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Academic Enrichment
Interlochen Center for the Arts
A world-renowned institution where young artists refine their craft through immersive, high-level training.
8–18
Ages
3,000+ students annually
Students
Selective
Ratio
1928
Founded
About Interlochen Center for the Arts
Interlochen Center for the Arts is one of the most prestigious arts education institutions in the world, offering transformative programs for young creatives across music, theatre, dance, visual arts, creative writing, and film. Set on a beautiful campus between two lakes in Michigan, Interlochen provides an inspiring and immersive environment where students live, learn, and create alongside peers who share their passion.
The institution is known for its rigorous training, distinguished faculty, and strong emphasis on artistic excellence. Students benefit from professional-level facilities including concert halls, studios, and performance spaces, while also receiving a well-rounded academic education. Alumni of Interlochen have gone on to achieve global recognition across various artistic fields.
With programs ranging from summer camps to full-time arts boarding school experiences, Interlochen nurtures talent, discipline, and creative confidence at the highest level.
Institution Details
Type
Ages
Students
Ratio
Founded
City
Annual fee
Arts Boarding School & Summer Camp
8–18
3,000+ annually
Selective admission
1928
Michigan, United States
$10,000–$70,000 (program dependent)
Contact & Enquiry
Visit interlochen.org →
In Their Words — Institutional Philosophy
\”Interlochen empowers young artists to achieve excellence, fostering creativity, discipline, and a lifelong passion for the arts in an inspiring community.\”
Philosophy
How they teach
French Woods follows an individualized learning model where campers design their own schedules based on their interests, combining choice-based learning through major and minor activities with hands-on creative training. The program emphasizes real production experience in areas like theatre, music, and circus, while maintaining a balance between the arts and traditional camp life. With a strong focus on building confidence, creativity, and self-expression, campers actively participate in full-scale productions, workshops, and collaborative projects across multiple disciplines.
Outcomes
Where students go
French Woods alumni often go on to pursue successful careers on Broadway and in the performing arts, as well as in the film, television, and music industries, while many also gain admission to top arts schools and universities. The camp is widely recognized for developing students with strong creative portfolios and extensive performance experience, helping them stand out in competitive artistic fields.





Our Assessment
How Interlochen Center for the Arts Performs
Coaching Credentials
Exceptional. Programs are led by accomplished artists, faculty, and industry professionals with global recognition in music, theatre, visual arts, dance, and film.
Student Wellbeing
Strong. A supportive residential environment with trained staff, structured supervision, and a strong emphasis on student safety and personal growth.
Academic Integration
High. Offers a balanced blend of rigorous academics and intensive arts training through its arts boarding school and summer programs.
Competitive Pathway
Excellent. Students gain strong portfolio development, performance exposure, and pathways to top conservatories and creative careers.
Facilities & Resources
World-class. Expansive campus with concert halls, theatres, film studios, visual arts spaces, and lakeside natural surroundings.
Ongoing Accountability
Highly reputed. A legacy institution with nearly a century of excellence in arts education and consistent program delivery.
Admissions &
How to Apply
Open to students passionate about arts, requiring auditions or portfolio submissions depending on the discipline.
Enquiries Open
Year-round
Application Deadline
Rolling (early application recommended due to limited seats)
Annual Fee
~$8,000+ (varies by program; financial aid available)
Location
Interlochen, Michigan, United States
Website
“Interlochen inspires artists to achieve their full potential through a transformative blend of creative excellence and academic growth”