| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
The National Art School (NAS) is a specialist fine arts institution based in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. It has a long and respected history of training professional artists and is known for its studio-based teaching approach, vibrant artistic community, and emphasis on traditional techniques as well as contemporary art practices.
Location: Darlinghurst, Sydney (on the historic site of the old Darlinghurst Gaol)
Founded: Roots trace back to the 19th century; officially became NAS in 1996
Type: Independent, degree-granting institution
Specialty: Fine Arts (Visual Arts)
Campus: Unique heritage campus with art studios, galleries, and workshops
Student Body: Small and highly focused (around 500–600 students)
NAS offers nationally accredited qualifications in visual arts, including:
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – 3 years, studio-based with majors in:
Painting
Sculpture
Printmaking
Ceramics
Drawing
Photomedia
Master of Fine Art (MFA) – 2 years, practice-led research and studio work
Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) – Research-based doctorate in contemporary art
Graduate Diploma in Fine Art – 1 year, ideal for professional development or career change
Offered year-round for beginners to professionals, covering various artistic disciplines
NAS welcomes international students to its BFA, MFA, and DFA programs
Students must meet academic and English language requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.5 for degree programs)
NAS is CRICOS-registered and eligible for international student visas
Located in central Sydney, surrounded by cafes, galleries, and cultural landmarks
Historic sandstone buildings transformed into art studios and exhibition spaces
Features include:
Specialist studios (printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, etc.)
NAS Gallery (hosts exhibitions by students and professionals)
Drawing studios with life models
Art supply store, library, and media lab
Studio-based learning with a focus on one-on-one mentorship
Teachers are practicing artists and industry professionals
Located in one of Australia's most vibrant arts and culture scenes
Strong alumni network including some of Australia’s top contemporary artists
Opportunities for exhibitions, residencies, and art prizes
Tuition (for international students):
BFA: Approx. AUD $31,000–$33,000 per year
MFA: Approx. AUD $33,000+ per year
Scholarships available for domestic and some international students based on merit and need
Margaret Olley (painter)
Guy Maestri (Archibald Prize winner)
Fiona Hall (Venice Biennale artist)
Cressida Campbell (renowned printmaker)
Duration: 3 years full-time
Delivery: Studio-based, practice-led
Majors Offered:
Painting
Sculpture
Printmaking
Ceramics
Photomedia
Drawing (compulsory foundation subject)
Overview: Students begin with a foundation year covering all disciplines, then specialize from Year 2. Includes art history, theory, and professional practice.
Duration: 2 years full-time
Eligibility: Bachelor of Fine Art or equivalent; portfolio required
Structure:
Advanced studio practice in chosen major
Independent research and exhibition development
Written dissertation
Goal: Ideal for practicing artists wanting to develop deeper conceptual, technical, and research skills in their field.
Duration: 3 years full-time (or part-time equivalent)
Eligibility: Master’s degree in fine art or related field
Focus:
Original research through studio-based practice
Academic thesis plus a final body of work
Purpose: For artists seeking to contribute new knowledge to contemporary art practice through both theory and creation.
Duration: 1 year full-time
Ideal For:
Professionals from other fields entering the art world
Artists returning to study
A pathway to the MFA
Outcome: A flexible course offering focused studio practice and foundational training across disciplines.
NAS also offers a wide range of short courses and summer/winter schools for beginner to advanced artists. These include:
Life drawing
Oil painting
Sculpture
Ceramics hand-building
Printmaking
Mixed media and experimental techniques
Courses run on evenings, weekends, or during intensive breaks.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Painting |
3 years |
~$20,500 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Sculpture |
3 years |
~$20,500 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Printmaking |
3 years |
~$20,500 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Ceramics |
3 years |
~$20,500 – $22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Photomedia |
3 years |
~$20,500 – $22,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Fine Art (MFA) |
2 years |
~$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
Graduate Diploma of Fine Art |
1 year |
~$21,000 – $22,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) |
3 years (full-time) |
~$24,000 – $26,000 |
The National Art School (NAS), located in Sydney, is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions dedicated solely to visual arts education. It offers a uniquely immersive, studio-based experience that blends traditional fine arts training with contemporary practice. For international students, NAS provides a welcoming, supportive, and creatively inspiring environment in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
International students can enroll in:
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – 3 years
Master of Fine Art (MFA) – 2 years
Graduate Diploma of Fine Art – 1 year
Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) – 3 years
Plus a range of short courses and workshops (some open to international visitors or temporary visa holders)
Students can specialize in disciplines like painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photomedia, and drawing.
