SNU MFA FAQs
Ques. Is a BFA degree mandatory to apply for the MFA at SNU, or can graduates from other disciplines apply?
Ans. The official eligibility states that applicants must have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree/diploma or an equivalent undergraduate degree. This means graduates from related disciplines such as design, visual communication, or even humanities with a strong art practice may be considered, provided their portfolio demonstrates the necessary skills and aptitude. The key deciding factor is the quality and depth of the portfolio submitted, not just the degree title. If you are from a non-BFA background, it is advisable to contact the Department directly at kamal1.arora@snu.edu.in to clarify your eligibility before applying.
Ques. What exactly should the portfolio contain, and how important is it in the selection process?
Ans. The portfolio is the most critical component of the MFA application at SNU. It must be submitted as a single PDF (under 20 MB) and should include: (1) an artist's statement of 500 words in English or your mother tongue, (2) a critical analysis of 700 words on the work of a contemporary Indian artist, contextualising their practice within broader artistic, cultural, or socio-political frameworks, (3) a list of your technical and software skills, and (4) up to 20 images of your best work (labelled with name, title, medium, dimensions, year, and links for video/sound works). The selection committee uses the portfolio to shortlist candidates for the interview, so it should reflect your individual artistic voice and research orientation clearly.
Ques. How does the personalised mentorship system work in the MFA program?
Ans. Each MFA student at SNU is assigned a mentor team of two faculty members who guide them throughout the program. The mentors are chosen based on the student's practice, media preferences, and thematic interests. They help the student chart a course of study aligned with their individual methods and work preferences, providing guidance on both practice and theory. This is distinct from a regular classroom setup and is one of the most valued aspects of the program, as highlighted by current students. The mentorship culminates in the student's solo Fine Art Graduate Thesis Exhibition in the fourth semester.
Ques. Is hostel accommodation guaranteed for MFA students, and what are the living costs?
Ans. Hostel accommodation is available on campus but is not guaranteed; room allocation is done on a first-come, first-served basis, by lottery, or through another mechanism determined annually by the university management. The actual hostel fee (twin sharing, non-AC) after the waiver is INR 1,20,000 per year. In addition, mess charges of INR 29,250 per semester and laundry charges of INR 2,750 per semester are mandatory for all resident students. This brings the total annual living cost (hostel + mess + laundry) to approximately INR 1,84,000 per year. Students should note that the hostel fee waiver is applicable for 2 years only and is subject to academic performance.
Ques. Are there any career or placement opportunities specifically for MFA graduates from SNU?
Ans. The MFA program at SNU does not have a formal placement cell dedicated exclusively to fine arts graduates, as career paths in fine arts are typically self-directed. However, the Department of AMP maintains a worldwide network of institutional and professional partnerships, and students benefit from exposure to national and international art circuits through exhibitions, residencies, and collaborations. Graduates go on to practice as independent artists, work with galleries, cultural organisations, production houses, and educational institutions. The university's Career Development Centre also provides general support. Students have noted that the program's strong faculty network and the final thesis exhibition serve as important launchpads for professional practice.
Ques. What is the difference between the 40% tuition fee waiver mentioned in the fee structure and the means-based scholarship?
Ans. These are two separate financial benefits. The 40% tuition fee waiver is a standard benefit given to all admitted MFA students (reducing the annual tuition from INR 1,60,000 to INR 96,000), subject to maintaining a CGPA of 7.00. The means-based scholarship, on the other hand, is an additional benefit available to one student per batch whose family income is below INR 3,00,000 per year, and it provides a full tuition fee waiver for 2 years (i.e., the remaining 60% of tuition is also waived). To apply for the means-based scholarship, shortlisted candidates must indicate their interest during the application process, after which a separate form is sent to them. The final decision rests with the University.


![Shiv Nadar University - [SNU]](https://img.collegedunia.com/public/college_data/images/logos/1685085024PNGSNUIOE01.jpeg?h=71.7&w=71.7&mode=stretch)





Comments