FAQ
What criteria do I need to meet for the course?
You will need a Bachelor degree, in any subject. You will also need to be able to demonstrate your artistic aptitude and outstanding artistic talent, and have adequate German language skills. To see the exact examination and language requirements, visit the university’s website and the Information for International Students.
Do I need to already have completed my Bachelor course before applying?
No. Once admitted and enrolled in the Masters course, you can submit proof of your Bachelor degree retrospectively, but by no later than 15 Dec of the same year.
Is there an age limit?
No.
Can I study part-time?
Yes, a part-time study option is available to students with family and/or professional commitments, illnesses or disabilities. Part-time students have fewer lessons per semester, but at the normal lesson times. It is best to discuss the details with the course co-ordinator once you have been admitted into the course.
On which days are lessons held?
Lessons are held Monday to Friday. Workshops may, in some cases, be held on weekends, though this will be advised with adequate notice.
When do I need to apply?
The application deadline is 15 March of any year, for course commencement in the winter semester of that same year.
Where can I find detailed information and documents for my application to the Folkwang Institute for Pop Music?
This information can be found here.
What do I particularly need to remember when applying?
The most important thing for us is to have a portfolio of your artistic work/activities to date. Where possible, this should be sent to us on data carriers at the same time as your application. You should also be especially mindful of the written component of your project plan, which should clearly and concisely state your artistic plans for your Masters course. This should not be longer than four DIN-A4 pages.
Will filling out the online application form suffice for an application?
No. Applications that are only submitted online cannot be taken into consideration. All documents need to be promptly submitted/posted to the 
Examination Office of the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen-Werden. The address is: Folkwang Universität der Künste, Prüfungsamt FB1 & 2, Klemensborn 39, 45239 Essen.
What happens after the application?
Approximately one month after the application deadline on 15 March, you will receive a personal invitation to the aptitude test, insofar as all formal requirements have been met and you have successfully passed the pre-selection stage.
When and where is the aptitude test held?
The aptitude test is generally held in late May/early June at the Institute for Pop Music in Bochum. The exact date will be advised in the personal invitation. The examination needs to be taken in person on site.
What is the aptitude-test procedure?
The aptitude test consists of a practical presentation lasting up to 15 minutes, during which you perform your own music and/or present your own productions before a commission. This is followed by a colloquium lasting up to 30 minutes, which serves as a reflective discussion on your motivations for studying, your plans and goals, your own work, and any jobs/activities performed to date.
Who will be assessing me?
Your aptitude will be assessed by an examination commission comprising members of the university and the Institute for Pop Music. The commission consists of several persons.
When will I hear whether or not I have been admitted into the course?
The examination commission will forward the results of the aptitude test to the university’s central examination committee. Once this committee has convened (which will be by no later than mid-June), you will receive written notice as to whether or not you have been admitted.
I didn’t get in the first time. Can I re-apply?
Yes, you can!
My question wasn’t answered here. Whom can I contact?
For general queries, you can contact the university’s central student advisory service.
folkwang-uni.de/student-advisory-service
For course-specific questions, please contact us directly:
