2025-2026 curriculum. For further details on individual courses, such as meeting days and times, please refer to the Undergraduate Course Listing.
EVD-0050/ EVD-0055
Reading Strategies I and II
No credit
Students will develop their vocabulary and critical reading and thinking skills through discussion of essays, short stories and related media. Students will be required to keep a reading journal.
EVD-0060 / EVD-0065
Writing Strategies I and II
No credit
This course will focus on essay writing using class readings and discussions as a basis for writing. Students will learn the fundamentals of grammar, sentence and paragraph logic, idea development, organization and sentence structure, as well as how to cite sources appropriately.
EVD-0070-A
The Language of Art: The New York Art Scene and You
No credit
This course will highlight the art of emerging NY artists as well as famous and lesser-known artists from around the globe as a springboard for art discussion and critique strategies improvement. Students will view images by these artists, followed by in-depth discussions. They will develop critiquing skills, ask and answer thought-provoking questions, and build a substantial art vocabulary. Students will also give commentary on artists of their choice and engage in critiques of their own artwork.
EVD-0071-A
The Language of Art: Literature, Performing and Visual Arts
No credit
We will explore how different art genres interrelate from World War II to the present. Students will be encouraged to examine their own artistic, social and cultural influences. We will use readings, films and museum visits as a springboard for discussion and class presentations.
EVD-0078
Speak Fluently
No credit
Students will build fluency through acting and improvisation techniques. These exercises will help students to feel at ease with public speaking and class discussion of significant topics.
EVD-0231
Improve Your Fluency
No credit
This course will improve conversation, pronunciation and vocabulary through class discussion and structured debates to help students develop confidence and spontaneity. Reading and listening comprehension through select articles and videos will provide stimulating course content. Students will write short responses and keep a vocabulary journal.
EVD-0283-A
Improve Your Vocabulary
No credit
This course will help you to increase your word power through TED Talks and news broadcasts, short video clips and articles, as well as participation in engaging discussions, presentations and exercises that elicit the natural use of words. You will study a wide variety of vocabulary words used in academic settings, and learn about word forms (noun, verb, adjective, adverb). A personal vocabulary journal will be required.
EVD-0288
Acting the Memoir
No credit
In this course students will read published memoirs, write their own memoirs and enact them within the structure of the improvisational techniques of the famed acting technique, The Method. This multifaceted learning experience will enrich each student’s communication and speaking skills.
EVD-0334-A
Contemporary Culture in Context
No credit
Experience contemporary English language and explore different cultures through selected readings and screenings that will cover exciting stories on a variety of topics. This will provide a springboard for class discussions. Students will be encouraged to reflect on the course material and draw cross-cultural comparisons.
EVD-0336-A
English Through Popular Music
No credit
Drawing on materials from contemporary music, this course will focus on song lyrics as a means of targeting vocabulary and grammatical forms. These materials will also prompt discussions about arts and culture. The semester is divided according to genre, beginning with ballads and folk songs, and followed by classic rock & roll, hip-hop and recent music hits. There will be weekly vocabulary and grammar quizzes, and each student will give a multimedia presentation of a song of their choice during the semester.
EVD-0338
English for Everyday Use
No credit
In this course students will learn useful idiomatic vocabulary and grammar while acting out real-life situations, such as shopping, a job interview, being at the airport, ordering food at a restaurant and negotiating apartment rentals in NY. We will dramatize a new real-life scenario in each session and students will see their communication skills grow.
EVD-0341
English for Professional Communication
No credit
This course will develop communication skills as they relate to formal correspondence for academic and professional environments, and interview skills for jobs or internships, as well as networking skills. Fluency and pronunciation will be an important part of this course to build communicative confidence.
More About the Program
Transfer students with college-level coursework may be eligible to receive credit for liberal arts or studio coursework at another educational institution. The highest level placement is sophomore (second year) due to English language skills. The program is also open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents whose primary language is not English or whose English proficiency does not meet the requirements for undergraduate study at SVA.
Students who begin the program may also test out of the English and Visual Arts Program in between the summer/fall or fall/spring semesters by submitting a new TOEFL, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS, Duolingo English Test, or Pearsons PTE Exam result with the requisite score for BFA consideration.
Students that are not able to test out of the English and the Visual Arts Program are required to successfully complete the three-semester program before advancing to the BFA Program.
In order to maintain status in the EVA Program from semester to semester, students must individually pass each class and earn a minimum GPA of 2.0 in studio courses and a 2.5 in other coursework. Students who do not pass each course and meet the minimum GPA requirements will not be able to advance to the next semester and may be dismissed from the program.
New York, NY 10010
