General Questions

Is the Trimester Programme right for me?

The Trimester Programme offers an accredited professional education in the fine arts, officially recognised at the post-secondary HBO level. Courses are rooted in teaching traditional methodologies in drawing and painting from nature to train contemporary artists.

This programme is ideal for you if you are a serious artist seeking to develop your technical skills, and you have an appreciation for learning classical methods. Perhaps you want to become a professional artist, or you are already a professional who would like to continue to improve your technique. Or perhaps you simply love the craft of traditional drawing and painting, and you want to carry your work to the highest level you can, without necessarily turning it into a career.

The Trimester Programme offers an academic education that passes on the lineage of traditional drawing and painting to the next generation of artists. You will work directly from life, not from photographs. You will be required to reach proficiency in drawing before you can paint. You will need to exercise discipline, patience, and long-term commitment. You can regularly expect to spend 40 hours or more on a single drawing or painting before your instructor approves it.

If that description sounds off-putting, then these courses are probably not the right fit. But if you're like us, and an environment of serious academic study with likeminded artists is just what you are looking for: welcome!

How is the Trimester Programme different from workshops or bootcamps?

The Trimester Programme offers structured, long-term academic training, and there is an application procedure. Students' follow a traditional and successive course of study. Work is evaluated at the end of each trimester, and students must meet specific passing criteria before advancing within the programme.

This is completely different to short courses such as workshops or bootcamps, where participation is open to everyone. Here, you can decide for yourself whether you want to draw, paint, etc. and there are no 'grades' given at the end. In the Trimester Programme, there is a pass/fail evaluation system, and you are limited to enter only the courses which are deemed suitable for your current level of technical skill.

The Trimester Programme is formally accredited by the Centrum voor Post Initieel Onderwijs Nederland (CPION) at the post-initial HBO level, and students are able to earn recognised post-HBO diplomas from this programme. Earning one or more diploma requires years of committed study. Diplomas cannot be earned from workshops or bootcamps.

Is the Trimester Programme for full-time or part-time study?

It can accommodate both. Most students are part-time and enrol in one or two courses per trimester, spending between 6-12 hours per week in classes at the studio, and an additional 3-5 hours per week on homework. Some students enrol in three or four courses per term, and study on a full-time basis. You decide yourself how many courses you are able to commit to.

Where should I start? Can I enrol in any course I want?

Trimester courses are categorised into Tiers according to their level of difficulty, from Tier 1 to Tier 4. Tier 1 has relaxed entrance requirements; the higher the tier, the stricter the entrance requirements to be accepted into a course. You can read all about the different Tiers and their entrance requirements here.

If you apply for a course and DARA does not feel that you meet the required level of ability, we will recommend you the courses that we believe are a suitable fit. While we understand that it is disappointing to not be accepted, please note that these standards are in place to ensure that our students develop a strong technical skill set.

How many courses do I need to take per trimester?

If you are studying to earn a diploma, we strongly recommend you to enrol in at least two courses per term needed for your diploma - but you are not required to do so. All students can choose to enrol in only one course per trimester, according to your needs.

Taking three courses or more per term requires serious commitment, and you should only opt for this if you are able to study art full-time.

Is there homework?

Homework is optional, however, it is not likely pass a course module in one trimester without doing homework or other independent study outside of class. A minimum of two hours per week of independent study is recommended, per course.

When are courses in the Trimester Programme offered?

The academic year consists of the Fall, Winter, and Spring Trimesters, which each last three months. To enrol in the programme, you are committing to study in one or more courses for a full trimester at a time.

Can I start whenever I want?

You may start at the beginning of any trimester throughout the year. Applications for each trimester open three months in advance.

Will I learn to draw and paint from photos?

No, copying from photos is not in line with DARA's philosophy or teaching approach. In most classes, you will work solely from direct observation from life. In some classes, you may work from a reproduction of a master's work.

Does DARA teach the sight size method?

No, we do not. Our stance on the sight-size method is that it might have some limited benefits for complete beginners, but we consider other methods more useful.

Which languages are used in class?

English is the main language spoken for group discussions, demonstrations, or lectures in the classroom. Many instructors are able to offer individual feedback in Dutch or other languages, but a working fluency in English is needed to participate.

Can I follow classes online?

All courses are instructed in person at our studio. We do not have plans to offer online classes at this time.

