Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava
About the University
The Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava is a state art university founded in 1949. It is a leading center in Slovakia for education in fine arts, design, architecture, photography, and restoration.
Studies are only in Slovak (at least B1 level is required). It offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs — with a total of 13 departments. Admission is determined by an aptitude test: a practical part and portfolio assessment.
For Ukrainians, studies are free. The application fee is 50 euros. The deadline for Bachelor's programs is November 20, 2025, and for Master's and Doctoral programs is May 20, 2026. Dormitories are not mentioned.
Photo Gallery
Campus, Buildings, and Student LifeKey Facts
Programs by Degree
List of programs for this institution — on the official website: vsvu.sk
Admission and Deadlines
Updated 21 July 2026- The Slovak University of Fine Arts in Bratislava, founded in 1949, is a leading center for visual arts, design, architecture, photography, and restoration in Slovakia (13 departments, about 689 students).
- Admission is competitive: a two-day exam with a practical part (drawing, creative abilities) and portfolio assessment. For the 2026/27 Bachelor's program, there are 11 programs with a total of 127 places.
- Instruction is in Slovak (foreigners need at least B1 level, except for citizens of the Czech Republic).
- Application deadlines for 2026/27: Bachelor's program — by November 20, 2025; Master's and Doctoral programs — by May 20, 2026.
Costs and Scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions about the University
Are applicants from Ukraine exempt from the admission fee?+
Yes. VŠVU (Academy of Fine Arts and Design) officially exempts applicants from Ukraine from paying the admission fee – for both bachelor's and master's programs. For other applicants, the fee is €50 (bachelor's) and €25 (master's).
As this is a state university-level college, full-time study in Slovak is free for all students, including those from Ukraine.
Sources: Admission to Bachelor's program (VŠVU)Admission to Master's program (VŠVU)
How does the talent admission exam work?+
Admission to VŠVU checks knowledge, talent, and creative abilities according to the chosen program. The exam lasts two days and includes a practical part – checking drawing skills, artistic memory, color sensitivity, and creativity.
In addition to the exam, applicants upload a portfolio of their own works (for bachelor's programs – by December of the previous year). Evaluation takes place in two rounds.
When is the last day to submit an application for 2026/27?+
Deadlines vary by level of study. Bachelor's: application must be submitted by November 20, 2025 (portfolio – by December). Master's: electronic application from March 20 to May 20, 2026. Doctoral program (ArtD.): application by May 20, 2026 (electronic prihláška from March 10).
The application is submitted online through the electronic prihláška (application form) on the academy's website.
Sources: Online application for the University of Fine Arts and Design (VŠVU)
Does the Academy have a dormitory?+
The University of Fine Arts and Design (VŠVU) does not own or manage its own student dormitory. The Academy provides accommodation in limited capacity through agreements with other Bratislava universities.
Applications for accommodation are submitted through the AIS system; the accommodation commission makes the decision. Due to the limited number of places, it is advisable to look for housing independently.
Sources: Accommodation for VŠVU students
