admissions Overview

You've made an important step towards a promising future in craftsmanship. Here's what you need to apply to one of our Full-Time programs:

1. Application form
2. Transcript(s)
3. Letters of Recommendation (2)
4. Statement of Purpose
5. Work & Experience History
6. Visit NBSS for an Info Session
7. Program-Specific Requirements, as applicable. See tab below.
8. International Student Requirements, if applicable. See tab below.

Don't worry if you're unable to have all of these ready before beginning the application form! We'll keep you informed of missing items and next steps. Remember to put your name on every page/document that you submit.

Download a handy admissions checklist here.

Note: You can include the above items as part of the online application. Or send us your materials by email admissions@nbss.edu, fax 617-227-9292, or postal mail to NBSS Admissions, 150 North Street, Boston MA 02109.

Getting started is easy. Just complete our simple, free online application. Once you're done, you’ll get an email that includes additional items needed and next steps.

Note: a hard copy application is available by request.

One of the following is required to show that you completed your studies:

• Official high school transcript or GED/HSE.
• Official post-secondary transcript(s) for Associate, Bachelor, or other advanced degree.
• International students, please see the “International Students” section below.

Please have your transcripts or evaluations sent directly to our Admissions Department.

Two letters of recommendation are required, preferably from an instructor, mentor, employer, or client. Recommendations must include contact information, information about your abilities, and information about your potential to succeed in your program and industry of interest.

The person recommending you can use our Letter of Recommendation form here. The can also email their Letter to admissions@nbss.edu, fax it to (617) 227-9292, or mail a hard copy to our Admissions Department.

Write a one-page, typed, and double-spaced essay detailing your experience, reasons for applying, professional goals, and what you can contribute to the program and the industry.

Please include work and experience history including a list of related courses, internships, and other skill-building experiences.

NBSS is unique, and is best experienced in person if you are considering training here. All applicants are required to visit the School for a tour and an interview. The visit provides an opportunity for applicants to meet with our Admissions team, see the workshops and studios, and to meet students and instructors when available.

We offer monthly Info Sessions for all of our Full-Time programs. Please RSVP for your visit in advance, if possible. Out-of-state/country applicants may schedule an initial phone interview.

Bookbinding

• A portfolio of your work including 6–8 photos, either digital or printed, and labeled with your name and brief descriptions.

Cabinet & Furniture Making

• A portfolio of your work including 6–8 photos, either digital or printed, and labeled with your name and brief descriptions.

Carpentry

• An 8th-grade level math test consisting of arithmetic and computation questions. If you provide evidence of achieving a B grade or better in high school algebra or beyond, you may be excused from taking the test.

Jewelry Making & Repair

• A portfolio of your work including 6–8 photos, either digital or printed, and labeled with your name and brief descriptions.
• A scheduled meeting with faculty once you submit your application and portfolio.
• CORI Report to ensure employability after graduation

Locksmithing & Security Technology

• CORI Report to ensure employability after graduation

Piano Technology (advanced only)

• Completion of the NBSS Piano Technology Program, RPT Certification, or a scheduled tuning test with faculty.

PRESERVATION CARPENTRY

• An 8th-grade level math test consisting of arithmetic and computation questions. If you provide evidence of achieving a B grade or better in high school algebra or beyond, you may be excused from taking the test.

Violin Making & Repair

• A portfolio of your work including 6–8 photos, either digital or printed, and labeled with your name and brief descriptions. Professional musicians may substitute their experience.
• A 40-minute NBSS math test consisting of arithmetic and computation questions. If you provide evidence of achieving a B grade or better in high school algebra or beyond, you may be excused from taking the test.