Diplomas Q & A

Can I earn a diploma from studying at DARA?

Yes. Courses within our Trimester Programme are accredited by Centrum Voor Post Initieel Onderwijs Nederland (CPION) and are registered with the Stichting Hoger Onderwijs (higher education foundation.) We currently offer 3 officially recognised diplomas at the post-initial HBO level:

• Foundational Drawing Diploma
• Advanced Drawing Diploma
• Classical Oil Painting Diploma

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To earn a diploma, you will need to be officially registered in a diploma-opleiding (diploma programme.) A diploma-opleiding is a specific pathway of courses in the Trimester Programme that you are required to complete to earn your qualification, and takes approximately one year to finish. If you are not interested in earning a diploma / following a specific pathway of study, you can still participate in the Trimester Programme.

You can read more about our diplomas, and the requirements you must fulfil to earn them, here.

What does 'post-initial HBO' mean?

HBO (higher professional education) is post-secondary education in the Netherlands that prepares students for the labour market. This training normally lasts 4 years, and students can receive an Associate Degree or a Bachelor's Degree. Students generally need a HAVO or MBO (level 4) diploma, or an international equivalent, to enrol in an HBO programme.

Post-initial HBO training is a practice-oriented professional education. It is intended for people who have already completed higher professional education and want to increase your knowledge and skills. DARA's diploma-opleidingen fall in this category. Please note that unlike an initial HBO degree programme, we do not require any previous educational qualifications, such as a HAVO or MBO diploma. Diplomas earned from DARA are officially recognised post-initial HBO qualifications.

How long does it take to earn a diploma?

If you are seeking to earn a diploma, the estimated time needed to earn each diploma is one academic year / three trimesters. To earn all 3 diplomas we offer, this would then take an estimated time of three years.

To meet this timeline, all following conditions must be met:

• You must be enrolled in two or more requisite courses per trimester;
• You must study for three consecutive trimesters, without taking any breaks in between;
• You must pass every course module on the first attempt.

If not all conditions are met, earning a diploma will take longer than one academic year / three trimesters.

What do I need to do if I want to earn a diploma?

When applying to the Trimester Programme, you can indicate whether you want to study for a diploma, and can select the diploma-opleiding that you wish to pursue. If you are accepted into the programme, you will need to pay a one-time registration fee of EUR 150. This is separate from your tuition fees, and covers the administrative costs of adding and maintaining your records in CPION's database, and issuing your diploma.

Each diploma requires you to complete specific courses of study. You can learn more about the diplomas we currently offer, and their requirements, here.

Other than earning an official qualification, are there any benefits for students who are pursuing a diploma?

Yes, we have several incentives offered to help support our students who are studying for a diploma:

• Tuition fees for courses requisite for your diploma are discounted for you;
• You have free access to work at DARA uninstructed on Fridays from 9:30 to 17:00;
• If you book a studio pass for other hours, you receive a 25% discount;
• You receive a 25% discount on all lectures, open model sketch sessions, and other paid events at DARA. If there are other discount offers (early bird discount, etc.) then your discount is added on top.

Can I participate in the Trimester Programme without studying to earn a diploma?

Yes, this is possible. Perhaps earning a diploma is not the point, or maybe you are only interested in studying for a short period. Whatever the reason, you are not required to register for a diploma-opleiding. Tuition fees are a little higher for you in this case. Otherwise, the application procedure, admissions requirements, class assignments, passing criteria, and all other aspects of the course are the same.

If I do not register for a diploma-opleiding, can I change my mind later?

Yes, you can always change your mind at a later time. If you decide later on that you want a diploma, you can always credit any relevant course certificates you previously earned towards your diploma. Please note that you will need to pay a one-time registration fee of EUR 150, which covers the administrative costs of adding and maintaining your records in CPION's database, and issuing your diploma.

I studied at DARA in the past. Do the courses I completed count as credit towards a diploma?

You are able to credit any studies completed at DARA prior to Fall 2026 towards a diploma under the following circumstances:

• You were enrolled in the Trimester Programme between January 2025 to June 2026;
• You earned one ore more Certificates of Completion during this period.

Note: Constructive Anatomy has been discontinued as a standalone course for the time being. However, any certificates earned in this course between January 2025 and June 2026 are still eligible for credit at the Tier 3 drawing level.

