Many people dream of making it in the world of fashion. LIM College combines the fashion industry with the business of fashion. If your goal is to join the fashion industry, attend a fashion school in New York, or be surrounded by industry professionals, then LIM College might just be for you.
With small class sizes, lower tuition than other schools, and a hands-on approach to education, LIM College is a great choice for students. In this LIM College review, we will break down the LIM College cost, LIM College ranking, and LIM College accreditation.
All About LIM College
LIM College is a private college located in New York, New York. LIM was founded in 1939 as a school to teach merchandising and the business of fashion by retailers in the city. It may have started out as a fashion merchandising school, but it has since expanded to encompass several entrepreneurial paths and train students in relevant business skills.
LIM expanded in 2009 and now includes several business degrees, marketing degrees, and specializations in both fashion and the cannabis industry. The school prides itself on its diverse student body from different backgrounds, endless internship and job opportunities for past and current students, and numerous study abroad programs.
Where Is LIM College Located?
Lim College is located in Manhattan in New York City. The school’s main academic buildings are just a few blocks from the Chrysler Building and the United Nations, making it an excellent tourist destination. Not only that, but the location of the college in New York City puts LIM at the forefront of the New York fashion scene.
LIM College’s main building is also located less than five blocks from New York’s famous Grand Central Station and within walking distance of the famous Central Park. This close proximity to Grand Central gives LIM students an urban college experience and easy access to all that New York has to offer.
Is LIM College Accredited?
Yes, LIM College is accredited by several bodies. The college is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in general education. LIM is also accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs for its marketing and business degrees.
Is LIM College Legit?
Yes, LIM College is legit. As a fashion-business school in the fashion capital of the country, students are surrounded by endless opportunities and gain essential business skills in its numerous programs. LIM has ranked highly among fashion schools in the country and world, and partners with countless top companies to offer internship opportunities to students.
LIM College Student Reviews
Generally, students who have attended LIM College rate the college favorably across sites like Google, Facebook, and Rate My Professor. Many students and professionals see the college as one of the best fashion institutes in the world. Some reviewers mention a rigorous focus on academics and the opportunity for internships, hands-on experience, and special projects.
Some of the more negative reviews focus on the distance between class buildings, the time between classes being too short, and the lack of a meal plan or dining hall on campus. The negative reviews seem to be outweighed by the positive ones left by students.
LIM College Better Business Bureau Reviews and Complaints
The Better Business Bureau ranks Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM College) as a B- business, with only one complaint and no user reviews. The complaint is marked as both resolved and private with no additional information.
LIM College Rankings
LIM College’s rankings are a bit of a mixed bag for a private school with a niche area of study. Because LIM trains industry professionals and is picky about their prospective students, rankings against other colleges or lack thereof don’t tell the full story of this amazing school. The best comparisons are made using an assessment of fashion schools in New York and ranking them amongst themselves.
LIM College US News & World Report Ranking
LIM College is unranked in the US News & World Report Rankings.
LIM College Times Higher Education Ranking
LIM College is not listed in the Times Higher Education Rankings.
LIM College Graduation Rate
LIM’s overall graduation rate is 58 percent, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This breaks down to a rate of 63 percent among full-time undergraduate students seeking a bachelor’s degree, and 27 percent among part-time students.
LIM College Admissions
The admissions process for LIM College is fairly straightforward. Besides the required documentation, like proof of identity, proof of graduation, and any previous college records, LIM requires a few other pieces of information.
If a student is applying for financial aid, a GPA of 3.0 to 3.5 is required. Many students may also be required to submit two letters of recommendation for certain programs. Standardized test scores are optional, but may be recommended for some degree programs.
LIM College Acceptance Rate
LIM College has an acceptance rate of 84 percent among all applicants, according to NCES. The number of students applying as of 2022 was 1,157, and out of those students, 85 percent of female applicants were accepted and 79 percent of male applicants were accepted.
Will You Get Into LIM College?
Yes, you have a good chance of getting into LIM College. With a high acceptance rate and several ways to increase your chances of getting accepted into LIM, students have a good chance of attending the school. We have outlined the steps below to ensure you have the best chance of being accepted.
