Master of Arts - Acting

Program overview

Master of Arts - Acting is a master's degree program in general studies at Academy of Art University, a private institution in San Francisco, California, United States, founded in 1929.

First-year tuition is listed at 37,908 USD and the application fee at 50 USD. The earliest intake currently open is Feb 2027.

Cost of the first year

Plan for about 74,176 USD for the first year before travel, insurance and visa fees. Costs differ sharply between public and private schools and between states. The I-20 states the school's estimate of tuition and living costs, and your funds evidence should match it. Read the school's cost page and the official student visa pages for the fees that apply.

Figures are as listed in October 2026. Schools revise tuition every year, so confirm the current amount with the school before you pay a deposit.

How the tuition compares in the United States

Our directory lists 692 master's degree programs in general studies at 143 schools in the United States. Their median first-year tuition is 24,012 USD, and the middle half cost between 17,190 USD and 30,052 USD.

At 37,908 USD, Master of Arts - Acting is 58% above the median, in the most expensive quarter. The full range runs from 5,430 USD to 64,400 USD.

• All general studies courses in the United States

Lower-cost master's degree options in general studies

If budget matters, these master's degree programs in general studies have some of the lowest listed first-year tuition in the United States.

Plan for the Feb 2027 intake

Working back from a Feb 2027 start, this is a realistic plan. Popular programs can fill early, so the earlier end of each window is safer. Fall (August or September) is the main intake and Spring (January) is the second. Graduate deadlines are often several months earlier than the start date.

Entry requirements and documents

Academy of Art University sets the exact entry requirements for Master of Arts - Acting. For a master's degree, applicants usually need the following.

Most schools accept TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo and set their own minimums. Graduate programmes may also ask for GRE or GMAT scores, though many programmes have made these optional.

• A completed bachelor's degree, with transcripts and degree certificate.
• A statement of purpose explaining why this program fits your plans.
• Academic or employer references, and a CV if you have work experience.
• A valid passport.
• English test results, unless the school waives them.

Student visa: F-1 student visa

Students from India need a F-1 student visa to study in the United States. U.S. Department of State (visa) and Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) decides the application.

An F-1 visa is for full-time academic study at a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. The school issues a Form I-20 and the visa itself is decided at a consular interview, so a consistent study plan and clear finances matter more than the paperwork volume.

• Shortlist SEVP-certified schools and complete applications. Check test requirements such as GRE, GMAT or English tests programme by programme.
• After admission and proof of funds, the school issues the Form I-20.
• Pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160 online visa application and pay the visa application fee.
• Book and attend the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Bring the I-20, passport, financial documents and admission papers.

• Study in United States: full visa guide
• U.S. Department of State: Student visa
• Study in the States (DHS)

After you graduate

Students may be eligible for optional practical training in their field of study, with an extension for certain STEM degrees. Conditions apply, so read the official rules and speak to your school's designated school official.

How to apply with Study Spectra

• Send us your marksheets, English test result (or test plan) and budget.
• We check your profile against Master of Arts - Acting and suggest alternatives if it is a stretch.
• We prepare your statement of purpose and documents, and submit the application.
• When the offer arrives, we help with the deposit, funds evidence and the student visa file.

Questions students ask

How much is the tuition for Master of Arts - Acting?

First-year tuition is listed at 37,908 USD. Living costs are extra; Academy of Art University estimates 36,218 USD a year. Confirm the current fee with the school.

What is the application fee?

The application fee is 50 USD. It is paid once per application and is not refunded after the school receives the application.

When is the next intake?

The earliest intake currently open is Feb 2027. Start your application about eight months before that.

Is Master of Arts - Acting a degree?

It is listed as a master's degree. The school awards the degree on completion.

Which visa do I need to study in the United States?

You need a F-1 student visa, decided by U.S. Department of State (visa) and Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Apply after you accept an offer and can show the required funds.

Can Study Spectra help me apply?

Yes. We check your profile, prepare your documents and submit your application to Academy of Art University, then help with the visa. The first call is free.

More at Academy of Art University

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• Master of Arts - Illustration, 37,908 USD first year
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