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Academy of Art University: Overview, Rankings, Fees & Courses
- Private University
1 Campus- Estd. 1929
Talk to Expert
- About Academy of Art University
- Academy of Art University Programs
- Academy of Art University Scholarships 2024
- Academy of Art University Admission Dates 2024
- Academy of Art University
- Academy of Art University Placements
- Academy of Art University Shiksha Evaluation University Ranking 2024
- Academy of Art University College comparison
- Studying in USA
- Academy of Art University FAQs
About Academy of Art University
The admissions at the Academy of Art University are done on a rolling basis and there is no specific admission deadline for international applicants.
Others
65%
Hispanic
17%
Black
10%
Asian
6%
Out of state
52%
In state
37%
Foreign
9%
24 and under
56%
25 and over
43%
Overall Graduation Rate
UG Enrollment
PG Enrollment
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Q: Why Indian students choose to study at Academy of Art University?
Indian students opt for the Academy of Art University for various reasons:
Rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning: The university is renowned for its challenging curriculum and hands-on learning environment, allowing students to gain practical experience in their chosen fields.
Wide range of programs: With over 120 programs spanning 40+ areas of study, including art, design, animation, fashion, and film, the university caters to diverse interests and goals.
Industry-leading facilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, labs, and classrooms, students have access to tools and equipment used by professionals.
Expert faculty: The university boasts a faculty of experienced artists and designers dedicated to teaching and helping students succeed.
Collaborative environment: Fostering a collaborative setting, students can learn from each other and build valuable networks.
Strong alumni network: With over 100,000 professionals in its alumni network, the university provides valuable connections and post-graduation opportunities.
Support for international students: Offering an English for Art Purposes (EAP) programme and support teachers in various classes, the university aids international students in improving English language skills and navigating their academic journey.
Location: Situated in San Francisco, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene and cultural attractions, the Academy of Art University is an ideal place for Indian students interested in art and design.
Q: Is it possible to get into Academy of Art University's MBA programme without work experience?
Having a work experience can definitely enhance your application to Academy of Art University's (AAU) Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, it's not an absolute requirement for admission. AAU values diverse backgrounds and understands not everyone starts an MBA programme straight from work. To improve your chances of getting into AAU's MBA programme without work experience you need to have -
1) a strong GPA
2) Competitive GMAT or GRE test scores
3) Strong essays highloghting your motivation for an MBA, career goals, and how AAU's programme aligns with your aspirations. Highlight relevant leadership, volunteering, or extracurricular activities
4) Present your portfolio of your work
5) Letters of recommendation
6) Emphasize transferable skills from internships, freelance work, or personal projects
7) Attend virtual sessions, connect with students or alumni, and ask the admissions office questions. Showing interest can make a positive impression
Q: Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at Academy Of art University?
As per online sources, it looks like you can get a part-time job while studying at the Academy of Art University. The university provides job opportunities for students who want to work. Students can gain work experience by working in the university's dining services and can also find remote work-from-home jobs. There are part-time instructor positions available in different fields too. However, how easy it is to get a part-time job depends on factors like your qualifications, availability, and how many other students are competing for the same positions. There are various resources on campus that you can utilize to look for part time jobs like AAU Career Center, AAU Dining services, libraries and other departmenrs, AAU events where you can network.
Q: What is the Academy of Art University famous for?
The Academy of Art University is a private university that started in 1929. It used to be called the Academy of Art College and was created by Richard S. Stephens as a School for Advertising Art. In 1933, they added a course for fashion illustration, and in 1936, they started the Fine Art department.
The Academy of Art University places a strong emphasis on creative fields, offering a variety of programs in fine art, design, and digital media that attract aspiring artists, designers, and game developers. The university is proud of its distinguished faculty, consisting of practicing artists and industry professionals. AAU's approach to education involves intensive, hands-on learning, with a focus on practical skills and portfolio development. The university's strong connections with industry leaders, coupled with its location in San Francisco, a hub for tech and creative industries
Q: Will my life on campus be better at Academy of Art University than staying off-campus?