Studio-based learning: You'll spend most of your time in the studio, working closely with practicing artists and mentors.
Small class sizes: Expect a more personalized and intensive learning experience.
Diverse, creative community: Connect with both local and international artists, with opportunities to exhibit your work.
Historic campus: Located in Darlinghurst, Sydney, on the grounds of the old Darlinghurst Gaol — a truly unique and atmospheric place to study art.
To apply, international students must:
Meet academic entry requirements (e.g., completion of high school or undergraduate degree for BFA/MFA)
Submit a portfolio of recent artworks
Provide English language test results (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for most programs)
For graduate programs, a written statement of intent or research proposal may also be required
All degree programs are CRICOS-registered, meaning they are open to international students on a student visa (subclass 500).
Tuition fees for international students range from approximately:
USD $20,000 to $26,000 per year, depending on the program Additional costs include:
Materials and art supplies
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Accommodation and living expenses (Sydney is beautiful but can be expensive)
NAS offers:
Orientation programs for new international students
Academic and studio support
Exhibition opportunities in the on-campus gallery
Access to counselling and well-being services
Events, art talks, and social gatherings throughout the year
While NAS is a focused, art-driven environment, Sydney itself offers an incredible lifestyle: beaches, culture, galleries, live music, and food from around the world. Plus, public transport connects students easily to all parts of the city.
NAS graduates are highly respected in the art world. Many go on to become:
Professional artists
Curators
Art teachers or lecturers
Art directors and creative professionals
Participants in international residencies and exhibitions
The school’s strong alumni network and reputation can open doors in Australia and internationally.
Start by selecting the right course based on your background and goals. NAS offers:
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Undergraduate
Master of Fine Art (MFA) – Postgraduate
Graduate Diploma of Fine Art – Postgraduate (and MFA pathway)
Doctor of Fine Art (DFA) – Doctoral Research Program
BFA: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent international qualification)
MFA / Grad Dip: Bachelor of Fine Art or related degree
DFA: Master’s degree in Fine Art or related field
A digital portfolio is mandatory and must include:
10–15 recent artworks (high-quality images)
Artwork details (title, medium, size, date)
Statement about your art practice or study goals
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide results from an approved test:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each band)
TOEFL iBT: 84 overall
PTE Academic: 58 overall
You'll need to gather and submit:
Academic transcripts (certified and translated if necessary)
Portfolio (digital format)
Personal statement / Artist statement
CV or résumé (for postgraduate applicants)
Research proposal (for DFA applicants)
Proof of English language proficiency
Passport copy
You can apply directly through the NAS online application portal on their official website.
Website: N/A
There’s no application fee for most programs.
Some programs (like the DFA) may require interviews (online or in person).
If your application is successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer, which may be:
Unconditional: All requirements met
Conditional: Pending final documents (e.g. English test result)
To secure your place:
Sign and return the Acceptance of Offer
Pay the tuition deposit (amount specified in your offer letter)
Once payment is confirmed, NAS will issue your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — a key document required to apply for your Australian student visa (subclass 500).
With the CoE, apply online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs. You’ll need:
Your CoE
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) proof
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
Financial evidence (if required)
Valid passport and other documents
Once your visa is granted:
Book your flights and accommodation
Prepare your art supplies and portfolio materials
Attend NAS Orientation Week for international students
Explore Sydney and settle into student life!
The National Art School follows a single main intake per year for its degree programs.
February (Semester 1)
Applications typically open around August–September of the previous year
Offers are made by late November to January
NAS does not offer mid-year intakes (no July/August entry) for degree programs.
