School of Visual Arts
Acceptance rate
92.6%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$51,400
$76,800 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,255
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
64.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 73.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The School of Visual Arts (SVA), located in New York City, is renowned for its dynamic approach to art and design education. Established in 1947, SVA has cultivated a vibrant community of artists and designers, attracting students from around the globe. The school's mission is reflected in its motto, "Art is the foundation of culture," emphasizing the importance of creativity in shaping society. SVA offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including fine arts, graphic design, photography, and animation, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the competitive creative industry.
SVA's campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern studios, advanced digital labs, and exhibition spaces, allowing students to experiment with various media and techniques. The faculty comprises accomplished professionals who bring real-world experience into the classroom, fostering a hands-on learning environment. Additionally, SVA's location in New York City provides students with unparalleled access to the art and design world, including galleries, museums, and industry events. The school also boasts a vibrant student life, with numerous extracurricular activities, workshops, and events that promote collaboration and innovation among students. Notable alumni include acclaimed artists and designers who have made significant contributions to their fields, further exemplifying the school's commitment to excellence in visual arts education.
Analysis of Key Metrics at the School of Visual Arts
The data from the School of Visual Arts reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student demographics, graduation rates, and retention rates over recent years. Notably, tuition has consistently increased, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where financial burdens on students are escalating. For instance, the cost for in-state undergraduates rose from approximately $32,270 in 2014 to $49,140 in 2024, marking a substantial increase that poses challenges for affordability and accessibility.
Simultaneously, the gender ratio among undergraduates has shifted toward a higher female enrollment, with women's representation growing from around 61% in 2013 to approximately 74% in 2023. This change may reflect broader societal trends towards increased female participation in higher education and might influence the academic environment and campus culture.
Graduation rates have shown variability, with the 100% graduation rate peaking at about 63% in 2021 but dipping to around 61% in 2023. This fluctuation raises concerns about the factors affecting student success and completion, especially as financial pressures increase. Conversely, retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 85% in 2023, indicating that once students enroll, they are likely to stay, which is a positive sign for the institution.
Overall, these metrics underline the financial challenges faced by students, the evolving demographics of the student body, and the ongoing need to enhance support systems to maintain and improve graduation rates. The School of Visual Arts must navigate these dynamics carefully to foster an inclusive and supportive educational environment that ensures student success amidst rising costs.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 6 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- SVA, School of Visual Arts
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- David Rhodes (President)
- Phone
- 2125922000
- Address
- 209 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 62.2%, women 74.5%.
Data insights
Admissions Trends at the School of Visual Arts
The admissions data from the School of Visual Arts reveals significant trends over the years, particularly regarding gender disparities and acceptance rates. Between 2009 and 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants fluctuated from approximately 65.98% to an impressive 83.77%, while female applicants saw a similar rise from 75.94% to 88.49%. These figures indicate a growing inclusivity within the institution, likely reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equity in educational opportunities.
Moreover, the total enrollment numbers demonstrate a consistent increase, peaking at 883 students in 2019 and 775 students in 2023 after a decline in 2021. The number of denied applications has remained significant, with a peak of 1,309 denials in 2019, showcasing the competitive nature of the admissions process. The trend of deferrals also highlights a shift in applicants' decisions, possibly influenced by external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many students to reconsider their immediate enrollment plans.
Overall, the data suggests that while the School of Visual Arts has maintained a high level of interest and application volume, it has also adapted to changing dynamics in admissions. The increasing acceptance rates, particularly for women, alongside a steady enrollment figure, positions the School as a progressive environment for aspiring artists and creatives.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 7% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at the School of Visual Arts
The admission data for the School of Visual Arts over the years reflects notable trends in both the number of students submitting standardized test scores and the corresponding performance metrics. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores saw a significant decline from 87% in 2007 to just 7% in 2023. This sharp drop may indicate a broader trend in college admissions where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the equity and accessibility of standardized testing.
Despite fluctuating submission numbers, the scores also demonstrate a varied performance range. The SAT reading scores, for instance, have shown a rise in the upper quartile from 580 in 2007 to 700 in 2023, indicating that among those who do submit scores, the caliber of applicants has potentially improved. Conversely, the proportion of students achieving scores in the higher ranges has not consistently translated into higher overall admissions rates, suggesting that the admissions process may be considering a more holistic view of applicants beyond mere test scores.
