Enrollment
How can I enroll?
The Academy of Art University maintains an open admissions policy for all persons who wish to obtain an education in visual arts. You may register, pay tuition, and apply for admission online, by phone, or by fax. New students must first apply. Continuing students need only submit the registration form by obtaining the class number and title from the online schedule.
Students who wish to apply for the MA, MFA, or M.ARCH Graduate Studies programs must also submit a statement of intent and submit a portfolio that demonstrates a comprehensive body of work, with a level of specialization representing the student's chosen discipline. In addition, official transcripts showing completion of a four-year college degree resulting in a BA, BS, or BFA degree (or the equivalent) are required.
Apply or register online
For additional information about applying by phone or mail, please call: 1.800.544.2787 (ARTS) or 415.274.2222. Continuing students who prefer to register by phone or fax should call 415.263.4158 415-618-6508. International students interested in studying on campus should call 415-274-2208.
Can I transfer credits from another school toward an Academy of Art University program?
For the Second Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA2) degree, a maximum of 66 units of the required 132 units will be awarded upon receipt of an official collegiate transcript demonstrating proof of a completed Bachelor’s degree. Department Directors may waive Major Core and Major by Advisement coursework based on a portfolio review.
In order to transfer credits toward a major, students must have a portfolio review with their Department Director during their first semester. Students should communicate with an Admissions Representative or Academic Advisor to confirm all transfer units.
Transfer evaluations are conducted during the first semester at Academy of Art University and are considered final. Any appeals must be presented to Admissions Transfer Office by the end of the first semester. Transcripts received after the completion of the first semester will not be reviewed for transfer credit.
Undergraduate Residency requirement: Students must complete a minimum of 50% of required units at Academy of Art University.
MFA students may transfer a maximum of six (6) credits from graduate studies at other institutions for credit toward the degree. Credit is transferred to the Academy only if the courses taken at the previous institution are relevant to the student’s studies and independent Final Project.
The Academy takes the following factors into consideration in making this determination:
- The course description published in the other institution's materials
- Number of credit hours awarded for the work done
- The grade received in the course
- The work project generated by the student from the course
For additional information, contact us at:
Online: Request Information
New Domestic Students Admissions Office: 1.800.544.2787 or 415.274.2222
New International Students Admissions Office: 1.800.544.2787 or 415.274.2208
Will I have an academic advisor?
All students are assigned academic advisors to guide them through their academic careers.
Am I eligible for financial aid?
The Financial Aid Office strives to assist financial aid applicants in any manner possible. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for conditions and requirements.
How much does it cost and where do I pay?
Tuition for online courses is the same as for in-person courses; however, nearly all online courses do not assess lab fees. For more information about tuition at the Academy of Art University, view the Tuition Information page.
Students may choose between a variety of billing options, including employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs and installment payment plans. Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study jobs are also available. Payments may be made online, in person, or by mail.
New Students: Request Information
Continuing Students: info@academyart.edu