For incoming students
Steps for applying:
- Contact the International Relations Office of your home institution and ask for information as each partner university has its own pre-selection and nomination process with specific pre-requisites and timing;
- Check the course catalogue and choose your study programme and courses;
- Submit your application online.
Application deadline for the Spring semester - the 15 of November.
All applications must be submitted by using the online form. Paper or e-mail applications will be automatically rejected.
Fact Sheet for ERASMUS+ Incoming students
Documents to be attached to the online application:
- Letter of motivation;
- Link to online portfolio (personal website, social network account, a link to Google Drive, or any other online platform with external access. Please avoid using Wetransfer or any other service of limited duration or any platforms that require login or download);
- Copy of passport or national ID;
- Transcript of Records from your home university;
- Learning Agreement (filled-in and signed by you and your home university coordinator (template here or provided by your home university);
- Signed Confirmation of nomination.
Application deadlines
15th May - for the Autumn semester /Full academic year.
15th June - information on admission results will be announced by email to all applicants.
15th November - for the Spring semester.
15th December - information on admission results will be announced by email to all applicants.
Academic Calendar 2024/2025
Here are the approximate dates:
Autumn semester
1st September - 23rd December
Spring semester
1st February - 31st May
Admission
The applications will be considered by particular study departments and will be accepted or rejected depending on the quality of the submitted portfolio and the availability of places within the departments. As every department has their own selection criteria and different resources, comments on application rejections are not provided.
Please note that submission of the application does not necessarily guarantee you a place for an exchange.
Language of instruction
Please note that the main language of instruction is Lithuanian. Individual tutorials might be available in English depending on the particular study department.
There is also a range of available elective courses for exchange students, which are taught entirely in English.
Available study programmes and courses for exchange students
Faculty of Vilnius
Located in Vilnius, capital city of Lithuania
Adress: Maironio st. 6, Vilnius Google map
Available courses in the autumn semester 2024/2025
Available courses in the spring semester 2023/2024
Faculty of Kaunas
Located in Kaunas - the second city of Lithuania, ~100 km from Vilnius
Address: Muitinės g. 4, Kaunas Google map
More about the faculty
Available courses in the autumn semester 2024/2025
Available course in the spring semester 2023/2024
Faculty of Klaipėda
Located in Klaipėda - the seaport city of Lithuania, ~300 km from Vilnius
Address: Daržų g. 18, Klaipėda Google map
More about the faculty.
Available courses in the autumn semester 2024/2025
Available courses in the spring semester 2023/2024
Faculty of Telšiai
Located in Telšiai, a remote town on the bank of the lake, ~240 km from Vilnius
Address: Muziejaus g. 29, Telšiai Google map
More about the faculty
Available courses in the autumn semester 2024/2025
Available courses in the spring semester 2023/2024
Language of instruction
Please note that the main language of instruction is Lithuanian. Some speciality courses might be taught in mixed groups with Lithuanian students. An individual tutorial might be available in English depending on the particular study course and/or department.
There is also a selection of available optional subjects for exchange students which are provided in English.
Autumn semester dates:
Orientation day: 2nd of September, 2024.
Study and exam period: 2nd of September - 23rd of December, 2024
Please note: the dates may slightly vary for Kaunas, Klaipėda and Telšiai faculties, so please check with the relevant faculty member.
ECTS Grading Table:
| pass | excellent | 10 | 92% and more | A |
| pass | very good | 9 | 82-91% | B |
| pass | good | 8 | 74-81% | B or C |
| pass | highly satisfactory | 7 | 66-73% | C or D |
| pass | satisfactory | 6 | 58-65% | D |
| pass | sufficient | 5 | 50-57% | E |
| fail | insufficient | 4 | 40-49% | F/FX |
| fail | highly insufficient | 3 | 30-39% | |
| fail | poor | 2 | 20-29% | |
| fail | very poor | 1 | 19% and less |
Grading: The scale is based on a number of 1 (very poor) to 10 (excellent).
My experience at VDA was really amazing. The teachers really know a lot about there subject and are also incredibly supportive witch creates an inspiring environment. The school itself is stunning, with its old history, architecture and vibrant atmosphere. And of course, the city Vilnius is beautiful. It is not a very big city and it makes you feel happy and like you belong there in no time. I loved it here!!
