Admissions on bachelor studies

For bachelor study programs that start from Academic year 2027/2028 (start of studies - September 2027).

Who can apply for bachelor’s degree programmes
When to apply for bachelor’s degree programmes
Important admissions dates and deadlines
Which study programmes are available
How to apply for bachelor’s degree programmes
Fee
Admissions procedure
Requirements of individual study programmes (HOME ASSIGNMENTS)
Are the admissions conditions inclusive?

1. Who can apply for bachelor’s degree programmes

Applicants for bachelor’s degree programmes at AFAD can be admitted to their chosen study programme only after completing the admissions procedure. Applicants who have completed upper secondary general education or upper secondary vocational education may apply for admission to AFAD by following the prescribed procedure.

If the entrance examinations at AFAD take place before an applicant’s secondary school-leaving examination, the applicant may be admitted conditionally. Final admission is subject to successful completion of the school-leaving examination. Applicants must submit proof of completion of upper secondary education (the secondary school-leaving certificate) within ten days of taking the school-leaving examination, but no later than the date of enrolment.

International applicants must have Slovak language proficiency at level B1 by the start of their studies (with the exception of Czech applicants).

International applicants and/or applicants who studied abroad and are admitted must submit a decision recognising their foreign educational qualification no later than enrolment (September 2027).

If the applicant’s previous school issues educational certificates only after the enrolment date (later than September), we recommend applying in the following academic year instead.

For more information, see:

2. When to apply for bachelor’s degree programmes

Applicants for bachelor’s degree programmes at AFAD must complete and confirm their online application from 2 October 2026 to 24 November 2026 using one of the following websites:

3. Important admissions dates and deadlines

By 24 November 2026 — application submission

From 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026 to 14:00 on 14 December 2026

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload a digital portfolio of their home assignments, together with the required accompanying documents (see the requirements of individual study programmes), to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email address given in the application no later than 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026.

22 December 2026 – 8 January 2027
— First round — the admissions committee meets without the applicants being present and assesses the home assignments submitted to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ by 14 December 2026.

2–3 February 2027 and 9–10 February 2027
— Second round — conducted in person for all study programmes and lasting two days.

First session (second round: 2–3 February 2027)

Study programmes:

Painting
Intermedia (specialisation Intermedia — INTb.14 and specialisation Sculpture — INTb.21S)
Photography and New Media
Visual Communication
Design
Textiles
Applied Arts (specialisation Jewellery — UU1-Šp, Glass — UU2b-Il, Ceramics — UU3b-Pi)

Second session (second round: 9–10 February 2027)

Study programmes:

Printmaking and Other Media
Architecture
Conservation and Restoration
Digital Arts

4. Which study programmes are available

The planned number of applicants to be admitted to each study programme for the 2027/2028 academic year is listed below:

Painting — 10
Intermedia (specialisation Intermedia — INTb.21I and specialisation Sculpture, Object, Installation — INTb.21S) — 16
Photography and New Media — 10
Visual Communication — 12
Design — 12
Textiles — 12
Applied Arts (specialisation Jewellery — UU1-We, Glass — UU2b-Il, Ceramics — UU3b-Pi) — 7
Printmaking and Other Media — 12
Architecture — 12
Conservation and Restoration — 12
Digital Arts — 5

5. How to apply for bachelor’s degree programmes

Step 1:

Apply via PortalVS at https://prihlaskavs.sk/en/; or
Use the online application available on the AFAD website: Link to the online application page.

Applicants must complete the application from 2 October 2026 to 24 November 2026.

Applicants must upload the required attachments to the application and confirm it.

Attachments:

a signed professional CV;
a copy of the secondary school-leaving certificate (if the applicant has already passed the school-leaving examination);
if the applicant is in their final year of secondary school, a copy of their most recent school report (e.g. from the third year).

Step 2:

Applicants must send the following attachments to prihlaska@vsvu.sk:

proof of payment of the admissions fee (e.g. a payment confirmation from online banking). The fee must be paid no later than 24 November 2026. The payment must include the variable symbol, the specific symbol, and the applicant’s FIRST NAME and SURNAME in the payment note or additional information field; otherwise, the payment cannot be matched to the application;
a declaration of medical fitness, signed by hand by the applicant and scanned:

Declaration of medical fitness
I, the undersigned, ......
born on ......
residing at .....
hereby declare that I am in good health and do not have any medical conditions that could adversely affect my contact with chemical or biological substances used in the teaching process.
Place ...................... Date ...................... Signature .....................................

if secondary education has already been completed: a decision on the equivalence of the educational qualification issued by the relevant Regional Office of School Administration (for qualifications issued by a foreign school);
For more information, see:
- Recognition of primary and secondary education
- Recognition Portal — Navigator
if the applicant is in their final year of secondary school, a copy of their most recent school report (e.g. from the third year), together with a translation into Slovak.

Step 3:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload a digital portfolio of their home assignments, together with the required accompanying documents (see the requirements of individual study programmes), to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ from 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026 to 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email address given in the application no later than 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026.

6. Fee

A fee of €50 for each application must be paid by bank transfer no later than 24 November 2026.

Account holder: Vysoká škola výtvarných umení v Bratislave, Hviezdoslavovo nám. 18, 814 37 Bratislava, Slovenská republika
Name: Vysoká škola výtvarných umení v Bratislave
Bank: ŠTÁTNA POKLADNICA, Radlinského 32, 810 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
SWIFT: SPSRSKBAXXX
IBAN: SK42 8180 0000 0070 0007 2516
Purpose of payment: variable symbol 648 003
Specific symbol: a six-digit number starting with 27, followed by the application registration number padded with leading zeros to make four digits. Example: if the application registration number is 345, the specific symbol is 270345.
Additional information: the applicant’s surname and Pk. If an international bank transfer does not allow you to enter the variable and specific symbols, include the specific symbol generated as described above in the additional information field. Example: Abraham Lincoln Pk 270345.

7. Admissions procedure

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload a digital portfolio of their home assignments, including all required components or tasks listed for their study programme in section 8, “Requirements of individual study programmes”, to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ from 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026 to 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email address given in the application no later than 12:00 noon on 7 December 2026.

First round — 22 December 2026 – 8 January 2027 — the admissions committee meets without the applicants being present and assesses the home assignments submitted to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ by the specified deadline.

Second round — conducted in person for all study programmes and lasting two days:

First session (second round: 2–3 February 2027)
Second session (second round: 9–10 February 2027)

AFAD sets additional admission requirements for individual study programmes to ensure that admitted applicants have the necessary abilities and aptitude. These requirements and the methods used to assess whether they have been met must enable the selection of applicants who demonstrate the highest levels of talent, skills and knowledge relevant to the study programmes offered at AFAD.

Admissions committee

The assigned tasks and individual parts of the entrance examination are assessed by an admissions committee of at least five members, appointed by the AFAD Rector from among university teachers delivering a study programme at AFAD who hold the positions of professor, associate professor or assistant professor in the arts. A university teacher teaching on another study programme at AFAD may also be appointed to the committee.

Members of the admissions committee assess tasks in both rounds using a six-point scale (0–5 points) or an eleven-point scale (0–10 points). Each task, including home assignments, is scored separately. In the second round, a full-day task may be assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points). To advance to the second round, applicants must obtain at least 50% of the maximum possible points for the first-round tasks. Depending on the circumstances (e.g. a low number of applicants qualifying for the next round), the committee may lower the threshold to 45%.

