Alabama School of Fine Arts
General Information
Overview
The Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) is a premier public, tuition-free institution located in Birmingham, Alabama, that serves as a statewide magnet school for talented and motivated students in grades 7–12. Renowned for its specialized curriculum in both academic and fine arts disciplines, ASFA provides an exceptional learning environment where creativity meets rigorous academics. Established to nurture the artistic and intellectual growth of young individuals, the school offers six specialized departments that include Creative Writing, Dance, Mathematics and Science, Music, Theatre Arts, and Visual Arts. Each program is designed to cultivate talent through hands-on instruction, professional mentorship, and performance opportunities.
ASFA’s philosophy emphasizes individuality, discipline, and excellence, encouraging students to develop both their artistic voice and academic foundation. Students are selected through a competitive audition or application process, ensuring a community of highly dedicated learners. With small class sizes, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse faculty of artists, scholars, and educators, ASFA continues to be one of the leading fine arts institutions in the southeastern United States, inspiring innovation and achievement among young creatives.
Contact Information
Address: 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Boulevard, Birmingham, AL 35203
Phone Number: (205) 252-9241
Email Address: info@asfa.k12.al.us
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1971 |
| Motto | “To Inspire, To Create, To Achieve” |
| Type | Public Fine Arts Magnet School |
| Grades | 7–12 |
| District | Alabama State Department of Education |
| Accreditation | Cognia (AdvancED) |
| Campus Type | Urban |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 9:1 |
| School Mascot | Pegasus |
| School Colors | Blue and Gold |
Alabama School of Fine Arts Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Alabama State High Schools | Top 10 |
| U.S. Arts High Schools | Top 15 |
| Academic Achievement Index | 95/100 |
| Student Retention | 98% |
| Diversity and Inclusion | 9/10 |
Alabama School of Fine Arts Academics
Alabama School of Fine Arts Faculties / Departments
- Creative Writing Department
- Dance Department
- Mathematics and Science Department
- Music Department
- Theatre Arts Department
- Visual Arts Department
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Health and Physical Education
Alabama School of Fine Arts Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Mathematics and Science Program
- Studio Art and Design
- Ballet and Modern Dance
- Instrumental and Vocal Music
- Theatre Performance and Production
- Creative Writing and Literary Studies
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in English, History, and Science
- Digital Media and Photography
- Technical Theatre and Stage Design
Online Learning
The Alabama School of Fine Arts primarily emphasizes in-person instruction due to the hands-on nature of its artistic disciplines. However, the school integrates digital learning platforms for research, academic coursework, and collaborative projects. Students use online systems to submit assignments, access e-libraries, and participate in virtual workshops led by visiting artists and educators. During special circumstances, ASFA has implemented hybrid learning models that combine live performance streaming and online critiques to ensure uninterrupted arts education. These technological integrations allow students to gain digital proficiency while continuing to explore their creative disciplines in a flexible and modern educational environment.
Average Test Scores
| Assessment | Average Score / Proficiency |
|---|---|
| ACT | 27 |
| SAT | 1260 |
| Advanced Placement (AP) Pass Rate | 93% |
| College Placement Rate | 100% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
ASFA maintains one of the highest retention and graduation rates in the state of Alabama. The retention rate averages around 98%, reflecting the school’s strong academic and artistic support systems. The graduation rate consistently exceeds 99%, with nearly all students advancing to four-year universities or professional arts conservatories. The school’s focus on individualized attention, mentorship, and performance-based assessment contributes significantly to these exceptional outcomes.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to the Alabama School of Fine Arts is based on artistic talent, academic achievement, and potential rather than standardized test scores. However, accepted students typically maintain a GPA between 3.5 and 4.0. For college placement, graduating seniors score above the national average on standardized tests, with an average SAT score of 1260 and ACT composite of 27.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Admission | 25% |
| Creative Writing Program | 20% |
| Dance Program | 30% |
| Math & Science Program | 22% |
| Music Program | 28% |
| Theatre Arts Program | 24% |
| Visual Arts Program | 26% |
Alabama School of Fine Arts Application Requirements
The application process for ASFA is competitive and multi-faceted. Prospective students must submit a completed application form, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a portfolio or audition relevant to their chosen department. Each program evaluates applicants on artistic skill, creativity, discipline, and academic readiness. Written essays or personal statements are often required to assess motivation and fit for ASFA’s rigorous environment. Admissions decisions are made by faculty panels that carefully review each candidate’s potential for artistic and intellectual growth.
