Frequently Asked Questions


Which degree will I get by studying a master at the Master Institute of Visual Cultures?

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Master of Animation
(1 year, full-time) 
Degree: Master of Animation

MA  Visual Art & Post-Contemporary Practice
(2 years, full time)
Degree: Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design

MA Ecology Futures
(2 years, full time)
Degree: Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design

MA Situated Design
(2 years, full time)
Degree: Master of Arts in Fine Art and Design

What are the requirements for the Master’s programmes?

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In order to apply, you must have a certificate or diploma proving that you have successfully completed a Higher Education (Bachelor) programme.  Specific admissions information and conditions for each Master’s programme can be found on the respective programme page of our website. Specific practical information and conditions can be found at the Avans Application page

What is the official status of the programmes at the Master Institute of Visual Cultures?

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Our programmes are fully accredited by the Dutch Government. The AKV|St.Joost Master is registered as the Avans University of Applied Sciences. Since 2013 we have been officially accredited by the Netherlands-Flemish Accreditation Organization (NVAO). 

What steps do I have to take in order to enrol in the Master's programme?

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There are a few formal steps you have to take in order to enrol in our programmes. Information about the assessment can be found here, and information about the formal procedure can be found here.

What takes place during the admission process?

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Click here for information about the admission process.

How much does the Master's programme cost?

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Information about tuition fees, payments and terms of enrolment can be found here.

Can I pay the tuition fee in instalments?

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Yes, it is possible to pay the tuition fee in instalments. More information about tuition fees, payments and terms of enrolment can be found here. 

Does the Master Institute of Visual Cultures offer grants or financial aid?

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Master Institute of Visual Cultures does not offer grants or financial aid, but there are various organizations in the Netherlands that offer individual scholarships. On the Avans University of Applied Sciences website you can find a list of specific scholarships.

Where can I find information about visas, insurance and etc.?

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Avans Website Studying in the Netherlands provides information about these matters. 

Do I need a visa to study in the Netherlands?

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If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union and you want to reside in the Netherlands for a period exceeding three months, you must obtain a visa and/or residence permit prior to your departure to the Netherlands. Click here for more info. 

When in doubt, please contact the International Office.

Where can I ask specific questions about the Master's programmes?

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If there are any specific questions about the Master's programmes that you can't find answered on the website, please send us an email.

How can I find accommodation?

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The Avans Accommodation page  provides information on how to find accommodation in 's-Hertogenbosch. Finding accommodation in the Netherlands can take a significant amount of time (on average, at least a month), so we strongly recommend that you start your search as soon as you have been accepted into the programme. The International Office functions merely as a mediator in your search for housing. There's no guarantee for finding you an accommodation. It is your own responsibility to arrange you accommodation during your stay. 

What are the language criteria for the Master's programmes?

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English Language Criteria:
In our Master program the instruction languages are Dutch and English because of the many international students. We expect you to understand, speak and write in English fluently. We do not offer any English courses. (IETS 6.0 is the Avans University standard. The conditions for Toefl are as mentioned on our website):
Find more info here
After you have completed the admission process and when you are admitted, we will ask you for your English test results.

What is Studielink?

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Studielink is th Dutch national database for admission to higher education. To receive an invitation to our online system and enroll to a program of your choice, you must first register in Studielink. You can register for up to four programs in Studielink. 

Please note that the decision to accept you to the program or not will always be up to the Master Institute of Visual Cultures after we review your application in our online application system. Registering only in Studielink is not sufficient. Please submit your complete application in our online application system as well after you receive an invitation to do so.