MIT W20 Student Art Studios Frequently Asked Questions

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How does registration work at the W20 Art Studios?

There are four class sessions per year: IAP, Spring, Summer, and Fall. Because demand is high and waitlists are long, we use a ranked-choice lottery to match students with classes that align with their interests, skill level, and schedule.

Who is eligible to take W20 Art Studios classes?

MIT graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees, and spouses are all welcome. MIT graduate and undergraduate students receive priority during Spring and Fall semesters.

I’m a Wellesley/Harvard student. Can I register for W20 Art Studios classes?

Yes! You’re welcome to apply for the general lottery as an “Other Affiliate.”

Where do I sign up for the lottery?

The lottery form and process timeline can be found on the W20 Art Studios classes webpage several weeks before the start of each class session. The form link and key dates—including the lottery closing date and notification schedule—are also shared via the W20 Art Studios email newsletter—subscribe here so you don’t miss anything!

How do I fill out the lottery form?

Use the form to submit your name, MIT email, MIT ID, MIT affiliation, and up to three ranked class preferences. You don’t need to list three if you’re only interested in one or two. Note that listing the same class multiple times won’t improve your chances of getting into that class.

I can’t afford the tuition or materials fee. Is there any help available?

Yes, we offer a limited number of tuition waivers awarded by lottery. The waiver lottery takes place before the class registration lottery, so keep an eye on the deadlines posted on the W20 Art Studios webpage.

Where do I sign up for the tuition waiver lottery?

The link to the tuition waiver lottery form will be posted on the W20 Art Studios webpage on the date listed in the timeline. The timeline lives on that page and is also shared through our W20 Art Studios newsletter—sign up so you don’t miss it!

What does a tuition waiver cover?

Waivers cover tuition and the studio materials fee in full. If a class requires you to purchase additional materials on your own, those costs are your responsibility.

I’m a Wellesley/Harvard student. Can I apply for a tuition waiver?

Tuition waivers are only available to MIT students.

Can I register for more than one class through the lottery?

The lottery allows you to register for one class only. This gives the greatest number of students a chance to participate. If a class doesn’t fill through the lottery, it will be made available for registration on a first-come, first-served basis, and you’re welcome to register for an additional class at that point.

Can I join the lottery after it closes?

We run the lottery shortly after it closes and can’t add anyone manually afterward. We’d love to see you next time. Sign up for the W20 Art Studios newsletter to stay informed about upcoming lotteries and opportunities.

Can I be added to a waitlist after the lottery closes?

Once the lottery closes, we cannot add late registrations. If you miss the deadline, check back for classes not filled by the lottery—they’ll be available on a first-come, first-served basis. We also offer occasional workshops throughout the semester. Subscribe to the W20 Art Studios newsletter to learn about these opportunities. Sign up for the W20 Art Studios newsletter to stay informed about upcoming lotteries and opportunities.

Can I be waitlisted for more than three classes?

Each person can only list up to three class preferences in the lottery. Additional classes may become available through public registration once lottery registrations are complete. Sign up for the W20 Art Studios newsletter to stay informed on classes opening for public registration.

When will I hear back about the waitlist?

We appreciate your patience as we work through waitlists. Timing depends on who accepts or declines their spots. You will hear from us right away if a seat opens up for you. Once the registration process is complete, anyone who didn’t receive a spot will be notified by email no later than the week before classes begin.

Can I switch to a different class after receiving a lottery spot?

Because demand is high, all spots are typically filled through the lottery, so we’re not able to swap placements. If the class you’ve been offered doesn’t work for you, you’re welcome to decline and try again next session.

I got a spot, but not my first choice. Can I still try for my first choice?

We understand that’s disappointing! Unfortunately, popular classes may fill before your lottery number comes up. Spots are offered in lottery order, which sometimes means you’re placed in your second or third preference.

Can I register alongside a friend?

Because the lottery is randomized, we can’t guarantee you’ll end up in the same class as someone else.

Can you tell me my position on the waitlist or my odds of getting in?

We’re not able to share specific waitlist positions or predict likelihood of placement—it depends on how many people accept or decline the space they are offered, which we can’t know in advance. Rest assured that you’ll be contacted immediately if a seat opens up for you. Once the registration process is complete, anyone who didn’t receive a spot will be notified by email no later than the week before classes begin.

Can you tell me if a specific class is full?

Most classes fill through the lottery. During the registration period, it’s difficult for us to respond to individual inquiries, but rest assured that if your waitlist spot comes up, we’ll reach out. We’ll also announce any publicly available classes through the W20 Art Studios newsletter.

When will unfilled classes open to the public?

Classes may open for first-come, first-served registration if they don’t fill through the lottery or if all lottery/waitlist recipients decline their spots. We can’t predict exact dates, but we’ll send an email through the W20 Art Studios newsletter if and when these classes are available.

Can I sign up for an intermediate or advanced class if I’m a beginner?

Please register for classes that match your current skill level to ensure the best experience for you and your classmates. For ceramics, refer to the Ceramics Skill Level Guide to assess your level. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, contact the instructor or studio manager. Note: Instructors may remove students who don’t meet prerequisites, and standard W20 Studios refund policies will apply. Register for the level that reflects where you are now.

I’m enrolled in a class and have questions about the schedule, materials, or coursework. Who should I contact?

For inquiries specific to your class, you may reach out directly to your instructor. You can find  instructor biographies and contact information on the W20 Art Studios About Page.