Tiers and Modules Q & A

What are tiers?

Courses within the Trimester Programme are categorised into tiers according to their level of difficulty. Roughly speaking, the higher the tier, the more difficult the course (although, final modules in lower tier courses might be harder than starting modules in the next tier up.)

Admissions requirements are very lenient for Tier 1 courses, and become stricter with each tier level. ​

What are modules?

Each course is broken down into modules, or distinct segments of the curriculum that take (at least) one trimester to complete. Modules are successive, and become progressively more difficult. All students entering a course for the first time start in Module 1. Every trimester, courses have a mix of students in all different modules, which we feel is particularly beneficial to new students.

Each module requires students to satisfy specific passing criteria in order to be considered complete. If the module is not passed, then you will not earn a certificate; if you return for another trimester, your instructor may suggest either repeating the module again, or moving to a lower tier course.

Is there really a possibility that students don't pass a module at the end of the term?

Yes, this is a possibility. There could be a number of reasons why you might not pass a module by the end of the term:

• Your coursework is going well, but you need more time to finish all required assignments;
• Your progress in class is delayed because you did not attend regularly enough, or you are not dedicating enough time outside of class to homework/independent study;
• The course is not the right level for your current skillset. There are skills taught in lower tier courses that need to be developed more extensively first in order to succeed.

How do I know if I am on track to pass my module or not?

Instructors will generally give you an indication around the middle of the term about whether you are on track or not. Otherwise, if you are not sure, it's recommended to speak with your instructor during class.​

What if I don't want my work to be evaluated?

The Trimester Programme offers a classical fine arts education, and is also an accredited post-initial HBO programme. This training is intended for professional artistic development, and evaluating students' work is critical for ensuring that high standards of technical achievement are being met.

We understand that this type of study is not what everyone is looking for. We invite you to join other courses we have on offer, such as drawing and painting workshops, for which participation is open to everyone of all levels. You are also welcome to drop in for open model sessions, where you can draw or paint the model from life in any manner you like alongside other artists.

Admissions Q & A

How do I sign up for a course?

The registration period for each trimester begins three months in advance of the term. You can find all trimester & registration dates here.

There is an application procedure in place for the Trimester Programme. When the registration period is open, navigate to Trimester Programme > Apply to start your online application form. Here, you can indicate which course(s) you wish to apply for, and whether you would like to pursue a diploma in drawing or painting.

How does DARA determine whether someone's application is accepted or not?

As part of your application, you will be asked to submit examples of recent drawings and/or paintings. For courses past Tier 1, we are considering whether your work seems to demonstrate the technical skill and relevant experience needed to meaningfully participate in class. This is a visual assessment. It's helpful to know if you have any prior qualifications, degrees, etc. but this ultimately does not change how we visually assess technical ability.

We prefer to see work that was made from life as much as possible, because drawings or paintings made from photographs may not reliably indicate how capably someone can work from direct observation. "From life" does not mean referencing a photo without tracing; it means that the work was made directly from perception of a 3D environment.

Higher tier courses are stricter about the level of technical skill that needs to be demonstrated in order to enrol.

Factors that are not part of DARA's visual assessment of skill level:

• Scheduling preferences
• Lack of interest in the courses that are indicated as being the correct level
• Already drawing/painting for many years 
• Expertise in another field of art that may not translate to academic drawing/painting

Why am I seeing an error message when I try to upload images of my work?

An error message will be returned if image files are too large. Images must be 3 MB or smaller. Please do not email the office large image files.

How do I know if my application was received?

An automated confirmation email is sent to you when your application is submitted. If you do not see this message in your inbox, please check your Junk/Spam folder in case it was filtered there.
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If you did not receive any confirmation email at all, then DARA did not receive your application. Please ensure that you enter your correct email address when submitting your information.

When will I hear if my application has been accepted?

Applications are reviewed and responded to within 5 working days. Please check your Junk / Spam folder if you do not see a reply from us within this time frame.

What happens if I am not accepted?

We understand that this can be disappointing. Most of the time, you may still able be accepted into the Trimester Programme - we will just point you to the tier of courses that we think would be the most beneficial for you at this time.

​If the Trimester Programme does not seem to be the right fit for what you're looking for, you are always welcome to participate in any workshop or bootcamp, or to join us for open model sketch sessions.

