How to Withdraw a College Application Gracefully (Art School Guide)
Sometimes, plans change — and that’s perfectly okay. There are many reasons why you may need to withdraw a college application, whether your student has committed to another program, reevaluated their goals, or secured an offer that better aligns with their vision.
Withdrawing an application may feel uncomfortable, but when handled professionally, it’s a simple process that allows everyone to move forward with clarity and respect.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to withdraw a college or art school application gracefully — including specific advice for art and design applicants.
Why Withdraw an Application?
There are several common situations where withdrawing is appropriate:
Your student has been accepted to their top-choice school.
A better financial aid or scholarship package becomes available.
Their academic or creative goals have shifted.
Personal or family considerations require a change in direction.
For many art applicants, multiple offers arrive after submitting several competitive portfolios. Choosing the best fit is an exciting milestone — and notifying other schools professionally is an important step.
When Should You Notify Admissions?
The earlier you communicate your decision, the better. Prompt notice allows schools to plan and may even open opportunities for other applicants.
Before a decision is issued: Notify admissions as soon as possible if you change direction before hearing back.
After receiving an offer: Once a final decision has been made, submit your withdrawal promptly.
For Early Decision applicants: If you’ve been released from an Early Decision agreement due to financial or personal circumstances, notify admissions immediately and follow any specific ED policies.
Read: Early Decision vs. Early Action for Art Applicants
How to Withdraw an Application
Email is typically the most professional and efficient way to withdraw your application. While you may have applied via Common App or SlideRoom, it’s always best to communicate directly with the admissions office.
Here’s a simple, respectful email template you can personalize:
Subject: Withdrawal of College Application – [Student Name]
Dear [Admissions Office Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally withdraw my application to [School Name] for Fall [Year] admission. After thoughtful consideration, I have chosen to pursue another opportunity.
I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration throughout the application process. Thank you again for your work on behalf of applicants.
Best regards,
[Student Name]
[Application ID or Date of Birth, if applicable]
Additional Reminders for Art School Applicants
Because art and design applications often involve additional steps, consider:
Cancelling scheduled portfolio reviews, interviews, or virtual tours.
Withdrawing from SlideRoom if you haven’t completed submission.
Notifying any faculty or department contacts you’ve engaged with.
Maintaining these professional courtesies reflects positively and keeps doors open for potential future applications or transfer considerations.
Explore: Art Portfolio Coaching
Is Withdrawing an Application Harmful?
Not at all — as long as it’s handled professionally. Withdrawing does not create a “negative mark” on your student’s record, nor will it affect future applications or transfer opportunities.
In fact, admissions teams appreciate clear and timely communication. It allows them to focus on other applicants and manage resources effectively.
Withdrawing vs. Declining Admission
It's helpful to distinguish these terms:
Withdrawing: Removing an application from consideration before a decision is issued.
Declining Admission: Formally turning down an offer after acceptance.
Both require a professional approach. In either case, clear communication ensures a positive impression remains.
A Quick Tip for Scholarship Applicants
If your student is still waiting on scholarship decisions, it’s often wise to wait for all financial aid packages before withdrawing from other schools. Competitive merit offers can sometimes influence final decisions.
Learn more: Scholarships for Art School
Case Study: Gracefully Withdrawing After Multiple Offers
One of my recent students faced offers from both Parsons and MICA, but ultimately accepted an offer from RISD. Together, we drafted thoughtful withdrawal letters to each school, which were well received by admissions teams. Professional communication helped maintain positive relationships, which can matter should your student pursue graduate study or transfer options in the future.
Related Articles:
This post is part of our Art Admissions Series
This article is part of our Best Art Schools in America 2025: Rankings & Portfolio Requirements series — designed to help creative students navigate every step of the college application journey.