For details specific to each study programme, see section 8, “Requirements of individual study programmes”, under “Further details of individual tasks during the admissions procedure”.

Applicants who advance to the second round of the entrance examination are informed as follows:

The results of the first round are published on the website within 30 days of the first round. Applicants who advance are also sent an invitation to the second round by email to the address given in their application.

School-wide admissions committee

The admissions committees submit the scores for each round and present the applicants’ artwork to the school-wide admissions committee appointed by the Rector. Its members may include the AFAD Rector, AFAD Vice-Rectors, the Chair of the AFAD Academic Senate, heads of AFAD departments and studios, teachers leading preparatory courses, and members of the departmental admissions committees. The committee is chaired by the Vice-Rector for Studies.

The school-wide admissions committee reviews the assessment results and the ranking of applicants submitted by each departmental admissions committee, thereby verifying the results of the admissions procedure. It may change the ranking based on the departmental committee’s scores through an open vote requiring a simple majority of the members present.

The school-wide admissions committee may propose to the AFAD Rector that the number of applicants admitted to individual study programmes be increased or decreased, or that no applicants be admitted if their performance is insufficient. The Rector makes the final decision on admission or non-admission on the basis of the school-wide committee’s proposal. The AFAD Study Office sends the decision to the applicant by post within 30 days of the completion of the admissions procedure (the meeting of the school-wide committee held after the second session).

Decision on admission or non-admission

An applicant who receives a decision of non-admission may request a review of that decision. The request must be submitted to the AFAD Rector within eight days of the decision being delivered personally to the applicant. If the Rector finds no breach of regulations, the request is forwarded to the AFAD Academic Senate. The Senate assesses only the procedural aspects of the admissions procedure, not the quality of the applicant’s work. The decision of the AFAD Academic Senate is final. A response must be sent to the applicant within 30 days of receipt of the request for review of the decision of non-admission to AFAD.

The admission requirements and the admissions procedure for bachelor’s degree programmes are set out in detail in the Internal Regulation on the Admissions Procedure at AFAD.

8. Requirements of individual study programmes (HOME ASSIGNMENTS)

Architecture
Digital Arts
Design
Photography and New Media
Printmaking and Other Media
Intermedia (specialisation Intermedia, specialisation Sculpture)
Painting
Conservation and Restoration
Textiles
Applied Arts (specialisations – Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery)
Visual Communication

Architecture

^{*Entrance examination requirements. Home assignments, further details of individual tasks, required materials and equipment. These requirements apply to the admissions procedure for the 2027/2028 academic year.}

Home assignment requirements - 1. portfolio + 2. architectural self-portrait. Completion of both assignments is required in order to obtain the full possible number of points; the assignments are assessed separately. The two parts must be clearly distinguishable.

1/2 of the portfolio: a broad range of artistic skills and interests

e.g. still lifes, exteriors, busts, painting, photography, sculpture, design, printmaking
properly identified authorship and information on whether the work was created under pedagogical supervision (art course, preparatory course, secondary school, etc.) or independently

1/2 of the portfolio: specific assignments documenting a strong interest in architecture

drawings and sketches from observation – interior, exterior, object
analytical drawings demonstrating thinking about structure, construction, textures, materiality, composition, formal processes and transformations
designs for simple architecture, architectural objects, constructions or structures documented in sketches, drawings, technical drawings (plans, sections, elevations), spatial representations (perspective, axonometry, etc.), physical models (photographic documentation of both the result and the construction process), and digital 3D models (photographic documentation/screenshots of stages of modelling, visualisation and definition of parametric relationships)

ARCHiPORTRAIT - Architectural self-portrait

Using any technique, express your view of architecture as a portrait (or a portrait as architecture). Write an essay to accompany your ARCHiPORTRAIT and complement your graphic or spatial expression.
WHAT WE EXPECT:
- Try to connect your own characteristics with architecture – create a self-portrait that creatively captures your character, interests and physical appearance in the context of architecture.
- There is no single way to approach this challenge. The solution is in your hands; do not be afraid to think about yourself and architecture without limits. If you need a prompt, try asking yourself a question that connects you and architecture. For example: What kind of architecture best expresses my feelings? What would I look like as a house? Which of my qualities can be expressed through space or another architectural element?
- An important part of the process is a written record – an essay that develops and interprets your graphic or model-based work on the architectural portrait. We would like the essay to tell us not only something about this specific assignment, but also about how you see architecture within the broader context of culture.
WHAT NOT TO DO:
- Do not use artificial intelligence in your work. We require an independently completed assignment; do not reuse finished works from your portfolio.
TECHNIQUE:
- printmaking/graphics, drawing, painting, collage, comics, technical drawing, visualisation, photograph of a model
FORMAT: we expect two outputs, one graphic and one written:
- Prepare the graphic output in A3 format. In the case of a three-dimensional work or model, submit photographic documentation of it (in this case, more than one photograph may be submitted).
- Prepare the text as a separate document of 1,500–1,800 characters.
We have chosen the ARCHiPORTRAIT format instead of a motivation letter because we expect a more original and individual expression of what interests you about architecture and what your relationship to it is.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – the portfolio – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026. The portfolio and architectural self-portrait must be submitted as a single PDF file of no more than 10 MB, named first_name_last_name_study_programme_architecture. Each work must be clearly labelled with its theme and title.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

– conducted remotely without the applicants being present
– All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
– The ARCHiPORTRAIT – architectural self-portrait – is assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who have advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
The assignments may involve designing simple architectural, structural or spatial objects, comprehensively developed at various levels of representation:
- problem analysis / text, essay, sketches, drawings
- concept / text, sketches, drawings
- physical model
- technical drawings
- spatial representation
- text
Alternatively, they may consist of several shorter assignments testing the applicant’s abilities, skills and responsiveness individually:
- drawing an architectural space from observation or speculative, analytical drawing
- modelling spatial structures
- graphic assignments
- conceptual assignments
- spatial interpretation of text, graphics or an image
Completed assignments are submitted physically – as drawings on sheets and as spatial models.
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

The admissions procedure includes an interview with the applicant before the departmental committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing the applicant’s general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as their orientation in contemporary art and their socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination

A2 drawing board, drawing materials (pencils, charcoal, red chalk, etc.), model-making tools – utility knife, scissors, adhesives, set square/ruler

Note: Materials for graphic and spatial assignments – paper, cardboard, etc. – will be provided to applicants during the examinations.

Recommended literature

PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
FRAMPTON, K.: Moderní architektúra. Praha: Academia, 2004.
GOSSEL, P., LEUTHAUSEROVA, G.: Architektura 20. století. Taschen, 2003.
HAAS, F.: Architektúra 20. století. Praha: SPN, 1985.
HOLLINGSWORTH, M.: Architektura 20. století. Bratislava: Columbus, 1993.
KUSÝ, M.: Architektúra na Slovensku 1918 – 1945. Bratislava: Pallas, 1971.
KUSÝ, M.: Architektúra na Slovensku 1945 – 1975. Bratislava: Pallas, 1976.
MORAVČÍKOVÁ, H., DULLA, M.: Architektúra na Slovensku v 20. stor. Bratislava: Slovart, 2003.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
TICHÁ, J. (Ed.): Architektura v informačním věku. Zlatý řez, 2006.
TICHÁ, J. (Ed.): Architektura na prahu informačního věku. Zlatý řez, 2001.
KOOLHAAS, R.: Třeštící New York. Praha: Arbor Vitae, 2007.
Ročenka slovenskej architektúry 2014/2015, 2016/2017, 2017/2018. Slovart.
MITÁŠOVÁ M., ŠEVČÍK J., Česká a slovenská architektura 1971 – 2011, Akademie výtvarných umění, 2013.
ŠVÁCHA R., TICHÁ J., SRŠŇOVÁ M., Euroamerické architektonické myšlení 1936-2011, Zlatý řez, 2019.

