Student Life

Community of Artists

At the National Art School on Gadigal land, students dive into a rich artistic experience. Nestled in Sydney’s cultural hub of Darlinghurst, NAS blends deep-rooted heritage with a dynamic arts community. From engaging talks to vibrant events and an outstanding public exhibition program, students thrive in a collaborative atmosphere, forging connections and honing their craft amidst the echoes of history while tapping into cutting-edge innovation.

Historic Campus

The National Art School, on the site of the former Darlinghurst Gaol, stands on Gadigal land.  The heritage-listed campus is part of the creative and cultural Oxford Street precinct and a significant part of Sydney’s heritage. Building on the original gaol began 200 years ago in 1822, and in 1922 the art school moved into the site. For the past century, NAS has been a strong artistic presence in the heart of the city, providing not just tertiary art education but a major exhibition program, public short courses, popular school programs and cultural events.

Cultural Heart 

The culture of the campus is lively, progressive, and collaborative. We have a deep and vibrant connection to the arts industry and creative sector that feeds back into the NAS community, giving students and staff a wider perspective outside the curriculum, a strong sense of purpose and broad understanding of the role of an artist.

Care and Support

We have a uniquely tight-knit, supportive artistic community. We’re focused on enhancing your classroom experience by creating a sense of belonging and providing the support you need to be successful at NAS. That’s why we’re dedicated to supporting you both in and out of the studio and you’ll find a range of student services and resources designed to help you throughout your NAS journey.

Alumni Network

From our home in Sydney to over 75 countries across the globe, our 15,000 alumni are using their artistic practices and professional experience to build a better and more creative world every day. Throughout your time on campus, in your internships and after graduation, you’ll find continued support and inspiration from your NAS peers.

Support Services for Students

Our Student Services office can provide advice and assistance to students on a range of enquiries regarding admission, progression, course withdrawals, fees, student cards, scholarships, prizes, exchange programs, exhibitions, assessment, results and graduation. 

Student Services, Building 3 
Monday – Thursday, 9am – 5pm
Friday, 9am – 3pm 
+61 2 9339 8651 
student.​services@​nas.​edu.​au 

Emergency services | 000

Call this number for access to police, ambulance or fire. If you, or anyone close to you has thoughts of harming themselves or someone else, this is the best number to call.

NAS Security | 0434 565 275

NAS Counsellor | 9339 8722
Best to contact via email leaving your mobile details and the Counsellor will get back to you.
counsellor@​nas.​edu.​au

NAS Student Well-being Officer | 02 9339 8614

wellbeing@​nas.​edu.​au

The Wellbeing Officer can help students with mental health issues and stress management, study strategies and time management skills.

NAS Academic Literacy Officer | 9339 8624
molly.​duggins@​nas.​edu.​au
Dr Molly Duggins can provide support and direction with research, drafting, self-editing and any academic writing issues you may have.

Centrelink | 132 490
If you are a full time student, you may be eligible for financial support and a low income health care card. Go online to learn more and apply for Austudy, youth allowance (to age 25) and Abstudy (support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students) online and by phone. If you have any difficulty with accessing this information, ask student services to help.