ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
THE HAA ADVANTAGE
A Mentorship-Based Education
At HAA, students experience a one-of-a-kind mentorship-driven education that sets us apart from traditional programs. Unlike other schools where students must work on their projects alone at home, our master-class animation directors are in the room all day, every day, providing real-time support, guidance, and professional feedback.
Remote Attendance
Our in-person experience is the heart of Hollywood Animation Academy — but for students who cannot attend in person, remote attendance is offered by invitation or instructor approval. You’ll log in live to the same classroom sessions, see instructor demos in real time, and take part in critiques alongside our on-campus artists. This option is limited to preserve the intimate, studio-style atmosphere that defines the HAA experience.
Our studio may be in Kansas City — but our reach is global.
There are limited spots available so inquire today!
LISA BLANCHARD
Student Success Manager and Admissions
Text: 913-832-6075 | Lisa@HollywoodAnimationAcademy.com
Contact Lisa in our admissions office to get any answers you need, arrange a campus tour, or request enrollment materials!
2 YEAR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Enrolling for Fall 2026 | Limited seats
Tuition is $36,000 per year
Scholarships are available, reducing overall cost- Package with our Mastercraft Program for further discount.
To be considered for acceptance into Hollywood Animation Academy, students must complete the portfolio review. Request our application information to receive an extended list of portfolio guidelines to help you put your samples together.
3D focused students may submit film, acting, creative writing, and any digital media they have. Drawing is not needed for 3D track.
Must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent
Understand conversational English
Students must also purchase all minimum equipment and supply requirements for homework
MASTERCRAFT PROGRAM
Enrolling for Fall 2026 | Online
Tuition is $24,000 for 1-Year Certificate fulltime. 3-year commitment scholarship is available.
Individual class rates are $3000 each for 15 weeks. Package deals available on multiple classes.
All classes at HAA have live instruction and reviews with experienced industry animators unlike most online animation schools.
Mastercraft courses produce some of best portfolio pieces coming out of any school in the world. Pro feature film, game cinematics, 2D films and storyboards. This is truly the pinnacle in animation education.
To qualify for our Masters Program, Students must be graduates of the HAA 2 Year Animation Certificate Program or have advanced skills and a Bachelor’s degree in Animation or higher.
ENROLLMENT | Important Notes
Class space is limited. Classes are limited to 12 students. This allows students to receive the coaching attention they need.
Students will be enrolled on a first-come, first-serve basis based on class availability and your portfolio review. Register early to secure your spot. We only accept students that we believe have the foundational creative skills to be successful in our program.
Hollywood Animation Academy does not give credits toward a degree, our program does not transfer to any other educational institution.
Your participation daily and dedication to your assignments is the key to your growth and job acquisition. You should make certain that your attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals.
ONLINE INTRODUCTORY COURSES | Continuous Enrollment
Our popular introductory classes are the perfect way for students to find out if a career in animation is right for them or just to learn and have fun.
Courses are $1500 each for 8 weeks for 90 minutes one day a week, from 7:30 to 9 pm
We accept students 15 years and older
Intermediate drawing skills are needed to attend our Introduction to 2D Animation course. Request our application information to receive an extended list of portfolio guidelines to help you put your samples together.
There is no drawing requirement for Introduction to 3D animation.
Classes are offered throughout the year. Check our calendar for the next course offering or request application information below.
TUITION AND FEES
Hollywood Animation Academy is a private institution that does not offer financial aid or scholarships. This allows us to provide an accelerated career-focused curriculum in just 2 years, without the non-career courses required for federal loan eligibility. We are a state-certified proprietary school in Missouri.
Tuition for the 2-Year Program starting Fall 2026 is $36,000 per year for starting Fall of 2026. Scholarships are available. Tuition rates are subject to increase each year.
As a private school, we do not charge a higher tuition rate for out-of-state students. The same course fees and tuition apply to all incoming students.
Due to high demand, we anticipate a waiting list for available seats. If tuition is not paid by the deadline, your seat will not be held.
OTHER COSTS
Students will need to purchase a home computer that meets industry specifications for homework. Minimum requirements include:
32 GB processor
RTX 3060 graphics card or higher
22-inch Huion drawing tablet
22-inch side monitor
The estimated cost for these items is $2,000.
PC workstations will be provided at the school for students daily work and they do not need to bring any of their own equipment from home.
Additional software costs include:
Autodesk Maya Indie license for $320 for a year (required for homework)
ToonBoom licenses (provided for both school and home use)
Adobe account (approximately $20 per month for website and software subscription, starting in the final semester)
The total cost of equipment and software, excluding tuition, will not exceed $3,000
VETERAN’S BENEFITS
We may qualify for Veterans' scholarships starting in 2025. For more information, please check with the admissions office to confirm eligibility.
For any further questions or details, please contact our office.
Want to learn more in person? We’d love to host you in an in person or virtual tour of our campus and classrooms.