Application process: step by step

Step 1: Study requirements

you are able to study at the FH Dortmund if you have:

• the certificate of general higher education entrance qualification (Abitur)
• the advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife)
• or an equivalent recognized qualification

In addition, a course-related artistic-creative suitability must be proven to study at the department of design (you need to apply for and pass an aptitude test at the FH Dortmund - see step 3).

German language skills have to be proven by an university entrance qualification or university degree from a German-speaking institution or by a recognized language test. An overview of all German language tests that are recognized can be downloaded in the right column on this page. One of these tests is the TestDaF. The FH Dortmund is a licensed TestDaF center, which means that you can take this exam at our university.

In addition, evidence of relevant practical activities already obtained is required. Either through a subject-related, qualifying degree OR through another qualification for the study combined with a subject-related practical activity of at least 12 weeks in duration. At least half of the internship must be proven upon enrollment; all proof must be provided by the end of the third semester at the latest.

You can find further, detailed information on the individual courses and the study requirements for national and international applicants here.
 
Step 2: Application deadlines

•     Registration for the aptitude test: January 15 - March 1
•     Application for course of study: June 1 - July 15 (all Bachelor courses start in the winter semester)

Step 3: Aptitude Test

First you have to fill an online application form for the aptitude test. You will then receive a written invitation with dates for submitting your free work / homework.

The following documents must be prepared for the first stage of the procedure ("folder submission / examination"):

•     at least 20 work samples + the required homework
•     a list of the submitted works
•     a CV including a photo
•     a maximum of one page, explaining the submitted work
•     a declaration that the work was done by yourself.

The second stage consists of:

•     the creation of practical work in a maximum of 6 hours
•     a colloquium of max. 20 minutes discussing the context of the practical work and the work samples you handed in in advance

With an average rating of 4.0 or better, you will be awarded the degree-related artistic aptitude.

If you have already completed 30 credit points (CP) in a subject-related design study course at another university, you can be exempted from participating in the aptitude test after submitting an officially certified copy of your study performance/results (transcript of records).
 
Step 4: Application

Via this link you can reach our university portal, there you have to follow the following steps:

•     Registration
•     Verification + Activation of account
•     Login
•     Add application + complete your details
•     Submit application

Applications for several courses can be sent. After the deadline, you will receive the letter of admission via the online portal of the FH Dortmund. If you have also passed the aptitude test you can then register online.
 
Step 5: costs during the stay

During your studies you have to think about the following expenses: semester fee, housing costs, health insurance, radio fee, meals, cell phone contract and private expenses for your leisure activities. Generally you need at least 800 € per month. You can find more information about the costs here.