Vanguard Program
Vanguard Program
Applications for Semester 1 2027 are now open, until 2 November 2026.
The Vanguard Program gives senior secondary students a chance to sample a tertiary visual arts education while completing their SACE studies. Suitable for students open to a multi-generational independent learning environment.
We recommend students seek guidance from their school and support network before applying.
Secondary students can apply for one of the following options at Stage 2:
- One unit of study for 10 SACE credits.
Duration: One semester.
Unit options: Drawing 1.1 or Sculpture 1. - Two units of study for 20 SACE credits.
Duration: Two semesters.
Unit options: Drawing 1.1, Sculpture 1, Painting 1, Drawing 1.2. To undertake Painting 1 or Drawing 1.2, the student must successfully complete the pre-requisite of Drawing 1.1 in the first semester of study.
Vanguard units have been approved as University Studies by the SACE Board. Successfully completed units can contribute to the calculation of an ATAR under the category of Recognised Studies.
For more information view the Vanguard Program flyer
Benefits:
- Nationally recognised practising artist lecturers
- Intensive studio-based teaching in small classes
- Experience the art school campus and community
- Access ACSA services such as the library, studios and workshop
- Extend your visual arts skills
- Complete units for which you can gain credit within a Bachelor of Visual Art degree at ACSA
Application Process
The application process includes the following steps:
- The online application form is to be completed by the applicant.
- Once the application form has been submitted, a consent form is sent to the applicant’s nominated parent/guardian and an approval form to the nominated school contact.
- Once all forms have been submitted, the applicant and parents/guardians are invited to attend an application interview.
- The nominated school contact is contacted by phone as part of the application assessment.
- The applicant is notified of the outcome of their application.
Apply here by 2 November 2026
Tuition Fees
The 2026 Schedule of Fees can be found here
Please be aware that Vanguard students are not eligible for FEE-HELP student loans, which are exclusively approved for students enrolled at the tertiary level.
Contact Student Services Officer Genevieve Spalding at genevieve.spalding@acsa.sa.edu.au to find out more.
“Being a Vanguard student was an incredible opportunity and start to my journey at Adelaide Central School of Arts. With the knowledge and support of my teachers my skills improved quickly. The school environment is incredibly welcoming, I felt instantly like a part of the community and was excited to be surrounded by likeminded people. This solidified Adelaide Central School of Arts as a place I wanted to continue my studies and develop my practice. It’s also a community I want to give back to and be a part of for many years to come.
I recommend the Vanguard program to any young person who is interested in visual arts. It has given me strong friendships and opportunities in my desired career path that make me feel confident and secure in my future.”
Angelie Vallance,
2025 Vanguard Student