Ask anyone working in the industry today and they'll tell you that the
Fashion Institute of Technology, best known as “FIT,” is the ultimate fashion school in New York City. If you want to start a career in the American fashion capital, this higher educational institution is the best place to start. The school's programs encompass the entire industry, from the more artistic areas to the various corporate sides. Whether you want to be a designer, a stylist, or even a business executive, FIT will teach you everything you need to know. Just ask Michael Kors, Reem Acra, Ralph Rucci, and more.
Source: Fashion Institute of Technology Facebook Page
History of The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
FIT opened in 1944 to combat the dwindling clothing industry at the time. The Second World War was nearing its end and the younger people were pursuing careers in the medical and law fields instead of fashion. So to revitalize the industry, educator Mortimer C. Ritter and retired menswear manufacturer Max Meyer established the Fashion Institute of Technology. What started as a 100-student school eventually became one of the biggest and
best fashion schools in New York City. FIT then received accreditation in 1957 and by 1963, was already welcoming around 4,000 students per school year.
What Does FIT Look Like?
You'll find FIT's main campus at 227 W 27th St. in Midtown Manhattan, one of the
central neighborhoods of New York City. It's a brutalist building with a stark, cubist shape, an evident contrast from the city's glass-paned skyscrapers or Art Deco structures. From the outside, it doesn't look like an art school, let alone a fashion school. But when you get inside, you'll see that it has more than enough space for fashion design students to do their thing. The adjacent Museum at FIT on 28th St. has also become a popular tourist spot. It's one of the
best fashion museums in New York City.
Source: Fashion Institute of Technology Facebook Page
The FIT Student Body
FIT is undeniably one of the best and biggest
fashion schools in the world. Its student body alone serves as a good reflection of that. The school welcomes around 8,000 students per year, including both new applicants and returning enrollees. 12% of them are international students who aren't (or haven't become) US citizens. As for the 90% local student body, it's a diverse group of students that's about 82% female and 18% male. Its racial diversity grabs attention too. The FIT student body is made up of 38% white students, 23% Latino students, 13% Asian students, 9% African-American students, and 5% multi-racial students.
FIT's Best Programs and Courses
Unsurprisingly, fashion-related studies reign supreme in FIT NYC. Specifically, fashion design. Over the years, FIT's Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design has drawn countless young students to enroll in the school. Its Master of Arts Degree counterpart is as popular among older enrollees too. These are thanks in large part to the institution's impressive alumni. Meanwhile, the school's courses in Textile Studies: History, Theory, and Museum Practice have also gained prominence, especially since FIT works with local and international museums. As such, the school has also become known as a popular research facility for fashion-related topics.
Source: Fashion Institute of Technology Facebook Page
FIT’s Prerequisites
Even with how prestigious it is, FIT has the same admission standards for all its applicants. Whether you plan to become a full-time or part-time student, the prerequisites remain the same. All candidates need at least a high school diploma (or to pass either the General Educational Development test or Test Assessing Secondary Completion), prepatory coursework, and a well-written student essay. In terms of grades, a strong B average is a must. Additionally, those applying for art and design majors will also need to submit a portfolio for review.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in FIT?
Studying at FIT in New York City costs a lot. In Tuition fees alone, the costs range from a minimum of $2,645.00 to a maximum of $11,793.00 per semester. And even if your course doesn't equal an entire semester, it will still cost you about $220.00 to $983.00 per credit hour. This doesn't account for any application fee for a student visa, enrollment fees, accommodations, and of course, the high
living costs in New York City. So if you total all of that, you're looking to spend around a lot on your studies here.
Source: Fashion Institute of Technology Facebook Page
Where is FIT in New York City?
As already mentioned, FIT is located in Midtown Manhattan, one of the most popular districts in New York City. Since this is also where many of the other prominent higher educational institutions are located, the area's population skews younger compared to different neighborhoods. Its equal blend of lively hotspots and peaceful residences make it the perfect environment for students and young professionals. The abundance of real estate also makes it one of the best spots to
rent a luxury apartment in New York City. Though the prices here are high, they are imposed on fairly big spaces.
FIT's Famous Graduates
FIT's alumni list reads as a who's who of the biggest American designers working in the industry today. No less than Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, Arthur McGee, Ralph Rucci, Reem Acra, Francisco Costa, Norma Kamali, and Nanette Lepore have all graduated here. These are some of the most prolific designers who have helped shape the American fashion industry from the 1980s to the early 2000s. Many of them have established eponymous brands that have grown into retail empires. Hence, FIT never fails to draw in students who want to become fashion designers.
Source: Fashion Institute of Technology Facebook Page
The Fashion Institute of Technology, better known as “FIT,” is the ultimate fashion school in New York City. No other higher educational institution has produced as many prominent designers, fashion editors, and other industry icons.
