study abroad and exchange

Welcome to SFAI's Global Programs Office! Would you like to experience the world, gain a new perspective on art and your own art practice, meet artists from different countries, and earn academic credit? You've already taken the first step just by visiting this site. 

SFAI offers nine Study Abroad programs, and also partners with the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD) to allow undergraduate students to study for a semester at one of more than 30 participating AICAD Exchange schools. Additionally, Faculty-Led Programs provide short-term study abroad opportunities during summer and winter breaks. All of these options fulfill SFAI’s Off-Campus Study Requirement.

Explore these pages to learn more about our programs. The Global Programs Office is here to answer any questions and ensure that you have an incredible experience abroad or on exchange. 

Study Abroad and AICAD Exchange are easy with SFAI

  • It’s affordable
  • You can use all of your current financial aid including SFAI scholarships/fellowships
  • The cost of living at many of our AICAD Exchange and Study Abroad locations is less than living in San Francisco
  • All credits are automatically transferable
  • Use all of your AICAD Exchange or Study Abroad units toward your undergraduate degree
  • Application Process is simple
  • AICAD application requirements:
  • Small portfolio of 10 – 15 pieces of work
  • One-page personal statement
  • Completion of AICAD and SFAI applications
  • Study Abroad programs often require only the following basic documents:
  • Two letters of recommendation from SFAI faculty
  • Portfolio of 10 – 20 pieces of work
  • One-page personal statement
  • SFAI Transcript
  • One-page application