Payments Q & A

How much do courses cost, and what is included?

Please visit our Tuition Fees page to see prices for all courses currently on offer.

Tuition fees always include:

• Storage space for artwork and supplies for the duration of the course;
• Basic studio equipment (easels, stools, and drawing boards);
• Live model fees;
• Coffee, tea, and light refreshments served during all hours;
• (Students registered in a Diploma-Opleiding Only) Free access to work at DARA every Friday during the trimester from 9:30-17:00;

Students supply all other drawing and painting materials at your own expense. ​Tuition fees are subject to annual increase.

Are there any discounts available from DARA?

Yes! Please visit our Financial Aid page for more information. Please note that the discount offer for the 2026-2027 school year has discontinued some of our previous discounts and has added new ones.

When is the deadline to pay?

To reserve your space in the course, a portion of the tuition fee must be made within a specified time period after you receive an acceptance letter.

If there is more than one month before the start of the trimester, you can secure your place in class by paying a deposit within 14 days of acceptance. You may opt to pay one half of the tuition fee as a deposit, and the other half one month before the start of the trimester; or, you may split the tuition fee into up to 4 monthly instalments. Available payment plans will be outlined in your proforma invoice.

If there are 4 weeks or less before the start of the trimester, you will need to pay the tuition fee in full within 5 working days in order to keep your place in the class secure. The full tuition fee must be received before the first day of class.

If your place in the class is not secured by paying within the deadlines specified above, we consider this a cancellation. We cannot hold the space for you past the deadline without payment, and we reserve the right to offer the space to someone else if the class has a waiting list.

What if I miss the payment deadline?

We will always send you a reminder by email when a payment deadline is coming up (typically 1-2 days in advance.) If you miss a deadline, we consider this a cancellation - we cannot hold the space for you past the deadline without payment. We reserve the right to offer the space to someone else if the class has a waiting list.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, paying in instalments is possible if you are accepted more than one month before the start of the trimester. Available payment plans will be outlined in your proforma invoice.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payments by bank transfer, credit or debit card, SEPA direct debit, iDEAL/Wero, and cash. Cash payments must be made in person by appointment, and we cannot hold a space in class for you if you do not pay by the given deadline.

If you opt for a monthly billing plan, we do not accept cash payments or bank transfers. You must sign up for automated billing using our ecommerce platform.

Are there any financial aid options available?

Yes! Please visit our Financial Aid page for more information about subsidies you may be eligible for, and discount offers from DARA.

Cancellations Q & A

What is your refund policy?

Do you want to credit your course fee to something else instead of cancel outright? Please refer to the next question, below.

• Eligibility for a full refund

1) If you cancel your course enrolment within 14 days of your initial tuition payment,* you are fully refunded, regardless of the amount of time between the cancellation date and the start of the trimester.**

* "Initial tuition payment" means the first payment made towards the course fee. For example, if you are on a monthly billing plan, the initial payment refers to the first instalment.

** If the trimester already started and your cancellation falls within this window of time, then you are still required to pay the total cost of services rendered. This is calculated by the number of lessons that were completed at the time you gave your cancellation notice, regardless of whether or not you attended class. The remaining balance is refunded.

2) You notify us of your cancellation more than 8 weeks​ before the start of the trimester.

3) Your cancellation is made at a time when you normally would not be eligible for a full refund, but the course has a waitlist and DARA is able to fill your place with another applicant.

• Eligibility for a partial refund

If you cancel when there are more than 4 weeks before the start of the trimester, DARA retains 50% of the total cost of tuition. If you paid an amount greater than 50% of the tuition fee, the difference is refunded to you. Please see exceptions, below.*

* When does DARA make an exception? DARA will waive our standard policy and refund you in full if another person is available to take your cancelled space before the course starts. We will do our best to make this happen, but cannot guarantee that this will always be possible. Refunds are processed 14 days after the alternate student's tuition fees have been paid. If we are unable to fill the cancelled space before the course starts, then our standard policy written above applies.

• Not eligible for a refund

1) If you cancel when there are fewer than 4 weeks before the start of the trimester, you are not eligible for a refund, nor eligible to credit your tuition fees to a different course.*

2) If you credit tuition fees to another course, and then later withdraw from the alternate course, you are not eligible for a refund.*

* When does DARA make an exception? DARA will waive our standard policy and refund you in full if another person is available to take your cancelled space before the course starts. We will do our best to make this happen, but cannot guarantee that this will always be possible. Refunds are processed 14 days after the alternate student's tuition fees have been paid. If we are unable to fill the cancelled space before the course starts, then our standard policy written above applies.