There is no specific source that concludes whether living on campus is better than off-campus at the Academy of Art University. The university has housing on campus, but it is not mandatory for new students. However, most students still choose to stay in the dorms. The university has students from 115 countries, and it is known for having a tough curriculum, hands-on learning, and a good network of alumni. Hence it is a good idea to stay on campus as it will help you interact with other students and access university facilities at your cnvenience. They offer a lot of programs in different areas like art, design, animation, fashion, and film. When deciding whether to live on or off-campus, it is important to think about what you like, your budget, and the location.
Academy of Art University Programs
Academy of Art University offers more than 129 degree courses to international students every year. Some of the popular study areas and subjects at the university include Design and Visual Communications; Graphic Design; Animation; Illustration and Photography. The BTech courses at the university have a duration of 4 years and offer some of the following specializations:
- Animation and Visual Effects
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Industrial Design
- Visual Development
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: What is the most preferred course by Indian students at Academy of Art University?
There is no specific answer for the most prefered course by Indian students at the Academy of Art University. However, the most sought after courses at the school are as follows -
- Illustration Program: As per student reviews, the programme is good and students have a good time at the university.
- English for Art Purposes (EAP) Program: This is for students who don't meet the university's basic requirements and need to improve their English skills before starting their chosen program.
Also, other popular majors at Academy of Art University are Animation, Video Graphics, and Special Effects, Drafting and Design (CAD/CADD), Computer Graphics, Cinematography, Fashion, Apparel design, Photography etc.
Q: What are people's opinions on the Academy of Art University for MIM?
Online sources suggest that there are mixed reviews regarding the Academy of Art University. Students appreciate the university's resources, faculty, and the quality of education imparted over there. Yet other students think that the cost of attending the university is too high, lack of diversity amongst professors & faculty amongst other things. As per students surveys, many of them said that graduating from Academy of Art University has given a boost to their careers. According to other sources, the university has an overall score of 3.5 stars. Faculty is usually considered to be supportive and students also felt that the curriculum was more immersive & fun than they expected.
Q: What is the best programme offered at Academy of Art University?
The Academy of Art University provides over 900 Art and Design classes via 22 different schools and 14 STEM programs. The university comprises 129 Arts degree programs including Associate degrees, Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees, and certificate courses. The institution offers hard and demanding post-secondary education in a variety of subjects. Some best programs at the Academy of Art University are Game Development; Industrial Design; Illustration; Visual Development; Animation and Visual Effects; Game Programming, Illustration, Graphic Design; and more.
Academy of Art University Scholarships 2024
Academy of Art University offers a range of scholarships and grants for international students every year. The university is also known to provide students with financial aid opportunities and some of the types of financial aid offered are given as follows:
- Federal and State Aid
- Federal Loan Interest Rates
- Federal Work Study
A few of the scholarships offered at the university for international students are given as follows:
- All Star Verified Scholarship
-
Johnny Chen Media Content Writing Annual Scholarship Contest
- Uncommon Goods Scholarship
- The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant
Students can check the Scholarships to Study in USA for International Students 2024
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at Academy of Art University?
As per sources, the Academy of Art University (AAU) has a high acceptance rate and does not need scores from tests like the SAT or ACT for most programs. But you have to keep the below points in mind before applying for scholarhips:
- Graduate Scholarship: Having a high GPA is helpful, even though there is no specific minimum as such
- All Star Verified Scholarship: You need at least a 3.0 GPA if you are in high school or college and a 3.5 GPA if you are in graduate school.
- HEST for Indian Students: You should get a good score on the HEST exam, usually above the 50th percentile.
- Education Future International Scholarship: They want you to have a good academic record with a high GPA.
Most AAU scholarships care a lot about your portfolio, which is a collection of your art. Your scores or grades are not as important. Other requirements for scholarships are proofs of financial crunch, having done some community service, essays and extra curricular activities.
Q: What are the top scholarships for Indian Students at Academy of Art University and how to avail them?
