About

University Type

Private

University Type

Average Living Expenses

$50,516

Average Living Expenses

The Academy of Art University, located in San Francisco, California, is a prominent private art school with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1929. The university proudly boasts being the largest private art and design school in the entire United States. A testament to its global appeal, the institution represents students and alumni from a diverse array of 112 countries.

The Academy of Art University has consistently fostered a vibrant artistic community, with its students and alumni collectively organizing over 70 remarkable art shows and gallery exhibitions. Their creative endeavours have earned them accolades and recognition, including prestigious awards like the Apple app award, while one of the university's esteemed alumni has even secured a place in the Guinness World Records for the Most Awards Received by a Short.

In terms of rankings, the Academy of Art University holds a respectable position in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges according to the U.S. News & World Report. Specifically, it is recognized under Regional Universities West, securing the #88 spot.

What is the Acceptance rate of the Academy of Art University?

The Academy of Art University acceptance rate is 100%. As for tuition fees, the Academy of Art University charges $1,156 per unit for undergraduate international students and $1,276 per unit for Graduate & Art Teaching Credential (International Students), with each class typically comprising 3 units.

Top Reasons to Study in the Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University is one of the largest private, accredited art and design schools in the nation. It is known for its rigorous curriculum, hands-on learning environment, and strong alumni network. Here are some of the top reasons to study at the university:

  • A wide range of programs: The university offers over 120 programs in 40+ areas of study, including art, design, animation, fashion, and film. This means that you can find a program that is tailored to your specific interests and goals.
  • Industry-leading facilities: The university is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, labs, and classrooms. This ensures that you have access to the same tools and equipment that professionals use.
  • Expert faculty: The university is home to a faculty of experienced and accomplished artists and designers. They are passionate about teaching and are committed to helping you succeed.
  • Collaborative environment: The university fosters a collaborative environment where students can learn from each other and their professors. This is a great way to build your network and get feedback on your work.
  • Strong alumni network: The university has a strong alumni network of over 100,000 professionals. This network can provide you with valuable connections and opportunities after graduation.

Courses

Cost of Studying at Academy of Art University

Average tuition fee

Reasonable

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5000+ Students

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3000+ Cr

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$47,012

Average living expenses (Masters)

$50,516

Admissions at The Academy of Art University

Application Fee

$150


How to Apply at Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University accepts international students from their graduate and graduate programs in various fields. To apply to the university as an international student, you can follow the below steps. 

  1. Visit the Academy of Art University website and create an account.
  2. Complete the “International Undergraduate Form” for undergraduate programs and the “International Graduate Form” for graduate programs.
  3. Submit your official transcripts from your secondary school or previous university.
  4. Submit your English proficiency test scores.
  5. Submit a portfolio or demo reel.
  6. Write a personal statement.
  7. Submit your financial documents.
  8. Pay the application fee.

Documents Required to Apply to Academy of Art University

Applicants need to submit the following documents to take admission to the Academy of Art University: 

Undergraduate Student

  • Complete the International Undergraduate Application Form 
  • Application fee of $150
  • Official transcripts of the previous school attended
  • English Proficiency Scores 
  • Art Portfolio or Demo Reel (optional but recommended)
  • Official Bank Letter with a minimum balance of $58,000
  • Affidavit of Support 
  • Passport & Visa Documents 
    • Passport copy
    • Transfer evaluation form
    • Photocopy of I-20, F-1 visa, or other visa document 

Graduate Student

  • Complete International Graduate Application Form 
  • Application fee of $150
  • Official transcripts of the previous university or college attended
  • English Proficiency Scores 
  • Art Portfolio or Demo Reel 
  • Official Bank Letter with a minimum balance of $58,000
  • Affidavit of Support 
  • Passport & Visa Documents 
    • Passport copy
    • Transfer evaluation form
    • Photocopy of I-20, F-1 visa, or other visa document 

Exams Accepted By Academy of Art University

The minimum English proficiency score required for admission to the Academy of Art University varies depending on the program you are applying to. 

For undergraduate programs, the minimum score is:

  • TOEFL: 80
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 100

For graduate programs, the minimum score is:

  • TOEFL: 100
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • Duolingo: 120

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Rankings for The Academy of Art University

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Students Academy of Art University

5

Yocketers applied

5

Yocketers admitted

30

Yocketers interested


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International Students

% of international students in the university

36

Total International Students in the university

2865


Alumni at Academy of Art University

Some of the prominent alumni of the Academy of Art University include: 

  • Chris Milk: Milk is a media artist and filmmaker who is known for his work in interactive media and virtual reality. He is the co-founder of the creative agency Imaginary Forces and the director of the film "The Wilderness Downtown."
  • Rick Baker: Baker is a makeup artist who is known for his work on films such as "An American Werewolf in London," "The Nutty Professor," and "Men in Black." He has won seven Academy Awards for his work.
  • Nidhi Chanani: she is an Indian-American freelance illustrator and artist. Her debut first novel “Pashmina” was published in October 2017.
  • Tatiana Sorokko: She is a model, fashion journalist, and Haute couture collector. She has written for recognized magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Harper’s Bazaar.