3) If you withdraw from a course at any time after it begins, for any reason, you are not eligible for any refund. Crediting tuition fees towards another course is also not allowed at this time. Absences from class are neither refunded nor made up in a private lesson at the instructor's expense.

Can I credit my tuition fee to something else?

Crediting a tuition payment towards a different course is possible only if there are more than 4 weeks before the start of the trimester. If that is not the case, then it is not possible to credit your payment to anything else, regardless of the reason you are withdrawing your enrolment.

There are a few other conditions in place as well:

1) You will transfer to a specific course which is currently open for registration at DARA. This needs to be indicated at the time you notify us of your intention to withdraw from your original course; we cannot keep a payment on hold for a hypothetical course at an unknown time in the future.

2) Related to the point above, you may not credit your tuition fee to a future trimester, because registration is only open for one trimester at a time. Your eligible options are to transfer to a different programme within the same trimester, or to transfer to a published workshop or bootcamp.

3) The course that you would like to transfer into has places available. If there are any admissions requirements, you meet all of them. There are no admissions requirements for Workshops or Bootcamps, only for the Trimester Programme.

4) If there is a price difference between the two courses, such that the tuition fee of the course you wants to transfer into costs less than your original course, DARA will refund the difference in tuition fees up to €300. Any amount left over is retained by DARA.

What if I am absent from class?

Absences from class are neither refunded nor made up in a private lesson at the instructor's expense. It is not possible to credit a portion of your tuition fee towards another course.

For many classes, there are online resources available where you can access homework and other lesson materials to help catch up on work at home. You may also book a studio pass to work at DARA independently (uninstructed) outside of lesson hours. If you are registered for a diploma, you have free access to work in the studio on your projects or homework every Friday of the term, from 9:30 to 17:00.

What happens if DARA cancels a course?

In the event that we cancel a course (for example, due to insufficient enrolment), we will notify you email and/or by phone. Except in the case of emergencies or other exceptional circumstances, any cancellations are made one month in bootcamps, and two months in advance of workshops.

In this circumstance, you can opt to:

• Keep a space reserved to attend the course at a postponed date;
• Transfer your enrolment to another available course;
• Receive a full refund of tuition fees.

In case an instructor or model is absent during the course (due to falling ill, etc.) DARA reserves the right to substitute in another qualified instructor or model in class if necessary. If a lesson must be cancelled for any reason, every effort will be made to schedule a make-up session at a time convenient for the majority of students. A voucher for an open studio pass or open model session is offered to any students who cannot attend the make-up session.

Artist Supplies Q & A

Are art supplies included?

Easels, stools, and drawing boards are always provided. Any other supplies needed to participate in class are at your own expense.

What supplies do I need to bring for class?

A general outline of items needed for class are stated on the course page, under the 'Supplies' section. A comprehensive list with exact brands, optional supplies, notes from the instructor, etc. is provided in PDF format to accepted students.

Can I buy everything I need at DARA?

Yes, we have a small supply store in the studio with most required materials available for sale.

​If there are items on the supply list that we do not carry, this is indicated in the PDF materials list sent to registered students. For such items, we include an overview of recommended art supply stores in Haarlem and surrounding cities where items can be purchased.

Can I substitute an item on the supply list with something else?

Consult with the studio first, before the start of the course. Some items, like Gamsol Odourless Mineral Spirits, may not be able to be substituted with other brands.

Why do you forbid all solvents other than Gamsol? Aren't all odourless mineral spirits the same?

Not all odourless mineral spirits are the same. Gamsol Odourless Mineral Spirits is one of the safest solvents currently available for painters, as its formulation is more refined than nearly every other brand of odourless mineral spirits on the market, with virtually all volatile aromatic compounds removed. It is the premier choice for working safely in indoor studios.

No other solvents (or paint mediums that contain other solvents) are allowed for use inside of DARA. This is a non-negotiable rule to ensure the safety and comfort of all students and staff. Disregard of this rule, and/or flagrant misuse of solvents that could endanger the safety of others (pouring solvents in a communal drink cup instead of a proper storage container, for instance) is treated as a serious offense and will result in expulsion.