Periodicals

Architekt (CZ), ERA21 (CZ), Arch, Architektúra a Urbanizmus, Projekt, or AD (UK), Domus (IT)

Web

archinfo, dezeen, divisare, afasia

Consultations for applicants – Architecture

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Digital Arts

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

Applicants submit 3 components:

A – Complete a home assignment based on the given theme. Attach a written description of your solution and motivation, max. 300 words.
B – a video introduction
C – a portfolio of approximately 10 works

A – Compulsory assignment:

Theme: “Tension in the Dark”

With the theme “tension in the dark”, we invite you to explore diverse forms of tension in different aspects of darkness or obscurity. You may work with direct references, but you can also use visual metaphors and social situations to show us your particular perception of these concepts. What can tension in the dark cause? What kinds of darkness can we think about in this context? In what spaces, times and relationships can tension be felt and captured? We look forward to your ideas.

You may also add a short annotation (approx. 100 words) in a text document explaining what you did, why and how.

You can choose from various forms of execution. Select one format and complete the assignment according to the specified scope and form:

2D/3D graphics, photography, graphic design: You may create a series of graphics, a 3D scene (render), a fictional advertisement, a photo collage... Surprise us.
Architectural design, intervention in public space: Submit a proposal in the form of sketches and/or a 3D model, possibly a photo collage using a real space. Render the 3D model as images or video as well.
Virtual or augmented reality: a written proposal describing the functionality of the application and sketches of the visual concept. This may also be an actual implementation in the form of a runnable application.
Video game, interactive environment: If it is a proposal, submit an Art Design Document and a Game Design Document. If the game has been implemented, submit a runnable application with instructions for use.
video, animation: a video file up to 3 minutes long
infographic: static images and/or a PDF presentation and/or an interactive online visualisation
interactive spatial installation: a proposal developed through sketches or a digital 3D model, together with a proposal describing the installation’s functionality and its interaction with visitors
Other: We also welcome other forms. Please consult the scope and form of a different type of work individually.

B – Video introduction

Record a short video about yourself and your motivation to study Digital Arts. Maximum length: 3 minutes. File format: MP4, maximum resolution 1920 × 1080. The video introduction is not assessed; its purpose is to introduce yourself to us. As part of the video, we would also like to hear what interested you most among the sources we recommend and why.

C – Portfolio

Submit a selection of approximately 10 works from your previous practice. Suitable fields include: drawing and painting (including digital forms), photography, video, animation, 3D modelling, architecture, graphic design and infographics, web design, computer applications and games, user interfaces, performance, installation, social activism and online marketing. Works may also be at the proposal/concept stage.

Technical requirements for portfolio submission:

Submit the portfolio as a single PDF file. Each work must be presented on a separate page (or several pages) together with its title and a short annotation. Each work must include at least one image (or photograph, screenshot, render). If the work exists online, include a hyperlink in the annotation. Pages in the PDF file must be landscape-oriented (1920 × 1080 px or 297 × 210 mm).

If your portfolio contains videos or animations, edit them as consecutive segments into a single video file. Before each segment, include a screen showing the title of the work and your name, and optionally a short annotation. File format: MP4, resolution 1920 × 1080.

If your portfolio also contains computer programs, demos or games, submit them in runnable form for Windows or Mac and package them all into a single ZIP file.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload all 3 components (home assignment, video introduction, portfolio) to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.
All files must be named in the format: first_name_last_name_item (e.g. Andrea_Schwartz_Videointroduction.mp4).

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

The first round is conducted remotely without the applicant being present. Each member of the committee evaluates each scored component (home assignment, portfolio) on a scale of 0–5 points.

Second round

The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days and is conducted in person with applicants who advanced from the first round.

Applicants complete several (3–4) artistic assignments according to instructions from the committee. The assignments are produced on paper, without the use of digital tools. Typical tasks may include, for example, depicting a story through drawing, designing the functionality and interface of a digital application, or proposing a multimedia installation in a space on a given theme.

The second round also includes an interview in which applicants demonstrate their knowledge of the field to which they are applying. We ask about interests outside school and discuss favourite books, films and video games. We are interested in what has appealed to applicants in art, culture or current social issues. We also discuss the home assignments and portfolio.

Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each artistic assignment on a scale of 0–5 points and the interview on a scale of 0–10 points.

Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this section of the entrance examinations from the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a scale of 0–5 points.

International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

pencil and eraser for sketching
black liner or pen for outlining sketches
coloured pencils, markers, paints (optional)

Recommended sources:

PAUL, Ch. Digital Art. 2023.
GREENE, R. Internet Art. 2004. https://www.are.na/block/30347017
STEYERL, H. Medium Hot: Images in the Age of Heat. 2025.
FRANCOVÁ, J. Úvod do umění nových médií 2021. https://monoskop.org/images/8/86/Francova_Jana_Navigator_Uvod_do_umeni_novych_medii_2021.pdf
GOMBRICH, H. E. Príbeh umenia. 2000.
MIRZOEFF, N. Jak vidět svět. 2019.
GIBSON, W. Neuromancer.
LIOU Cch’-sin. Problém tří těles.
CHIANG, T. Príbehy vášho života, Výdych.
Blade Runner (film, dir. Ridley SCOTT, 1982).
Pi (film, dir. Darren ARONOFSKY, 1998).
Dear Esther (video game, The Chinese Room, 2012).
The Stanley Parable (video game, WREDEN & PUGH, 2013).
Baba is You (video game, Hempuli, 2021).

Consultations for applicants – Digital Arts

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Design

FIRST ROUND – Home assignments (Portfolio)

The first round is conducted remotely without the applicant being present in person. The admissions committee assesses the submitted portfolio. Each member of the committee evaluates the portfolio on a six-point scale (0 to 5 points).

Submission format and deadline:

upload period: from 12:00 on 7 December 2026 to 14:00 on 14 December 2026 via https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ (login details and instructions will be sent to the email address provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026)

Format and parameters:

one combined PDF file (max. 10 MB)
file name: First_name_Last_name_name of study programme

Assessment criteria and portfolio content:

a graphically designed portfolio containing approximately 20 works/projects, with each work clearly identified
Home assignments provide important information about the applicant’s focus, intensity of practice, authentic expression, individuality and visual thinking. Devote the first pages of the portfolio to your CV.
Individual projects should demonstrate:
- quality of design drawing
- digital skills (3D modelling, visualisations)
- experience with materials and technologies (photographs of physical models and prototypes)
- the level of conceptual thinking, expressed through a brief annotation

*Note: Applicants who advance to the second round will be given a home assignment to complete independently. The applicant will present this assignment during the in-person admissions interview in the second round.

SECOND ROUND – In-person completion of assignments

The second round takes place in person on the AFAD premises at Drotárska cesta and lasts two days. During this period, applicants complete practical assignments in specified time blocks, take part in personal interviews before the committee, and complete a written knowledge test.

