According to Hybe Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, the project's intention is to form "an international group based on K-pop methodology.

[3] In order to select the 20 candidates competing for a spot in the group, Hybe and Geffen Records launched global auditions online in November 2021.

After each mission performance release, fans were encouraged to vote via Weverse and by liking their favorite contestants' fancams on YouTube.

[9] On October 21, 2023, Dream Academy announced Lexie's decision to withdraw from the competition, citing the desire to work in music production instead.

Fan votes, a panel of three Hybe x Geffen executives, and the input of both labels' CEOs were used to decide the winners.

[15] Dream Academy contestant Samara appeared in an Instagram Reel with Tomorrow X Together’s Huening Kai in promotion for their song "Back for More" on October 7, 2023.

[1][14][16][18] "Pop Star Academy: Katseye" is directed by Nadia Hallgren and explores the contestants' training and development throughout the project.