Exchange with Design Academy Eindhoven (DAE)
EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS • Fall or Spring
Spring 2027 Application Cycle is Now Open
What is an ArtCenter Exchange Program?
Spend a term at one of ArtCenter’s partner institutions around the world! Earn up to 15 transfer credits. You will pay ArtCenter tuition for the term and maintain your financial aid package as eligible. Housing and other expenses are additional.
Application Deadlines
March 1 — Fall term abroad
September 1 — Spring term abroad
How To Apply
Step 1 — Apply through Global Programs — no fee to apply
Submit your application through the Global Programs Application Portal.
Step 2 — Department Nomination & Partner University Application
If nominated by your department, you will then submit a second application directly to DAE.
Academics
Majors: Graphic Design • Product Design • Spatial Experience Design • Transportation Design
Credit
Transfer up to 15 credits to ArtCenter.
Schedule
Fall term: late August – January/early February*
*The Fall term dates overlap with the spring term at ArtCenter. Students are not allowed to depart early from the DAE exchange program and and must take a leave of absence for the spring term.
Spring term: early February – mid-July*
*The Spring term dates overlap with the summer term at ArtCenter. Students are not allowed to depart early from the DAE exchange program and and must take a leave of absence for the summer term.
Eligibility
• Have completed at least four undergraduate terms or two graduate terms prior to the term away
• Have at least one term remaining at ArtCenter after returning
• Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Not be on academic or disciplinary probation at the time of application
If you are not sure if you meet all the minimum eligibility requirements, you are still welcome to apply.
Cost
Administrative fee
After you are nominated by your department and accepted by the exchange university, you will pay a $250 fee to ArtCenter’s Global Program Office to confirm your participation.
Tuition
Tuition for this exchange program is the same as full-time ArtCenter tuition for the term, including financial aid as eligible.
Additional estimated expenses to consider
• Housing (varies by location)
• Round-trip international airfare: up to $1,500
• Passport: $135
• Visa (if required) and student residence permit (if required)
• Supplemental health insurance policy if required by the location
• School project supplies (as needed)
• Daily living expenses (meals, transportation, etc.): $500–$600 per month, varies by location and personal budget
Financial aid and scholarships are not available from the exchange institution.
Additional scholarships may be available from outside sources: artcenterstudyaway.com/pay-for-study-away
About the Program
Design Academy Eindhoven (DAE) is internationally recognized for its conceptual, experimental, and socially engaged approach to design. The academy encourages students to explore design as a tool for addressing complex cultural, social, and environmental challenges.
Students engage with topics such as:
Sustainability
Well-being
Healthcare
Quality of Life
Public Space
Social Innovation
A defining characteristic of DAE is its emphasis on the social impact of design, encouraging students to think critically about how design shapes people, systems, and society. The academy's interdisciplinary learning environment supports both creative autonomy and collaborative exploration.
With an international faculty and strong industry connections, DAE prepares students to approach design from multiple perspectives while developing their own unique voice and practice.
Learn More
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Eindhoven is known for its strong culture of design, innovation, and technology. Often called the "City of Light", Eindhoven has evolved from its industrial roots into one of Europe's leading centers for creative and technological development.
The city is home to a vibrant design community, contemporary architecture, and cultural institutions that support experimentation and innovation. Former industrial areas such as Strijp-S have been transformed into creative districts filled with studios, cultural venues, and collaborative workspaces.
Students Enjoy
Strong design and innovation culture
Contemporary architecture and creative spaces
International design community
Technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem
Walkable neighborhoods and cycling infrastructure
Nearby Highlights
Dutch Design Week
Strijp-S Creative District
Van Abbemuseum
Design studios and cultural spaces
This combination of design, technology, and creative culture makes Eindhoven a unique destination for students interested in contemporary design practice.
Still have questions?
Use our online calendar to schedule an appointment!
PREVIOUS COURSE OFFERINGS
The following courses are examples of previous exchange offerings and may vary by term. Students should refer to the exchange university website for the most current course information and availability.
FALL COURSE OPTIONS
Students on exchange in the fall can participate in one of the BA Studio programs, 3rd year (studio 3A). This involves 2-3 days of classes of the Studio Program, a 1 day class in the Fundamentals Program, and every other week in the Reflection Program.
SPRING COURSE OPTIONS
Students on exchange in the spring term can participate in one of the BA Studio programs, 2nd year (studio 2B). This involves 2 days of classes in the Studio Program, 2 days of classes in the Fundamental Program, and every other week in the Reflection Program.
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Studios offers students the opportunity to choose between a variety of Studios, each led by a practicing designer and offering a different view of design. This replaces the former departmental structure, with a model more in line with contemporary design practice. The Studio Program forms the bulk of the exchange term abroad.
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The Fundamentals Program is dedicated to the acquisition of insights and skills that form the basis of contemporary design practice. It consists of three areas: design studies, production studies and contextual studies.
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In peer-groups, students reflect together on their studies, the practices of design, the design world, and its role in society. They conduct dialogues, present and discuss work, share insights and experiences, undertake field trips and study tours, and guide the internship phase.
The general character of Reflections is that of a free mental space, with the absence of formal assessments and an emphasis on creative and critical exploration by the students of their possibilities. They respond to each other while giving feedback and advice, striving for an important level of critical reflection.