Application Process
- Complete the online or paper application form
- Submit academic records and teacher recommendations
- Prepare and submit an artistic portfolio or audition materials
- Participate in an in-person or virtual audition/interview
- Receive notification of acceptance and complete enrollment paperwork
Alabama School of Fine Arts Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 1 |
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Audition/Portfolio Review | February – March |
| Acceptance Notification | April |
| Orientation and Registration | July – August |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to write a short essay describing their artistic journey, inspiration, and goals. Typical prompts include: “What inspires your creativity?” or “How do you see your art shaping your future?” Essays are evaluated on originality, clarity, and genuine passion for the chosen discipline.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Scholarships
Although ASFA is tuition-free, the school offers financial assistance for fees, materials, and extracurricular costs through the ASFA Foundation. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, financial need, and artistic excellence. Additionally, graduating seniors often receive external scholarships from universities and arts organizations for outstanding academic and artistic performance.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Art/Music Supply Fees | $50–$100 per year |
| Activity Fee | $30 |
| Field Trip and Workshop Costs | Varies by program |
| Room and Board (if applicable) | N/A (Day School) |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The Alabama School of Fine Arts is recognized for its diversity and inclusivity. Students range from ages 12 to 18, representing a wide array of cultural, racial, and geographic backgrounds from across Alabama. Approximately 55% of the student body is female and 45% male. Ethnic representation includes 50% White, 35% African American, 8% Hispanic, 5% Asian, and 2% multiracial students. This blend of backgrounds contributes to a dynamic and collaborative community where different perspectives are celebrated through the arts and academics.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
ASFA is committed to providing equitable opportunities for all students. Around 25% of students receive financial aid or fee waivers, and the school’s support system ensures that economic background never limits artistic development. The institution provides accommodations and specialized resources for students with disabilities, including accessible classrooms, individualized education plans, and mentorship programs.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 350 |
| Male Students | 45% |
| Female Students | 55% |
| Minority Enrollment | 50% |
| Students on Financial Assistance | 25% |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 9:1 |
University Diversity
Diversity is at the core of ASFA’s educational philosophy. The school welcomes students from every region of Alabama, fostering a unique environment that blends cultures, perspectives, and artistic traditions. Cultural awareness events, equity workshops, and inclusive arts performances celebrate this diversity. Students are encouraged to express their individuality while learning from others, helping them grow as both artists and citizens. ASFA’s commitment to inclusivity strengthens its academic and creative community, preparing students to thrive in a multicultural and globalized world.
Average Earnings
As a secondary school, ASFA does not track graduate earnings. However, alumni have gone on to achieve remarkable success in higher education and professional fields. Graduates frequently attend prestigious institutions such as Juilliard, Berklee College of Music, Harvard, and NYU. Many alumni have successful careers as musicians, dancers, visual artists, writers, scientists, and educators, reflecting the school’s long-term impact on professional achievement.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
ASFA’s faculty is composed of highly qualified educators, professional artists, and academic scholars dedicated to cultivating each student’s potential. With over 60 teaching staff members, the school maintains an average class size of 12 students, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship. Teachers regularly collaborate across disciplines to integrate academic and artistic learning, ensuring a balanced and innovative curriculum.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at ASFA bring national and international experience to the classroom. Many hold advanced degrees in fine arts, science, and education, and several are practicing artists, musicians, and authors with professional accolades. The staff’s expertise ranges from classical ballet and orchestral performance to digital media, creative writing, and advanced scientific research. Their mentorship plays a critical role in guiding students toward academic excellence and artistic mastery.
Alabama School of Fine Arts Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Located in downtown Birmingham, the Alabama School of Fine Arts features modern facilities designed to enhance creativity and collaboration. The campus includes art studios, music rehearsal spaces, dance studios, science laboratories, and a professional theatre. Students have access to technology-integrated classrooms and open creative spaces that encourage innovation. While ASFA does not provide on-campus housing, it maintains strong ties with the local arts community, offering frequent field trips, performances, and exhibitions that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Transportation
ASFA’s central Birmingham location provides convenient access through public transportation, carpool programs, and school-arranged bus routes for certain regions. The school promotes safe commuting with designated drop-off and pick-up zones and supports students’ travel needs for performances and competitions. Its accessible campus design ensures that all students can navigate comfortably and efficiently throughout the school grounds.