About IADT

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to commonly asked questions about IADT Tampa.

As you consider the many benefits of enrolling at the International Academy of Design and Technology in Tampa, you are bound to have questions about our degree programs, the learning experience you should expect and the processes involved in applying to and enrolling at our college.

If you are an international student who is not a permanent resident of the United States or a high school senior, these links will take you to information pertaining to your specific situation.

If you do not find the answers to any questions you may have about IADT Tampa, we invite you to contact us for additional information at any time.

Accreditation Questions
  • Is the International Academy of Design and Technology accredited?

    The International Academy of Design and Technology is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

    Additional information regarding the accreditation of the International Academy of Design and Technology may be obtained from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, 750 First Street NE, Suite 980, Washington, DC 20002-4241, 1-866-510-0746.

    The Academy's Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, formally known as the Foundation for Interior Design Education and Research (FIDER). The Associate of Science degree in Interior Design is not accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.

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  • Does IADT support transfer of credit from other colleges or universities?

    Students who previously attended an accredited college or university may be granted transfer credit, at the sole discretion of the International Academy of Design and Technology, if the courses taken at the previous school are determined by IADT to be sufficiently equivalent to courses offered at IADT.

    In addition, IADT must determine that those courses are applicable to their program of study at IADT. Only courses in which the student earned a grade of C or above will be considered for transfer.

    Students seeking transfer of credit are responsible for having official transcripts forwarded to IADT for review. A student must petition for transfer credit with the Registrar as soon as possible after acceptance into the school. Transfer credit will only be considered for coursework completed prior to the student's term start date at IADT.

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Admissions Questions
  • What is the admissions process?

    Students should apply as soon as possible to secure acceptance for a specific program and start date. All applicants are required to complete a personal interview with an IADT Admissions Representative, either in person or by telephone, depending upon the distance from the school. Parents and/or significant others are encouraged to be present and participate in this conversation. This interview provides prospective students and their families with the opportunity to learn about the college's degree programs and the support services that are available to all students. Personal interviews also enable school administrators to determine whether an applicant is a strong candidate for enrollment into his/her desired program.

    The following items must be completed or provided at the time of application:

    • Attestation of graduation from a secondary school with a standard diploma, high school equivalency certificate or diploma through any state Department of Education or through the U.S. military; or completion of a home education program pursuant to the requirements of F.S. 232.02(04).
    • Request for college transcripts if applicant is seeking transfer of previously earned credit to the Academy
    • Application for Admission
    • Enrollment Agreement (the signature of a parent or legal guardian is required if the applicant is under 18 years of age).
    • Payment of application fee (non-refundable unless applicant is denied admission or cancels application within three days of the school's receipt of the Enrollment Agreement and application fee).

    The school reserves the right to deny admission to applicants.

    Non-Discrimination Policy
    IADT admits students without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, disability or any other factor prohibited by law.

    For additional information about applying to IADT Tampa, please contact an Admissions Representative. If you are ready to get started, you can also apply online right now!

    International students may have additional information to consider when applying for admission.

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  • Why do students choose IADT Tampa?

    The reasons creative people choose the Academy are as diverse as our student population. We've compiled a Top 10 List of reasons many people choose to earn a degree on the student-centric campus of IADT Tampa.

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  • Does IADT offer orientation for new students?

    Yes. Prior to beginning classes at the Academy, all new students attend an orientation program. Orientation facilitates a successful transition into the school. New students are expected to attend regardless of their prior college experience. At the orientation, students are acquainted with the campus, the administrative staff, the faculty and other students.

    The directors of the administrative departments explain the manner in which they assist students and clarify students' rights and responsibilities. Student Handbooks are distributed at this session, and books and supplies may be purchased through the bookstore.

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Campus Questions
  • Where is the campus located?

    The educational facility and administrative offices of the International Academy of Design and Technology are located at 5104 Eisenhower Blvd., Tampa, FL 33634, a convenient suburban setting just minutes from the Tampa International Airport.

    This location is adjacent to major thoroughfares and is accessible from all of west-central Florida. Affordable housing, public transportation and nearby shopping malls allow students to live, commute and work near the college. All administrative and academic offices may be reached by calling 1-813-881-0007 or 1-800-ACADEMY.

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  • What are the classrooms and facilities like?

    Classrooms are designed to facilitate learning and consist of lecture rooms, drafting labs, design studios, production studios, recording studios, photography studios, and sewing and pattern-drafting labs.

    Computer labs, equipped with Macintosh and IBM-compatible personal computers, are used for instruction and practice in: computer-aided design (CAD), graphic design, web design and development, programming, sound and video editing, word processing and database management.

    The Learning Resource Center contains books, periodicals, digital slides, pamphlets, articles, audio-visual support materials geared to supplement respective programs of study, as well as, general education courses. Access to the internet, electronic library, various indexes and catalogs, and a wide variety of reference materials also is provided.

    A professional librarian, aided by qualified, experienced assistants, maintains the Learning Resource Center.

    The bookstore offers books and supplies for student purchase. The bookstore manager also coordinates used book buy-back periods.