Fine Arts Studies and Curatorship, BA (Vilnius)
During my time studying at VDA I had a very positive and enriching experience. Professors were always approachable and willing to help with any questions or concerns, creating an open and supportive environment for learning. Additionally, I found the evaluation process to be fair and constructive. Feedback was provided regularly, allowing me to understand my strengths and areas for improvement. The courses themselves were engaging and thought-provoking. The assignments were designed to be both relevant and stimulating. Overall, my study experience was extremely positive, characterized by strong communication, supportive guidance, fair assessments, and engaging coursework. I feel well-prepared for my future endeavors thanks to the comprehensive education I received.
Graphic Design, BA (Kaunas)
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in VDA and in the Sculpture BA course in particular, where I truly felt that I was viewed as an artist first and a student second, and that my artistic methods processes and input was respected and acknowledged. I would highly recommend this course and the city itself is beautiful!
Sculpture, BA (Vilnius)
My Erasmus stay in Telšiai was really exceptional. I was able to discover so many things, both in terms of working with new techniques and new materials, as I'd never studied jewellery before coming here, and in terms of culture. Knowing very little about Lithuania, I didn't have any particular expectations and I wasn't really disappointed. My stay here has opened my mind and allowed me to meet a lot of very nice people. The teachers and students are very attentive and are always there when you need help, it feels like family. There are lots of machines available to students in the workshops. Although there isn't much to do in the city, the setting is incredible and well worth the effort. If I had one piece of advice to give, it would be to be curious and try lots of things, because Telšiai can give you a lot to discover. It sounds a bit cliché but it's the truth : today, It feels like a dream is coming to an end.
Metal Art and Jewelry, BA (Telšiai)
2022/2023 spring semester
My experience in Lithuania, and especially at the Vilnius Academy of Arts, was excellent. Doing an Erasmus was a source of anxiety for me at first, but the staff at the school were very helpful with all my questions about the school and also about the online agreement. I was very well received by all the teaching staff in my department (master's degree in textiles) and I also received a lot of help from them. The school quickly assigned me a tutor who was able to monitor my work during the semester, as well as during the various oral exams that I took in English. This experience was more than enriching in terms of my approach to my work, but also in terms of having to live abroad and speak a language that is not my mother tongue. The Vilnius school has given me experiences that I wouldn't have had at my home school. The technical workshops are really available to students and are very well equipped. The technicians are great when it comes to helping us with a project.
As for the city, it's hard not to fall in love with Vilnius during the visit to the old town and the town center. There are many museums to see, and the city is very pleasant to live in. A special mention to the bridge I had to cross to get to my workshop, which I already miss.Textile Art and Design MA (Vilnius)
The best school I’ve ever attended, amazing teacher and the program was so great.
Design, BA (Vilnius)
2021/2022 autumn semester
I really enjoyed my studies at the VDA during the last fall semester. The courses were very varied and offered a chance to get a taste of new creative areas that did not belong to one's own specification, so that one could experiment with new materials. The professors were always open to questions and always willing to help. They also helped outside of the university with recommendations and offered the opportunity to take part in various cultural events.
The International Office was a good support during the stay. You always got a quick answer. They were always friendly and helpful.
I would recommend a semester abroad at the VDA in Vilnius to everyone.Student from Germany, BA (Vilnius Faculty)
2021/2022 spring semester
The communication sometimes failed but in the end it was great, we communicated by email and video call or went to the school to talk about it. Both in dealing with teachers and students was great, they helped us a lot to be comfortable and to understand the tasks that sometimes we did not understand. The grading method was quite good.
Interior Design, BA (Vilnius)
The communication with profesors was wonderful, I really liked the course structure and the mentorship from professors. The assignments were really interesting and fun to do, as well as helpful for my future projects. I think the grading system was fair, esspecialy since for majority of courses there were multipule profesors grading as well as giving advice or opinion on the final work.
Graphic Design, BA (Vilnius)
Even though I only spent a few months in Kaunas, I really enjoyed my experience. The city is a bit small, but it's very peaceful and has gorgeous areas and parks. I especially liked going to the riverside and going around the old town and Laisvės Alėja. Also, the weather wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, and by the end of May there were very nice and sunny days. I also met amazing people from different parts of the world which made the experience so much better.
Regarding the faculty, I studied the textile program, which was very interesting, and like nothing I'd done before. Most of the teachers speak English, so communication wasn't a problem, and they are all very kind, as well as my classmates.
My exchange was during covid19 times, so maybe the experience was a bit different due to restrictions, but I was still able to see other beautiful places in Lithuania, such as Nida, Klaipėda, and Vilnius, which I'd recommend going to.
