Admissions
Applications for 2027 are now open!
Click the button below to start your application.
Applications are due by September 30, 2026.
Submissions after this date will be considered on a rolling basis.
Application Process
Below is a basic overview of the steps involved in applying to the AICA program.
Step 1:
Submit Application
Fill out our online application and submit it by the deadline.
Step 2:
1-on-1 Interview
Join a brief, 20-minute video introductory interview with us.
Step 3:
Group Interview
Join an in-person, group interview and campus tour.
Step 4:
Final Decision
We will notify you to confirm our decision on your application.
Program Eligibility
The Arts Institute for Creative Advancement (AICA) encourages individuals ages 18–25 who have faced barriers to livable wage employment to apply, including:
Individuals seeking career access without a college degree
Individuals with disabilities or non-traditional learning backgrounds
Applicants from low-income or economically disadvantaged households
No academic degree or prior experience is required. The AICA welcomes applications from individuals of any gender. Priority is given to applicants who live in DC.
Ideal apprentices are hardworking and dependable, enjoy hands-on learning, want to work in a career that takes advantage of their curiosity and creativity, and enjoy being part of something bigger than themselves.
Required Availability
Apprentices must be available Monday - Friday from 12:30-6:30 PM from mid-January through April and have flexibility for evening and weekend work from May through August. Job placement support and mentorship will continue through December.
Questions about applying to the AICA?
We’re happy to help you! Read our FAQs, or send a message to Isabel Reiff, AICA Admissions Coordinator, at AICAapplications@yahoo.com.
The AICA is committed to transforming the technical theatre industry by supporting emerging artists and promoting inclusivity.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Grant No. H421F240164, administered by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The contents of this website were developed under grant H421F240164 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this document. The contents of this website may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this website does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This publication is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed, or materials provided by any Federal agency (EDGAR 75.620).