Foundation Year Q&A

APPLICATION

→ What is the deadline for Foundation Year applications?
31 August 2026

→ What do I need to apply?
When applying, you’ll be requested to fill in an application form and book a short meeting with one of our coordinators.

→ What is the cancellation deadline?
Cancellation in writing is possible up to two weeks before the start of a course; in case of a later cancellation or cancellation during the course, the full course fee remains payable.

→ How will I receive my official confirmation?
Receipt of payment counts as definitive confirmation of registration, whereupon places can be assigned, and we can be determined whether the course can take place.

KEY DATES AND INFORMATION

→ When does the Foundation Year take place?
Every Saturday from mid-September to mid-April (excluding the Christmas holidays and spring break).

→ What will I receive when I complete the Foundation Year programme?

• An admission assessment for the Foundation Year’s programme at DAE.
• Excellent preparation for a Bachelor’s degree course at DAE.
• Certificate of participation on request, after finishing the whole Foundation year programme.

→ Is Foundation year in Dutch/English or Bilingual?
As our academy is an international school, the programme is in English

COST

→ What (material) costs can I expect to incur during the course?
Most materials required for the course will be provided during the lessons and are included in the course fee. This excludes special materials required by participants and printing costs, which must be covered by the participant.

→ Can I apply for a student grant for the Foundation Year?
Participants are not formally enrolled as students and therefore do not receive student grant, but they do receive a student card and an electronic key for access to the DAE building.

→ Can I pay in installments?
Due to the nature of the course and it’s demand, payment is taken in a single installment only. 

RELATIONSHIP TO THE BACHELOR'S PROGRAMME

→ Is the Foundation Year a mandatory requirement for admissions to the BA programme?
No, it is not a prerequisite but will help you prepare for BA admission. For more information regarding the general Bachelor’s admission requirements, click here.

→ Will I automatically be accepted to the DAE Bachelor’s programme after the Foundation Year?
Completion of the course helps you prepare for admission, and an admission assessment is included as part of the course. However, completion of the Foundation Year does not automatically lead to admission to the DAE Bachelor programme and does not bestow any rights.

VISAS

→ Can Design Academy Eindhoven assist me in the application for a visa and/or residence permit?
As you are not formally enrolled at Design Academy, we will not be able to help you apply for your visa and/or residence permit.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact Foundationyear@designacademy.nl