I can’t afford art school what should I do?

Question

Hello, my name is Eren Castro and I am worried I won’t be a successful artist if I don’t go to a good art school. I already have a pretty good art portfolio, but the problem is paying off the school. Art schools cost around as much as a brand new car and my parents struggle to pay that. I don’t wanna end up with massive student debt, especially when art schools don’t guarantee a career after graduating. I’ve been planing to attend at UT Austin for a BFA, but I feel like It won’t have the best opportunities or connections like It would in a art school in NY or LA. I know that you don’t need to go to an art school to be a successful artist, but it helps you a lot when it comes to getting into the right direction. I want to become an contemporary artist, but I feel like I would have better chance of getting in that if I went to a good art institution. Please help and thank you.

Answer 1

Art schools don't turn regular folks into artists, they just turn already artists into  hopefully BETTER artists. And many of them will admit just anybody just to get tuition.

Answer 2

Every artist I know who makes a living at it was self taught. 

Answer 3

Go to a community college that has  art classes. Transfer into a state college with an art program after 2 years and also study something you can actually get a job doing. . Get student loan assistance

Answer 4

I went to art school...at my graduation i realized i could have learned the same thing on video tutorials..i and i didnt get connected even though i tried.  you just need a portfolio and to apply everywhere