How to Apply to LIM College
- Complete the online application. To begin applying to LIM, students must fill out the online application. The application requires proof of ID, submitting any information needed for financial aid, a short essay question, and a $40 application fee.
- Submit transcripts. Students must submit all previous high school transcripts and any dual credit programs taken. There is no recommended GPA at LIM, however, graduation from high school or a GED is required.
- Submit the extracurricular activity sheet. The activity sheet is an opportunity for students to list their extracurricular activities, charity work, and any clubs or sports the student was part of. While it is not required, it is highly recommended for students to help their applications stand out.
- Attend an interview. Students may be required to attend an interview before LIM makes its final decision. The interview has both in-person and online options, and students should be prepared to discuss their activities, grades, and goals.
- Submit test scores. If students have taken a standardized test or college admission exam like the ACT or SAT, students may submit these scores. Tests are not required for admission, although, they could help a student stand out.
LIM College Cost
| Expense | LIM College Cost |
|---|---|
| LIM College Undergraduate In-State Tuition and Fees | $29,454 |
| LIM College Undergraduate Out-of-State Tuition and Fees | $29,454 |
| LIM College Graduate In-State Tuition and Fees | $25,240 |
| LIM College Graduate Out-of-State Tuition and Fees | $25,240 |
| LIM College Books and Supplies | $900 |
| LIM College On-Campus Room and Board | $20,750 |
| LIM College Off-Campus Room and Board | $15,700 |
LIM College’s cost of attendance is lower than the national average among all private US universities at around $38,000. It ranks similarly to other fashion schools. Books and supplies have stayed steady at $900 per year for the last five years.
There is no meal plan, dining hall, or any on-campus housing offered at LIM. To further break down the cost of attending LIM, we have dedicated the section below to the cost of living in Manhattan.
Cost of Living in New York City, New York
Between Central Park, Union Square, the Statue of Liberty, and the Freedom Tower, there are many sights to see in New York. As beautiful as the city is, the cost makes it one of the most expensive places in the world to live. According to Payscale, rent alone is about $6,500 per month, which is 155 percent higher than the national average.
Besides rent, costs like food and transportation are additional expenses to consider. Staples like bread, eggs, and other grocery products are about 45 percent higher than the national average. Paying for transportation requires parking permits, subway or bus passes, and taxi services. Currently, transportation costs are about 28 percent higher than the national average.
LIM College Financial Aid
When it comes to financial aid at LIM, there are many options available for students. According to NCES, about 98 percent of first-year students receive some sort of financial aid. The amount of grant or scholarship aid used by students reaches over $10 million dollars per year, with the average student receiving around $8,730 of aid per year.
LIM College also utilizes several state, federal, and college-specific financial aid programs available for low-income students. Prospective students must fill out the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to be eligible for most aid. Current students must meet the requirements of each scholarship every semester and may be required to update financial information on a regular basis.
LIM College Scholarships
- Freshman Academic Achievement Scholarship. Freshmen entering with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible for this scholarship. The award can be between $1,500 and $10,000 and may be renewed every year based on academic performance.
- Adrian G. Marcuse Presidential Scholarship. This scholarship is limited and only applies to students who are entering their senior year. It is invite-only but covers full tuition for students with a GPA of at least 3.5 or similar in merit.
- LIM College Sibling Tuition Award. This scholarship is granted to students who have a sibling who previously attended or currently attends the school. The award covers 25 percent of tuition and can apply to students with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
- LIM College Transfer Scholarships. If a student has previously attended a college and obtained an associate degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, they are eligible for this $1,500 to $7,000 award. It can also be renewed with good academic standing.
- Transfer Academic Achievement Scholarship. Similar to the previous scholarship, this award is given to students who have attended a previous college. A student must have achieved at least 15 credit hours and maintained a GPA of 3.0 or higher for an award of $1,000 to $6,000. It can also be renewed based on academic standing.
LIM College Graduate Salaries and Outcomes
Many LIM College graduates end up in careers in the fashion world. From retailers to designers, LIM’s internship programs allow students to create connections and provide endless opportunities for their future careers while still in school.
