Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The integration of traditional arts into the core curriculum nurtures, in our students, a strong sense of focus and perseverance essential for both academic and artistic achievement. Our exemplary Whole Child Education Model was recognized by the WASC visiting committee as “a unique and needed educational option for students not only in California but internationally as well.”

Yes. While studying at MSArts, students must choose and focus on one of our four artistic programs — music, visual arts, ballet, and Chinese dance.

Yes. As well as continuously building on their artistic caliber, all students are required to complete our comprehensive academic program to fully prepare them for success in high school.

Yes. Every year, we hold two recitals at the Herbst Theater. We host a variety of community events that showcase our students’ talents and also regularly participate in various performances for local communities.

Besides the Physical Education classes, we also offer a sports club in which participating students strengthen their team-building skills through popular sports such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer. SF High School of the Arts also has a school basketball team that has games with other private schools in the area.

Most classes have ten or fewer students. Our small classes allow each student to receive ample individualized attention, which helps ensure effective learning suited to various learning styles.

Academic teachers will only assign meaningful homework for students. For different grades and for different students the time spent on homework is different. Middle school students typically have an average homework load between 1-2 hours per day. For high school students, the homework load ranges from 2-3 hours per day.

A hearty hot meal is served for lunch every day, from 11:15am to 12:00pm. View lunch menu

The Lunch Program is $1,350 per year.

No.  We are a nonreligious, nonprofit arts school. We do not teach classes about religion, nor do we promote any religion in any way. Our staff and students come from a variety of different backgrounds and uphold a firm non-discrimination policy.

All applicants should send in their portfolio on experiences and accomplishments in visual or performing arts. Learn more about audition requirements.

All applicants to the Music Conservatory program must audition by submitting a recording to the music department. Learn more about audition requirements.

The deadline to apply for the 2020-21school year was January 15, 2021.  We will begin mailing decision letters for the upcoming school year in mid-March.

We accepts late applications if there are program openings. Contact us if you wish to inquire about programs that are open for late application. For completed applications received after mid-March, decision letters are mailed within two weeks after the interview.

Yes, we encourage students to explore different options. Nevertheless, we strongly urge our students to make their final program choice within the first semester of attending. This will help ensure that they have enough time to complete relevant program requirements, and reach professional artistic levels by the time they graduate.

Yes, students are required to be in school uniform for the academic portion of the day. There are many combinations of shirts, sweaters, jackets, skirts, and pants for students to choose from. See our Student Life page for more details.

Yes. We offer supervised study halls on Monday through Friday, from 4 to 6 pm. We have a variety of after school school clubs and activities available.

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