Fashion Institute of Technology
Acceptance rate
60.2%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$22,696
In-state $8,174
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
7,924
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a renowned college located in New York City, specializing in fashion, art, design, and business. Established in 1944, FIT is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has built a strong reputation for its high-quality education and innovative programs. The college's mission is to prepare students for professional careers in the fashion and related industries, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees that merge creativity with technical skills. FIT boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized studios, laboratories, and a vast library that supports students' academic and creative pursuits.
One of the standout features of FIT is its vibrant campus culture, which is enriched by the diverse backgrounds of its students and faculty. The school emphasizes collaboration and community, encouraging students to participate in various extracurricular activities, from fashion shows to exhibitions, which allow them to showcase their talents in real-world settings. Additionally, FIT is well-known for its strong connections to the fashion industry, providing students with ample internship opportunities and networking events. This strategic positioning not only enhances the student experience but also significantly contributes to the impressive employment rates of graduates, many of whom go on to work with leading brands and companies in the fashion world. With a legacy of successful alumni, FIT continues to be a beacon of creativity and innovation in the field of fashion and design.
Analysis of Key Data Trends at the Fashion Institute of Technology
The Fashion Institute of Technology has experienced notable changes in various metrics over recent years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and gender ratios. Tuition fees have consistently increased, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $5,927 in 2014 to $8,050 in 2023, representing a 36% increase. Out-of-state tuition has also seen a significant climb, from $15,503 to $22,572, indicating a growing financial burden for students, particularly those from outside the state. This upward trend in tuition can be reflective of broader national trends in higher education, where costs have been rising steadily, contributing to student debt crises.
Student enrollment has shown a steady decline, with undergraduate numbers decreasing from 9,848 in 2013 to 7,871 in 2023. This 20% drop raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness in a competitive educational landscape. Factors such as rising costs, shifting demographics, and changing preferences among prospective students may be contributing to this trend.
Gender ratios among students also reflect notable changes, particularly in the graduate program. The proportion of male graduate students has decreased from approximately 17% in 2013 to around 13% in 2023, while female representation has increased to 87%. This shift may signify evolving gender dynamics in fields traditionally dominated by women, such as fashion and design.
Finally, retention rates have fluctuated, with a peak of 89.9% in 2016, followed by a slight decline to about 88.5% in 2023. Such rates illustrate the importance of student satisfaction and support services in maintaining enrollment. Overall, these trends emphasize the need for the Fashion Institute of Technology to adapt its strategies to enhance student recruitment, retention, and financial accessibility in an increasingly competitive educational environment.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 7 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- FIT
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Jason S. Schupbach (President)
- Phone
- 2122177999
- Address
- 227 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001-5992
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 44.0%, women 56.4%.
Data insights
Admissions Trends at the Fashion Institute of Technology
The Fashion Institute of Technology has exhibited notable trends in its admissions data over the years. Analyzing the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants reveals fluctuations that reflect the changing dynamics of the institution's applicant pool. For instance, the male acceptance rate dropped from approximately 40.2% in 2009 to around 52.8% in 2023, illustrating an increasing tendency to admit male students over time. Conversely, the female acceptance rate has shown a more modest increase from about 42.7% to nearly 52.8% during the same period.
The number of enrolled students has also varied, with a peak enrollment of 1,403 in 2020, coinciding with a broader trend during the pandemic when many students opted for remote learning opportunities. This suggests that the pandemic may have influenced students' choices regarding their education, potentially favoring institutions with flexible learning environments.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has remained relatively high, with over 2,000 denials consistently reported in recent years, indicating that the institution continues to attract a large number of applicants, but is selective in its admissions process. The data shows that the Fashion Institute of Technology is not only committed to maintaining a diverse student body but also emphasizes the importance of balancing enrollment numbers with the quality of education offered.