Online sources do not suggest any specific group of scholarships just for students from India at the Academy of Art University (AAU). But, Indian students can still apply for various scholarships meant for international students. These scholarships are often given based on how well you do in your studies or if you need financial help. Here are a few top scholarship options available -
- Graduate Scholarship: Gives up to $2,000 for new graduate students based on essays and portfolio reviews. You can apply from November to August.
- All Star Verified Scholarship: A merit-based scholarship worth $1,000 for high school, college, and graduate students. Deadlines for applying can vary.
- Roshan Rahbari Scholarship Fund: Helps excellent community college students with financial needs who are transferring to schools like AAU. You need to be a California resident, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, do community service, and show financial need.
- Higher Education Scholarship Test for Indian Students (HEST): This scholarship is specifically for deserving students from India going for postgraduate studies abroad. You need a good score on the HEST exam and meet certain requirements.
- Education Future International Scholarship: For international students doing undergraduate or graduate studies in the USA. You need to have a strong academic record, write an essay, and show that you are in need of financial help.
Q: Can you get a scholarship for the Academy of Art University?
International students at the Academy of Art University are eligible for Achievement Scholarship. A limited number of scholarship awards are available up to USD 5,000 (INR 4L). This scholarship will be disbursed into two disbursements over the academic year of students. Some of the eligibility requirements of this scholarship are given below:
- The recipients must be undergraduate or graduate students at the Academy of Art University
- The recipients must be eligible non-citizen or a US citizen
- The recipients must still be enrolled in minimum 3 classes (9 units) by the published semester start date and should successfully earn a term GPA of 2.0 or greater with a minimum of 9 units completed
- The recipients must still be enrolled in a minimum 3 classes (9 units) by the subsequent semester registration deadline
(USD 1=INR 83.16)
Also Read: Scholarships to Study in USA for International Students
Academy of Art University Admission Dates 2024
Academy of Art University accepts admissions during the Fall, Spring and Summer intakes every year. The applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
- Application fees :USD 50 - 150
- Type of deadline :Regular
Documents| Type of documents | Applicable for |
|---|---|
| SOP | Not required |
| LOR | Not required |
| Essays | Not required |
| CV | Needed for few courses |
| Additional documents | Required |
Important dates| Intake season | Deadline |
|---|
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: Is it difficult to get into the university?
Q: Is there a deadline to apply to the university?
Q: What is the application fee to apply for the university?
Q: Can an average Indian student join Academy of Art University?
Yes, it is possible for an average Indian student join Academy of Art University. Below are a few highlights of the admission process
1) Open Admissions Policy: Unlike many universities, AAU doesn't require high grades or test scores. This means students with different academic backgrounds can apply.
2) Focus on Portfolio: AAU cares a lot about your portfolio, which is a collection of your artistic work. Even if your grades aren't perfect, a strong portfolio can make it more likely for you to get accepted.
3) English Language Proficiency: If you are from another country, it is important to be good at English to get accepted. AAU accepts scores from tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE to show how well you can use the English language.
The challenges that you might face are competition from other global students, AAU's high tuition fees & cultural adjustment.
Q: What are the deadlines to submit applications for Indian students at Academy Of Art University?
Indian students applying to the Academy of Art University (AAU) don't have specific deadlines just for them. For Undergraduate Admissions, you can apply at any time during the year, but there are specific dates to keep in mind. For Spring Semester, apply the latest by October 15th for a scholarship or financial aid and by 1st of December for a regular admission. April 1st is the deadline for financial aid when it comes to Summer semester and May 15th for normal admissions. For Fall, apply by 1st June for financial aid and July 15th for regular admission process. For Graduate Admissions, most programs have a deadline of March 1st for Fall semester admission. Some programs might have later deadlines for Spring or Summer semesters. You should check programme specific deadlines from the university website.
