Explore Academy of Art University as International Students

Academy of Art University attracts talents from all over the globe. With students and alumni hailing from 115 countries worldwide, Academy of Art University has a diverse international student population that perfectly fits San Francisco, the place we have called home since 1929. On this page, learn more about our programs, language supports, online education, career opportunities, housing, and applying to, and attending the Academy as an international student.

Degree Options

Academy of Art University offers over 120 degree options including Certificates, A.A., B.A., B.Arch, B.F.A., B.S., M.A., M.Arch, M.A.T, and M.FA and more than 40 areas of study. In addition, we offer Continuing Education and Study Abroad, as well as Pre-College Art Experience (PCAE), which is specifically designed for current high school students.

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Explore Our Academic Programs

Choose from more than 30 areas of study and fulfill your creative potential while learning from nationally recognized art and design experts

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Animation & Visual Effects

AA BFA Certificate MA MFA

Communications & Media Technologies

BA MA

Fashion Design

BFA Certificate MA MFA

Fine Art

AA BFA Certificate MA MFA

Game Development

AA BFA MA MFA

Graphic Design

AA BFA Certificate MA MFA

Photography

AA BFA Certificate MA MFA

Web Design & New Media

AA BFA Certificate MA MFA

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English Language Support

The EAP program at Academy of Art University has been a leader in the field of content-based language teaching for over 25 years. Nationally, the Academy was among the first universities to integrate major-specific language support into English language teaching. The EAP curriculum is authored by our own faculty and tailored specifically to align with the students’ specific art and design majors at the school. Learn More

EAP Classes

Will increase your language development and language learning autonomy. EAP classes prepare you with the vocabulary you need for your art and design field. Learn More

Language Support for Onsite and Online Classes

You’ll receive support from a language teacher in both onsite and online art and design classes. Learn More

Speaking, Writing, and Language Support Labs

As an English language learner, you’ll receive tutoring for both writing and speaking assignments. Learn More

We are here to help!

Our international admissions representatives are here to help you with the admissions process and can answer questions from language support training to housing and more.

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Online Education

Learn Online

As an early pioneer in online learning, our online programs are designed to provide the same quality of education as what we offer on-campus students, but with greater flexibility. Find Out More

Built-in Career Prep Opportunities

Our goal at Academy of Art University is student success. The Academy experience is packed with career-building opportunities so that you can start your creative career when you leave here. These opportunities give students the skills needed to hit the ground running the moment they turn pro. Your first day of class is the first day of your career.

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COMPANIES THAT HAVE HIRED OUR GRADUATES

Employment Opportunities

The Academy does provide support and guidance around employment eligibility both while you’re attending school and afterwards.

CPT (Curricular Practical Training) CPT is considered short term employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum and directly related to the student’s major field of study. It allows students to gain practical experience while in school and is authorized by the International Office. The International Office authorizes CPT for internships and CPT for short term employment.
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OPT (Optional Practical Training) OPT is considered temporary employment that is directly related to the student’s major field of study. It allows students to gain practical experience either while in school (pre-completion OPT) or after program completion (post-completion OPT).
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STEM 24 Month Extension This is a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT for students with a STEM degree. The core purpose is to supplement your academic knowledge with practical experience in your major area of study.
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Student Life

Discover life at the Academy and find your artistic home in SF. Get involved in your campus culture, connect with others and find support to help you succeed.

Living in SF Campus Safety Clubs & Organizations Dining

Explore theater, concert, and comedy events whether you're searching for the best Broadway musicals, or award winning plays, live music concerts, or at the very latest in live comedy.

Housing

Housing is guaranteed for all new, full-time onsite students. We have 17 different housing options to choose from located in the heart of San Francisco near all of our academic buildings.

Housing Overview

International Student Resources

Getting Started

Get help on when you can start school, how to apply, costs, and documents.

Scholarships How to Apply Tuition & Fees Documents

Contact International Admissions

Email: intladmissions@academyart.edu Phone: 1-415-274-2200 or 1-800-544-2787 Fax: 1-415-618-6278

Mailing Address

Academy of Art University Attn: International Admissions 79 New Montgomery St. San Francisco, CA 94105

Are you ready to apply?

Request Info Apply Now

Our international admissions team is here to help answer any questions you may have. Contact intladmissions@academyart.edu or 1-415-274-2208.