Can you purchase or reserve supplies for me to pick up later?

If there is an item we have available for purchase that you would like to pick up when you arrive, we can place it on reserve for you. Otherwise, we cannot place an order on your behalf at another art store.

Is there space to keep my supplies / artwork at DARA?

Yes, there is personal storage space set aside for you to keep your artwork and supplies for the duration of the trimester.

Fall & Winter Trimesters: If you are not returning to the next trimester, you must take your belongings home with you by the end of the term.

Spring Trimester: Everyone must take home all belongings at the end of the trimester, regardless of whether or not you are returning in the fall.

We do not agree to store items for you if these rules are disregarded, and we accept no responsibility for anything left in our building that you did not have permission to store.

Studio Pass Q & A

What is a studio pass?

All students enrolled in the Trimester Programme can book a studio pass to access our classrooms outside of lesson hours. Each studio pass is valid for a time slot three hours, and is an opportunity to work independently (uninstructed) on your class projects and homework. Please check the timetable to ensure that there is not a class going on in the studio where you plan to be working.

Can anyone purchase a studio pass?

You can only purchase a studio pass if you are currently a student in DARA's Trimester Programme. You do not have to be registered in a diploma-opleiding.

What dates/times is a studio pass valid?

A studio pass may only be used during the trimester. There are morning, afternoon, and evening time slots available Monday to Wednesday, morning and afternoon time slots available on Fridays and Saturdays, and an evening time slot available on Thursdays. Check the full timetable here.

How much does a studio pass cost?

A three-hour time slot is €14. Are you registered in a diploma-opleiding? Then you only pay €10,50. Students pursuing a diploma also always have free access to work at DARA every Friday of the term from 9:30 to 17:00, and do not need to book a studio pass on those days.

If I book two time slots back-to-back, can I stay at DARA in between?

Morning & Afternoon time slots booked together: Yes, you can.

Afternoon & Evening time slots booked together: Unfortunately no, the two hours in between is a period that the building is closed while classrooms are cleaned and set up for evening lessons.

How do I book a studio pass?​

During the trimester, head to our website and navigate to Trimester Programme > Book a Studio Pass. A password is given to current students, which you will need to enter in order to access the booking page. If you have any trouble, please email the office.

How far in advance can I book?

You can book a pass up to one hour before the time slot starts.

Can I cancel or reschedule?

Yes, you can manage all your appointments from the booking app. You can get a refund if you cancel or reschedule with at least 24 hours' notice.

Travel Q & A

Can I park my car at DARA?

Yes. On Zuider Emmakade, the street where DARA is located, there is 24/7 free parking.

For more info, click here to see which areas in Haarlem are in paid parking zones, and areas where you may park for free.

How do I reach DARA with public transport?

Nearest bus stops / train connections:

• Haarlem Schouwtjesbrug (lines 80, 680) 3-4 minute walk to DARA, connection to Heemstede-Aerdenhout train station;
• Haarlem Florapark (lines 50, 250) 8 minute walk to DARA, connection to Haarlem train station;
• Haarlem Centrum/Houtplein (lines 3, 50, 80, 346, 356) 14 minute walk to DARA, connections to Haarlem train station & Heemstede-Aerdenhout train station

Visit Connexxion for up to date info about bus routes & schedules

I live outside of the EU / EEA / Switzerland. Can I get a visa to enrol in the Trimester Programme?

If you do not have nationality in a country within the European Union, European Economic Area, or in Switzerland, the only visa which may be obtained for study within DARA's Trimester Programme is a visum kort verblijf or VKV. This type of visa allows you to enter and reside within the Schengen Area (which includes the Netherlands) for a maximum of duration of 90 days out of a 180-day period.

Studying at DARA for one full trimester is then possible, but would require leaving the entire Schengen Area for a period of 90 days. It could be possible, for instance, to attend the Fall and Spring Trimester with a valid VKV, but return home for the winter and summer (there are no trimester courses during the summers.) You must ensure that your travel dates are within the maximum legal duration of 90 days out of a 180-day period.

Who needs a visa to enter the Netherlands?

If you are a citizen of a country that has not signed a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area member states, you will need a short stay visa to enter the Netherlands. In Dutch, this is called a visum kort verblijf or VKV. You must apply for this type of visa yourself at the Dutch Embassy or Consular Office that serves your country of residence.

