Education · 1 of 5

The path

Nobody licenses illustrators. School gives you feedback, deadlines and contacts, and that is worth a lot, but the portfolio is what gets hired.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 10 to 12

   Draw constantly. Visual arts if your school has it, plus any computer or media course. Start posting work online.

2. 2

   Build an admission portfolio

   Grade 12

   Most illustration programs judge a portfolio alongside grades. Sheridan College and OCAD University (Ontario College of Art and Design) both require one, with an assessment fee.

3. 3

   Art school or self-teaching

   2 to 4 years

   A 4-year illustration degree, a 2 to 3 year college diploma, or a structured self-taught plan built on online courses and mentors.

4. 4

   Placement and first clients

   During and just after school

   Sheridan College builds in a 14-week work placement. Outside school you find small paying jobs: local magazines, band posters, covers for small presses.

5. 5

   Working illustrator

   1 to 3 years after school

   A focused portfolio of 10 to 15 pieces in one lane, an agent or a direct client list, and repeat work.