*Note: The assignment topics are created shortly before they are announced in order to keep them confidential and preserve objectivity. They cover the full range of skills necessary for study in the Design study programme and are finalised in the form of drawings and/or models.

Assessment areas and skills:

creativity and concept: identifying the functional and conceptual potential of objects; the ability to translate abstract ideas into a concrete design
design drawing and formal tools: clear communication of proposals through drawing, spatial perception and technical drawing (front view, side view, plan, etc.)
structural and technical thinking: rational problem-solving, knowledge of basic principles of geometry and physics, understanding of material properties and their appropriate application, quality and precision of models and prototypes, and use of basic mechanical principles
emotional dimension and aesthetics: working with symbols, signs and aesthetics; use of artistic means of expression; willingness to experiment and think unconventionally

Assessment of assignments:

Each member of the committee evaluates individual assignments on a scale of 0–5 points (or 0–10 points for a full-day assignment).

*Important: To ensure objectivity, the use of mobile phones is not permitted while completing assignments. Before each assignment begins, phones are put away and sealed in envelopes.

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination (second round)

A2 drawing board
sharp knife, paper cutter, scissors
paper glue, adhesive tape
ruler, set square
pencils, coloured pencils
pins, thumbtacks
thread or thin cord
small nails
additional materials and tools for making models

Personal interview:

While completing the assignments, applicants are invited to an approximately 10-minute interview before the committee.

Interview content:
- presentation of the completed home assignment; discussion of one portfolio project chosen by the applicant; presentation and explanation of the process used for an assignment completed in the second round (assessing communication skills); and assessment of the applicant’s orientation in design, architecture and visual culture
Interview assessment:
- Each member of the committee evaluates the interview on a scale of 0–5 points.

*Note: International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, the programme is taught in Slovak (minimum required proficiency: B1).

Knowledge test:

The written test assesses general knowledge of historical and contemporary developments in culture, art, applied arts and design.

Assessment: 0–10 points

Recommended literature and sources:

GOMBRICH, Ernst Hans. Príbeh umenia. Bratislava: Ikar, 2017 (or 2000 edition). ISBN 978-80-551-5381-0.
PIJOAN, José. Dejiny umenia 1 – 12. Bratislava: Ikar, 1998 – 2002 (or 1982 – 1986 edition).
KOLESÁR, Zdeno. Nové kapitoly z dejín dizajnu. Bratislava: Slovenské centrum dizajnu, 2009. ISBN 978-80-970178-1-1.
PACHMANOVÁ, Martina, ed. Design: aktualita, nebo věčnost? Antologie textů k teorii a dějinám designu. Praha: VŠUP, 2005. ISBN 80-86863-05-5.
RUSINOVÁ, Zora (ed.). Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.

*Applicants are also advised to regularly follow professional magazines, periodicals, and Slovak and international web portals devoted to design theory and practice, contemporary art, architecture, visual culture and current social issues.

Consultations for applicants – Design

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Photography and New Media

Requirements:

1. Portfolio and home assignments

independent work
Submit a collection of 20 independent photographic works from your previous practice. We recommend focusing primarily on coherent photographic series.

2. Compulsory assignments:

1) Self-portrait and still life

self-portrait: 1 photograph
still life: 2 photographs: 1 arranged still life and 1 found still life
- For both the self-portrait and still life, emphasis is also placed on technical execution.

2) A photograph I do not believe

Find a photograph in public space, the media or on social networks that you do not believe or that you think manipulates reality.
Create a series of 3 to 5 photographs that questions, supplements, disrupts or offers another perspective on the original image. Attach the original image and a short text of no more than 200 characters explaining your choice.

3) The place/city I come from

Create a coherent series of 7 photographs presenting the city or place you come from, live in, or have a personal relationship with.
Do not focus only on describing or documenting the place. Think about its atmosphere, people, relationships, everyday life, memory, transformations, conflicts or details that perhaps only you notice. You may interpret the place through public and private space, portraits, landscape, architecture, objects or personal situations.
The photographs should form a visually and conceptually coherent series arranged in a considered sequence.

4) People in public space

Create a photographic story or photographic essay consisting of 9 photographs that captures people in public space (the photographs may also be staged).
The series must be based on a specific idea and should not merely be a random collection of street photographs. Think about relationships between people, their behaviour, gestures, anonymity, proximity and distance, as well as rules, social differences or conflicts that appear in public space.
The photographs should create a conceptually and visually coherent story and must be arranged in a considered sequence.

Important information:

Applicants are asked to follow the instructions regarding content and scope precisely. Incomplete collections will be excluded from assessment.

Original photographic books may also be included in the portfolio. A photographic book may contain more photographs than the individual compulsory assignments.
If the portfolio contains video, include a working link or QR code in the PDF. The link must not be password-protected.

Submission format:

Digital version

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital portfolio to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.

Submit the portfolio as one combined PDF document.
Maximum file size: 20 MB.
Name the file in the following format: first_name_last_name_name_of_study_programme_photography.pdf.
Individual works and assignments must be clearly labelled.

Original version

Applicants who advance to the second round must bring the original version of their home assignments directly to the entrance examinations. Works may be digitally printed or processed using another photographic technology.

minimum photograph size: 18 × 24 cm or A4
maximum photograph size: 50 × 60 cm or A2

Admissions procedure

First round

The first round is conducted remotely without the applicants being present.

All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed.
The compulsory assignments are assessed separately.
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates on a six-point scale from 0 to 5 points.

Second round

The second round is conducted in person, lasts two days, and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round.

photography based on assigned themes using a digital process – 4 assignments
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale from 0 to 5 points. A full-day assignment is assessed on an eleven-point scale from 0 to 10 points.
The second round includes an interview before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates knowledge of the field. The interview includes a discussion of the home assignments and photographic assignments created in the second round. Each member of the committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale from 0 to 5 points.
Part of the interview focuses on general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, orientation in contemporary art, and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee from the internal and external teaching staff of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale from 0 to 5 points.

International applicants may take the interview in English. If admitted, however, the programme continues in Slovak; a minimum B1 level is required.

Equipment

digital camera
laptop, if available to the applicant

Recommended literature

Core literature

BERGER, John: Ways of Seeing. London: BBC/Penguin, 1972.
CÍSAŘ, Karel (ed.): Co je to fotografie? Praha: Hermann & synové, 2004.
COTTON, Charlotte: The Photograph as Contemporary Art. London: Thames & Hudson, 2020.
GOMBRICH, E. H.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
HLAVÁČ, Ľudovít: Dejiny fotografie. Martin: Osveta, 1987.
HLAVÁČ, Ľudovít: Dejiny slovenskej fotografie. Martin: Osveta, 1989.
HRABUŠICKÝ, Aurel – MACEK, Václav: Slovenská fotografia 1925 – 2000. Bratislava: Slovenská národná galéria, 2001.
ROSENBLUM, Naomi: A World History of Photography. New York: Abbeville Press, 1984.
RUSINOVÁ, Zora (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
SONTAG, Susan: On Photography. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1977.

