The Chicago Academy For The Arts Photo #8 - Theatre Department

The Chicago Academy For The Arts

The Chicago Academy for the Arts is a nationally recognized independent high school for the performing and visual arts. Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center, The Academy offers students the opportunity to engage in a unique co-curricular program: rigorous, college-preparatory academic classes and professional-level arts training in the context of an unparalleled school culture.
The Academy`s school day consists of six 45-minute academic periods followed by a three-plus hour immersion in a student's chosen arts department: Dance, Media Arts (filmmaking, animation, creative writing), Music, Musical Theatre, Theatre, and Visual Arts. At The Chicago Academy for the Arts, young artists master the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought, and creative expression.

Quick Facts (2025-26)

Top Rankings

The Chicago Academy For The Arts ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1981
Colors
White, Black, Chocolate
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students
137 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
55%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
The Chicago Academy For The Arts Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
44 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
3:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
12 courses
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Jan. 5 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Additional fees include department, student services, activities, field trips, books, supplies, facilities, international, etc.
Summer Program Cost
$995
% on Financial Aid
50%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$17,000
Acceptance Rate
76%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Amanda LePard
Admissions Associate
Ali Kane
Application URL

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
9 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Black Student UnionChess Club
Gender Sexuality AllianceHealth and Wellness
Jewish Student UnionLatinx Student Union
Sustainability SocietyYearbook Club
Youth and Government

School Notes

At the Chicago Academy for the Arts, young artists master the skills necessary for academic success, critical thought and creative expression.It`s a place where the arts matter. It's a place that doesn`t just teach the arts, but encourages students to engage in, devour and fully live them. It's a place that believes each individual`s voice is valuable. It's a place where academia and artistry don't exist in separate worlds, but intertwine every day to create a holistic learningexperience.
  • Over 70% of our college acceptances were to institutions ranked in the Top 300 Colleges and Universities by Forbes Magazine.
  • Designated a National School of Distinction by the John F. Kennedy Center.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does The Chicago Academy For The Arts cost?
The Chicago Academy For The Arts's tuition is approximately $37,512 for private students and $995 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Chicago Academy For The Arts?
The acceptance rate of The Chicago Academy For The Arts is 76%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. The Chicago Academy For The Arts's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Illinois with low acceptance rates.
Does The Chicago Academy For The Arts offer a summer program?
Yes, The Chicago Academy For The Arts offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What is The Chicago Academy For The Arts's ranking?
The Chicago Academy For The Arts ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for The Chicago Academy For The Arts?
The application deadline for The Chicago Academy For The Arts is Jan. 5 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 5 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is The Chicago Academy For The Arts located?
The Chicago Academy For The Arts is located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, IL. There are 9 other private schools located in West Town.

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Chicago, IL is $14,126 for elementary schools and $19,460 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Chicago, IL is 80% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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