I think I would have never gotten to know this city if it weren't for this experience, so I'm very happy to have chosen it as my destination.Lucia Garcia Gynther, UPV facultad de Bellas Artes, Spain, Textile Art Media, BA (Kaunas)
2020/2021 spring semester
The studies at my department were very well structured and organised. I always knew who to contact and who could answer my questions. What I liked best was the communication with the lecturers. There was always an open and helpful atmosphere and I felt well looked after.
Fine Arts Studies and Curatorship, BA (Vilnius)
I was pleasantly surprised by the cooperation level of VDA professors. Even though our perception of the subjects was a little bit different due to the specific of our academies, we could find the middle ground and cooperate with maximum profit for both sides. It was useful for me as for animator to observe another point of view on animation as a tool, which can be used not only for traditional storytelling but also for more experimental purposes. I am also thankful for the language support, as some lessons were changed to English specifically for Erasmus students.
Animation, BA (Vilnius)
2020/2021 autumn semester
I really liked the studies here and felt very good. The professors were very nice and helped the foreign students to get to know the subject and culture more. Also when we started to plan a exhibition everyone was very open minded, which I liked the most. I am looking forward to visit great Vilnius again one day.
Fine Arts Studies and Curatorship, BA (Vilnius)
2019/2020 spring semester
Being in Lithuania as an international student has been incredibly amazing! I felt so welcome at VDA Klaipeda Faculty, the academy has such a friendly vibe it feels like a family. Teachers and students are super kind and will help you with anything you’ll need! I am also amazed by the country and its nature, you will be charmed with beautiful forests, lakes, beaches, dunes, etc. Vilnius, being the capital city, is the best for nightlife, you will enjoy dancing, good restaurants, and bars to go out with your friends, but in Klaipeda you will also find really nice spots around town for really nice and fun nights out! ESN group is also constantly doing events for students and they are really fun, I recommend you to join anything they propose! I take with me tons of memories, moments and great friendships, I am extremely thankful for everything!
Catalina Contreras Rock, Interior Design, VIAAD, Mexico
I am really happy and satisfied to have chosen Vilniaus dailės akademija as my study training destination. The very well trained professors have been able to follow and suggest me in the best way along my artistic path, even during the quarantine period because of Covid-19, thanks to the video lessons and emails.
Also the students and the city itself have stimulated me a lot in my personal research, allowing me a great inner growth.
Camilla Cerioni, Academy of Fine Arts Macerata, Italy
Among the other Erasmus cities, little Vilnius may not be the most trendy. But in Italy we use to say: “nella botte piccola c’è il vino buono” (in the small barrel, there’s the good wine). My experience here confirmed this proverb.
The facilities, the possibilities, and the availability that the university offers are the greatest advantage that the student can take. And they are not so easy to find in other contexts.
The student who wants to test himself, experiment, and work independently has this opportunity here. It is therefore essential to be motivated, to be ready to work on projects, whose fuel is individual commitment.
The university acts as a support infrastructure, in the widest meaning, with helpful teachers, and amazing workshops.
To study here, you have to slightly move "East", and it is not just a physical displacement. There is the possibility to face a new design reality and therefore slowly taking on a new project awareness, linked to the hybridization of disciplines and contexts, to experimentation and individual practice.
Vilnius is small, on a human scale; if it is almost simple to understand its geography, it is more complex to perceive its multifaceted identity. Therefore, this city of a still little known country becomes an excellent companion to understand your own identity.
Alessio Zoni, Politecnico di Milano, Italy
2019/2020 autumn semester
My Erasmus at the VDA was one of my best experiences. Vilnius is gorgeous and I felt very comfortable in this city since day one - even in the cold, rainy winter. Besides of my main department project I could participate in many interesting and creative optional subjects which were organised for Erasmus only. I had no problems in communicating with my teachers and fellow students who were always helpful by also treating me like a local. The VDA helps you in becoming a better artist for example by offering you personal studios, tools or even exhibitions. I absolutely recommend the VDA and Lithuania as a destination.
Quang Anh Nguyen, Interior Design, Detmolder Schule für Architektur und Innenarchitektur, Germany
I had wonderful time in Vilnius. It was a great opportunity to meet young artists from all over the world. We organized together few interesting art events, trips and parties. With lot of these people I'm still staying in touch. The city is beautiful and has an amazing atmosphere and really rich cultural life. (Remember to ask about free tickets to theater! ) In VDA I also had the opportunity to discover new techniques that I had never tried before. Such as ceramics, printmaking and stained glass making process. All of these studios have really good equipment and lecturers are very kind and helpful. I highly recommend this experience :)
Natalia Krynicka, University of the Arts Poznań, Poland
2018/2019 autumn semester
The school has all the equipment we need, the lecturers are as interesting as the courses proposed and we are treated the same as local student, that is really pleasant.
