The High School of Fashion Industries
General Information
About The High School of Fashion Industries
The High School of Fashion Industries, located in Manhattan, New York City, is one of the nation’s most prestigious public high schools dedicated to fashion, design, and related arts. Established with a mission to provide students with both academic excellence and specialized training in fashion, visual arts, and business, the school prepares young designers, artists, and entrepreneurs for successful futures in the creative industries. The curriculum combines rigorous academic studies with professional-level courses in fashion design, merchandising, illustration, and technology. Students gain hands-on experience through industry partnerships, internships, and collaborative projects that mirror real-world professional environments.
The High School of Fashion Industries nurtures creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship while promoting diversity and global awareness. With its prime location in New York City—the fashion capital of the world—students have unique access to industry leaders, events, and museums. Graduates frequently continue their education at prestigious design schools such as FIT, Parsons, and Pratt Institute, often pursuing careers in fashion, marketing, art direction, and media.
Contact Information
Address: 225 West 24th Street, New York, NY 10011
Phone Number: (212) 255-1235
Email Address: info@hsfi.nyc
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1926 |
| Motto | “We Dress the Future” |
| School Type | Public Specialized High School |
| Principal | Daryl Blank |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Location | Chelsea, Manhattan, New York City |
The High School of Fashion Industries Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| New York City Public High Schools | Top 5% |
| National High Schools for the Arts | Top 25 |
| NYC College Readiness Index | 85% |
The High School of Fashion Industries Academics
The High School of Fashion Industries Faculties / Departments
- Fashion Design Department
- Fashion Merchandising Department
- Visual Arts Department
- Graphic Design and Technology Department
- English Department
- Mathematics and Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- World Languages Department
- Health and Physical Education Department
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
The High School of Fashion Industries Courses and Programs / Majors
- Fashion Design
- Fashion Merchandising and Marketing
- Graphic Design and Digital Media
- Illustration and Visual Arts
- Textiles and Fabric Technology
- Business Management and Entrepreneurship
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Advanced Placement (AP) Academic Courses
- Portfolio Development and Art Foundations
Online Learning
The High School of Fashion Industries provides hybrid learning opportunities through virtual classroom tools and design software platforms. During remote learning sessions, students continue to work on digital design projects, online critiques, and virtual collaborations. This online integration helps prepare students for modern creative workflows, emphasizing flexibility and digital literacy while maintaining the high academic standards of the school’s in-person instruction.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1180 |
| ACT | 24 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The High School of Fashion Industries maintains a strong student retention rate of approximately 94%. Its graduation rate consistently exceeds 97%, demonstrating the school’s commitment to student success. Over 90% of graduates pursue higher education, particularly in art and design institutions, business schools, and universities specializing in creative disciplines.
The High School of Fashion Industries Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The average GPA of accepted students typically falls between 3.2 and 3.9. While standardized test scores are noted for overall academic standing, admission decisions primarily emphasize artistic ability, portfolio quality, and creativity demonstrated during the audition or portfolio review process.
The High School of Fashion Industries Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance | Approximately 25% |
The High School of Fashion Industries Application Requirements
Admission to The High School of Fashion Industries is competitive and portfolio-based. Applicants must complete the NYC High School Application through the Department of Education and submit a specialized application that includes a portfolio of creative work. Depending on the program, this may include fashion sketches, design projects, or digital art samples. Academic records, attendance, and teacher recommendations are also reviewed. The school seeks students who demonstrate artistic passion, creativity, and commitment to developing their skills within a structured and professional learning environment.
Application Process
- Complete the NYC High School Application
- Select The High School of Fashion Industries as a top choice
- Prepare and submit a portfolio of creative work
- Attend an audition or interview (depending on program)
- Await admission decision via DOE notification
The High School of Fashion Industries Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October |
| Portfolio Submission Deadline | December |
| Auditions / Interviews | December–January |
| Admission Notifications | March |
| Enrollment Deadline | April |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to submit a short essay describing their interest in fashion or art, their creative inspirations, and their long-term career aspirations within the design industry.
The High School of Fashion Industries Scholarships
As a public high school, tuition is free. However, The High School of Fashion Industries provides scholarships and awards through its partnerships with fashion and design organizations. These include funds for materials, workshops, summer intensives, and postsecondary scholarships for outstanding seniors.
The High School of Fashion Industries Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Materials & Supplies | $150–$300 per year |
| Uniforms and Workshops | Variable |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The High School of Fashion Industries serves a richly diverse student population reflective of New York City’s cultural vibrancy. The school welcomes students from all five boroughs and across various socioeconomic backgrounds. The gender ratio slightly favors female students due to the school’s focus on fashion and design disciplines, though male enrollment continues to grow in both creative and business-oriented programs.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 70% of students come from low-income families, and the school offers strong support through financial aid, free meal programs, and access to necessary art supplies. Students with disabilities receive personalized education plans and accommodations to ensure equitable learning opportunities in both academic and design environments.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 1,600 |
| Average Class Size | 25 |
| International Students | Less than 5% |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
University Diversity
Diversity and inclusion are central to The High School of Fashion Industries’ mission. The school celebrates multiculturalism through art, design, and collaboration, encouraging students to explore their identities and express cultural narratives in their work. It hosts multicultural events, international design showcases, and partnerships with global fashion houses. This exposure not only enhances cultural appreciation but also prepares students for participation in a globalized creative economy. The inclusive environment fosters respect, empathy, and creative freedom among all students.
Average Earnings
Graduates of The High School of Fashion Industries often continue to higher education at prestigious design colleges, with many achieving successful careers in fashion, art direction, merchandising, and digital media. Early-career earnings vary, but alumni who enter the creative industries often secure positions in design houses, fashion retail, and production companies, with strong long-term earning potential due to their specialized skill sets and professional training.
The High School of Fashion Industries Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The High School of Fashion Industries employs a team of experienced educators, designers, and industry professionals. Faculty members possess backgrounds in fashion design, merchandising, business, and fine arts, combining academic instruction with practical expertise. The school also provides comprehensive student support through academic advisors, college counselors, and internship coordinators who guide students toward professional success.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty includes accomplished designers, former fashion executives, and artists who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Many instructors hold advanced degrees in design, education, and business management. Their expertise spans across textiles, visual communication, sustainability in fashion, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that students receive well-rounded, industry-relevant instruction.
The High School of Fashion Industries Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Located in the heart of Chelsea, Manhattan, The High School of Fashion Industries offers students access to one of the most dynamic creative environments in the world. While the school does not provide on-campus housing, its campus includes state-of-the-art fashion design studios, textile labs, photography rooms, and computer-aided design (CAD) facilities. Students engage in fashion shows, exhibitions, and design competitions throughout the year, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Transportation
The High School of Fashion Industries is conveniently located near major subway and bus lines, making it easily accessible for students from all boroughs. Its proximity to Penn Station and multiple MTA routes allows for efficient commuting. The school encourages safe and sustainable transportation, providing guidance for students using public transit and coordinating with the city for safe pedestrian access.