Academy of Art University: Ranking, Courses and Fees, Requirement & Alumni for 2025

Highlights

Here are the key details related to studying in USA

Established In

1929

Total No. of Students

6100

Total International Students

2200

Student Faculty Ratio

15:1

Acceptance Rate

50%

Accreditation

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Avg. Study Cost

INR 0.50 L

Avg. Cost of Living

INR 0.20 L

About Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University, established in 1929, has grown significantly since its inception. It has evolved into a prominent institution dedicated to nurturing creativity and innovation in the arts. With a commitment to providing quality education, the university has become a hub for aspiring artists and designers.

With a total enrollment of 6100, the Academy of Art University boasts a diverse student body. Among these, 2200 students come from various countries, enriching the campus culture and fostering a global perspective.

Located in the vibrant city of San Francisco, the university offers a dynamic environment for learning. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including:

Modern classrooms equipped with the latest technology
Specialized studios for various art disciplines
Exhibition spaces to showcase student work
Access to industry-standard resources and tools

The Academy of Art University offers a wide range of programs designed to align with industry demands. Some of the popular programs include:

Graphic Design
Fashion Design
Animation and Visual Effects
Architecture

The acceptance rate at the Academy is 50%, with multiple intake periods throughout the year. The university provides robust support services for international students, ensuring a smooth transition and a fulfilling educational experience.

The Academy of Art University is accredited by:

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)

In conclusion, the Academy of Art University stands out for its commitment to quality education and career readiness, preparing you for success in the competitive world of art and design.

Top Courses

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MFA in Advertising (STEM)

1st Year Tuition Fees

INR 48.65 L

24 Months

BFA in Advertising (STEM)

1st Year Tuition Fees

INR 41.97 L

48 Months

MA in Advertising

1st Year Tuition Fees

INR 27.80 L

24 Months

See all courses

Shortlist The Best Course For You

Intakes and Admission Deadlines

JAN'2025

Intake Open

FEB'2025

Intake Open

MAY'2025

Intake Open

JUN'2025

Intake Open

JUL'2025

Intake Open

AUG'2025

Intake Open

SEP'2025

Intake Open

Find Your Best Intake

Admission Requirements

Exams Required

Minimum scores for English Proficiency

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Get IELTS Mock Tests

Standardized Exam Scores

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Not Required

For UG Students

Not Required

For PG Students

Rankings

US News

# 94 - 122

In Best University Ranking Schools - 2021

Webometrics - World

# 6237

In Best World Ranking Schools - 2023

Know Your Admission Chances Here

Cost of Living

Attending the Academy of Art University in San Francisco as an international student involves several living expenses. The city is known for its high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. Students can expect to pay a significant amount for rent, whether they choose to live on-campus or off-campus. Additionally, books and supplies are necessary for academic success and can add up over the course of the year. Transportation costs are also a consideration, as students may need to commute to campus or explore the city. Personal expenses, including food, clothing, and entertainment, are part of daily life and should be budgeted for. Miscellaneous expenses can include unexpected costs or additional services that may arise. Overall, it's important for students to plan their finances carefully to ensure a comfortable and manageable stay in San Francisco.

INR

16.25L

USD 19118

Total Annual Living Cost

Cost Breakdown

Housing

INR 12.00L (USD 14118)

Books and Supplies

INR 0.75L (USD 882)

Transportation

INR 1.00L (USD 1176)

Personal Expenses

INR 2.00L (USD 2353)

Miscellaneous

INR 0.50L (USD 588)

Plan Your Studying Abroad Budget

Placements

International students at Academy of Art University receive comprehensive placement assistance to help them successfully transition into the workforce. The university offers career counselling services to guide students in their job search process. Workshops and seminars are regularly conducted to enhance students' skills and knowledge in various industries. Recent examples include resume writing workshops, interview preparation seminars, and industry-specific lectures. Job fairs and networking events are organized throughout the year, providing students with opportunities to connect with potential employers. The university also facilitates internships for eligible students, with a high percentage of students securing internships in their chosen fields. The university's online job portal serves as a valuable resource for students to access job listings and internship opportunities. OPT and CPT guidance is available to help students navigate the process of obtaining work authorization in the United States. Visa and work authorization guidance is provided to students who meet the eligibility requirements. Additionally, the university offers support for cultural adjustment to help international students adapt to the new environment.

What Services do They Offer?

1. Job Fairs and Networking Events

Some job fairs listed on the website include the Annual Spring Show, Graduate Portfolio Show, and Industry Networking Expo.

2. Internships and Placement Support

A high percentage of students secure internships in their chosen fields, with support provided by the university's placement assistance team.

3. Online Job Portal

The university offers an online job portal where students can access job listings and internship opportunities.

4. OPT and CPT Guidance

Guidance is available to help students navigate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) processes.

5. Visa and Work Authorisation Guidance

Support is provided to students who meet the eligibility requirements for obtaining visas and work authorization in the United States.

6. Cultural Adjustment

The university offers support for cultural adjustment to help international students adapt to the new environment and succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

Get Access To Internships in USA

Top recruiters at the Academy of Art University

Apple Inc.

