Top 15 Art Schools in New York, USA

New York is home to some outstanding art schools that can transform your perspective on art and shape your career. Ready to broaden your artistic horizons? Discover the 15 top art colleges in New York City here!

Why Study Arts in New York?

New York City is a vibrant hub for culture, art, and music, making it one of the best places to study the arts. The city offers a diverse range of art programs, from associate degrees to doctoral studies, catering to all levels of aspiring artists. Some institutions even welcome high school students, providing them with a taste of the exciting art school experience.

Home to some of the world’s finest galleries and museums, NYC offers students unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the art scene. Whether it’s visiting iconic institutions or attending gallery openings, the city is alive with artistic inspiration. Read the blog to learn more about the 15 best art schools in the US!

School of Visual Arts New York City

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City stands out as one of the top art colleges in New York. This private institution offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree with 11 specializations, including animation, film, advertising, interior design, and various non-major programs. SVA also features a Pre-College program to prepare high school students for undergraduate studies.

At the graduate level, SVA provides over 20 programs, emphasizing in-depth research and practical experience in diverse fields. Students can pursue a Master of Art in Curatorial Practice, Design Research, Writing, or Criticism and a Master of Fine Arts in several disciplines. Additionally, SVA offers a Master of Professional Studies in areas like Art Therapy, Directing, and Fashion Photography, ensuring a comprehensive education in the art.

Tuition fee: INR 20.3 L/Yr

Term/Semester	Spring Intake	Summer Intake	Fall Intake
Deadline	October 1, 2024	April 1, 2025	May 1, 2025

The School of Visual Arts in New York is also a member of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design.

SUNY Binghamton (Binghamton, NY)

SUNY Binghamton is a respectable name among the best art schools in the US and a top public university in New York. It offers students the chance to earn both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. The BFA program allows specialization in areas like drawing and graphic design, while the BA program supports double majors and includes disciplines such as photography and sculpture.

Students complete studio courses before the Senior Exhibition Seminar, showcasing their work. For additional artistic experience, the Studio Minor offers a focused six-course program in various mediums. Recognized as one of the top art colleges in New York, Binghamton University ranks #1001-1200 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

Tuition Fee: $28,000 (28,40,940)/year

Application Type	Early Action	Regular Decision	Tuition Fee
Deadline	Nov 1, 2024	Jan 15, 2025	$28,000/year

Rochester Institute of Technology

At RIT, design students tackle creative challenges like building a chair from a paper coffee cup and other simple materials in just three hours. This hands-on approach enhances their creativity and essential skills, preparing them for careers at top companies like IDEO and Apple.

As one of the best art schools in New York 2024, RIT features one of the most enormous cooperative education programs, providing students with valuable industry experience. Ranked among the top five schools for co-op and internship programs by U.S. News and World Report 2024, RIT offers over 150 academic programs, including 63 accelerated dual-degree options for international students. 

Tuition Fee: ₹47.08 Lakh/year

Timeline	Application Deadline
Early Decision I	November 1st 2024
Early Decision II	January 1st 2025
Regular Decision	January 15th 2025

Colgate University, Hamilton, New York

Colgate University, located in the charming town of Hamilton, is a leading institution among art colleges in New York, known for its strong fine and studio art programs. A private, non-profit liberal arts college, Colgate is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of just 17%, receiving 17,540 applications for the class of 2025 and admitting only 3,015 students. It ranks #30 nationally out of 2,576 schools, making it one of the top institutions in the U.S.

The university’s campus is consistently praised for its architectural beauty and picturesque setting, nestled on a hillside with a nearby lake. In recent years, approximately 17 students graduated from Colgate’s fine and studio art program. Offering 56 undergraduate majors and a small graduate program in Master of Arts in Teaching, Colgate provides a robust academic environment for aspiring artists.

Tuition Fee: INR 49.9 L – 56.06 L/year

Application	Deadline
Early Decision I	November 15 2024
Decision Release	Mid-December
Early Decision II & Regular Decision	January 15 2025
Decision Release	Mid-March

Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, New York

Cooper Union, located in Cooper Square, New York City, is one of the best art schools in the US. Founded in 1859, this private non-profit institution follows a progressive model of education that prioritizes accessibility for all, regardless of race, religion, or gender. Each admitted student receives a half-tuition scholarship valued at $22,275 per year, while seniors are awarded a full-tuition scholarship worth $44,550 annually. The college ranks #95 out of 2,576 schools nationally.

Cooper Union is home to three prestigious schools: the Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture, the School of Art, and the Albert Nerken School of Engineering, offering degrees in architecture, fine arts, and engineering. With around 61 fine and studio art graduates, Cooper Union is recognized as one of the top art colleges in New York. The university’s commitment to excellence continues, consistently placing its programs among the best in the country.

School	Application Type	Deadline
Albert Nerken School of Engineering	Early Decision	November 1, 2024
Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture	Early Decision	December 1, 2024
School of Art	Early Decision	December 1, 2024
All Schools	Regular Decision	January 5, 2025

Skidmore College, Saratoga Spring, NY

Consistently acclaimed in national rankings, Skidmore has been recognized as one of the “Nation’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges,” one of “America’s Most Entrepreneurial Colleges,” and a “Best Value” school.

Skidmore College, recognized as one of America’s Most Entrepreneurial Colleges, ranks among the top 40 liberal arts schools in the U.S. Located in Saratoga Springs, this private non-profit college has a small yet diverse student body of around 2,500 students from 44 states and 65 countries. Skidmore is ranked #136 out of 2,576 colleges for its quality education. Recently, 58 students graduated with degrees in fine and studio art, highlighting its reputation as one of the best art schools in New York 2024. With over 60 arts and science programs, Skidmore offers a broad range of opportunities for its students.

Tuition Fee: $67,140( INR 56,13,236)/year

Application Type	Deadline	Intake Year
Early Action (Intake 1)	15th Nov 2024	2025
Regular Decision	15th Jan 2025	2025
Early Action (Intake 2)	15th Jan 2025	2025

Syracuse University School of Art (Syracuse, NY)

Syracuse University has an acceptance rate of 52%, making it moderately selective, with over 22,000 students enrolled, including more than 15,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduates. The School of Art, which has been producing graduates since 1875, ranks among the top 10% of U.S. universities for visual and performing arts, solidifying its position as one of the best art schools in New York 2024.

Students can choose from seven programs, including three Bachelor’s degrees in Fine Art: Art Education, Illustration, and Studio Art, along with a Bachelor of Science in Studio Art. Undergraduates can also pursue minors in Visual Culture and Studio Art, even if their major is outside the art field.

The curriculum includes courses in Ceramics, Jewelry and Metalsmithing, and Painting. Additionally, the Visiting Artist Lecture Series allows students to learn from faculty and over 30 guest artists actively working in their fields.

 Tuition fee – $61,310 ( INR 51,25,893)/year

Application Type	Electronic Application Submission	College of Visual and Performing Arts	School of Architecture
Early Decision 1	November 15 2024	November 15 2024	November 15 2024
Early Decision 2	January 5 2025	January 5 2025	January 5 2025
Regular Decision	January 5 2025	January 5 2025	January 5 2025
Spring	November 15 2024	November 15 2024	November 15 2024

Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute, one of the best art schools in New York, is a private university located in Brooklyn, serving as a vibrant hub for art, culture, design, and commerce. Renowned for its spectacular programs in architecture, interior design, and industrial design, Pratt offers students an outstanding learning experience that extends beyond its Brooklyn and Manhattan campuses.

With over 25 undergraduate degree programs across its Schools of Art, Design, Architecture, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Information, as well as more than 26 graduate programs, Pratt has something for everyone. However, with an acceptance rate of around 45% for international students, strong academic scores are essential for admission.

Tuition fee: USD57,599( INR 48,15,475)/year

Application Type	Deadline
Spring 2025 Application	October 1st
Spring 2025 Low Residency Application	November 1st
Fall 2025 Priority Deadline for Scholarship and Admission	January 5th

Columbia University

Columbia University, a prestigious Ivy League research institution located in Upper Manhattan, New York City, was founded in 1754, making it the oldest university in New York. Known for its academic excellence, Columbia consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide. The university attracts a large number of international students and is recognized for its cutting-edge research. Columbia’s School of the Arts offers a Master of Fine Arts in Film, Theatre, Visual Arts, and Writing, as well as a Master of Arts in Film and Media Studies. Additionally, students can pursue an interdisciplinary program in Sound Art. With an acceptance rate of just 3.9%, Columbia is highly selective and is considered one of the best art schools in New York 2024.

Tuition fee: $65,508( INR 54,76,694)/year

Admission Type	Application Open	Priority Early Action Deadline	Early Action Deadline	Regular Decision Deadline
Fall Admission2025	December 1	January 15	March 1	May 15
Spring Admission2025	August 1	September 1	October 1	November 1

Read more: Top universities to study arts | 10 must-know ones!

Cornell University College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (Ithaca, NY)

Cornell University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program that blends artistic creativity with business knowledge. Students explore various mediums like photography and painting through studio courses and seminars. For those pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), the two-year program provides mentorship from renowned artists and opportunities to showcase their work. Established in 1865, Cornell is a prestigious Ivy League institution, ranked 13th in the QS World Rankings 2024. With over 26,000 students, about 24% are international, making it a diverse academic environment.

Tuition fee: $61,500 (INR 51,41,707.50) / year

Application Type	Early Decision	Regular Decision	Fall Transfer
For First-Year Applicants	November 1, 2024	January 2, 2025	March 1, 2025

Purchase College, New York

Purchase School of Art and Design, just an hour from New York City, offers fantastic options for students. You can pick from five majors for your Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, including Sculpture, Graphic Design, and Photography. If you want to explore multiple art forms, the BFA in Visual Art lets you combine two disciplines. There’s also a Bachelor of Science in Visual Art for those wanting a multidisciplinary approach, allowing you to study visual art alongside other subjects. Plus, Purchase College offers a Master of Fine Arts in Visual Art and a joint MFA in Visual Art/MA in Art History under the School of Humanities.

Tuition fee: 18,863 USD( INR 15,77,011)/year (out-of-state)

Application Deadline	Early Decision Deadline	Early Action Deadline
March 1	–	November 15

Vassar College

Vassar College, located in the lively suburb of Poughkeepsie, is a private, non-profit institution known for its commitment to liberal arts education. With a small student body, it fosters a close-knit community and a personalized learning experience. Vassar is highly regarded, ranked #78 among 2,576 colleges nationwide in the Best Schools Rankings.

The college offers a Bachelor of Arts degree across more than 51 majors, allowing students to explore a wide range of academic interests. One of its standout features is the independent major option, which empowers students to create their own unique course of study tailored to their passions and goals. Vassar is also recognized as one of the best art schools in New York 2024, making it an excellent choice for aspiring artists seeking a comprehensive liberal arts education.

Tuition fee: 64,800 USD(INR 54,17,503)/year

Application Type	Deadline
Early Decision I	November 15, 2024
Early Decision II	January 1, 2025
Regular Decision	January 1, 2025

The Juilliard School

The Juilliard School, established in 1905, is a prestigious performing arts conservatory situated in New York City. Known for its rigorous training and high academic standards, Juilliard educates approximately 850 undergraduate and graduate students in various disciplines, including theatre, drama, and music. The school is celebrated for its exceptional faculty, many of whom are accomplished artists and professionals in their fields. As one of the best art schools in the US, Juilliard offers a unique environment where aspiring performers can hone their craft and prepare for successful careers in the arts.

Juilliard operates on a semester system, allowing students to pursue a comprehensive education that includes both performing arts and liberal arts courses. This unique approach helps students develop their artistic skills while gaining a broader understanding of the world around them.

Tuition fee: $52,500 (INR43,89,181)/year

• BFA or MFA in Acting: Apply by November 1 (prescreened applicants), apply by December 1 (non-prescreened applicants) 
• AD in Opera Studies: Apply by November 1 
• AD in Playwriting: Apply by November 1
•  BFA in Dance: Apply by December 3 
• All other Music degrees: Apply by December 3

Hamilton College, New York

Hamilton College, a private liberal arts college founded in 1812, is located in Clinton, New York, and has over 2,000 students, with 15% coming from 54 different countries. The college offers 44 undergraduate programs and is highly selective, boasting an acceptance rate of just 11.8%. Hamilton is known for its strong studio and fine art courses and has a national ranking of #39 out of 2,576 colleges. Each year, around 18 students graduate with degrees in fine and studio art.

Tuition fee: $62,740( INR52,45,280.45)/year

Application Type	Application Deadline
Early Decision 1	November 15, 2024
Early Decision 2	January 6, 2025
Regular Decision	January 6, 2025

Wagner College

Wagner College, ranked #26 among North Regional Universities, offers a distinctive Wagner Plan for the Practice of Liberal Arts. This innovative curriculum combines a core liberal arts education with a major, ensuring students gain practical experience through mandatory internships. This approach prepares graduates for the real world and enhances their employability.

The college is particularly known for its strong programs in Nursing, Business Administration, and Theatre, attracting a diverse student body. With a focus on experiential learning, Wagner encourages students to engage in community service and leadership activities.

Tuition fee:  $2,000 (INR1,67,206.90) /year

Fall Deadlines for First-Year Students

Deadline Date	Application Type
November 15, 2024	Early Action Applicants
November 15, 2024	Theater Performance Applicants*
November 15, 2024	Physician Assistant Applicants*
February 15, 2025	Regular Decision Applicants (Priority Date)

Deadlines for Transfer & Second Degree Students

Deadline Date	Application Type
January 15, 2025	Spring Transfer Applicants
January 1, 2025	Theatre Performance Applicants*
February 15, 2025	Second Degree Nursing Applicants
February 15, 2025	Second Degree Physician Assistant Applicants* (Summer entrance only)
July 15, 2025	Fall Transfer Applicants

Scholarships To Study in USA (New York)

Scholarships play a crucial role in helping students attend the best art schools in New York 2024. They provide financial assistance, making it easier for aspiring artists to pursue their creative dreams. Below is a table detailing various scholarship opportunities available for students aiming to enroll in these prestigious institutions.

School	Scholarship Name	Details
School of Visual Arts, NYC	SVA Scholarships	Various merit-based scholarships available for undergraduate students.
SUNY Binghamton	Binghamton University Scholarships	Provides merit-based and need-based scholarships for incoming students, including the President’s Scholarship for exceptional high school students.
Rochester Institute of Technology	RIT Merit Scholarships	Offers merit scholarships based on academic performance and achievements in high school, renewable for up to four years.
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY	Colgate Grants and Scholarships	Offers need-based and merit scholarships to undergraduate students, with no separate application required beyond the admission application.
Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art	Cooper Union Scholarships	Offers full-tuition scholarships for all undergraduate students based on financial need and merit, ensuring accessibility to high-quality education in the arts and sciences.
Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY	Skidmore Scholarships	Provides merit-based scholarships to incoming students, including the Skidmore College Leadership Scholarship for exceptional students demonstrating leadership qualities.
Syracuse University School of Art, Syracuse, NY	Syracuse University Scholarships	Offers a variety of scholarships for incoming students in the School of Art, including merit-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
Pratt Institute	Pratt Scholarships	Provides merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including the Pratt Institute Presidential Scholarship for high-achieving students.
Columbia University	Columbia Scholarships	Offers a variety of scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students based on need and merit, including the Columbia College Scholarships for exceptional students.
Cornell University College of Architecture, Art, and Planning	Cornell Scholarships	Provides need-based and merit scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including the architecture-specific scholarships for incoming students.
Purchase College, New York	Purchase College Scholarships	Offers merit-based scholarships for new students, including the Purchase College Scholars Program for students with outstanding academic achievements.
Vassar College	Vassar Scholarships	Offers need-based and merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students, with a commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.
The Juilliard School	Juilliard Scholarships	Provides various scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students based on merit and financial need, including talent-based awards for performance and composition students.
Hamilton College, New York	Hamilton Scholarships	Offers merit scholarships based on academic achievements and potential, renewable for up to four years, as well as need-based financial aid.
Wagner College	Wagner Scholarships	Provides merit-based scholarships for incoming undergraduate students, including the Wagner College Grant for financial aid.

Key Takeaways

• New York, known as the “City of Dreams,” boasts some of the finest art schools, offering aspiring artists unmatched access to a vibrant art scene.
• The city’s dynamic environment and rich cultural offerings create numerous opportunities for students to immerse themselves in their passion.
• Enrolling in these renowned art schools in New York will provide the essential inspiration and foundation needed to launch your artistic career.
• Indeed, these New York arts schools will provide you with the necessary inspiration to begin your profession!

Liked this blog? Read next: Royal College of Art: profile & courses

FAQs

Q1. What are the best art schools across the globe?

Answer: The best art schools across the globe, including

• • Royal College of Art, London
  • Glasgow School of Art, Glasgow
  • RMIT School of Art, Melbourne
  • Royal Danish Academy of Fine art, Copenhagen
  • National School of fine art, Paris
  • Central Academy of Fine art, Beijing

Q2. Can you be an artist without going to art school?

Answer: Yes, you can be an artist without attending art school. Many successful artists are self-taught, and 78% of the top 50 living artists do not have an MFA. 

Q3. How many pieces of art should you have in your art portfolio?

Answer:  For your art portfolio, it’s best to include around 12 pieces to effectively showcase your skills and versatility. Going beyond 20 pieces can overwhelm viewers and may make it harder to highlight your strongest work.