Eligibility varies by program, but here are the general academic and English language requirements:
Academic Requirements:
Completion of Year 12 (high school) or equivalent international qualification
A strong portfolio of artwork is required
English Language Requirements:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each band)
TOEFL iBT: 84 overall
PTE Academic: 58 overall
Academic Requirements:
Completion of a Bachelor's degree in Fine Art or a related field
If you’re transitioning from another background, your portfolio and experience may be considered
English Requirements:
Same as above (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)
Academic Requirements:
A Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) or equivalent
Strong portfolio showing advanced studio practice
Artist statement and/or project proposal
English Requirements:
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent
Academic Requirements:
Completion of a Master’s degree in Fine Art or related discipline
Submission of a research proposal, academic writing sample, and portfolio
Interview may be required
English Requirements:
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (may vary slightly based on research focus)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value / Benefit |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NAS International Student Scholarship |
New international students with artistic merit |
Partial tuition fee reduction (varies) |
BFA, MFA |
|
Catherine Morgan Scholarship |
Female BFA students showing talent and need |
AUD $3,000 – $5,000 |
BFA |
|
Bird Holcomb Foundation Scholarship |
High-achieving full-time students (any year) |
AUD $5,000 – $10,000 |
BFA, MFA |
|
The Dr. Denise Hickey Studio Residency (Paris) |
Outstanding MFA or BFA (final year) students |
Studio residency in Paris + travel allowance |
Final-year BFA, MFA |
|
Friends of NAS Scholarship |
Students with financial hardship or merit |
AUD $2,000 – $5,000 |
BFA, MFA |
|
The Friends of NAS First Year Award |
New students entering BFA |
AUD $2,000 – $3,000 |
BFA (Year 1) |
Facility / Location |
Details |
Accommodation Options Nearby |
Estimated Cost (per week in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NAS Campus – Darlinghurst, Sydney |
Located on the historic Darlinghurst Gaol site; studios, galleries, library, student lounge, and exhibition spaces |
UniLodge, Scape Darling Square, Urbanest, Homestay, Shared Apartments |
$220 – $500+ (based on type and location) |
Type |
Description |
Estimated Weekly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestay |
Live with an Australian family; meals included |
$250 – $320 |
|
Student Apartments |
Purpose-built student housing with private/shared rooms (e.g., UniLodge, Scape) |
$300 – $500+ |
|
Shared Housing |
Rent a private room in a shared house or flat with other students |
$220 – $350 |
|
Private Rental |
Studio or one-bedroom apartments for independent living |
$400 – $600+ |
At NAS, your life revolves around the studio. Unlike traditional universities, NAS emphasizes hands-on, practice-led learning, meaning students spend most of their time working on their art — in painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photomedia, or drawing. Studios are open late, allowing you to develop your work independently or collaborate with peers.
You’ll be surrounded by artists, mentors, and fellow students who are just as committed to their creative journey as you are. It’s intense, but in the best way.
The NAS campus is located on the stunning, heritage-listed grounds of the old Darlinghurst Gaol in central Sydney. The sandstone walls and old cells-turned-studios give it a raw, historic vibe that perfectly complements creative exploration. The campus also features:
Art studios and galleries
A well-stocked art library
A student lounge and café
Public exhibitions and events
You’ll be studying right in the heart of Sydney, surrounded by galleries, theatres, cafes, and a buzzing cultural district.
NAS has a strong public exhibition program, which includes:
Student exhibitions (end-of-year and mid-year showcases)
NAS Gallery exhibitions featuring local and international artists
Artist talks, film nights, live drawing sessions, and cultural events
Students also get the opportunity to exhibit their work publicly, a valuable experience for building a professional artistic career.
Because NAS is small, it fosters a tight-knit, supportive community. You’ll know your classmates and your lecturers personally. The staff — many of whom are practicing artists themselves — are approachable and passionate about mentoring the next generation of creators.
Collaborations are common, and friendships often turn into creative partnerships, exhibitions, and collectives after graduation.
