Hochschule Darmstadt (h_da) — Fachbereich Gestaltung / Mediencampus

Hochschule Darmstadt (h_da) is a public university of applied sciences located in Darmstadt, Hesse (Germany), offering a wide range of programs in design, media, and technology. The Mediencampus includes programs in Communication Design, User Experience Design, Industrial Design, and Online Communication. These courses apply a practice-oriented pedagogy focused on projects, internships, and connections with industry, which particularly interests international students seeking hands-on education in design and digital communication. The courses include technical components (digital tools, UX), conceptual work, and networking with companies and cultural institutions. ([h-da.de](https://h-da.de/studium/studienangebot/studiengaenge/architektur-medien-und-design/kommunikationsdesign-dipl?utm_source=openai))

Admission requirements (for an international candidate) The h_da requires a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) equivalent to the German Abitur or, if the equivalence is not recognized, completion of a Studienkolleg followed by the Feststellungsprüfung. Candidates with a foreign diploma submit their application through uni‑assist (paid pre-check); if you hold a German HZB, registration is done via the my.h‑da.de portal (internal procedure). (Sources below.) Language: for programs in German, proof of language proficiency is required at the time of application (minimum level for application: DSH 1 or Goethe-Zertifikat B2 / telc B2 / DSD II B2 / TestDaF with level ≥3 in all sub-parts). For final enrollment, a higher level is required (e.g., DSH 2 or TestDaF level 4 or equivalent – submission by 31.03. or 30.09.). The h_da may offer/invite to the Studienvorbereitungskurs DSH if the level proposed at application is the minimum acceptable. Documents & procedure: HZB (or equivalence certificate/studienkolleg), transcripts/grades, certified translations if necessary, ID, CV, motivation letter; for programs in the Faculty of Design: portfolio (Mappe) + participation in the Eignungsprüfung (practical tests and interview). Some programs require an interview/selection test in person or via video conference. Fees: the h_da is a state university (accredited programs) and does not charge tuition fees; however, uni‑assist charges fees for processing international applications, and a Semesterbeitrag (semester fee) is due each semester. (Amounts: variable, see dedicated pages.) Visa / residence: the International Office provides information and procedures; visaflow platform recommended for handling documents according to the procedures indicated by the university.

Admissions open from April 1, 2027.

Application deadline: April 15, 2027.

Why choose h_da?

• Applied and industry-oriented programs
• strong multimedia and UX focus
• internships and company connections facilitated
• bachelor courses mostly in the Winter semester