Interested in
Being Part of MSA?

The MSA admission process is designed for students who crave MSA full program participation with guaranteed placement and who commit to six-eight art classes during their four years at NHS (two per year). This admissions process also reflects our commitment to support talented and committed artist scholars and make sure each MSA discipline is a good fit for the applicant.

Students who live outside of Novato High's enrollment and wish to join MSA must apply as an MSA Major to qualify for their transfer issued through Novato Unified School District.

The admissions process is designed to benefit student applicants through interviews with our faculty and current students to learn first hand about each arts focus. We aim to place all students who truly desire to join MSA at whatever level works best for their interests.

With so many choices, the interview process is helpful for students to decide if an arts program matches their interests. Program faculty use the process to determine proper level placement for applicants (especially important in performing arts). After accepting placement, incoming MSA Majors also benefit from early communication on program activities, invitations to summer bridge activities and more before school starts. MSA classes are scheduled as any other class in student's school day. As such, MSA students have personalized class schedules completed by our program specialist and counseling team to optimize their academic school day.

The benefits for students who graduate through the MSA Specialized Program go beyond art and personal enjoyment. Over the past 25 years, graduate data confirm that MSA Majors graduate with significantly higher GPA than their counterparts while developing essential skills in collaboration, creative and critical thinking, time management and more. In addition, most MSA programs are designated as Career Technical Education on student transcripts, confirming the vocational skills learned for college admissions and employment opportunities. With MSA, students in all participation levels can develop their passion, identity and purpose before choosing a pathway after high school.

While most prospective students are 8^th graders applying for admission in their freshmen year, MSA welcomes new students at every grade level. Letter of recommendation are not required in a student's application to join MSA. We welcome young creators from all areas of Marin, Sonoma, and surrounding counties. Those who live outside of Novato must also complete an Inter District Transfer application with Novato Unified School District (see Steps below for details) before placement may be offered. MSA has no direct involvement in the transfer process but will help guide families through the process.

Prospective students and their families are invited to participate in activities that help families understand the breadth and depth of our program offerings, including MSA Family Tours and program events.

We are an inclusive community open to all—regardless of socio-economic standing, race, gender, or personal beliefs. We encourage creative students of all skill levels to apply and seek enthusiastic, open-minded students ready to grow as a community together.