Pixar Animation Studios

Nike

Zynga

Adobe

EA Games

Industrial Light & Magic

DreamWorks Animation

Electronic Arts

Student Life

Student Groups and Organizations

Student life at the Academy of Art University is filled with diverse and vibrant organizations. These include several academic club-like design, media, fine arts, and architecture. Many professional groups offer networking opportunities, mentorship, and professional development, including AIGA and the Advertising Club. Cultural organizations like the International Student Club promote diversity, while recreational groups like the Photography Club provide a fun way to engage with peers outside class. Events throughout the year include annual exhibitions, media showcases, and cultural fests.

Libraries and Study Resources

The Academy of Art University boasts an extensive library filled with books, DVDs, and academic journals. There are quiet study spaces, collaborative workstations to encourage group work, and computer labs with creative software. Students also have access to robust online databases and research tools such as JSTOR and ProQuest, among others. These resources support a wealth of student research activities and foster an atmosphere of academic excellence.

Labs and Research Facilities

At the Academy of Art, students have access to numerous high-tech labs and research facilities spread across different disciplines. There are several Photography studios and Art production labs for hands-on learning and experimentation. Facilities such as the Nikon Imaging Lab and Academy Resource Center offer industry-standard equipment for student use and research.

Athletic Facilities and Grounds

Sports play an integral part in student life at the Academy of Art with a range of athletic facilities. These include a fully-equipped fitness center, sports courts for basketball and volleyball, and sports grounds. The Fitness Center also offers wellness programs to balance physical health with busy academic schedules.

Housing

The Academy of Art University offers on-campus housing options designed to suit different needs. Students can choose from traditional style residence halls to apartment-style living. Themed housing communities also exist, encouraging students with similar interests or academic focus to live together. All residences come with 24/7 security, Wi-Fi, and access to communal spaces.

Social and Recreational Spots

Students at the Academy are spoiled for choice when it comes to social and recreational spots. The campus features various student lounges, cafes and the ARTCafe serving delicious food. Off-campus, students can explore San Francisco's rich cultural scene with countless restaurants, museums, and shops nearby.

Special Attractions

The Academy of Art is a unique attraction in itself with its urban San Francisco location. The iconic Cannery campus, a significant architectural landmark houses art galleries, classrooms, and offices. Across campuses, exhibitions, and student showcases offer cultural and social engagement. Additionally, the Academy's Spring Show is a highly anticipated annual event showcasing the best of student work.

Notable Alumni

Lee Unkrich

Film Director

Debbie Sterling

Entrepreneur

Kara Walker

Artist

Andrea Wong

Media Executive

Scott Belsky

Entrepreneur

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FAQs

Is Academy of Art University a good university?

Academy of Art University is well-regarded for its focus on art and design education. It offers a wide range of programs in various creative fields and provides students with access to industry-standard facilities and experienced faculty. The university emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, which is beneficial for students pursuing careers in the arts.

How do I get admission to Academy of Art University?

To gain admission to Academy of Art University, prospective students need to complete an online application form, submit a portfolio of their work if required for their program, and provide official transcripts from previous educational institutions. The university has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts students with varying academic backgrounds, but a strong portfolio can enhance an applicant's chances.

Is Academy of Art University public or private?

Academy of Art University is a private, for-profit university located in San Francisco, California. It was founded in 1929 and is one of the largest private art and design schools in the United States.

Why choose Academy of Art University?

Students choose Academy of Art University for its specialized programs in art and design, its location in the culturally vibrant city of San Francisco, and its focus on providing practical, industry-relevant education. The university offers a variety of degree programs and has a strong network of alumni working in creative industries.

Is Academy of Art University good for international students?

Academy of Art University is a welcoming environment for international students, offering support services such as visa assistance, language support, and cultural integration programs. The diverse student body and the university's location in San Francisco, a city known for its cultural diversity, make it an attractive option for international students.

What is the ranking of Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University is not typically ranked in traditional national university rankings due to its specialized focus on art and design. However, it is recognized for its strong programs in these fields and its emphasis on practical, hands-on education.

What is the pass rate for Academy of Art University?

Specific pass rates for Academy of Art University are not publicly disclosed. However, the university is committed to student success and provides resources such as tutoring, career services, and academic advising to help students achieve their educational goals.

How many students are at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University has a student population of approximately 8,000 students, including both undergraduate and graduate students. The university offers a wide range of programs in art and design disciplines.

How hard is it to get into Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University has an open admissions policy, which means it is generally accessible to a wide range of students. While the university does not have strict academic requirements, prospective students are encouraged to submit a strong portfolio to demonstrate their skills and potential in their chosen field.

Is Academy of Art University accredited?

Yes, Academy of Art University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Accreditation ensures that the university meets certain standards of quality and that its degrees are recognized by employers and other institutions.

Who are the notable alumni of Academy of Art University and what are their professions?

Notable alumni of Academy of Art University include fashion designer Kara Laricks, Pixar animator and director Dice Tsutsumi, and visual effects artist Jan Philip Cramer. These alumni have made significant contributions to their respective fields in fashion, animation, and visual effects.

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