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According to College Scorecard, LIM graduates make average earnings of $56,202 per year, which is higher than the midpoint average of $47,891 for other four-year schools. However, this is not a particularly high salary for New York residents. This is an average figure, and the amount graduates make varies on numerous factors, such as their level of education, location, and industry.
LIM College Notable Alumni
LIM College’s notable alumni include Zerina Akers, a stylist for Beyonce, and Daniella Vitale, the CEO of the Italian luxury brand, Salvatore Ferragamo.
LIM College Campus Life
LIM’s college life is similar to many small colleges. Its focus on academics leads to higher standards and more studying than in more relaxed schools. LIM features honors societies, special interest clubs that span numerous topics from vintage wear to film, and academic clubs that can boost students’ resumes.
The school offers one on-campus housing option in Midtown. Because there are few dorms at LIM, the dorm life is as big as New York itself. Many students share moments with their classmates by enjoying all that the five boroughs have to offer. From SNL shows to watching the ball drop during New Year’s Eve, there is always something to do in the city.
LIM College Academics
LIM’s academics can be summed up in just four areas of study: cannabis, fashion, business, and marketing. No matter the degree, these four topics are the narrow niche this school has to offer, and therefore a student’s education will be hyper-focused on their chosen career path.
Because the areas of study are so narrow, the academic requirements are much stricter to ensure that students master their chosen field. Several student reviews warn that LIM is not a party school, and they take academic achievement seriously.
LIM College Colleges and Departments
| School or Department Name | Available Program Examples |
|---|---|
| Arts & Sciences Department | Bachelor of Science in Fashion Media |
| Fashion Merchandising Department | Bachelor of Professional Studies in Fashion Merchandising |
| Marketing, Management & Finance Department | Bachelor of Business Administration in Management |
| Visual Merchandising Department | Bachelor of Business Administration in Visual Merchandising |
LIM College Faculty
Many students who leave ratings on Rate My Professor generally rate the professors highly. The lowest marks seem to go to professors who are teaching non-core subjects like mathematics, computer science, and English. Some comments suggest that these classes do the job but are not interesting to many students.
Many students stress the importance of attendance and bringing your books with you to class, while others stress the importance of preparing for tests. Several core-curriculum professors receive the highest marks from students. Some notable examples include Professor Lalak in accounting, Professor Tormey in marketing, and Professor Parisi in management.
Popular LIM College Majors
Popular LIM College majors include entire degree programs focused on business, media design, marketing, the business of cannabis, and the business aspects of fashion. The business and marketing aspects of LIM are present in all degree programs. However, depending on the student’s desired degree, some of these aspects are emphasized more than others.
LIM College Marketing
The marketing degree at LIM is a popular major with a broader focus than some of the other majors on this list. Key core courses include those in applied marketing research, digital design, consumer behavior, and Internet marketing. This major prepares students for many roles, both in and beyond the fashion world.
LIM College Marketing Jobs
- Retail marketing specialist. With LIM’s focus on fashion, a retail marketing specialist is a great career choice. Retail specialists work with businesses, artists, and designers to create marketing plans for product lines or entire businesses in the retail space.
- Digital marketing specialist. Social media is a large part of marketing in today’s world, and a degree in marketing prepares students for the job of digital marketing. Marketing specialists may find themselves posting on social media, tracking engagement, curating websites, and predicting and analyzing trends.
- Event marketer and planner. With New York’s fashion scene being so large, there is an entire industry dedicated to event planning and marketing. Curating a unique event and making sure the right people come to an event and are taken care of can be an interesting career in marketing.
LIM College Business of Cannabis
The fact that LIM College has a bachelor’s degree in cannabis is as unexpected as it is useful. If your dream is to step into the rapidly expanding world of cannabis and recreational marijuana, or even to gain a business degree while learning about this new field, then this degree may be for you.
LIM College Business of Cannabis Jobs
- Cannabis sales associate. A great start in the world of cannabis is a job as a sales associate. You will learn the ins and outs of dealing with a newly legalized substance, understanding regulations, and running a small business.
- Cannabis regulator. States are currently deciding how and when to legalize various aspects of cannabis, and in doing so, they have put forth guidelines and rules for businesses to follow. Similar to a health inspector, regulators make sure businesses are complying with state, local, and federal regulations.