As the fashion and technology industries evolve, it will be interesting to observe how these trends continue to shift, especially in light of changing societal norms and economic conditions. The ongoing demand for skilled professionals in these fields suggests that the Fashion Institute of Technology will remain a key player in shaping future talent.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Fashion Institute of Technology
The data from the Fashion Institute of Technology over the years indicates a consistent lack of reported SAT and ACT scores, making it challenging to assess the admissions landscape comprehensively. With no SAT reading, SAT math, or ACT scores provided for any year, we are left without a clear picture of the academic benchmarks that the institute uses for candidate evaluation.
Historically, colleges have relied heavily on standardized testing scores to gauge student readiness and potential for success. However, there has been a growing trend among institutions to adopt test-optional policies, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further complicated testing accessibility. This trend may explain the absence of score data for the Fashion Institute of Technology, as many colleges are recognizing that standardized test scores do not always correlate with a student's future academic performance or creativity, especially in specialized fields like fashion.
Without the performance metrics, it becomes difficult to compare the applicant pool's academic qualifications year over year. It raises questions about how the institution evaluates applicants and what alternative criteria are being utilized to assess potential students. The ongoing shift towards a more holistic admissions process may reflect broader changes within the education system, aiming to create a more inclusive environment that values diverse experiences and talents over traditional test scores.
In conclusion, the lack of SAT and ACT score data from the Fashion Institute of Technology emphasizes the evolving nature of college admissions and the potential movement towards more equitable assessment practices that could benefit a wider range of applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
3,971 applicants in 2025, 60.2% admitted
2,392 admitted 1,579 not admitted Yield 55.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Specialized Merchandising, Sales, and Marketing Operations, Other · Master's25 (0% international)
- International Business/Trade/Commerce · Master's19 (26% international)
- Fashion/Apparel Design · Master's18 (67% international)
- Illustration · Master's16 (31% international)
- Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other · Master's14 (29% international)
- Fine and Studio Arts Management · Master's10 (10% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Fashion Institute of Technology
The graduation data from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2023 reveals compelling insights into the demographics of graduates across various programs. Notably, Fashion Merchandising stands out with a significant number of bachelor's degree graduates, totaling 406, and an impressive 660 associate degree graduates, including 74 international students. This indicates a robust interest in the field, reflecting the growing global demand for expertise in fashion retail and merchandising.
In contrast, the Communication Management and Strategic Communication program has 275 bachelor's degree graduates, with 20 of them being international students. This suggests that communication disciplines are also attracting a diverse cohort of students, which is critical in today’s increasingly interconnected world.
Interestingly, the data shows a lack of master's and doctoral graduates in most categories, particularly in the fields of Apparel and Textile Manufacture and Fine/Studio Arts, highlighting a potential gap in advanced academic offerings. The absence of master's graduates in key areas could suggest a need for further program development to cater to students seeking higher-level qualifications.
Moreover, the presence of international students, particularly in Fashion and Art-related programs, underscores the institution's global appeal. With substantial numbers of international graduates, it indicates that FIT is not only a hub for domestic talent but also for aspiring professionals from around the world.
