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Pre-Design

Where your creative journey begins
duration2 weeks
languageEnglish
locationMadrid
IntakeJuly 5th - 17th
formatIn-person
For who17 - 18 years old

Hands-On Design Experience Before University

The Pre-Design Summer Program is a dynamic, two-week experience designed for students interested in exploring the world of design and architecture before entering university. 

The program introduces participants to creative thinking, design processes, and portfolio development in a supportive and hands-on environment.

Through practical workshops, studio work, and collaborative projects, students gain a real taste of what it's like to pursue a Bachelor in Design or Architecture.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Days to start your best summer

264days
:
05hours
:
30minutes

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM DESIGNED FOR?

  • This program is right for you if…

    … you're a creative, curious student looking to explore Design or Architecture, build a portfolio, and decide if this is the right path before university.

  • Participant profile

    You're 17–18 years old, in or just out of high school, and eager to learn through hands-on creative work—no prior experience needed.

Course Overview – Typical Day in the Pre-Design program

Your daily schedule is crafted to keep you challenged and engaged, with a mix of activities that encourage hands-on learning and critical reflection. This is what a typical day in the Pre-Design Summer program looks like:

  • Two students are engaged in discussion at a classroom desk while others work on laptops.

    Week 1:

    • Monday to Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  • Three students are engaged in a discussion while looking at a laptop in a bright modern workspace.

    Week 2:

    • Monday to Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    • Friday: The last day is dedicated to your final presentations and a graduation and awards ceremony.

Focus Areas

Throughout the two-week program, students will explore key areas of design that reflect the creative, strategic, and interdisciplinary nature of the field.

  • 01.

    1. Design Thinking & Creative Process

    Learn how designers approach challenges through empathy, ideation, and experimentation to create meaningful solutions.

  • 02.

    1. Visual Communication & Representation

    Build skills in sketching, storytelling, and layout to express ideas visually and effectively.

  • 03.

    3. Spatial & Human-Centered Design

    Explore how spaces, objects, and environments are shaped with the user in mind—functionally, emotionally, and socially.

  • 04.

    4. Portfolio Development & Reflection

    Start building a personal design portfolio while reflecting on your interests and identifying your creative strengths and direction.

Unique Value

This program offers a real studio experience guided by expert faculty, allowing students to explore design through hands-on projects while gaining insight into what it’s like to study at a top design school.

Learning Outcome

By the end of the program, students will have a foundational understanding of design, a starter portfolio, and greater clarity about whether a creative academic path is right for them.

Abstract for Tuition | IE

TUITION

2 WEEK PROGRAM
5,900€

THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS

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1. Online Application

You will need to complete the online application with the following documents:

  1. Academic transcripts.  
  2. CV (cv template).
  3. Video Assessment: in this section you will complete two live video questions on general knowledge topics.

*You must complete all sections of the application in order to submit it.

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2. Submit your Application

Once you complete all sections you may submit your online application to be evaluated by our team.


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3. Admissions Final Decision

Within 2 weeks of submitting, the Summer School Team will contact you with the final resolution of your Admissions process. Should it be positive, you will be guided through the next steps for your enrollment.

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