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Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
San Francisco

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Transportation in the city

The Academy of Art University is located in the heart of San Francisco, so there are many different transportation options available. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • MUNI: MUNI is the public transportation system in San Francisco. It offers buses, streetcars, and light rail. There are several MUNI stops near the university, so you can easily get around the city.
  • BART: BART is the Bay Area Rapid Transit system. It is a rapid transit system that connects San Francisco to the surrounding cities. There is a BART station at Civic Center, which is a short walk from the university.
  • Caltrain: Caltrain is a commuter rail service that connects San Francisco to the Peninsula and South Bay. There is a Caltrain station at Fourth and Townsend, which is a short walk from the university.
  • Walk or bike: San Francisco is a very walkable city, so you can easily get around on foot. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also bike around the city. There are many bike lanes and paths available.

The Academy of Art University also offers a free shuttle service that runs throughout the day. The shuttle stops at all of the university buildings, so it is a great way to get around campus.


Services offered by the university

The Academy of Art University offers a variety of services to its students, including:

  • Academic advising: Students have access to academic advisors who can help them choose classes, plan their degree path, and navigate the university's bureaucracy.
  • Career counselling: Students can get help with their resumes, cover letters, and interviewing skills. The university also offers workshops on how to find a job and build a career in art and design.
  • Technology resources: The university has a state-of-the-art technology centre that provides students with access to computers, software, and printers. The centre also offers workshops on how to use the technology.
  • Health and wellness: The university has a health centre that provides students with medical, dental, and vision care. The centre also offers counselling services and workshops on health and wellness.
  • Library: The university has a large library with a collection of books, journals, and other resources related to art and design.
  • Studios: The university has a variety of studios that students can use to practice their art.
  • Galleries: The university has several galleries that showcase student work.
  • Online resources: The university has a website with a variety of resources for students, including course syllabi and class schedules.

Student life at Academy of Art University

Here are some of the things you can expect from student life at the Academy of Art University:

  • Student organizations: The university has a variety of student organizations, including clubs, fraternities, and sororities. These organizations provide students with opportunities to get involved on campus and meet new people.
  • A rich cultural life: San Francisco is a city with a rich cultural life. This means that there are always things to do, whether you're interested in art, music, theatre, or food.
  • Opportunities to network with professionals: The university has a strong alumni network. This means that students have the opportunity to network with professionals in the art and design industry.
  • On-campus housing: The university has several residence halls on campus. These residence halls offer a variety of room types, including single rooms, double rooms, and suites.
  • Dining: The university has six dining halls on campus. These dining halls offer a variety of meal options, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. The university also has several cafes and restaurants on campus. 
  • Sports: The university has several intercollegiate athletic teams, including men's and women's basketball, volleyball, soccer, and track and field. The university also has several intramural sports teams. 

On campus accomodation at Academy of Art University

Here are some details about the on-campus accommodation at the Academy of Art University:

  • The Commodore: The Commodore is a residence hall located in the heart of San Francisco. It is within walking distance of many of the city's most popular attractions, including Union Square, Chinatown, and the Financial District. The Commodore offers a variety of room types, including single rooms, double rooms, and suites. 
  • Clara Gil Stephens: Clara Gil Stephens is a residence hall located in the SoMa district of San Francisco. It is close to many of the city's art galleries and studios. Clara Gil Stephens offers a variety of room types, including single rooms, double rooms, and suites.
  • Edgar Degas Apartments: Edgar Degas Apartments is a complex of apartments located near the university campus. It offers a variety of apartment sizes, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments.
  • Leonardo da Vinci Apartments: Leonardo da Vinci Apartments is a complex of apartments located near the university campus. It offers a variety of apartment sizes, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments.
  • Fritz Lang Apartments: Fritz Lang Apartments is a complex of apartments located near the university campus. It offers a variety of apartment sizes, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom apartments. 

This housing option offers common space such as a study lounge, game room, and a fitness centre. All of the residence halls at the university are air-conditioned and have Wi-Fi access. They also have laundry facilities on site.

The cost of on-campus housing varies depending on the room type and the length of the stay. You can learn more about on-campus housing at the Academy of Art University here.

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FAQ

1. What are the Academy of Art University GPA requirements?
The average GPA required for studying at the Academy of Art University is 3.15. 

 2. How hard is it to get into the Academy of Art University?
Academy of Art University has an acceptance rate of 100%, meaning it is an open admission school for all. 

3. How much does tuition at the Academy of Art University cost?
The tuition amount for the Academy of Art University is 24,664 USD.

4. How much is the deposit for the Academy of Art University?
The tuition deposit for this University is 200 USD.

5. What is the application fee for the Academy of Art University?
The application fee is a refundable amount of 50 USD.