​Check whether you need a VKV here.

• Plan ahead if you need a VKV (Short Stay Visa)

You can apply for a VKV starting from 6 months ahead of your travel. From the time of your appointment at the Dutch Embassy or Consular Office, your visa application will typically be processed within 15 days; however, this period can be legally extended up to 45 days. 

Further, it may take time to book an appointment and gather all necessary documents to support your application, such as proof of accommodation during your stay. You can view all required documentation here.

It is therefore advised that you plan ahead, and are prepared to apply for the visa as early as possible.

• Travel requirements for visa-exempt nationals

Presently, nationals of visa-free countries (such as the United States, Canada, etc.) are able to travel to any country within the Schengen Area, such as the Netherlands, for up to 90 days out of a 180-day period with only a valid passport.

In the future, there are discussions of additional travel requirements which could be implemented in the last quarter of 2026. This is known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). ETIAS is not in operation yet, but if/when implemented in the future, travellers will need to apply for ETIAS prior to arrival in the European Union. ETIAS will be linked to your passport and is planned to be valid for three years (or until your passport expires). When operational, travellers will be able to apply online for a fee of €7.

At the time of this writing (June 2026), ETIAS is not in operation and there is not yet a fixed date as to when it will begin. Please visit the official ETIAS website for up-to-date information.

Can DARA help me with obtaining a visa?

Currently, the only type of visa that students are able to attain for study at DARA is a short stay visa, or VKV in Dutch (visum kort verblijf).

The VKV must be applied for by you personally at the appropriate Dutch Embassy or Consular Office in your country of residence. DARA cannot apply for this type of visa on your behalf. However, we can provide documentation certifying your enrolment in our courses to support your application.

What accommodation is available for students travelling from far away?

Accommodation is not provided by DARA, and students are responsible for organising accommodation during your stay. For short-term rentals, please check out:

• AirBnB
• Pararius
• Kamernet
• Huurwoningen
• Huislijn

You might also check housing groups on Facebook in Haarlem and surrounding areas. More information about rental contracts and tenants rights in the Netherlands can be found here.

I am traveling from abroad. What materials am I allowed to take on a plane?

All flammable substances, such as solvents or aerosol fixative, are not allowed in either your hand luggage or checked luggage.

If travelling with oil paints, it's recommended to print the Material Safety Data Sheets from the manufacturer to demonstrate that your paints have a safe flashpoint. Storing paints in a container labelled 'Artist Colours' is encouraged, as terms such as 'paints' or 'oils' may incite greater scrutiny. If you are storing paints in your hand luggage, ensure that you observe the maximum quantity of liquids, gels, and pastes allowed on board, and do not exceed this limit - otherwise, your paints will be confiscated.

Sharp tools such as palette knives, craft knives, scissors, etc. should always be stored in checked luggage.

For more helpful tips, we recommend this handy article by Robert Gamblin. ​

Miscellaneous Questions

Can I bring my friend / partner / family member with me to class?

No, classes are only open to registered students. In order to maintain a comfortable, safe, and focused class environment for all of our students, instructors, and models, we do not permit non-registered guests to join lessons.

If someone will drop you off and/or pick you up from class, he or she is kindly requested to stay in the entrance / lounge area while classes are in session.

For any informal gathering held during the term, such as a borrel to welcome new students, your guest is very welcome to join.

Can I bring my pet to DARA?

No, pets are not allowed. If you have a working service animal, please indicate this in your registration form, or otherwise contact the office.

In portrait or figure classes, how are easels chosen around the model?

We assign the easels by random lottery, to keep the easel selection process as fair as possible. If you require certain accommodations (need to work seated, etc.) please let us know in your application form.

Can I take photos of models to draw or paint outside of class?

No, recording photos or videos of models is not permitted for any reason.

How long before / after class is DARA open for students to work?

The studio building is open for students to arrive 30 minutes before class begins, and closes 15 minutes after class ends. Please be respectful of our building hours.

You can work at DARA at other times outside of your lesson hours by booking a studio pass.

What are the studio rules for working at DARA?

All Studio Policies for short courses can be found here. Adhering to DARA's Studio Policies and Code of Conduct is a requirement for participation in the Trimester Programme.