Let me give you a perspective from a parent of an SVA grad student in animation/computer art:I would recommend SVA over SCAD. First, SVA has at least as many concentrations as SCAD such as 2d or 3d. More to the point, everyone at SVA is currently  a working artist such as with Dreamworks, studios, ad agencies etc. For example, the teacher who teaches Matte Painting wrote the book on Matte Painting that is used in many art schools. Even better, SVA has a HUGE connection base since they are located in Manhattan. Every major company interviews there, and there are lots of internships. Manhattan is also , in my opinion, one of the best cities for college students around. The restaurants are fantastic. Moreover, the art scene with museams, shows and other events can't be beat! However, as with other top notch art programs, if you aren't willing to work very hard, this school will be a waste since most of the learning is accomplished through projects. I don't even think you can coast through this either because SVA grading standards are tough. They have no problem flunking people out and giving bad critiques.Finally, although SVA has a very strong 2d animation program that covers all aspects of the animation pipeline, they are most well known for their 3d program. They are probably the second best 3d animation program in the US after that of Ringling. There are only two drawbacks to SVA over SCAD. First, there is less financial aid given to student than what would be found at SCAD. Secondly, Manhattan is one of the more expensive places to live in the US. Thus, it will be  a bit pricier to attend SVA than that of SCAD. BOTTOM LINE"  if you want a top notch program that covers in depth all aspects of the animation and visual effects pipeline or even gives a choice between 2d and 3d concentrations and provides fabulous connections and a fantastic city to live in, you won't find a much better place that SVA.  However, don't expect much aid. If you can't afford to come here, you won't get probably get a lot of help, although they do have a few full tuition scholarships for very top people. This post was edited by Sandy Botkin at March 12, 2013 3:22 AM PDT

If you really like otis, I would suggest a couple of options: 1. Go to a community college and transfer your credits to Otis or a similar school. 2. Cut your costs by getting an RA position and try to get a scholarship by filing the FASFA form. 3. Consider work study Whatever you do: DON'T JUST TAKE LOANS WITHOUT TRYING TO CUT YOUR COSTS TOO! Did I emphasize that enough.

Have you seen SCAD? The area is HORRIBLE. Other than this issue, I don't think you can go wrong with either school.

My daughter , Allison, will be specializing in animation and motion at SVA for her grad training. She did some motion work in undergrad.

I am surprised that no one mentioned: USC, UCLA ( although these two are tough for admission), SVA, Pratt Institute,  Rochester Institute of Technology, and SCAD. This post was edited by Sandy Botkin at January 16, 2012 5:17 AM PST