Academy of Art University is a private, for-profit institution specializing in arts and design education from its urban campus in San Francisco and through innovative online programs. Established in 1929, the university has grown to become one of the largest private art schools in the country, offering over 30 areas of study across its schools of Architecture, Fine Art, Design, and Communications. The university's urban campus spans multiple buildings in downtown San Francisco, including the 160,000 sq ft 79 New Montgomery building and the Cannery galleries and studios.
AAU offers associate through master's degree programs with particular strengths in illustration, fashion design, and game development that reflect industry demands. The university's 'School of Entertainment' maintains strong Hollywood connections, while its 'School of Fashion' hosts the acclaimed annual Graduation Fashion Show. AAU's online programs provide flexible education options through interactive platforms that replicate studio experiences. The university's emphasis on professional preparation is evidenced by its 'Creative Careers' department that connects students with industry opportunities. AAU's unique approach combines traditional art school training with cutting-edge technology across all disciplines.
Academy of Art University Acceptance Rate
Academy of Art University maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 100%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.
Admissions Guidelines
- Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
- Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Academy of Art University Admission Requirements
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Academy of Art University Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Academy of Art University Profile
Name: Academy of Art University
City: San Francisco
URL: www.academyart.edu/
State: California
Type: Private for Profit
Zip: 94105
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
Can I Get Into Academy of Art University Without SAT Or ACT?: The admission test score (SAT/ACT) policy for Academy of Art University is unknown. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test 4 to 5 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
Does a degree from Academy of Art University Worth It?
Getting into Academy of Art University can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Academy of Art University offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Academy of Art University is USD: 74015.06 and unemployment rate is 3.35%.
How much does a degree from Academy of Art University Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Academy of Art University is USD: 47195. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Academy of Art University is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
41.76% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 50.49 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Academy of Art University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Academy of Art University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Academy of Art University as your choice in the form.
How much a Academy of Art University Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 39008. An average Academy of Art University graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Apparel and Textiles
- Architecture
- Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer Programming
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Design and Applied Arts
- Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
Frequently Asked Questions About Academy of Art University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $39008 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $47195 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are excellent, with more than a 80% chance, depending on your academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Academy of Art University.
Last Updated: Saturday February 07, 2026
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in November 2025, US Department of Education's latest statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.