- Cannabis business owner. The dream of many is to own a small business, and what better way to use your degree than to start one yourself? Owning a small business in this growing industry certainly is an option for those with an entrepreneurial spirit.
LIM College Business of Fashion
A degree in the business of fashion is a wonderful option for those who want to be surrounded by style and prioritize gaining valuable business skills. Classes explore topics like digital tools for fashion presentations, introduction to the fashion business, marketing, and product lifecycle management.
LIM College Business of Fashion Jobs
- Clothing boutique manager. New York is one of the most famous hubs for both shopping and fashion, making it a great place to get started in the industry. A job as a manager involves using all the skills you learned in your degree to manage employees and inventory, deal with customers, and keep accounts of sales.
- Fashion designer. If retail isn’t your thing, a job as a fashion designer, while difficult to earn, can be one of the most rewarding jobs in the industry. Students must put together portfolio pieces and put themselves in positions to say yes to opportunities like internships and fashion associates to one day become a designer.
- Accountant. No matter if a fashion business is small or large, there is always a need for bookkeepers and accountants. Accountants in the fashion world may be employed by individual businesses or corporations, or even work with several businesses at once. No matter the industry, becoming an accountant is a rewarding career.
LIM College Visual Media and Design
A degree in visual media and design is an interesting choice for students at LIM. With a focus on creating visuals, design, graphics, and marketing, visual media designers are prepared for many creative careers in the world of fashion and beyond.
LIM College Visual Media and Design Jobs
- Fashion photographer. With a degree in visual media, becoming a fashion photographer is a great option for those who have an eye for the visual medium. Students may be required to submit portfolio work and take a number of freelance jobs before gaining a full-time position.
- Graphic designer. A graphic designer’s job can vary significantly, depending on the assignment. Graphic designers can be responsible for logo creation, creating posters or marketing materials, and demonstrating concepts using visual presentations.
- Interior decorator. When it comes to fashion shows, store displays, and the interior and exterior of buildings, an interior decorator is paramount to ensuring the right visual look for the settings.
LIM College Fashion Merchandising
Finally, the degree in fashion merchandising combines graphic design, marketing, and business into one degree that prepares students for several of the careers we have already discussed. Merchandising can produce, market, and sell a product, and the jobs that merchandising offers are just as varied.
LIM College Fashion Merchandising Jobs
- Fashion consultant. These professionals are experts in the latest fashion trends, and work to help clients dress and look their best. They work with individual clients or companies to create the desired image and advise them on how to achieve that image.
- Costume designer. Costume designers work in a wide range of areas, from Broadway films and movies to fashion shows. They are responsible for working with a creative team to create or curate appropriate outfits and looks for performers.
- Merchandise coordinator. Merchandise coordinators work to ensure the products that are displayed in a store are sold as much as possible. Their responsibilities include designing the store in a visually appealing way, analyzing market trends to inform their strategy decisions, and managing inventory.
Is LIM College Worth It?
Yes, LIM College is worth it. If joining the fashion industry is your goal, then any fashion, business, or design program at LIM will prove to be a wonderful opportunity. By going to school in the heart of the fashion capital, New York City, and taking advantage of the many internship opportunities provided by LIM, students will be well prepared for many exciting careers after graduation.
LIM College Review FAQ
LIM stands for the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising. It was founded in 1939 by a collective of retailers to help teach and train workers to compete in the fast-moving world of fashion. It was shortened to LIM College in 2009 as part of a rebranding initiative.
No, LIM is not hard to get into. With an acceptance rate of nearly 84 percent, LIM College is fairly easy to get into for many students. Students must complete an online application, provide several additional documents, and meet certain graduation requirements.
No, LIM does not have a minimum GPA as part of its admissions requirements. Instead, LIM asks for proof of graduation in order to be accepted. There is no minimum GPA, but many financial aid options are available for students with a GPA above 3.0.
LIM College is good for students who want to join the fashion world. When it comes to marketing, business, and fashion design, LIM College is one of the best options due to its internships, lower cost, and proximity to one of the most fashion-forward cities in the world.
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