General Questions
Why should I attend a National Portfolio Day Event?
If you are thinking of pursuing a post-secondary education in art or design, whether coming in at the undergrad or graduate level, you will likely have to include a portfolio of your work, as part of your application. All of our member schools are accredited art or design universities and colleges and our events provide students with a unique opportunity to meet one on one with professional representatives. These reps are there for you to ask questions about their programs, and most importantly, get feedback on how to improve your portfolio so it will be a successful part of your application.
Do you have events especially for Graduate studies?
Yes we do. Please check our event schedule for our graduate-focussed events.
Is there a difference between online and in-person Portfolio Day Events?
Whether in person or online, visiting students will receive the same high-quality engaging experience with the colleges and universities in attendance. Depending on your schedule, comfort level, and/or location, we invite you to choose the best option for you.
Event and Account Registration
Do I need to register in advance?
All students attending a virtual or in-person event must register to attend. You can register in advance or on the day of the event. Register here.
Can I attend more than one event?
Yes. There are over 90 member schools registered, so you can certainly attend multiple events, so you can meet with as many schools as you like.
Which Schools Attend National Portfolio Day?
To find out what schools are attending your event, go to the registration page for the event and click on Exhibitors. On desktop you will see it to the left of the event info. On mobile you will click on the square icon in the top left corner where you will find Exhibitors listed twice. Scroll down to below the event you are currently viewing and below that you will see the Exhibitors button for the specific event.
*Note: University and colleges participating in virtual events do not release schedules for virtual events until the event begins. See “Virtual Event Questions” for more information.
Portfolio Reviews
How long is a portfolio review?
Most reviews are 10 to 15 minutes in length.
What format should my portfolio be in?
Portfolios can be physical or presented digitally. If bringing a digital portfolio student needs to supply a laptop, tablet, or printed pieces to present to reviewers.
What should I include in my portfolio?
We recommend that you include a range of your work, up to 10-12 pieces. Often times, schools are interested to learn your process and method of thinking, so not all work needs to be finished, and works in progress are also welcome.
In-Person Events
What kind of safety protocols are in place for in-person events?
Safety measures and rules for attendance at all of our in-person events (i.e: masks, social distancing, etc…) will be determined by each host school/venue. Please be sure to follow the rules/recommendations of each event. Details can be found on each host’s event webpage.
Where can I find more details on a specific in-person event such as parking and proof of vaccine requirements?
Each in-person event host will post a webpage with event details. As those pages are made available, we will add them to our schedule page. Please check back frequently.
Do I need to register in advance?
All students attending a virtual or in-person event must register to attend. Register here.
Virtual Events
How do the virtual events work?
Once the online registration form is completed, you will have the opportunity to register for multiple events (virtual and/or in-person) and can add events any time. Once you’ve registered for an event, it will be added to your “My Schedule” at the top of the page. From there, click on each event listing to view which schools will be in attendance, browse school information and interactive content, add to your ‘favourites’ and more.
Do I need to register in advance?
All students attending a virtual or in-person event must register to attend. You can register in advance or on the day of the event. Register here.
How do I share my portfolio at a virtual event?
Your portfolio does not need to be uploaded anywhere. You will be meeting with a reviewer via Zoom, and will have the opportunity to share your screen and show your portfolio directly from your computer.
Is there an instructional video I can watch?
Yes. Please view here: https://visitdays.wistia.com/medias/gp2uoy58t8
Technical Difficulties?
If you have any trouble accessing the event due to a technical error, please immediately email support@visitdays.com
Which Schools participate in virtual events?
University and colleges participating in virtual events do not release schedules for virtual events until the event begins. Once the virtual event starts you will be able to sign up for a time slot with your top schools. If the school you wish to review with is offering a Live Session, you can sign up for this ahead of time. See additional info about Live Sessions vs Scheduled Meetings below.
What is a live session vs a scheduled meeting?
Once you log in on the scheduled virtual event day, you can select the schools you would like to visit.
Some schools are offering “Live Sessions” and some are offering “Scheduled Individual Meetings.” Both will be held on Zoom.
Live Sessions
On the day of the virtual event you are attending you will select the Live Session from the specific school you are interested in meeting with. Once you have clicked on the Live Session link found on their exhibitor page, you will be taken to a Zoom ‘waiting room’ where a representative will place you in a one-on-one meeting room where your review will occur. As outlined above, you will not have to upload your portfolio and can simply share your screen.
For schools that offer Live Sessions, you can pre-register online and will receive reminders via email/text.
Schedule a Meeting
Some schools will offer a scheduled meeting option. However, you may only schedule your portfolio review ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT, approximately half an hour before the event start time. If all time slots are full, don’t panic. Simply use the chat function to speak to someone who may be able to assist you.