Overall, this data highlights the critical areas of growth and the need for program diversification to better serve the evolving needs of students and the fashion industry at large. The increasing enrollment in both undergraduate and associate programs reflects the ongoing interest in creative fields, which are vital to the economy and cultural landscape.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial and Advertising Art. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Industrial and Product Design. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Commercial Photography. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Fashion/Apparel Design. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Interior Design. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Graphic Design. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Illustration. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Design and Applied Arts, Other. | $34,900-$43,249 | |||
| Film/Cinema/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $27,462-$27,780 | |||
| Jewelry Arts. | $27,462-$27,780 | |||
| Fine Arts and Art Studies, Other. | $27,462-$27,780 | |||
| Fine and Studio Arts Management. | $28,552 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations, Other. | $29,337 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| International Marketing. | $47,160 | |||
| Digital Marketing. | $47,160 | |||
| Fashion Merchandising. | $44,730-$165,589 | |||
| Special Products Marketing Operations. | $44,730-$165,589 | |||
| Specialized Merchandising, Sales, and Marketing Operations, Other. | $44,730-$165,589 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | $41,209-$47,605 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apparel and Textiles, General. | $48,197 | |||
| Apparel and Textile Manufacture. | $48,197 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | $13,134 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Museology/Museum Studies. | - |
Students
8,206 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 18:82 · Freshman retention 90.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 5,643
- First-year undergraduates 1,298
- Graduate students 282
- Transfers and others 983
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (7,924)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Fashion Institute of Technology
The student demographic data from the Fashion Institute of Technology for the year 2023 presents a diverse picture, particularly regarding gender distribution and racial composition among different categories of students. The undergraduate freshmen constitute a significant portion of the student body, with 1,343 individuals, 17.7% of whom are male and 82.3% female. This trend is consistent across other categories, with undergraduate juniors having a similar gender distribution, where females make up 82.8%.
The overall representation of male students appears to be relatively low, particularly among graduate students, where only 13.4% are male. This may reflect broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males, particularly in fields associated with fashion and design.
Moreover, the breakdown of student demographics by race reveals that white students represent a substantial proportion across the various student categories, although exact figures for some categories are missing. The presence of Asian, Latino, and African American students, as well as international students, indicates a growing diversity in the institution.
As educational institutions strive for inclusivity, it is crucial to continue monitoring these demographics. The high percentage of female students may underscore the need for programs and support that cater specifically to their interests and career aspirations, especially in a field historically dominated by women. This demographic analysis not only reflects the current state of the student body but also highlights areas for potential growth and enhancement in diversity and inclusion efforts at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Analysis of Age Composition at Fashion Institute of Technology in 2023
The age composition of students at the Fashion Institute of Technology reveals a predominantly young demographic, particularly among undergraduate females aged 18-21. This group represents a significant portion of the student body, with over 76% of total female students falling within the ages of 18-21. Such a concentration indicates a strong appeal of fashion and design education to younger individuals, potentially influenced by cultural trends that emphasize youth and innovation in the fashion industry.
Interestingly, the data shows a notable absence of male graduate students, which may suggest that graduate programs in fashion are attracting fewer men compared to their female counterparts. This trend aligns with broader industry patterns where women have increasingly taken on leadership roles in fashion, yet it also raises questions about gender equity in graduate education within this field.
The representation of older students (ages 30 and above) is relatively low, with only 6.5% of total students belonging to this category. This could reflect the nature of the fashion industry, which often prioritizes fresh perspectives and trends, making it more challenging for older individuals to break into the field.
Overall, the data suggests that the Fashion Institute of Technology continues to attract a youthful, predominantly female audience, which is reflective of the current dynamics within the fashion industry. As the industry evolves, it will be interesting to observe how these demographics shift in response to changing societal norms and educational trends.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
956 in 2025 · 13.0% in 2016
82 in 2025 · 22.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Students at the Fashion Institute of Technology
The data reflects notable trends regarding international students at the Fashion Institute of Technology over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students showed a gradual increase, peaking in 2012 with 1,297 students, while the percentage of undergraduates who are international students also rose, reaching a high of 12.94% in 2012. However, there has been a fluctuation in numbers in subsequent years, with a significant drop in 2021, likely influenced by the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected international travel and student mobility.
In contrast, the graduate student population has exhibited a more pronounced increase in the proportion of international students. The percentage of international graduate students reached an impressive 38.99% in 2020, which indicates a growing appeal of the institution’s graduate programs to international scholars. This trend suggests that the Fashion Institute of Technology is increasingly recognized for its quality of education and specialized programs in fashion and design, attracting a diverse student body from around the globe.
