San Francisco Art Institute

Overview

The San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI), founded in 1871, stands as a historic pillar of contemporary art education within the urban fabric of San Francisco, California, just minutes from downtown. The institute is housed predominantly in the iconic Russian Hill neighborhood, where the campus is characterized by its blend of traditional and modern architecture, including the noteworthy Spanish Colonial Revival style of its main building. As a specialized institution for the arts, SFAI offers undergraduate and graduate programs focusing primarily on contemporary art, with notable emphasis on photography and painting. SFAI does not have a significant athletic program, as its focus remains steadfast on artistic disciplines. The college provides on-campus housing options for its students in a residential setting that encourages immersion in the creative and cultural landscape of San Francisco. SFAI's application process is regarded as selective, seeking students with a strong predisposition for creativity and innovation in the arts.

  52 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 18 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $45,664 plus fees of $400.