Consultations for applicants – Photography and New Media

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Printmaking and Other Media

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

1:1 study of a head – from a model (pencil, charcoal, etc.)
figure study – from a model (pencil, charcoal, etc.)
works focused on the applicant’s creativity and skills
sketchbook
compulsory assignment
motivation letter
CV

Include the following compulsory assignment in the portfolio:

Theme: OUT OF THE CITY
- Create an independent artwork, illustration or visual story on the given theme. The work must be at least A3 format.
- Work with the theme in black and white. You may use charcoal drawing, pencil drawing, any printmaking technique (intaglio, relief printing, planographic printing), painting, collage or another suitable artistic technique.
- Attach 5 sentences briefly explaining your artistic intention, interpretation of the theme and choice of technique.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – the portfolio – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.
The digital portfolio and motivation letter must be submitted as one combined PDF file of no more than 10 MB, named first_name_last_name_name of study programme_printmaking.
Each work must be clearly labelled (technique, dimensions, year).
Applicants who advance must bring the original version of their home assignments – portfolio – directly to the second round of the entrance examinations.

Admissions procedure:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
The compulsory assignment is assessed separately. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
study of a head from a live model
themes focused on the creativity and skills of applicants
free composition
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

The admissions procedure includes an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Wooden A2 drawing board, charcoal, pencil, pen, ink, eraser, brushes, lino-cutting tools, adhesive tape, pins, coloured pencils, any paints suitable for paper, glue, scissors, etc.

Recommended literature

PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
BÖHMEROVÁ, Z., JANČÁR, I.: Slovenská grafika 20. storočia, Bratislava.
VRBANOVÁ, A.: Alternatívna Slovenská grafika. Netradičné, experimentálne a autorské podoby slovenskej grafiky v druhej polovici 20. storočia. Bratislava, 2020.
familiarity with professional periodicals covering contemporary art, architecture, applied arts and design, culture and politics

Consultations for applicants – Printmaking and Other Media

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Intermedia (specialisation Intermedia, specialisation Sculpture)

The Intermedia programme includes two specialisations. To view the specific requirements, please click the name of the relevant specialisation or continue below.

Specialisation Intermedia
Specialisation Sculpture

Specialisation Intermedia

Home assignment requirements – portfolio:

1. part Portfolio - home assignments:

5 drawing studies
a maximum of 25 individual works or series from your previous practice
You may include works created at school as well as works created outside school assignments, home projects, collaborations, etc.
The portfolio may contain a series of photographs, paintings, prints, music projects, videos, animations, sculptures, performances, scripts, a selection from your sketchbooks, a set of poems or prose you have written... Include everything you create so that the admissions committee can understand your skills, thematic and media interests, as well as your personality.

2. part “Self-portrait”:

Record a self-portrait: a short video about yourself in which you introduce yourself creatively and give the admissions committee a sense of your personality.
Maximum video length: 2 minutes. File format: MP4, maximum resolution 1920 × 1080.

Technical requirements for portfolio submission:

Submit the portfolio as a single PDF file. Each work/series must be presented on a separate page (or several pages). Pages must be landscape-oriented.
For each work, include at least 1 image (photograph, screenshot, frame from a video, render, etc.). Add the title, year, dimensions and a short description.
For videos, animations or music, also include a hyperlink. If these works are not available online, attach them as separate files (see Submission format below).

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, upload both required files (Portfolio and Self-portrait, and where applicable original videos) to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.
All files must be named in the following format: first_name_last_name_item_specialisation (e.g. Valie_Export_Portfolio_intermedia.pdf / Vito_Acconci_Selfportrait_intermedia.mp4 / Pipilotti_Rist_Video title_intermedia.mp4).
If the original home assignments exist in physical form, applicants who advance may bring them directly to the second round of the entrance examinations in a rigid portfolio case. Otherwise, the committee will review the submitted PDF version together with the applicant during the interview.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicant being present
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
The compulsory assignment (Self-portrait) is assessed separately. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
Second-round entrance examination assignments:

spatial object (working with material)
photography
intervention in space
sound
video

Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

The second round also includes an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their interest in and knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this section of the entrance examinations from the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points). Applicants must bring 2 colour photocopy reproductions of artworks printed on A4 office paper, including the name of the artist, title of the work and year of creation; at least one of them should be a work of contemporary art. The works will be discussed with members of the committee.
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Writing and drawing materials, scissors, utility knife, adhesive tape, glue, paints, various newspapers and magazines, any other materials you normally work with, a camera with an SD / micro SD memory card, or alternatively a mobile phone or video camera.

Recommended literature:

The following list of recommended literature is intended as inspiration; it is not necessary to have studied everything:

Publications

BERGER, John: Způsoby vidění. Labyrint, 2016.
CHATELET, Albert: Svetové dejiny umenia. Praha: Ottovo nakladatelství, 2004.
RUSINOVÁ, Zora (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Slovenská národná galéria, 2000.
NOVOSÁD, František: V zrkadle kultúry. Iris, 2016.
MIRZOEFF, Nicholas: Jak vidět svět. Artmap, 2019.
FOSTER, Hal - KRAUSSOVÁ, Rosalind - BOIS, Yves-Alain - BUCHLOH, Benjamin: Umění po roce 1900: Modernismusm, Antimodernismus, Postmodernismus. Slovart, 2007.
LUCIA-SMITH, Edward: Art Today. Současné světové umění. Slovart, 1996.
PIJOAN, José: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Odeon - Tatran, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, José: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Odeon - Tatran, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Ikar, 2000.

Art magazines

Flash Art, Profil

Online platforms and databases

artalk.cz, artyoucaneat.sk, artdispecing.sk, artycok.tv

Consultations for applicants – Intermedia

Specialisation Sculpture

In the AFAD online application, enter “Intermedia” as the programme name and then select INTb.21S: Intermedia (specialisation Sculpture).

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

1. part Portfolio - home assignments:

at least 5 drawing studies
a maximum of 25 individual works or series from your previous practice
You may include works created at school as well as works created outside school assignments, home projects, collaborations, etc.
The portfolio may contain a series of drawings, photographs, paintings, prints, music projects, videos, animations, sculptures, objects, installations, performances, a selection from your sketchbooks, a set of poems or prose you have written... Include everything you create so that the admissions committee can understand your skills, thematic and media interests, as well as your personality.

2. part “Self-portrait”:

Record a self-portrait: a short video about yourself in which you creatively introduce yourself and give the admissions committee a sense of your personality or artistic practice.
Maximum video length: 2 minutes. File format: MP4, resolution
maximum 1920 × 1080.

Technical requirements for portfolio submission:

Submit the portfolio as a single PDF file. Each work/series must be presented on a separate page (or several pages). Pages must be landscape-oriented.
For each work, include several photographs. If it is a spatial work (installation, object, sculpture), also include photographs of the whole work from several viewpoints.
For each work, add the title, year, dimensions and a short description.
For videos, animations or music, also include a hyperlink. If these works are not available online, attach them as separate files (see Submission format below).

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, upload both required files (Portfolio and Self-portrait, and where applicable original videos) to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.
All files must be named in the following format:
- first_name_last_name_item_specialisation; (e.g. Valie_Export_Portfolio_sculpture.pdf / Vito_Acconci_Selfportrait_sculpture.mp4 / Pipilotti_Rist_Video title_sculpture.mp4)
If the original home assignments exist in physical form, applicants who advance may bring them directly to the second round of the entrance examinations in a rigid portfolio case. Otherwise, the committee will review the submitted PDF version together with the applicant during the interview.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present

All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
The compulsory assignment (Self-portrait) is assessed separately. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.

drawing from a model
modelled relief
self-portrait – free technique and material, including the option of traditional modelling in clay
creating an object from cardboard
free composition – by removing material from a plaster cube
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).
The second round includes an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their interest in and knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points). Applicants must bring 2 colour photocopy reproductions of artworks printed on A4 office paper, including the name of the artist, title of the work and year of creation; at least one of them should be a work of contemporary art. The works will be discussed with members of the committee.
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Writing and drawing materials, scissors, utility knife, adhesive tape, glue, paints, various newspapers and magazines, material for a spatial self-portrait, and any other materials you normally work with.

