The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a public college located in Manhattan, New York City. The school is among the 64 schools that belong to the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Founded in 1944, the campus focuses on art, business, design, mass communication, and technology connected to the fashion industry.
Located in the bustling Big Apple, FIT is devoted to providing artistic, technological, and business-related education of students who aim to make their way in the fashion industry. However, it’s worth noting that fashion is not the only subject being taught at FIT.
Students attending this public college may receive associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in subjects such as illustration, interior design, fragrance production, fashion management, toy design, and much more.
Fashion Institute of Technology Acceptance Rate
The Fashion Institute of Technology is a public college with an acceptance rate of 53%. Students should take note that for most applicants, the school does not require SAT or ACT test scores. However, FIT does use SAT and ACT scores for course placement and to evaluate applicants who may be qualified for the Presidential Scholars Program.
While it’s not required for admission, the essay portion of the SAT or ACT is needed for placement in English classes. Applicants who have not taken either the ACT or SAT will be required to take placement exams at the campus before they could enroll.
Following the initial application process to the State University of New York, FIT requires prospective students to submit additional materials such as an academic history report or a high school transcript and an original essay submitted online. Through the essay, students are given the chance to explain why they have decided to pursue a fashion or design-related career.
Admitted Students Profile
FIT has a total of 8,846 enrolled students—8,661 students are enrolled in undergraduate programs while 185 students are part of the graduate programs. According to gender distribution, 1,368 male and 7,478 female students are attending FIT. Categorized based on race/ethnicity, the Fashion Institute of Technology has 3,923 White, 820 Black, and 991 Asian students out of total 8,846.
Tuition Figures
The latest college data indicate the tuition and fees at FIT are for New York residents and $15,520 for students living outside the state. For graduate students, the educational costs amount to $12,392 for New York residents and $24,436 for those from other areas. A total of 3,949 students or 45.60% of the enrolled undergraduate students have received financial aid in the form of grants or scholarships with an average amount of $6,231.
Location
The FIT campus takes up a tree-lined block in the neighborhood of Chelsea, Manhattan. The campus is widely regarded as a central hub of art, business, communications, and design. There is a faculty of academics and working professionals that incorporate hands-on teaching with real-world expertise. By offering industry connections, the campus has unrivaled internship and career opportunities for all students.
The school has nine buildings that house several classrooms, TV and radio studios, exhibition galleries, labs, and design workshops. FIT also has its own Barnes & Noble College Bookstore. For conferences and other events, the Conference Center at FIT has the John E. Reeves Great Hall. The FIT campus holds events in its two large theaters, namely the Haft Auditorium and the Katie Murphy Amphitheatre, as well.
Academics
FIT is a globally-renowned college of business, technology, art, and design that offers more than 40 degree programs. Majors cover different types of fields, from toy design and photography to fragrance and cosmetics marketing, and international trade,
The common denominator in each major is that it includes a full liberal arts education. There are also other study options such as the study abroad program and Presidential Scholars honors program.
Student Life
Serving students from all over the United States and the world, FIT has a truly diverse student body. Countless student clubs, athletics, and four residence complexes contribute to an exciting college community. Student life is centered on the school’s location in on
With students from all over the U.S. and the world, FIT’s community is truly diverse. Athletics, four residence halls and many student clubs contribute to a robust college community. Student life centers on the school’s location in one of the world’s busiest and most vibrant cities. In addition, the school has various organizations and activities for all students to enjoy.
Athletics
In athletics, the FIT Tigers participate in six women’s, four men’s, and two coed sports. Its official school colors are white, navy blue, orange, and Columbia blue.
Notable Alums
Thousands of the Fashion Institute of Technology’s alumni have pursued successful careers in the fashion industry and related fields. Listed below are some of the school’s most famous personalities:
- Nina Garcia, Project Runway judge; editor-at-large, Marie-Claire magazine
- Laure Hériard-Dubreuil, a French entrepreneur and founder of The Webster Miami
- Carolina Herrera, fashion designer, President of Carolina Herrera New York
- Caroline Hirsch, founder, and owner of Caroline’s Comedy Club
- Kilo Kish, singer/songwriter, textile artist, and painter
- Calvin Klein, founder of Calvin Klein, Inc.
- Kyra Kennedy, socialite
- Michael Kors, President, and CEO of Michael Kors
- Lady Starlight, performance artist; the muse of pop star Lady Gaga
- Nanette Lepore, fashion designer, and owner, Robespierre, Inc.
- Antonio Lopez, fashion illustrator
- Roxanne Lowit, fashion and celebrity photographer
- Leon Max, President, and CEO of Max Studios
- Melissa McCarthy, film and television actress, comedian, writer, and producer; attended for two years
- Babette Pinsky, fashion designer
- Ralph Rucci, fashion designer, Chado Ralph Rucci
- Joel Schumacher, director, producer, writer, costume designer
- Angela Simmons, TV personality, fashion designer, CEO of Pastry Kicks
Learn more about the other SUNY colleges. Each SUNY has its own unique offerings, campus and academic requirement.
