The Art & Design Preparatory Course consists of 18 Saturdays of classes at the academy in Zwolle. Classes take place from 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In addition, you will spend an average of half a day per week working on assignments at home.
Dates and times
5 Sep - 9:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
12 Sep - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
19 Sep - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
26 Sep - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
3 Oct - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
10 Oct - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
24 Oct - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
31 Oct - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
7 Nov - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
14 Nov - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
21 Nov - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
28 Nov - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
5 Dec - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
12 Dec - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
9 Jan - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
16 Jan - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
23 Jan - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
30 Jan - 9:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
During the preparatory course, you will work on your portfolio, receive feedback, and discuss your admission to the programme of your choice with our tutors.
You will explore the content of our bachelor's programmes and take classes in art theory, studio practice, and presentation skills.
If you decide to apply for one of our bachelor's programmes, you will be asked to submit a portfolio.
Your portfolio should include work you have created both as part of assignments and independently. During the preparatory course, you will have plenty of opportunities to develop and refine your portfolio.
Portfolio tips
- Include a wide variety of work, such as drawings, paintings, studies, 3D work, sculptures, animations, storyboards, films, and sketchbooks—anything that showcases your creativity and artistic practice.
- Add work you have made on your own initiative. This often gives the clearest impression of who you are as an artist or designer.
- Show your creative process. How did you develop your ideas? What worked well, and what challenges did you encounter?
- Present your work clearly and professionally. Your portfolio can be submitted as a PDF, an MP4 (for film), or a website (for example, created with Wix).
- Demonstrate your storytelling skills through images, text, animation, or a combination of these.
During our Open Days, you can have your portfolio reviewed by tutors and students and receive valuable feedback before you apply.
No, there is no admission for this course.
The preparatory course is open to anyone who is curious about studying at ArtEZ, wants to explore our bachelor's programmes, or has an interest in art, design, or interior architecture. You are also welcome if you simply want to develop your creative skills and are not planning to continue to higher education.
No, the preparatory course is not eligible for student finance or government study grants.
The preparatory course is open to anyone aged 14 and over. Each year, participants of all ages and backgrounds join the programme, creating a diverse and inspiring learning environment. Whatever your age, you are warmly welcome to apply.
No. Everyone is welcome to join the preparatory course. If you decide to apply for one of our bachelor's programmes afterwards, you will need to meet that programme's admission requirements.