Recommended literature

The following list of recommended literature is intended as inspiration; it is not necessary to have studied everything:

Publications:

BERGER, John: Způsoby vidění. Labyrint, 2016.
CHATELET, Albert: Svetové dejiny umenia. Praha: Ottovo nakladatelství, 2004.
RUSINOVÁ, Zora (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Slovenská národná galéria, 2000.
NOVOSÁD, František: V zrkadle kultúry. Iris, 2016.
MIRZOEFF, Nicholas: Jak vidět svět. Artmap, 2019.
FOSTER, Hal - KRAUSSOVÁ, Rosalind - BOIS, Yves-Alain - BUCHLOH, Benjamin: Umění po roce 1900: Modernismusm, Antimodernismus, Postmodernismus. Slovart, 2007.
LUCIA-SMITH, Edward: Art Today. Současné světové umění. Slovart, 1996.
PIJOAN, José: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Odeon - Tatran, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, José: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Odeon - Tatran, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Ikar, 2000.

Art magazines:

Flash Art, Profil

Online platforms and databases

artalk.cz, artyoucaneat.sk, artdispecing.sk, artycok.tv

Consultations for applicants – Sculpture, Object, Installation

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Painting

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

Applicants should present primarily original works of their own and independent work in the medium of painting, comprising 20–30 works (any format and technique). The portfolio may include an appropriate amount of study-based work, particularly if it demonstrates a deeper interest in the chosen field of study. (The digital portfolio should not consist solely of study drawings and works created as assignments at secondary art schools.) Work extending into other media is welcome if it complements the applicant’s artistic thinking.

Compulsory practical assignment / Home painting assignment within the portfolio: “Hand and object”

Paint a study of a hand holding or interacting with an object in space.
Technique and dimensions are unrestricted.
Recommendation for approaching the theme: The choice of object is open, but it may refer to personal or otherwise motivated connections with the present day or art history.
This assignment is assessed as part of the portfolio.

Special compulsory assignment: “Why painting today?”

Name a painting or an art exhibition in which painting has or had a prominent role, and explain your choice. Recommendation for approaching the theme: The selected work or exhibition should date from 1989 to the present. Try to avoid a simplified like/dislike assessment. The length and format of the text are unrestricted.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – the portfolio – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026. The digital portfolio and the special assignment must be submitted in one combined PDF comprising 50–80 slides, max. 10 MB. The PDF must include the applicant’s first and last name and the name of the study programme, Painting.
Each work must be labelled with the year, technique, dimensions and, where applicable, title and commentary on individual works, series or thematic groups.
The applicant must bring the original version of the home assignments – portfolio – to the second round of the entrance examinations.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the portfolio on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).
The special assignment is assessed separately. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person, is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round, and lasts two days.
specific themes examining different aspects of creativity and artistic thinking
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).
The second round includes an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Pins, paper masking tape (white or yellow), glue, utility knife, scissors, pencils of different hardness, charcoal (natural or compressed), kneaded eraser, acrylic paints (compulsory), tempera paints, watercolours, brushes of different sizes, palette, water container.

Recommended literature

PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
familiarity with professional periodicals covering contemporary art, architecture, applied arts and design, culture and politics

Consultations for applicants - Painting

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Conservation and Restoration

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

studies from observation and a live model: drawing and painting of still life, landscape, portrait and figure (not from photographs); copies of artworks in preferred techniques: drawing, painting, printmaking, clay; photographs of modelled works
recommended number: 30 works
motivation letter

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – the portfolio – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026.
The portfolio and motivation letter must be submitted as one combined PDF file of no more than 10 MB, named first_name_last_name_name of study programme_restoration. Each work must be clearly labelled.
Applicants who advance must bring the original version of their home assignments – portfolio – directly to the second round of the entrance examinations, in a maximum A1 format. All works must be stored in one common portfolio case or drawing tube/case.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present
assessment of all parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.

drawing of a head or bust on A2 format at a 1:1 scale, with emphasis on construction, proportions and modelling
techniques: charcoal, pencil, red chalk or other drawing techniques
modelling – completing a missing part of a plaster model, with emphasis on proportion and artistic invention
painting a still life from a model on A2 format at a 1:1 scale, with emphasis on composition, colour and lighting; techniques: watercolour, gouache, tempera, acrylic
interpretation of a work by an artist from art history, with emphasis on tonality, light, proportion and composition; painting and drawing techniques (according to the assigned reference)
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

The second round includes an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
a short test assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, art history, historical technologies and materials, and the fundamentals of general chemistry
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination

Applicants must bring drawing materials of their choice (pastel, pencil, red chalk, charcoal, etc.) + painting materials (tempera, watercolour, pastel – according to their needs), brushes, water containers, adhesive tapes, modelling tools of their choice, and an A2 drawing board. If an applicant is travelling and cannot bring an A2 board, AFAD will provide one.

Recommended literature:

PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINA, Ivan a Marián ZERVAN. Postavy a príbehy svätcov strednej Európy: Ikonografia. Bratislava, 2016.
SLÁNSKÝ, Bohuslav. Technika malby I: Malířský a konservační materiál. Praha: Paseka, 2003.
SLÁNSKÝ, Bohuslav. Technika malby II: Průzkum a restaurování obrazů. Praha: Paseka, 2003.
ZELINGER, Jiří, Eva ŠIMŮNKOVÁ a Petr KOTLÍK. Chemie v práci konzervátora a restaurátora. Praha: Academia, 1982.
KMEŤOVÁ, Jarmila, Marek SKORŠEPA a Peter MÄČKO. Chémia pre 2. ročník gymnázia so štvorročným štúdiom a 6. ročník gymnázia s osemročným štúdiom. Bratislava: Expol Pedagogika, 2012.
KOPECKÁ, Ivana a Eva SVOBODOVÁ. Metody průzkumu historických materiálů. Praha: Grada Publishing, 2019. ISBN 978-80-271-2605-7.
ŠIMŮNKOVÁ, Eva a BAYEROVÁ, Tatjana. Pigmenty. 2. dopl. vyd. Praha: Společnost pro technologie ochrany památek - STOP, 2008. ISBN 978-80-86657-11-0.

familiarity with professional periodicals covering art, architecture, culture and politics

Consultations for applicants – Conservation and Restoration

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Textiles

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

Submit 20 works demonstrating drawing ability, a sense of painting and a relationship to material.

a selection of drawings and painting studies from observation (portrait, still life, landscape, etc.)
movement studies and figure sketches from observation, drawing of the anatomy of movement
designs for interior and fashion textile patterns, collages, textile and other material compositions
clothing designs and fashion collections presented through drawing, painting, collage, combined or original techniques, and where applicable photographic documentation of realised garments
independent textile work (including non-textile work)
Before the admissions procedure, we recommend consultations with teachers from the selected studio. These may help you prepare better for the admissions procedure, but they do not guarantee admission.

