Soldier salutes in camouflage, dividing image with a black line; artist crouches, painting on canvas in a studio.

Military & Veterans Education

We welcome veterans, those on active or reserve duty, and their families. At the Academy, we believe artists and soldiers share the same traits, passion, dedication, discipline, and vision. Our “No Barriers” admission policy opens the doors to all who believe in their artistic potential, regardless of their prior artistic experience.

As a member of the military and veteran community, you have needs that go beyond education; the Academy offers substantial resources to meet those needs. We have dedicated advisors who can answer all of your questions about finances, life at the Academy, and our educational offerings. To start your journey at the Academy, give us a call or schedule a meeting by clicking the button below.

Schedule your career planning session today!




Please enter numbers only





By submitting this form, I give express written consent to receive communications from or on behalf of ArtU via email, text message, OTT app messages (e.g., WhatsApp), and/or phone calls (including mobile and automated/pre-recorded messages) at the contact information I provided. These communications will be about educational opportunities. I understand that:
  • Standard text and/or usage rates may apply.
  • My consent is not a condition of purchasing any goods or services or completing any application.
  • I may opt out of these communications at any time by contacting ArtU or using the opt-out mechanism provided in the messages.




A person works on a laptop using a stylus, focusing on digital art. Nearby, others engage similarly. A badge reads: "MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL '25-26 BRONZE."

Military Friendly®

Academy of Art University is recognized as one of the 2025-2026 Military Friendly® Schools.  The Military Friendly® School list is created each year to provide the best opportunities for veterans and their spouses by setting the standard for higher education institutions.  Institutions earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey completed by the school.  Academy of Art University is one of 830 schools that earned special awards for going above the standard out of more than 1,800 schools that participated in the 2025-2026 survey.

Veterans Resource Center

Academy of Art University recognizes the noble men and women who serve our country. To offer service in return, we provide opportunities to pursue creative entrepreneurship outside of the military. The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) is just one of the ways the Academy provides support for our military students. The VRC is a welcoming space that feels like a home away from home, a gathering place for a community of individuals with shared experiences.

Address: 79 New Montgomery St., Room 316, San Francisco, CA 94105
Summer Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00am-4:00pm PT
Fall/Spring Hours: Monday through Friday 9:00am-5:00pm PT
Email: VRC@academyart.edu

At the VRC, you can create, study, and relax with a community of individuals who share your background. Some of the resources we offer are:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Computers
  • Pool Table
  • Ping-Pong Table
  • Study Areas
  • Conference Room for Studying
A person sits on a couch, smiling, in a cozy, well-lit living room with wooden accents and a window showing greenery outside. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting.

Learn Online

Our revolutionary online courses provide the same rigorous education that we offer on campus, but offer you more flexibility. You can study on your own time, at your own pace. You always have to the option to take both online and onsite classes.

A person aims a pool cue on a billiard table while another stands nearby holding a cue. The setting is a recreational room with windows, a plant, and wall art.

ESO Information

If you are an Education Service Officer and would like to learn more about Academy of Art University events, or schedule an event on your base, please contact one of our representatives.

CONTACT US
Two people sit at a table, one wearing a blue jacket and cap, another in black. A red poinsettia and various plants decorate the office space. Framed photos and flags are visible.
Top Quote Icon
I am really enjoying the Game Design Track. I came to the Academy without any portfolio at all—the skills I am learning are invaluable.
Bottom Quote Icon


Ryan Smith

MFA Fine Art, Navy

A person with a short beard and tied-back hair looks forward. The background is blurred with colored geometric shapes, including green and blue, on the edges.
Academy of Art University Search Search Search Previous Next Previous Next Next Next Chat Quote Facebook Google Plus Instagram Pinterest Twitter YouTube LinkedIn TikTok WeHeartIt Download App Close