The overall data suggests that while the institution has faced challenges, particularly during the pandemic, it has maintained a commitment to attracting international students. This commitment is crucial as diverse student populations enrich the academic environment, foster global perspectives, and prepare graduates for careers in an increasingly interconnected world. Moving forward, it will be essential for the institution to continue to adapt its strategies to support international students in the post-pandemic landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$48,154
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $22,696
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,174
- Room and board
- $25,458
- Graduate tuition
- $24,590
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 92%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$276M
Expenses$252M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
| NJCAA Division III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | - | 17 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 2 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Swimming | 3 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 3 | 7 |
| NJCAA Division III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | - | 22 |
| Volleyball | - | 11 |
| Swimming | 3 | 6 |
| Table Tennis | 2 | 7 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 2 | 6 |
| Cross Country | 1 | 6 |
| NJCAA Division III | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | - | 20 |
| Tennis | 5 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 10 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 2 | 6 |
| Table Tennis | 3 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 2 | 3 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
New York UniversityNew York · 1.2 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 1.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 4.6 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 4.6 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 9.5 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 29.2 mi
U.S. News #44
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 44.4 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 44.5 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 47.2 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding the Fashion Institute of Technology:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League research university located in Manhattan. It is renowned for its rigorous academics and diverse student body.
-
New York University - With a rank of 35, NYU is one of the largest private universities in the United States. It is known for its vibrant urban campus and comprehensive programs in arts, sciences, and business.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a private women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. It is celebrated for its strong academic programs and commitment to women's education.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - This school ranks 76th and is known for its emphasis on engineering, technology, and business education. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, it offers a dynamic environment for students in STEM fields.
-
Rutgers University-New Brunswick - With a rank of 40, Rutgers is New Jersey's flagship public university. It provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines.
These institutions provide a rich academic environment for students in the area surrounding the Fashion Institute of Technology.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Crime Rates at the Fashion Institute of Technology
The crime data from the Fashion Institute of Technology over the years presents a concerning trend. Starting from 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was relatively low at 1.17. However, by 2019, this number surged to 5.89, indicating a significant increase in criminal activity on campus. The rise in offenses is particularly alarming during the years 2017 and 2018, where the rates reached 2.72 and 3.46 respectively, highlighting a critical period of escalation.
In 2020, despite the pandemic causing a decrease in campus activity, the crime rate remained high at 4.84. This suggests that the challenges faced by institutions during the pandemic did not alleviate crime but rather shifted its nature. The data for 2022 shows a slight decrease in the crime rate to 4.81, yet it remains higher than in previous years, emphasizing an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed.
A detailed breakdown of the crimes indicates that offenses related to drug arrests, alcohol-related incidents, and assaults have contributed significantly to the overall rates. This aligns with broader trends observed in educational settings across the United States, where substance abuse remains a key concern.
The community must prioritize safety measures and support systems for students, as the rising crime rates can lead to an unsafe environment, impacting students' well-being and educational experiences. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
All 27Notable alumni of Fashion Institute of Technology include Calvin Klein (Fashion designer, founder of Calvin Klein), Joel Schumacher (Film director, screenwriter and producer) and Laverne Cox (Actress known for Orange Is the New Black, LGBTQ advocate).
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Calvin Klein 1942–
Fashion designer, founder of Calvin Klein
-
Joel Schumacher 1939–2020
Film director, screenwriter and producer
-
Laverne Cox 1972–
Actress known for Orange Is the New Black, LGBTQ advocate
-
Karen Allen 1951–
Actress who debuted in Animal House
-
Gulnara Karimova 1972–
Uzbek businesswoman, daughter of Islam Karimov
-
Michael Kors 1959–
Fashion designer and founder of Michael Kors
-
Guru 1961–2010
Rapper and member of Gang Starr
-
Oscar Nunez 1958–
Actor and comedian in The Office
-
Nina García 1965–
Fashion journalist and Elle editor-in-chief
See all 27 notable alumni of Fashion Institute of Technology →
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.