Even in an intense creative environment, NAS provides support systems to help students balance their workload and wellbeing. Services include:
Academic support and feedback sessions
Mental health and counselling services
Access to workshops and technical assistants
International student advisors and visa support
Being in Sydney means you’re living in one of the world’s most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities. You’ll have access to:
Major galleries like the Art Gallery of NSW and MCA
Music festivals, theatre shows, and pop-up exhibitions
Beaches, nightlife, and multicultural food
Easy public transport to all parts of the city
It’s a fantastic place to live and grow as an artist.
Unlike traditional universities or vocational institutes (like TAFE), the National Art School does not offer formal "job placements" or internships as part of its programs. Instead, NAS focuses on preparing students for professional careers in the arts, through:
Studio-based learning
Professional practice courses
Real-world exhibition experience
Industry engagement with galleries, curators, and artists
So while there's no "placement cell" or guaranteed job at graduation, NAS equips students with the tools, connections, and portfolio needed to build careers in the creative industries.
NAS integrates career development through:
Professional Practice Classes
These cover how to:
Apply for exhibitions, grants, and residencies
Build a CV, artist statement, and portfolio
Network within the arts industry
Student Exhibitions
Final-year and postgraduate students showcase their work publicly — often attended by gallery owners, collectors, and curators, offering exposure and real opportunities.
Artist Talks and Masterclasses
Students regularly meet and learn from established artists, curators, and art professionals, providing inspiration and networking chances.
Alumni Network & Industry Partnerships
NAS has a strong alumni network and links to organizations like:
Artspace
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA)
Regional galleries and artist-run initiatives
Many NAS graduates go on to build successful careers in creative and art-related fields. Common career paths include:
Professional Artist (Painter, Sculptor, Ceramicist, Photographer)
Gallery Assistant / Curator
Art Director or Creative Consultant
Art Educator (with additional qualifications)
Arts Writer or Critic
Freelance Designer / Illustrator
Studio or Residency Program Participant
Arts Administration / Cultural Program Officer
Some also go on to postgraduate study, fellowships, or international artist residencies.
NAS alumni include some of Australia’s most recognized contemporary artists, including:
Margaret Olley
Fiona Hall
Cressida Campbell
Ben Quilty
This long-standing reputation adds weight to your resume when applying for exhibitions, jobs, or grants in the arts world.
Many graduates enter freelance practice or open their own studios, often supported by:
Arts grants (state or national)
Artist residencies (local and international)
Group exhibitions and collectives
NAS prepares students to be independent, self-directed, and entrepreneurial, which is vital in the contemporary art world.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: Around 30% – 40%
NAS is considered highly competitive, especially for its Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) and Master of Fine Art (MFA) programs.
Admissions are portfolio-based, meaning your creative work, not just your academic record, plays a major role.
Specialist Institution: NAS is one of Australia’s only standalone fine arts schools.
Small Cohort Size: The school maintains small class sizes for studio-based teaching, so the number of places is limited.
High-Quality Applicants: Many applicants are serious, emerging artists or professionals looking to deepen their practice.
Portfolio-Driven: Admission decisions heavily depend on your portfolio quality, creative potential, and passion for the arts.
A strong, well-documented portfolio (10–15 recent artworks)
A clear and passionate artist statement
Meeting all academic and English language requirements
Showing evidence of commitment to a visual arts career
Address:
National Art School
Forbes Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
Sydney, Australia
Website: N/A
The NAS campus is situated on the heritage-listed grounds of the former Darlinghurst Gaol, just minutes from Sydney’s central business district. The sandstone buildings, once prison cells, have been transformed into art studios, exhibition spaces, and classrooms, giving the campus a distinctive, creative atmosphere that reflects its artistic legacy.
Oxford Street – One of Sydney’s most vibrant cultural and nightlife areas
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Museum of Contemporary Art, and White Rabbit Gallery – All within easy reach
Central Station and Museum Station – Accessible by foot or public transport
Hyde Park, Surry Hills, and CBD – Walking distance from campus