Applicant’s CV and completed questionnaire

The CV and completed questionnaire are compulsory parts of the portfolio.
The questionnaire focuses on the applicant’s motivation to study and on defining their preferred specialisation within the Department of Textiles. Students are assigned to a specialisation after completing the first preparatory year. Download here:

Questionnaire for Applicants to the Department of TextilesDOCX, 17 KB

Compulsory assignment

Landscape of My Feelings

Make a paper box measuring 30 × 30 × 30 cm with one side open. Create a three-dimensional spatial object inside the box on the theme: Landscape of My Feelings. Express your inner self.
Technical requirements:
- Work with paper (you may combine different types and qualities of paper) and auxiliary materials for joining it – gluing, stapling, sewing, etc.
- Use a maximum of 4 colours. The chosen colour scheme should reflect your inner mood.
Recommendation:
- First create a mind map or a short text to help you define the theme.
Document the process and final result with photographs and attach the concept of the work.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – portfolio, CV and completed questionnaire – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026. The portfolio and compulsory assignment must be submitted as one combined PDF file of no more than 10 MB, named first_name_last_name_name of study programme_textiles. Each work must be clearly labelled with its theme and title.
Applicants who advance must bring the original version of their home assignments – portfolio – directly to the second round of the entrance examinations, including the compulsory assignment completed according to the instructions. The works should be documented in presentation portfolios.

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
The compulsory assignment is assessed separately. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates it on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
colour pattern designs
clothing/collection designs
composition within a closed format
three-dimensional object
paper relief
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

The entrance examinations also include an interview with the applicant before the admissions committee, during which the applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments and the applicant’s choice of specialisation within the Department of Textiles.

The applicant also explains their process for the current assignment they are working on in the second round so that their communication skills can be assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

A2 drawing board, drawing materials, pencils, erasers, charcoal, tempera paints, pastel, watercolour, coloured pencils, glue, ruler, scissors, any materials (coloured paper, textile or paper material – various types of paper for collage), pins, utility knife, staples, stapler, needle, thread, sewing pins, adhesive tape, etc.

Recommended literature and websites:

history of art
history of applied arts and design
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
Rebecca MORRILL, Vitamin T, 2019.
Magdaléna ZUBERCOVÁ, Tisícročie módy, 1998.
MÓZIOVÁ, Oľga, BOHATOVÁ, Anna: Dejiny odievania. Bratislava, 2007.
MÁCHALOVÁ, Jana: Móda 20. století. Praha, 2003.
Steven FAEM, Kurz módního návrhářství, 2011.
Marnie FOGG, Fashion the whole story, Thames & Hudson, 2013.
Valerie STEEL, The berg companion to fashion, Bloomsbury Academic, 2018.
GROSE, L. – FLETCHER, K., Fashion & Sustainability, Design for Change, Laurence King Publishing Ltd. London.

Websites:

familiarity with professional periodicals covering contemporary art, architecture, applied arts and design, culture and politics

Consultations for applicants – Textiles

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Applied Arts (specialisations – Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery)

No prior training or specialised practice in the field is required to apply for Applied Arts (specialisations – Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery).

Home assignment requirements (portfolio)

The portfolio should include both school assignments and independently created work.

Submission format:

After submitting the online application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – portfolio – to https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/ between 12:00 on 7 December 2026 and 14:00 on 14 December 2026. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application no later than 12:00 on 7 December 2026. The portfolio, CV and motivation letter must be submitted as one combined PDF file of no more than 10 MB, labelled with: first name, surname, study programme Applied Arts. Each individual work must be clearly identified.
Applicants who advance must bring their home assignments (portfolio) in physical form directly to the second round of the entrance examinations.

Details of the admissions procedure:

First round

conducted remotely without the applicants being present
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the portfolio on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

Second round

The second round is conducted in person and is attended by applicants who advanced from the first round. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
Four themes (assignments) will be given, ranging from applied to independent artistic work, to assess applicants’ artistic thinking and skills.
Each member of the admissions committee evaluates each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
interview with the applicant

Interview - all specialisations (Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery):

The interview takes place before the admissions committee. The applicant demonstrates their knowledge of the field to which they are applying; the interview also includes a discussion of the home assignments. Each member of the admissions committee evaluates the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Part of the interview focuses on assessing general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. This part is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this purpose, selected from internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
International applicants may take the interview in English; however, if admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination - all specialisations (Ceramics, Glass, Jewellery):

pencils, charcoal, red chalk, coloured pencils, eraser, brushes, paints – tempera and watercolour, water containers, scissors, utility knife, cord, rulers, compass, glue, adhesive tape, modelling loops and spatulas

Recommended literature

PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 1 – 10. Bratislava, 1982 – 1986.
PIJOAN, J.: Dejiny umenia 11 – 12. Bratislava, 2002.
GOMBRICH, H. E.: Príbeh umenia. Bratislava, 2000.
RUSINOVÁ, Z. (ed.): Dejiny slovenského výtvarného umenia – 20. storočie. Bratislava, 2000.
KŘIŽOVÁ, Alena. Šperk od antiky po současnost. Praha. 2015.
KŘIŽOVÁ, Alena. Proměny českého šperku na konci 20. století. Praha. 2002.
RADA, Pravoslav: Techniky keramiky. Praha, 1989.
COOPER, Emmanuel: Contemporary Ceramics. London, 2004.
DE WAAL, Edmund: 20th Century Ceramics. London, 2003.
Vitamin C+: Clay and Ceramic in Contemporary Art. London: Phaidon, 2017.

Applicants are expected to be familiar with professional periodicals covering contemporary art, architecture, applied arts and design; Slovak examples include Designum, Remeslo Umenie Dizajn, and others.

Recommended websites:

Consultations are recommended. A successful consultation does not guarantee admission.

Consultations for applicants – Applied Art

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

Visual Communication

^{*Entrance examination requirements. Home assignments, further details of individual tasks, required materials and equipment. The requirements are valid for the admissions process for the 2027/2028 academic year.}

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

Create and submit a portfolio of your own work. The portfolio should correspond to the range of media covered by the Visual Communication study programme. It should include, for example: logos, visual identities, typography, posters, animations (provide only a link – a working URL where the animation is available online (YouTube, Vimeo; if it is private, also provide the password required to view the animation)), packaging design, spatial applications (graphic design applied in space), graphic design of book publications, magazines and other printed materials, your own original projects, and photographic documentation of drawings (e.g. portraits, still lifes – max. 3 pages).

Include the following four compulsory assignments in the portfolio:

Visual identity of your place of permanent residence. Design a logo and 3 additional applications of the logo.
Create one physical 3D object (model) approximately 20 × 20 × 20 cm in size and one virtual object (any size) on the theme: Artificial Intelligence.
Create lettering (study carefully what this term means in lettering practice) for a sweatshirt featuring the name of your municipality.
Create a creative video introduction of no more than 60 seconds in which you introduce yourself. The form of the video introduction (editing, motion graphics, animation, sound) may contribute to the assessment. Upload the video to YouTube or Vimeo and include a link – a working URL to your video introduction – in the portfolio. If the video is private, also provide the password required to view it.

Electronic portfolio specifications:

A4 landscape format
maximum 30 pages
PDF format, max. 20 MB (medium, screen or interactive resolution)

Submission format:

After submitting the electronic application and its attachments, applicants must upload the digital version of their home assignments – the portfolio including all prescribed components – between 7 December 2026 at 12:00 and 14 December 2026 at 14:00 via: https://ulozisko.vsvu.sk/. Login details and instructions will be sent to the email addresses stated in the application no later than 7 December 2026 at 12:00. The portfolio must be submitted as a single PDF file of no more than 20 MB named first_name_last_name_study_programme_visual_communication. Each individual work must be clearly labelled with a caption.