This evolving landscape is emblematic of the shifting priorities in higher education, where creativity, portfolio work, and personal narratives are gaining prominence. As the School of Visual Arts continues to adapt to these changes, it remains crucial for prospective students to understand the multifaceted nature of admissions, particularly in a creative field where diverse talents and perspectives are highly valued.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
3,140 applicants in 2025, 92.6% admitted
2,909 admitted 231 not admitted Yield 20.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Computer Graphics · Master's45 (82% international)
- Photography · Master's42 (79% international)
- Fine/Studio Arts, General · Master's35 (46% international)
- Human Computer Interaction · Master's35 (86% international)
- Illustration · Master's34 (59% international)
- Advertising · Master's25 (32% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at School of Visual Arts 2023
The graduation data from the School of Visual Arts in 2023 illustrates interesting trends within various artistic disciplines. Notably, the Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects program had a substantial number of bachelor’s graduates, totaling 76, with 34% being international students. This reflects the growing global interest in digital media and animation, likely driven by advancements in technology and the international demand for skilled professionals in the entertainment industry.
In contrast, the Computer Graphics program is notable for its master's degree offerings, with 56 graduates, of whom 86% were international students. The high percentage of international graduates highlights the program's global appeal and the increasing importance of computer graphics in various sectors, including gaming, film, and advertising.
The data also shows that the Fine/Studio Arts, General program had a total of 42 master's graduates, with international students making up 60% of that number. This indicates a strong interest from global students in traditional art forms, potentially influenced by the prestige of studying in an established art school known for its emphasis on creative expression.
Moreover, the Photography program also had a significant number of master's graduates (42), with 86% being international students. This is indicative of photography's evolving nature as a critical medium in visual arts, particularly in the age of social media where visual storytelling is paramount.
Lastly, the absence of bachelor’s graduates in various programs suggests that these disciplines are primarily focused on graduate-level education, which could be a strategic decision by the institution to cater to a more specialized audience looking to enhance their expertise. The overall trends indicate a robust international interest in visual arts education, positioning the School of Visual Arts as a pivotal player in shaping the next generation of creative professionals globally.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illustration. | $22,072-$33,775 | ||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | $31,927 | ||
| Photography. | $31,927 | ||
| Film/Video and Photographic Arts, Other. | $31,927 | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | $26,760-$53,272 | ||
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation. | $26,760-$53,272 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | $48,518 | ||
| Computer Graphics. | $48,518 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | $18,327 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systems Science and Theory. | - | ||
| Museology/Museum Studies. | - | ||
| Human Computer Interaction. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||
| Advertising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Teacher Education. | - |
Students
3,812 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 27:73 · Freshman retention 85.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,460
- First-year undergraduates 601
- Graduate students 557
- Transfers and others 194
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,255)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at the School of Visual Arts in 2023
The student demographic data from the School of Visual Arts provides an insightful look into the composition of its student body for the year 2023. With a total of 4,112 students across different categories, the figures illustrate a predominantly female presence, with women comprising a significant majority in all groups. For instance, undergraduate freshmen have approximately 76.6% female students, while the graduate program shows similar trends with a 76.8% female ratio.
The data also highlights the diversity within the student population. Although specific figures for certain categories are absent, the breakdown of ethnic backgrounds reveals an interesting mix. The undergraduate freshmen category has 125 white students but also includes representation from Asian, Latino, and other ethnicities, emphasizing the institution's commitment to fostering a diverse learning environment.
Moreover, the percentage of male students remains relatively low across all categories, which raises questions about gender balance in creative fields. The male representation ranges from 23.2% in graduate programs to 29.7% among undergraduate transfer students. This trend is reflective of broader societal patterns where women are often more engaged in visual arts education, but it also calls for initiatives to encourage more male participation.
Overall, the demographic data underscores the School of Visual Arts as a vibrant and diverse educational environment while highlighting the challenges of gender representation in the field. As the institution moves forward, addressing these disparities will be crucial for cultivating a more balanced and inclusive artistic community.
Demographic Insights into Student Age Composition at the School of Visual Arts
The age composition data from the School of Visual Arts provides a fascinating glimpse into the demographic landscape of its student body for 2023. Notably, the largest age group falls within the 18-21 range, which is typical for undergraduate programs. This trend reflects a broader pattern seen in many higher education institutions, where traditional-age students dominate the enrollment figures.
The data indicates that among students under 18, there are 30 females compared to just 6 males, suggesting a strong interest in visual arts among younger women. As students transition into the 18-19 and 20-21 age brackets, the number of male students begins to increase, although females still outnumber males significantly, particularly in the 20-21 age group, where there are 1,159 females compared to 366 males.
