Academy of Art University: 2025 Rankings, Admissions Process & Campus Life
Design your future at the Academy of Art!
Table of Content
- About the Academy of Art University
- Academy of Art University Courses
- Undergraduate Programs
- Graduate Programs
- Academy of Art University Admissions
- Undergraduate Programs
- Graduate Programs
- What is the Application Process at the Academy of Art University?
- Academy of Art University Deadlines
- Tuition Fee at the Academy of Art University
- Undergraduate Programs
- Graduate Programs
- Academy of Art University Scholarships
- Student Housing Near Academy of Art University
The Academy of Art University, formerly the Academy of Art College and Richard Stephens Academy of Art, is located in San Francisco, California. It is one of the largest universities in the United States that helps students build professional-level, career-ready portfolios.
Faculty members at the institution make sure that you begin to build a professional portfolio of work from day one!
If you are looking for a place where real-world experience shapes your artistic journey, the Academy of Art University is the perfect destination.
About the Academy of Art University
Established in 1929, the Academy of Art University is one of the best universities in San Francisco. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The Academy of Art university ranking is excellent and it has also received specialized accreditations from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
As per the Academy of Art graduation rate for 2025, out of 338 freshmen who enrolled in fall 2018, 116 (34%) completed their program.
Currently, the academy offers 900 art and design classes, 22 different schools, and 14 STEM programs.
The Academy of Art University campus provides a unique experience for students with excellent housing, dining, and academic facilities.
The overall campus life and leadership opportunities available at the university are:
Student Activities
Recreation and Wellness Classes
Student Organizations
Career and Entrepreneurial Development
Academy of Art University Courses
The Academy of Art University reviews have been excellent over the years given the success of their courses. Currently, the institution offers over 129 art degree programs, such as associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, certificates, and master’s degrees. Students can pursue these programs across disciplines like acting, advertising, studio production, fashion merchandising, and more.
Let’s check out the detailed list of the Academy of Art University programs below.
Undergraduate Programs
The undergraduate programs at the Academy of Art University offer students a holistic education covering the arts, humanities, and sciences. Some of the top courses are:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Advertising
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fashion Journalism
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Costume Design
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication and Media Technology
Graduate Programs
The graduate programs at the Academy of Art University help students unlock their creative potential for the future. Among the 20 AI-infused courses and 14 STEM degrees, the top programs are:
Master of Arts (MA) in Acting
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Advertising
Master of Arts (MA) in Illustration
Master of Arts (MA) in Industrial Design
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Development
Master of Arts (MA) in Communication and Media Technology
Academy of Art University Admissions
The Academy of Art University follows a rolling admissions process. So, interested international students may apply year-round to enroll in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. However, it is recommended to apply as early as possible to ensure enrollment in your first choice of classes.
Here’s an overview of the requirements for the Academy of Art University admissions:
Undergraduate Programs
The Academy of Art University has the following requirements for admissions to undergraduate degree programs:
Official or unofficial completed high school transcript or GED
Official or unofficial completed bachelor’s degree transcript
Signed Home School Program Certification form and transcripts
Copy of complete high school diploma for first-degree undergraduate students
Official transcripts or proof of high school graduation (before the start of the first semester)
Official bank letter
Affidavit of support
English proficiency scores
Passport and visa documents
Graduate Programs
The Academy of Art University requires graduate applicants to demonstrate their ability by fulfilling the following requirements:
One-page essay explaining your graduate school goals and final project
Resume detailing your education and professional experience
Official or unofficial college transcripts showing a completed bachelor’s degree
Transcripts mailed or emailed to transcripts@academyart.edu.
Electronic transcripts are accepted via the National Student Clearinghouse
Portfolio or reel showcasing work in your chosen discipline
A description list with title, size, medium, date, and your role in collaborative works
Translate all written portfolio content into English
What is the Application Process at the Academy of Art University?
International students seeking admission to the Academy of Art University can follow five simple steps to apply for their desired courses. Check out the step-by-step procedure below:
Visit The Academy’s official website at https://www.academyart.edu/apply-for-admission/ to apply and submit your application fee online
Fill out the form
Select your highest level of education and choose an onsite or online course.
Choose the program you want to pursue, including the semester type (fall, spring, or summer).
Submit the $50 non-refundable application fee through the secure payment portal.
Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email along with your student ID.
Wait for further communication from the Admissions Office regarding your enrollment status.
Academy of Art University Deadlines
International students are encouraged to apply early to the Academy of Art University so that they do not miss any deadlines. Here’s a detailed table showcasing the Academy of Art University application deadline:
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50 (one time) |
| Registration Fee | $50/semester |
| Enrollment Fee | $100 (new applicants only) |
| International Student Services Fee | $300 (onsite only) |
| Student Activity Fee | $30/semester (onsite) |
| Tuition Deposit | $2,500 |
| Course Fees | $1,500/average per semester |
| Materials/Supplies | $531/average per semester |
| Tuition | $35,112 for 24 units/4 classes per semester |
| Total | $39,684 |
Tuition Fee at the Academy of Art University
The Academy of Art University tuition fee is different for international students as compared to domestic students. Moreover, the cost of living in San Francisco can be a little higher, which requires students to know everything about their expenses.
The following tables show the tuition fee estimates for undergraduate and graduate students:
Undergraduate Programs
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $50 (one time) |
| Registration Fee | $50/semester |
| Enrollment Fee | $100 (new applicants only) |
| International Student Services Fee | $300 (onsite only) |
| Student Activity Fee | $30/semester (onsite) |
| Tuition Deposit | $2,500 |
| Course Fees | $1,500/average per semester |
| Materials/Supplies | $531/average per semester |
| Tuition | $35,112 for 24 units/4 classes per semester |
| Total | $39,684 |
*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake
Graduate Programs
| Application Fee* | $50 (one time) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee* | $50/semester |
| Enrollment Fee* | $100 (new applicants only) |
| International Student Services Fee | $300 (onsite only) |
| Student Activity Fee | $30/semester (onsite) |
| Tuition Deposit | $2,500 |
| Course Fees | $900/average per semester |
| Materials/Supplies | $531/average per semester |
| Tuition | $29,070 for 18 units/3 classes per semester |
| Total | $33,692 |
*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake
Academy of Art University Scholarships
The Academy of Art University financial aid program has helped over 45,000 aspiring students pursue their educational goals by providing them with scholarships and grants.
International students seeking scholarship opportunities at the campus can check out the following programs:
| Scholarship | Amount | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
| New High School Graduate Scholarship | $3,000 | Students enrolled in a degree-seeking program | |
| International Student Scholarship | $5,000 | Based on academic merit, need, and portfolio submissions | |
| Building Bridges Scholarship | $1,000 | High school, undergraduate, or graduate student with an average of 2.5 GPA | |
| Aaliyah Lee Scholarship | $1,000 | High school, undergraduate, or graduate student with an average of 2.5 GPA | |
| Amberscholar scholarship | $2,000-$6,000 | Submit a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you deserve funding. |
Student Housing Near Academy of Art University
Students looking for Academy of Art University housing options can easily find residences on campus or in nearby areas. They can also avail themselves of free shuttle services that stop near every residence hall on the university campus.
These halls often feature fitness facilities, in-room bathrooms and kitchens, student lounges with pool tables and cable service, and free Wi-Fi and dryers.
The university is located near some of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco. So, students looking for cheaper apartments near Academy of Art University can visit Amber.
Whether you're looking for a private apartment, room, or shared living opportunity, Amber offers everything to fit your needs. Check out housing options like:
Find your perfect residence and pursue the course of your choice at the Academy of Art University.