Julie Réveillon, E.S.A.A.T, Roubaix, France
My Erasmus at VDA was a great experience ! All the teachers and students were very kind and it was a pleasure to spend time in this academy. I had all the tools, the support and the freedom to realise great projects. Of course I would recommend everyone (who has warm clothes) to take part in exange studies at VDA and also to explore Lithuania and its wonderful culture!Eva Moucheron, Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Brussels
The school is welcoming and well organized overall. The teachers are listening and pushing your curiosity.Anne Philippe, Higher School of Art and Design Angers
In such a short time I gained so many new skills. New to me were meetings with university graduates. It gave me a fresh look and approach to my diploma project. The class work was intense and very effective, all I learnt is very useful, such as presentation, preparation of exhibitions and my portfolio along with the website. I definitely haven't wasted my time. The professors and local students are very friendly and helpful and they make you feel include in classes and that's means a lot when you're in a different country. The university has an own kitchen, so sometimes you can feel there like at home and is also located in a very beautiful place surrounded by nature. Not mention even that everyone should go for a trip to Nida and fall in love forever with Lithuania!Monika Orlikowska, Strzemiński Academy of Fine Arts in Łódź
My first exchange at VDA was in 2016/2017, I stayed for 9 months. The Academy environment was very inspiring and proactive for my works, that's why I decided to apply for a second Erasmus+ programme in Vilnius. Once again I had the confirmation of high standard education, it was the perfect place for me to research and develop my Bachelor degree project. I absolutely recommend VDA as a destination, both for the Academy and the beautiful city of Vilnius.Ottavia Catenacci, Accademia di Belle Arti di Urbino (IT)
I think it's worth to study at VDA. Here you can find great atmosphere to learn a lot of things, hard working students and teachers, that generally speak English, are open to answer for your (even neverending) questions. Student's dormitory is nice, good conditions and price isn't bad. Moreover, it is not only about Academy, you can met here in Vilnius a lot of gentle people, and visit many beautiful places.Marta Raczak, University of Adam Mickiewicz, Fine Arts and Pedagogy in Kalisz, Poland
It's a good environment for international students to realise their projects. It's also an open minded atmosfer for the people from different cultural backgrounds.Mehmet Hakan, Ozcan, University of Arts Poznan
2017/2018 spring semester
I didn't have any problems with communication, teachers, staff speak English really good. In most of cases they were open minded, willing to help and to offer their knowledge and experience. Atmosphere was really cosy and I felt like a part of academy's society.
Kinga Bartniak, Wrocław Academy of Art and Design
First of all, the city is marvelous! I really enjoyed the city. My study at the VDA was really interesting! My mentor was perfect, he really helped me a lot and I was sure I can always call him if I need to. Also the professors were really nice and I had a great time. Besides that it was a super interesting way to study, I worked and learned a lot and it was intense.
Lea, Hochschule Düsseldorf
The difference between French art school and Lithuanian arts school is just huge, we don't have the same way of working at all, it's a very nice experience to know that way of work.
Gil Zinck, École Nationale Supérieure d'Art et de Design de Nancy
It was an experience that helped me become more mature and see the project with a different eye, develop them in a new way. I learned new ways to see things, and now I can put together the two ways I now know to create something new.
Maria Teresa Vigorelli, Politecnico di Milano
2017/2018 autumn semester
Well, I am in painting department. The whole year I felt easy, welcomed and relaxed. Dormitory is near the main building, food and coffee in canteen is good and cheap. Lessons made for erasmus students are of all kinds, so beside my main subject- painting, I could try graphics and felt art. All the teachers were nice and helpful as well as mentors. I also have to mention how wonderful is the city through the day and especially through the night. There is also this great possibility to travel around, Nida was charming!
Nikola Šušovicová, Academy of Fine Arts and Design Bratislava
It was a very nice and inspiring experience that have brought new ideas for my next studies/works (even though I was a bit lost in chaos at the beginning). Also there are very kind and open-minded people and I'm happy I have met them.
Michaela Tkadleček, Academy of Fine Arts Munich
I learned a lot here. Academy has good equipment and great mentors.
Natalia Leocho, University of Art in Poznań
The structure is pretty good to get works done and there are a lot of possibilities thanks to the laboratories, which have good tools and stuff.
Alfonso Russo, Accademia di Belle Arti di Napoli
2022/2023 spring semester
