Andreessen Horowitz launches AI-focused startup school in San Francisco as college alternative

Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz is investing $35 million to launch a private AI-focused school in San Francisco, designed as an alternative to college for high school graduates aiming to become startup founders. The academy will offer a one-year, tuition-free program for about 50 students, with no tests or homework, instead emphasizing hands-on project building. Courses cover AI system design, fundraising, and storytelling, taught by tech entrepreneurs, with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman listed as a guest lecturer. The school has raised $42 million from partners including Anthropic, Google, Meta, and Nvidia. Students receive $50,000 in computing credits and a $5,000 travel budget. A two-year program is planned for fall 2028, with tuition expected to match elite private universities.