Academy of Art University
Academy of Art University offers admissions for international students and some of the requirements for the application are given as follows:
- Official Transcripts
- Bank Letters
- Affidavit of Support
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Passport and Visa Documents
- Portfolio/CV
- Letters of Recommendation
Students can read about the Admission Intakes in US Universities 2024-25
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
B.Arch(3 courses) | INR 24 L | Duration: 4-5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
M.Arch(6 courses) | INR 21 L - 43 L | Duration: 1 year-3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
B.E. / B.Tech(9 courses) | INR 24 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
MS(5 courses) | INR 21 L - 28 L | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
MFA(3 courses) | INR 21 L - 28 L | Duration: 3 years-42 months Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
BBA(1 course) | INR 24 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
MBA/PGDM(1 course) | INR 28 L | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
MIM(1 course) | INR 28 L | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
B.J.M.C.(1 course) | INR 24 L | Duration: 4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
M.A.(1 course) | INR 21 L | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
Q: Is Academy of Art University Expensive?
Q: How expensive is it to live at Academy of Art University?
Housing Costs at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California:
- On-campus room: $12,944
- On-campus meals: $6,542
- Books and supplies: $1,126
- Other living expenses: $3,186
Meal plans have specific semester costs:
- Fall and spring: $4,811
- Summer: $2,519
Application, Registration, and Enrollment Fees:
- Application fee: $50 (one-time)
- Registration fee: $50 (per semester)
- Enrollment fee: $100 (for new applicants only)
Estimated Undergraduate Expenses for a Full-time Student (current academic year):
- Total: $31,836
After Scholarships and Grants:
- Total cost: $32,593
- 49% of students receive financial aid.
Q: Is a score of 85 in TOEFL good for Academy of Art University?
A TOEFL score of 85 surpasses the Academy of Art University's (AAU) minimum requirement of 79, making it more than satisfactory for meeting basic English proficiency standards for admission. However, the strength of this score for obtaining a scholarship or competing for a spot in your chosen programme depends on various factors -
Specific scholarship criteria: Some AAU scholarships may demand higher TOEFL scores. Review the requirements for each scholarship of interest from the University website
Program competitiveness: Highly sought-after programs, such as Animation and Visual Effects or Fashion Design, may attract applicants with higher TOEFL scores and they may have an edge over you.
Overall application strength: Your portfolio, academic history, essay, and other application materials significantly influence scholarship decisions and programme admissions.
TOEFL score breakdown:
80-90: Meets AAU's minimum requirement but may not be highly competitive for top scholarships or selective programs.
90-100: Considered a good score, improving chances for scholarships and competitive programs.
100+: An excellent score that makes your application stand out, potentially increasing scholarship opportunities.
Q: How much money is required in Indian rupees to study at Academy of Art University?
As per online sources, the initial tuition fees for the first year of courses at the Academy of Art University vary between INR 21–28 lakhs. Additionally, undergraduate applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of US $50.
The approximately yearly cost for international students at the Academy of Art University ranges from approximately $45,540 to $58,350 USD. As per exchange rates, this translates to an estimated cost in Indian rupees of around INR 37,94,000 to INR 48,54,000 per year. It is crucial to keep in mind that the overall cost of studying at the university may differ based on factors like the chosen program, housing, meals, books, supplies, and personal expenses.
Q: What is the application fee for Academy of Art University?
Students must pay USD 50 (INR 4K) to apply at the Academy of Art University. After applying and getting shortlisted, students must pay the tuition cost, registration fee, activity fee, material/supply cost, course fees, and more. As per the official source, the estimated total cost of attendance is around USD 40K (INR 33L). Students can check the table below for the estimated cost for undergraduate students:
Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Application Fee | USD 50/one-time fee (INR 4K) |
Registration Fee | USD 50/semester (INR 4K) |
Enrollment Fee | USD 100 - new applicants only (INR 8K) |
International Student Services Fee | USD 300 - onsite only (INR 24K) |
Student Activity Fee | USD 30/semester, onsite only (INR 2.4K) |
Student Tuition Recovery Fund | USD 0/average one-time fee for students who are California residents or onsite |
Tuition Deposit | USD 2,500 - will go towards tuition upon enrollment (INR 2L) |
Course Fees | USD 1,500/average per semester (onsite students), varies by programme (INR 1.2L) |
Materials/Supplies | USD 531/average per semester (INR 4.4K) |
Tuition | USD 35,112 for 24 units/4 classes per semester (INR 29L) |
Total | USD 39,684/estimated undergraduate expenses for a full-time student for the current academic year (INR 33L) |
(USD 1=INR 83.62)
Academy of Art University Placements
The Career Services Center at the Academy of Art University offers a range of services to students to fulfill their professional and career goals. Some of the career services provided at the university are given as follows:
- Individualized Support
- Cover Letter and Resume
- Resume Review
- Portfolio Review
- Interview Preparation
Students can also check the Top In-Demand Jobs for Indian Students in the USA
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: What are the popular sectors that Indian students prefer for doing part-time jobs at Academy of Art University?
