Is Academy of Art University worth it?
San Francisco, CA · private-for-profit
Verdict
Typical students pay $40,613 a year after aid, graduate with $31,000 in federal debt, and earn $30,452 six years after enrolling — an estimated monthly loan payment of $332, with a debt break-even of about 10.2 years.
Net price / year
$40,613
Admission rate
0%
Graduation rate
—
Median debt
$31,000
Earnings (6 yr)
$30,452
Earnings (10 yr)
$39,008
Est. monthly loan payment
$332
Loan-to-income ratio
102%
Debt break-even
10.2 years
How Academy of Art University compares
Managing the debt load
A median debt above $30,000 is a meaningful monthly commitment. Income-driven repayment plans and refinancing can lower the monthly payment shown above — compare options before you commit to a standard 10-year plan.
FAQ
How much does it cost to attend Academy of Art University?
The federal average net price after grants and scholarships is $40,613 a year. That figure reflects what a typical student actually pays after grants and scholarships, not the sticker price.
How much debt do Academy of Art University graduates typically carry?
Students who complete a program at Academy of Art University leave with a median federal debt of $31,000, based on the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.
What do Academy of Art University graduates earn?
Six years after enrolling, former students report median earnings of $30,452, drawn from federal tax records aggregated by the College Scorecard.
What is the graduation rate at Academy of Art University?
Graduation rate data is not currently published for this school.
Is Academy of Art University worth the debt?
Based on median debt and 6-year earnings, it would take roughly 10.2 years of 10% income allocation to pay off the typical debt load — compare that against your own expected major and career path before deciding.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.