    The student lounge and designated centralized areas serve as information centers for all students. Announcements may be posted in these areas by students, faculty, and/or staff members after the posting has been approved by the Office of Student Services.

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  • Does IADT offer student housing?

    The Academy does not provide on-campus housing but does assist students in locating suitable off-campus housing. IADT has contracted with an outside agency dedicated to providing quality, affordable student housing in the Tampa Bay area. Through this agency, students are able to lease a portion of a furnished, utilities-paid apartment, while limiting their financial liability to only their share.

    Students are able to enjoy the affordability of sharing an apartment without having to be obligated to one location or any given roommate. For a list of available housing, students should contact the Admissions Office.

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  • Does IADT offer student health services?

    The Academy does not provide health services to students. Students needing assistance in this regard are referred to their own personal physicians. Should a student not have a personal physician, the Academy can provide a list of physicians in the area.

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Academic Program Questions
  • What academic programs does IADT Tampa offer?

    IADT Tampa offers career-focused degree programs for tomorrow's creative professionals. For an up-to-date list of academic programs currently accepting applications for admission, please click here.

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  • What's different about IADT Tampa's degree programs?

    At IADT Tampa, academic programs are continually evaluated and updated for relevance. Faculty members work closely with industry representative boards made up of respected professionals in numerous creative industries. Furthermore, instructors at the academy have real-world creative working experience in the fields they teach, meaning students can absorb applicable knowledge and insights from industry professionals who have been there and done that!

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  • How can I apply?

    At IADT Tampa, you can begin the application processonline. Interested students will consult with an Admissions Representative regarding a desired program, course selection, registration and the completion of all necessary forms and documents.

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Financial Aid Questions
  • What financial aid is offered by IADT?

    The Academy financial planning process begins at the point of application and continues through graduation. Students have various options for financing their education. The Student Accounts and Financial Aid Departments present these options to students.

    The total cost of tuition is due and payable on the first day of each quarter. To assist students in meeting their financial obligations, deferred payment contracts are offered and financial aid is available for those who qualify.

    The Academy participates in various federal and private financial aid programs that are available for those who qualify. Students who are either enrolled or accepted for enrollment may qualify for financial assistance if their personal financial resources are unable to meet the full cost of their education.

    Many IADT students discover that they may qualify for some form of financial aid that can help them pay for their education. Our knowledgeable Financial Aid staff is available to assist you through the financial aid application process and to help you discover a variety of programs including:

    • Federal Grants
      These include Federal Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, which are awarded based on financial need. Federal grants do not have to be repaid.
    • Federal Student Loans
      These include Federal Stafford and Federal Parent-PLUS loans. These loans have different criteria and requirements and must be repaid after graduation or if you drop below half-time enrollment.
    • Private Loans
      These are offered by various lending institutions as alternative loans to help cover the gap between the cost of education and the amount of federal programs offered.
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  • Can I use tuition reimbursement to pay for my education?

    Yes. If you are accepted to IADT Tampa, our Financial Aid staff will explain to you how this process works and will assist you with other items pertaining to financial aid.

    All students are encouraged to research outside assistance that may be offered through other organizations, such as your company's human resources department. Most public libraries provide publications listing educational benefits offered by agencies throughout the United States.

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  • Does IADT offer any scholarships?

    The International Academy of Design and Technology annually offers tuition scholarship awards to encourage the pursuit of higher education. Scholarships do not have to be repaid. Scholarship opportunities available include:

    • Future Artist Scholarship
    • Academy Local Applicant Scholarship
    • High School Partnership Scholarship
    • International Academy Scholarship
    • Merit Award Scholarship
    • National Academy Scholarship
    • Portfolio Review Scholarship
    • President's Institutional Tuition Scholarship
    • Florida Resident Scholarship for Interior Design and Graphic Design
    • The Designers' Scholarship

    To learn more, please contact an Admissions Representative.

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Learning ExperienceA Questions
  • Who teaches the classes?

    The faculty at IADT Tampa is composed of creative professionals who are dedicated to helping you achieve your personal, professional and academic goals. You can learn from industry-experienced instructors eager to share their firsthand, real-world knowledge in your field of interest.

    At the Academy, we believe creative students benefit from personal attention from teachers and administrators, so our goal is to provide a student-centric environment that not only helps you sharpen your creative skills but also prepares you use them to your strongest advantage in today's competitive job market.

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Career Services Questions
  • Does IADT offer career planning assistance?

    Absolutely. The Academy is pleased to provide career planning assistance for students as well as alumni. When you enroll, it'll be like hiring a team of career coaches focused on helping you achieve your personal, professional and academic goals.

    Acting as a liaison between employers and upcoming graduates, the Career Service Department at IADT Tampa is able to provide employers with candidates who possess the skill set, work preferences, experience and disposition that they desire in a new employee.

    Our Career Services advisors are assigned to particular majors to allow employers to develop relationships with someone that understands their industry and employment needs. Advisors have a strong understanding of the skill sets, portfolios/demo reels and career goals of graduates from the majors they assist.

    To learn more about IIADT Tampa's Career Services Department, please click here.

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  • How can I be sure I will receive a quality education at IADT?

