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Actors Thrive With Academy Training

From studios to streamers, on stage and on set, our graduates are working across the globe.

Logos of popular entertainment brands including Netflix, Max, FX, Paramount, Broadway, ABC, AMC, Prime Video, A24, Marvel Studios, and Starz.

Unrivaled Results

141 Years of Excellence


For over a century, our students have become working actors and lifelong artists. With a foundation built on our distinctive training, Academy alumni have been nominated for an unparalleled 113 Oscars®, 361 Emmys®, and 102 Tonys®. Recent successes include starring roles in: 


  • The Odyssey
  • Severance
  • Ted Lasso
  • Rooster
  • The Brutalist
  • Yellowstone: Marshals
  • The Devil Wears Prada 2
  • Back to the Future: The Musical (Broadway)
  • Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Touring)
  • Romeo & Juliet (The Public Theater NYC)

See Notable Alumni
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Academy Alumni

What students are saying...

Caden

“I was interested that it was a program in Midtown Manhattan. I wanted training where my school is the work, and that’s what I’m living and breathing and doing. I think it’s a great opportunity.”

Caden, Class of 2026 (Illinois, USA)
Zach

“The training from The Academy gave me what I like to refer to as a great toolbox. Anytime I come into a problem I’m not able to solve just by thinking my way through, there are always the tools that The Academy provided. I know that I have a utility belt of sorts to get me through whatever block I am facing.”

Zach, Class of 2023 (Massachusetts, USA) Currently touring in the national production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Yael

“My favorite part about our school is how everybody knows everybody. We’re a small community and because of that, all your teachers really understand you. They really know how to give you exactly the help that you need, instead of putting you into a single mold everyone has to fit into.”

Yael, Class of 2025 (Netherlands)
Alice

“As an international student, I’ve experienced a real sense of community here. Since it’s a conservatory program, we’re here five days a week, nearly all day. But I love coming here every day, and I feel like I’ve found a family away from home.”

Alice, Class of 2025 (Australia)
Alice

“The Academy’s faculty helped me access emotion not only within scenes, but also within myself. That was a tool I needed for acting and creating truthful characters.”

Micquel, Class of 2024 (South London)

Two Conservatory Programs for
Actor Training in New York City

NEW: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA, 120 Credits)

The 120-credit Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting for Film, Television & Theatre prepares you to thrive as a professional in the creative economy. With rigorous conservatory training for stage and screen, an extensive on-camera production sequence, and a liberal arts curriculum designed for the actor, the BFA Program empowers artists to direct and sustain their own careers for a lifetime.

Available as either a 3-year or 4-year pathway. Applications and audition appointments for the BFA Program will be available starting in Fall 2026.

Learn More

Associates Degree (AOS, 60 Credits)

The intensive two-year Associate of Occupational Studies in Actor Training program is for the actor who knows exactly what they want and wants to get there fast. You’ll get everything you need to launch a professional acting career in New York City and beyond.

Customize your experience by selecting the area of emphasis that best suits your professional goals: Acting for Film, Television & Theatre, or Acting for Musical Theatre.

APPLY To AOS Program
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Students On-Camera

Training That Works

Gain the adaptable skills, practical knowledge, and entrepreneurial awareness needed to thrive as a professional artist across film, television, and theatre.

Immersive Learning

Learn by doing through full-scale performances and practical training. The Academy is your laboratory for developing your craft, physical instrument, intellect, and imagination.

Industry Connection

Benefit from the expert teaching and direction of New York industry professionals, join a global network of over 4,000 active Academy alumni, and confidently navigate your career as a professional actor.

QUESTIONS?

Contact admissions
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Living & Learning in NYC

VIBRANT STUDENT LIFE IN THE HEART OF IT ALL

Academy house

The Academy House

YOUR NEW HOME


Finding the right place to live in New York City can be overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. The Academy House, our loft-style student residence in the trendy NoMad district of Midtown Manhattan, places you at the heart of New York's vibrant art and cultural scene. Plus, it’s right next door to our principal academic facility, which affords a total immersion experience that keeps you close to your training, your friends, and all the energy of the city.

Key features:

  • Unbeatable location
  • Fully furnished suites
  • Kitchen and laundry on every floor
  • Spacious common areas
  • Secure access to facilities and 24-hour security
  • Live-in Professional Student Life staff member on-site
LEARN MORE ABOUT Campus Housing & Rates
Contact Us With Questions About Housing

Scholarships and Financial Aid

WE’RE INVESTED IN YOUR SUCCESS

With affordability as a foremost consideration, every student who earns admission to the Academy receives an Academy scholarship. Our financial aid advisors are also here to help guide you toward additional resources, including federal and state grants, federal and private loan programs, need-based Academy grants, and outside scholarships.

Contact admissions
See Tuition and Costs
See Financial Aid Options & FAFSA Details
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The academy by the numbers

141

years of excellence in actor training

100%

of students receive financial assistance

36

countries represented by current students

1:14

staff-to-student ratio

41

Broadway theatres are just 10 blocks away from campus

10,000+

costume and prop pieces in our collection

20+

unique campus learning spaces, including dance studios, camera labs, blackbox classrooms, three complete theatres and more

576

major industry award nominations, including 113 Oscars®, 361 Emmys®, and 102 Tonys®

Empowering You Every Step of the Way

Join fellow actors from around the globe where discipline, artistic exploration and self-growth converge. Here, you’ll make lifelong connections that empower you to excel in your craft and confidently perform in any environment. You belong at AADA.




Faculty Collaboration

Our faculty team supports your growth, with first-year coordinators guiding a smooth transition into Academy life.

Professional Guidance

Through NYC industry auditions, masterclasses, and programming from our alumni Actors Society, you will gain vital connections and resources.

International Community

With 30% of our student body coming from around the world, our campus creates a rich, multicultural environment that enriches the learning experience for everyone.

Industry Insight Masterclasses

A wide range of industry guests share their real-world experiences, offering valuable career advice and practical perspective.

Student Activities

You can participate in a wide range of social and cultural events, from exciting outings to special themed activities that bring the entire Academy community together.

Extracurricular Activities

Student clubs are formed based on interests, fostering growth through shared passions.

Health & Wellness Programs

Students have access to fitness facilities, health resources, and on-site licensed counselors for mental wellness support.

A Creative Network

Academy students describe our close-knit community in one word: family–where classmates, faculty, and alumni champion, collaborate, and enrich each other’s artistic growth.

Students experiencing New York Campus Students experiencing New York Campus
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Student Toolbox

Take the Next Step In Your Acting Journey

Apply to The Academy

See our step-by-step process for applying to AADA.

Contact Admissions

Reach out for personalized guidance.

Live Virtual Q&A

Get your questions answered live with an Academy representative.

Financial Aid

Explore our guide for applying for financial aid.

Campus Visits

Sign up for campus tours and Open Houses to learn more.

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about admissions and student life.

In-Person Events

Attend one of our worldwide Acting Workshops or Auditions near you.

International Student Resources

Learn about assistance for students studying in the USA.
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Summer Programs (ages 16+)

Looking for a focused, short-term training experience?

Our non-degree Summer Programs deliver world-class instruction in an intensive format—perfectly designed to match your interests and fit your schedule.

Learn More About Summer