There is no specific anwers as to which types of part-time jobs Indian students like at the Academy of Art University. But, the university has jobs for students who are motivated and like to start things on their own. Students can also work in the dining services to get experience and work with a team. There are also jobs that can be done from home. The university also has part-time teaching positions in different subjects like architecture, jewelery and metal arts, and structural engineering. It is important to know that the type of part-time job you can get depends on things like your qualifications, interests, and the competition.
Q: What are the job opportunities after doing MIM from Academy of Art University, USA?
Online sources don not give out specific details about jobs after finishing a Master's in Management (MIM) programme at the Academy of Art University in the USA. Even though the information mostly talks about the university's art and design programs, its facilities, and the student experience, the university is known for helping its graduates find jobs in prestigious creative companies worldwide. Keep in mind that job opportunities after finishing the MIM programme can be different for each student based on their qualifications, interests, and the university's reputation in a specific field. To get a clearer picture of job opportunities after the MIM programme at the Academy of Art University, it is a good idea to directly contact the university's admissions office or academic advisors.
Academy of Art UniversityCollege comparison
Compare Academy of Art University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Shiksha Grade | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
Academy of Art University | INR 23.62 L | -/- | -/- |
Woodbury University  Compare | INR 37.83 L | -/- | -/- |
University of Houston Compare | INR 18.7 L | B++ | #651 QS, 2025 |
CCA Compare | INR 48.83 L | -/- | -/- |
NYCCT Compare | INR 12.88 L | -/- | -/- |
USM Compare | INR 9.7 L | C | #299 US News, 2024 |
Academy of Art UniversityStudying in USA
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Academy of Art University FAQs
Q: What is the undergraduate population at the university?
Q: What is the student-faculty ratio of the university?
Academy of Art University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 months ago
After fulfilling the basic eligibility for the desired program, students must apply via the university portal and submit the necessary documents to complete the Academy of Art University application process. The admission requirements for UG and PG programs vary according to the specializations. The
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
To get admission to the Academy of Art University, international students must follow the guidelines listed below:
Step 1: Select a program: International students can select among 129 Arts degree programs if they fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Complete the application: For admission to un
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Academy of Art University is one of the renowned universities in San Francisco. It offers a wide range of programs in specializations, such as Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Fashion, Animation, and more. With over 12,000 students and faculties, the university provides quality education and believes in i
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
With a 100% acceptance rate, the Academy of Art University is easy to get into and requires no such tips, still, students with different backgrounds may require a few tips to increase their selection probability. Here are some tips for gaining admission to the Academy of Art University:
- Score high ac
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
International students must pay the Academy of Art University application fee of USD 50 (INR 4k) for undergraduate or graduate admission. Students can choose a programme from over 129 Arts degrees and check the eligibility criteria. However, admission eligibility is easy and the university accepts e
A
Contributor-Level 10
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Academy of Art University
Campus Building
Campus Building
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Academy of Art UniversityLocation
| University City | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 8,84,363 |
Academy of Art UniversityCampuses
79 New Montgomery St. San Francisco, CA 94105
Visit official siteAcademy of Art UniversityContact Information
79 New Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
San Francisco ( California)
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Academy of Art University Popular & recent articles
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