Specification of assignments during the entrance examinations:

Round 1

conducted remotely without the participation of the applicant
All parts of the portfolio listed in the home assignment requirements (portfolio) are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee assesses them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
The compulsory assignments are assessed. Each member of the admissions committee assesses them on a six-point scale (0–5 points).

Round 2

The second round takes place in person and is attended by applicants who have advanced from Round 1. The second round of the entrance examinations lasts two days.
Art assignments in the talent examination may involve the following media: drawing, logo, pictogram, poster, postage stamp, postcard, T-shirt, promotional item, comics/storytelling, typography, three-dimensional object, etc. The assignments are completed without the use of computers or other digital technologies.
Each member of the admissions committee assesses each assignment on a six-point scale (0–5 points). If a full-day assignment is given, it is assessed on an eleven-point scale (0–10 points).

The interview with the applicant before the admissions committee is a dialogue intended to provide a comprehensive picture of the applicant's breadth of knowledge and awareness of current developments in graphic design. Each member of the admissions committee assesses the interview on a six-point scale (0–5 points).
One part of the interview focuses on assessing the applicant's general knowledge of secondary-school history, literature and art history, as well as their orientation in contemporary art and broader socio-cultural awareness. It is assessed independently by two members of the committee designated for this part of the entrance examination from among the internal and external teachers of the Department of Theory and History of Art, using a six-point scale (0–5 points).
Another part of the interview (on the second day) takes the form of a discussion between the applicant and the admissions committee about the completed result of the artistic assignment from the previous day.
Applicants from abroad may take the interview in English; however, if successfully admitted, they continue their studies in Slovak (a minimum B1 level is required).

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination

Applicants should bring their preferred working tools and materials, for example: an A2 drawing board, rulers, templates, pencils, charcoal, pastels, ink, markers, paints and brushes, coloured spray paints, stencil materials, papers of different colours, surfaces and weights, coloured self-adhesive films, scissors, cutters, adhesives, adhesive tape and any other materials they consider useful.

Literature:

Books:

David DABNER: Škola grafického designu. Slovart, 2014.
Steven HELLER, Veronique VIENNE: 100 Ideas that Changed Graphic Design. Laurence King Publishing, 2019.
Jens MÜLLER: The History of Graphic Design. Taschen, 2022.
Filip BLAŽEK: Typokniha. UMPRUM, 2022.
Theo INGLIS: The Graphic Design Bible. Ilex, 2023.
Elen LUPTON: Thinking with type. Princeton Architectural Press, 2010.
Steven HELLER, Gail ANDERSON: The Graphic Design Idea Book. Laurence King Publishing, 2016.
LONGAUER, Ľubomír, et al.: Typografia a písmo na Slovensku. Začalo to Cyrilom a Metodom.
LONGAUER, Ľubomír: Modernosť tradície – Úžitková grafika na Slovensku po roku 1918. Slovart.
KOLESÁR, Z.: Kapitoly z dejín grafického dizajnu. SCD, 2006.
books related to design, architecture and fine art from the following publishers: Phaidon, Taschen, Gestalten, Princeton Architectural Press, Laurence King Publishing, Slovart, Roto Vision, Slanted, UMPRUM, Occasional Papers, Sternberg Press, Lars Müller Publishers, Hyphen Press, nai010 publishers

Professional and popular magazines:

Designum
Typo (archive issues)
Font
Eye
Works that work
Dot Dot Dot (archive issues)
2+3D (archive issues)
Print (archive issues)
Novum (archive issues)
Slanted
Backstage talks

Catalogues:

Trnava Poster Triennial
National Design Award
Brno Biennial of Graphic Design

Websites:

www.vsvu.sk
www.scd.sk
edesignum.scd.sk
www.detepe.sk
www.designportal.cz
www.font.cz
www.designobserver.com
www.designweek.co.uk
magdamag.sk
artalk.cz
www.itsnicethat.com
ilovetypography.com/blog/
fontreviewjournal.com
typedrawers.com

Consultations – Visual Communication

* Back to the requirements for all applicants *

* Back to the overview of requirements for individual study programmes *

9. Are the admissions conditions inclusive?

AFAD guarantees equal opportunities to all applicants who demonstrate the necessary aptitude to complete their studies. Applicants who require specific arrangements for the entrance examinations must contact the Study Office. AFAD takes an individual approach to applicants with specific needs.

Information on the admissions procedure for bachelor’s degree programmes is provided by the AFAD Study Office:

M.Eng. Sylvia Kozáková

Position: Administrator of AIS, Application forms
Phone: +421 948 424 280
Email: kozakova(a)vsvu.sk

Information for applicants from Ukraine is provided by:

MFA Oksana Sadovenko

Position: Counselor for students and applicants from Ukraine - Secretary of the Department of support and counseling for students
Phone: +421 948 621 201
Email: sadovenko@vsvu.sk

For general consultations, see the Applicants’ Guide.

Admissions on bachelor studies

First session (second round: 2–3 February 2027)

Second session (second round: 9–10 February 2027)

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Admissions committee

School-wide admissions committee

Decision on admission or non-admission

8. Requirements of individual study programmes (HOME ASSIGNMENTS)

Architecture

Home assignment requirements - 1. portfolio + 2. architectural self-portrait. Completion of both assignments is required in order to obtain the full possible number of points; the assignments are assessed separately. The two parts must be clearly distinguishable.

1/2 of the portfolio: a broad range of artistic skills and interests

1/2 of the portfolio: specific assignments documenting a strong interest in architecture

ARCHiPORTRAIT - Architectural self-portrait

We have chosen the ARCHiPORTRAIT format instead of a motivation letter because we expect a more original and individual expression of what interests you about architecture and what your relationship to it is.

Submission format:

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

Second round

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination

Recommended literature

Digital Arts

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

A – Compulsory assignment:

Theme: “Tension in the Dark”

B – Video introduction

C – Portfolio

Technical requirements for portfolio submission:

Submission format:

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations:

First round

Second round

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Recommended sources:

Design

FIRST ROUND – Home assignments (Portfolio)

Submission format and deadline:

Format and parameters:

Assessment criteria and portfolio content:

SECOND ROUND – In-person completion of assignments

Assessment areas and skills:

Assessment of assignments:

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination (second round)

Personal interview:

Knowledge test:

Recommended literature and sources:

Photography and New Media

1. Portfolio and home assignments

2. Compulsory assignments:

1) Self-portrait and still life

2) A photograph I do not believe

3) The place/city I come from

4) People in public space

Important information:

Submission format:

Digital version

Original version

Admissions procedure

First round

Second round

Equipment

Recommended literature

Core literature

Further reading

Printmaking and Other Media

Home assignment requirements – portfolio

Include the following compulsory assignment in the portfolio:

Submission format:

Admissions procedure:

First round

Second round

Materials and equipment required for the entrance examination:

Recommended literature

Intermedia (specialisation Intermedia, specialisation Sculpture)

Home assignment requirements – portfolio:

1. part Portfolio - home assignments:

2. part “Self-portrait”:

Submission format:

Further details of tasks during the entrance examinations: