FAQs for Students


How much does it cost to visit the MFAH?

Admission is $20 with a student ID. On Thursdays, visiting the MFAH Permanent Collections is free, and an ALL ACCESS ticket to visit the Permanent Collections and Special Exhibitions is $10. Students of any college or university can receive free admission any day the Museum is open by presenting an art-related assignment and college ID at an admissions desk. 

Students at institutions that are part of the University Partnership Program receive free admission any day the Museum is open by presenting proof of UPP Membership at an admissions desk along with a valid school ID. Participating colleges and universities:

  • Houston Christian University / College of Arts and Humanities (COAH)
  • Houston Community College / Media, Visual & Performing Arts Programs
  • Rice University / Passport to Houston
  • University of Houston / School of Art (Main Campus)
  • University of Houston-Downtown / Department of Arts and Humanities
  • University of St. Thomas / Undergraduate Students

Admission is always free to the Hirsch Library; Cullen Sculpture Garden; Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza; PNC Roof Garden; Glassell School of Art; Cafe Leonelli; and MFA Shop. Learn more about ways to visit for free.

Where can I find information for my assignment?

There are several ways to find information about artists and works of art, and to do general art research. Make an appointment with the Hirsch Library, and a helpful research librarian can help you find everything you need among the thousands of resources available. You may also browse the online catalog, as well as access information about the MFAH Archives, which keeps records including correspondence, photographs, architectural drawings, newspaper clippings, and audio recordings.

The Museum also offers a wide array of resources to help you in the Kinder Foundation Education Center. You may also explore its online resources.

Research opportunities are available in many different locations at the Museum.

Where can I eat at the MFAH?

Find information about dining, drink, and snack options at the link below. 

► Dining at the MFAH

Please remember that food and beverages are not allowed in the galleries.

May I take photographs?

Yes and no. In general, you may take still, no-flash photographs for private, noncommercial use in Museum galleries that are devoted to the MFAH collections, including Cullen Sculpture Garden. However, some works in the collections cannot be photographed. Your best bet is to ask Museum staff to help you identify the areas where photography is permitted. Photographs cannot be published, sold, reproduced, transferred, distributed, or otherwise commercially exploited in any manner whatsoever. For more information, see the Museum's policies.

Does the MFAH offer art and art history classes?


Yes. Check out the course schedule for the Glassell School of Art, where you can take art history and studio courses year-round.

What kinds of events and programs can I attend?


Visit mfah.org/calendar for a look at the wide range of educational and social events at the MFAH.