Interestingly, the representation of older students, particularly those aged 25-29 and above, remains relatively low, highlighting a potential barrier for non-traditional students entering this field. The data shows that the number of graduate male students slightly increases in the 30-34 age range, suggesting that some individuals may return to education later in life to pursue advanced studies. However, the overall numbers in these older categories are still modest.
This demographic distribution raises important questions about accessibility and inclusivity in art education. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be essential for institutions like the School of Visual Arts to consider strategies that attract and support a diverse range of students, including those from various age backgrounds and life experiences.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
1,591 in 2025 · 35.7% in 2016
334 in 2025 · 50.0% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at the School of Visual Arts
The data from the School of Visual Arts reveals a significant trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. Starting from 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates has steadily increased from 12.86% to an impressive 54.49% in 2023. This represents a remarkable growth in the diversity of the student body, reflecting the institution's commitment to attracting talent from around the globe.
The graduate program also exhibits a positive trend, with the percentage of international graduate students rising from 30.56% in 2004 to 62.46% in 2023. This growth signifies not only the appeal of the School of Visual Arts but also the increasing recognition of the importance of global perspectives in arts education.
The rise in international enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including the institution's strong reputation in the arts, the global demand for creative professionals, and the supportive environment for international students. This diversification is crucial in today's interconnected world, as it fosters cross-cultural exchange and collaboration among students, preparing them for careers in a globalized industry.
Moreover, the sharp increase in international student numbers during the years of the pandemic, particularly in 2020, suggests that the School of Visual Arts has effectively adapted to the changing landscape of education. The resilience shown during these challenging times highlights the institution's dedication to maintaining a vibrant, inclusive community for artists of all backgrounds.
Overall, the data illustrates a positive trajectory for international student enrollment, positioning the School of Visual Arts as a leading institution in the global arts education landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$76,800
- Undergraduate tuition
- $51,400
- Room and board
- $25,400
- Graduate tuition
- $57,370
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 47% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 44%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$211M
Expenses$201M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
New York UniversityNew York · 1.0 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 2.3 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 4.9 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 5.0 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 10.1 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 29.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 44.6 mi
U.S. News #2
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 44.9 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 46.7 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding the School of Visual Arts:
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Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League research university known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
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New York University - With a rank of 35, NYU is a globally recognized institution located in the heart of Manhattan, offering a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life.
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Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for empowering women through education.
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Princeton University - As the top-ranked university in the 2024 US News rankings, Princeton offers a unique blend of undergraduate focus and research opportunities in a beautiful campus setting.
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Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76th, Stevens specializes in engineering, science, and technology education, providing a strong foundation for students pursuing careers in these fields.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at the School of Visual Arts
The crime statistics from the School of Visual Arts over the past decade reveal a notable downward trend in reported incidents. Starting with an average of 11.57 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013, the rate has significantly decreased to 1.11 by 2023. This decline is particularly striking in recent years, with 2022 recording only 0.78 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating a substantial improvement in campus safety.
One of the most significant reductions can be seen in arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents, which have drastically dropped over the years. Such a decline might be attributed to effective campus safety programs and increased awareness among students about the consequences of illegal activities. The decrease in reported cases of domestic violence and assault also suggests a positive shift in campus culture, promoting a safer and more supportive environment for all students.
However, it is essential to remain vigilant as crime can fluctuate. The uptick in 2023, with a slight increase in incidents compared to the previous year, serves as a reminder that safety is an ongoing commitment. Overall, the data indicates that the School of Visual Arts has made commendable progress in reducing crime rates, fostering a safer environment for its students.
For further understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 61Notable alumni of School of Visual Arts include Jared Leto (Actor and musician, Academy Award winner), Keith Haring (Pop and street artist and activist) and Bryan Singer (Film director and producer).
-
Jared Leto 1971–
Actor and musician, Academy Award winner
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Keith Haring 1958–1990
Pop and street artist and activist
-
Bryan Singer 1965–
Film director and producer
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Gerard Way 1977–
Lead vocalist of My Chemical Romance and comic writer
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Steve Ditko 1927–2018
Comic artist, co-creator of Spider-Man and Doctor Strange
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Michael Giacchino 1967–
Film, television and video game composer
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James Ransone 1979–2025
Actor known for The Wire
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Morten Tyldum 1967–
Norwegian director of The Imitation Game
-
Fred Armisen 1966–
Comedian, actor and musician; co-created Portlandia
Recent News at School of Visual Arts
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
School of Visual Arts announced a new graduate program, the Masters of Professional Studies in Data Visualization and Communication, with applications opening for its inaugural Fall 2026 class.
Source: sva.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.