    The Academy's degree programs are designed around the current, real-world demand for knowledgeable, skilled professionals in a wide range of creative industries. Our curriculum is continually revised and updated to meet the needs of today's changing global marketplace for creative professionals.

    Beyond graduation, the Career Services Department is well respected and connected within the creative community to help you achieve your personal, professional and academic goals.

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High School Student Questions
  • What are the admissions requirements?

    Students should apply as soon as possible to secure acceptance for a specific program and start date. All applicants are required to complete a personal interview with an IADT Admissions Representative, either in person or by telephone, depending upon the distance from the school.

    Parents and/or significant others are encouraged to be present and participate in this conversation. This interview provides prospective students and their families with the opportunity to learn about the school's equipment and facilities and to ask questions relating to the school's curriculum and career objectives.

    For additional information about applying to IADT Tampa, please contact an Admissions Representative.

    If you are ready to get started, you can also apply online right now!

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  • What documentation is required for admission?

    The following items must be completed or provided at the time of application:

    • Attestation of graduation from a secondary school with a standard diploma, high school equivalency certificate or diploma through any state Department of Education or through the U.S. military; or completion of a home education program pursuant to the requirements of F.S. 232.02(04).
    • Request for college transcripts if applicant is seeking transfer of previously earned credit to the Academy
    • Application for Admission
    • Enrollment Agreement (the signature of a parent or legal guardian is required if the applicant is under 18 years of age)
    • Payment of application fee (non-refundable unless applicant is denied admission or cancels application within three days of the school's receipt of the Enrollment Agreement and application fee)
    • Financial aid application form – Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) www.FAFSA.ed.gov (if applicant wishes to apply for financial aid).

    The Academy reserves the right to deny admission to applicants.

    Non-Discrimination Policy
    IADT admits students without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, disability or any other factor prohibited by law.

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Questions Parents Ask
  • Will my son/daughter receive a quality education?

    Yes. Our goal is to enrich our students personally, educationally and professionally. We are dedicated to ensuring your son or daughter gets the kind of education that can help prepare him or her for a bright, successful future.

    At IADT Tampa, students can learn from credentialed instructors who have real-world experience in the creative fields they teach.

    To help answer some of the question you may have about our college, degree programs, faculty and career services, we encourage you to look at the Top 10 Reasons students choose IADT Tampa, read our letter to parents of prospective students, and browse the contents of this website. For additional information about the Academy, please contact us at any time.

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  • Where can I find information about campus security?

    The Academy publishes an annual security report that contains information concerning policies and programs relating to campus security, crimes and emergencies, the prevention of crimes and sexual offenses, drug and alcohol use, campus law enforcement and access to campus facilities.

    The annual security report also includes statistics concerning the occurrence of specified types of crimes on campus, at certain off-campus locations and on the public property surrounding the campus. The annual security report is published each year by October 1 and contains statistics for the three most recent calendar years. The report is provided to all current students and employees. A copy of the most recent report may be obtained from the office of Student Services during regular business hours.

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  • What is IADT's policy on hazing?
    Hazing activities are expressly prohibited and are defined as:
    • Any action or situation involving physical or mental abuse such as harassment, intimidation or any other procedure subjecting a person to treatment intended to put him/her in a humiliating or disconcerting position.
    • The forced consumption of liquor, drugs or other liquid or solid substance for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization.
    • Other conduct that recklessly or intentionally endangers or threatens the health, safety or welfare of any person on Academy owned/controlled property or at Academy-sponsored activities is expressly prohibited.
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International Questions
  • What are the admissions requirements?

    International students must meet the same admission requirements as U.S. citizens. Transcripts and/or certificates of completed post-secondary credits with notarized translation are requested if the student seeks transfer of previously earned credit to the school. All documents should be accompanied by a certified English translation. Transcripts for international students seeking transfer of credit will need to be evaluated by an approved foreign credential evaluator.

    An affidavit of financial support must be submitted and then a Form 1-20 (Immigration Certificate of Acceptance) will be provided to the applicant. The school is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students. Detailed information will be provided through our Admissions office.

    For additional information about applying to IADT Tampa, please contact an IADT Admissions Representative. Or, if you are ready to apply right now, you can click here!

    Non-Discrimination Policy
    IADT admits students without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, disability or any other factor prohibited by law.

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  • Does IADT require its students to speak English?

    Students whose native language is not English must submit Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. A minimum total score of 550 on a paper-based TOEFL, 79 on the internet-based TOEFL, or 213 on a computer-based TOEFL (or its equivalent) is required.

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  • Does IADT Tampa offer financial aid to international students?

    Assistance under federal, state or institutional financial aid programs is usually limited to U.S. citizens. International students are, therefore, encouraged to check with the appropriate authorities within their country for assistance programs that may exist for their benefit. International students are required to prearrange coverage for all their educational and living expenses prior to acceptance at IADT Tampa.

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  • What types of private loans are available?

    All students are encouraged to research outside assistance that may be offered through other organizations, such as your company's human resources department. Also, most public libraries provide publications listing educational benefits offered by agencies throughout the United States.

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