Idyllwild Arts Academy
Idyllwild Arts Academy is one of California's top arts high schools, where creativity fuels connection, critical thinking, and global change. Ranked the #1 High School for the Arts in America by Niche, our master teachers guide students in both art and academics. With nearly 50% international students from 30+ countries, our diverse community thrives on a 205-acre forested campus—an inspiring sanctuary for artistic and personal discovery.
By the numbers
#1 High School for the Arts in America
Idyllwild Arts Academy is a residential art high school in California that is global by design, and proud to welcome students from all over the world who are united by their passion for artistic excellence.
Gifted young artists thrive in our welcoming and supportive community under the tutelage of experienced, professional instructors.
Benefiting from small class sizes, students explore their creative potential, sharpen their skills, and become Citizen Artists with the confidence and commitment to ignite meaningful change in the world.
Summer Programs
The Idyllwild Arts Summer Program offers unique arts camps for adults, teens, and children, including kids' overnight camps and adult workshops. Everyone can build skills, hone their craft, and receive personalized instruction tailored to their artistic needs. Join our welcoming community and let your creativity soar!
Native American Arts Programs
The Native American Arts Center offers workshops, performances, lectures, exhibitions, and community events led by Indigenous teaching artists, tradition keepers, and scholars. These dynamic experiences celebrate culture, foster learning, and create space for meaningful cross-cultural exchange and creativity.
Center for Creativity and Social Entrepreneurship (CCSE)
The CCSE at Idyllwild Arts is a hub for innovation where creativity meets purpose. Through access to cutting-edge technology and bold programming, CCSE fosters an inclusive community of forward-thinking artists ready to lead change. Students gain the skills, courage, and mindset to become transformative agents in the world.
Arts Enterprise Laboratory (AEL)
Only at Idyllwild Arts can students participate in a trailblazing extracurricular program that combines grants, strategic partnerships, masterclasses, and alumni engagements to provide unrivaled real-world training, exposure, and experiences.
Semester Exchange Program
The Semester Exchange Program at Idyllwild Arts Academy invites 10th, 11th, 12th, and Postgraduate students to spend a semester on our stunning Southern California campus. With a personalized curriculum tailored in partnership with each student and their home school, this program supports both academic and artistic growth.
Postgraduate Gap Year
Idyllwild Arts Postgraduate Gap Year students benefit from a personalized curriculum designed to support college auditions, portfolios, and artistic goals. With close mentorship from Arts faculty and College Counselors—and connections to top conservatories and art schools—students gain a strong foundation for life beyond high school.
Real Talk
Let’s grow!
Idyllwild Arts celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive, respectful community where every voice is valued. We believe art builds empathy and global citizenship. Want to be part of something meaningful?