Design Academy of Fashion Acceptance Letter 2026 – A Detailed Guide
The Design Academy of Fashion (DAF) is one of South Africa’s leading institutions for fashion design education, known for producing talented designers who go on to make a mark in the global fashion industry. If you’re interested in pursuing a fashion design degree in 2026, understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, and deadlines is essential to securing your spot at this prestigious academy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying to DAF and what steps to take to receive your acceptance letter.
About the Design Academy of Fashion (DAF)
The Design Academy of Fashion (DAF) is a premier institution that specializes in fashion design, textile design, and fashion business management. Based in Cape Town, the academy is dedicated to providing world-class training to students who are passionate about fashion, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. DAF’s programs are known for their hands-on approach, fostering creativity and equipping students with practical industry experience. Graduates from DAF are highly sought after in the global fashion industry due to their skill, innovation, and expertise.
Programs offered at DAF include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design
- Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Business Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Fashion Design
- Short Courses in Fashion Design and Business
DAF has a strong reputation for encouraging creative thinking while providing students with the technical skills needed to succeed in fashion design. The academy emphasizes real-world experience through internships, fashion shows, and collaborations with industry professionals.
Admission Requirements for Design Academy of Fashion (DAF) 2026
To be considered for the 2026 academic year at DAF, applicants must meet certain admission criteria depending on the program they wish to apply for. Here is an overview of the basic eligibility requirements for different programs:
1. Undergraduate Program Requirements:
- Educational Qualifications:
- Applicants must have completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge A Levels. A minimum of 50% in English and relevant subjects is typically required.
- Portfolio Submission:
- A portfolio is a crucial component of the application process. Applicants should submit a portfolio showcasing their creative work, such as sketches, fashion design projects, and any other relevant artwork. This portfolio will help the admissions committee assess your creative abilities and passion for fashion design.
- English Proficiency:
- If your first language is not English, you may be required to submit proof of English proficiency through an IELTS or TOEFL score. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is usually required for undergraduate programs.
2. Postgraduate Program Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree:
- To apply for a postgraduate program at DAF, you must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. Ideally, your undergraduate degree should be in a relevant field, such as fashion design, textiles, or fashion business.
- Portfolio or Work Samples:
- A portfolio of professional work is usually required for postgraduate applicants. This portfolio helps the admissions team evaluate your experience, creativity, and potential to succeed in the postgraduate program.
- Statement of Purpose:
- A statement of purpose explaining why you wish to pursue the postgraduate program at DAF, your career goals, and how the program fits into your future aspirations, is generally required.
- Professional Experience:
- Some postgraduate programs may require applicants to have professional experience in the fashion or related industries. This is particularly important for programs like Fashion Business Management.
3. Short Course Requirements:
- Educational Qualifications:
- For short courses, the application requirements are generally more flexible. However, applicants are typically expected to have at least completed high school (NSC or equivalent).
- Interest in Fashion:
- A strong interest in fashion, creativity, and design is essential, and the application may require a brief personal statement or portfolio to assess your passion for the field.
Step-by-Step Application Process for 2026
To apply to the Design Academy of Fashion for the 2026 academic year, follow the steps below to ensure that you complete your application properly and meet all deadlines:
Step 1: Visit the Design Academy of Fashion Website
Start by visiting the official Design Academy of Fashion website to explore the programs they offer for the 2026 academic year. The website will provide all the details on the available courses, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and instructions for submission.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the online application form provided on the website. You will be required to submit your personal details, educational history, the program you are applying for, and a few other necessary details. Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Required Documents
The next step is to gather and submit the following documents:
- Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification
- Certified copy of your ID or passport
- Portfolio (required for all design-based programs)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Transcripts of previous qualifications
- Statement of Purpose (for postgraduate applicants)
- Work Samples/Portfolio (for postgraduate applicants)
Make sure your portfolio contains your best work and demonstrates your creativity and passion for fashion. It should reflect your design thinking, process, and skills.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Design Academy of Fashion may charge a non-refundable application fee to process your application. The amount and payment methods will be outlined on the website, so be sure to follow the payment instructions carefully.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
After filling out the application form and uploading all necessary documents, submit your application through the online portal. You should receive a confirmation email once your application has been successfully submitted.
Step 6: Portfolio Review or Interview (if applicable)
For creative programs like Fashion Design, you may be invited for a portfolio review or interview. The interview or review is an important step in evaluating your creative abilities, passion for fashion, and suitability for the program. Some interviews may be conducted in person, while others may take place virtually.
Step 7: Receive Your Acceptance Letter
Once the admissions committee has reviewed your application, you will receive an acceptance letter if you meet the entry requirements. This letter will include information on registration procedures, tuition fees, and next steps.
Important Dates for DAF 2026
Here are the key dates for the 2026 academic year at the Design Academy of Fashion:
- Application Opening Date: Applications for the 2026 intake typically open in mid-2024. Be sure to submit your application early to avoid any last-minute rush.
- Application Deadline: The deadline for submitting applications is generally late 2024. Check the website for specific program deadlines.
- Acceptance Letters: Successful applicants will receive their acceptance letters by early 2026.
- Orientation and Registration: Orientation and registration for new students typically take place in January 2026.
- Classes Begin: Classes for the 2026 academic year are expected to commence in February 2026.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
Tuition fees at DAF can vary based on the program you are applying for. It’s important to check the fee structure on the official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
If you need financial assistance, DAF offers a range of bursaries, scholarships, and payment plans to help eligible students manage tuition fees. You can inquire about financial aid during the application process.
Post-Acceptance Process
Once you receive your acceptance letter, here’s what you need to do:
- Confirm Your Enrollment: You will need to confirm your place in the program by paying a registration fee. The payment instructions will be included in your acceptance letter.
- Pay Tuition Fees: Ensure that your tuition fees are paid before the start of classes. Payment details and deadlines will be provided to accepted students.
- Attend Orientation: Attend the orientation sessions for new students to familiarize yourself with the campus, meet your professors, and learn more about your program.
- Start Classes: After completing the registration and attending orientation, you will officially begin your studies in February 2026.
The Design Academy of Fashion offers a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in fashion design and related fields. By following the application process, submitting a strong portfolio, and meeting all deadlines, you can increase your chances of securing your acceptance letter for the 2026 academic year. DAF’s hands-on approach to education, combined with its emphasis on creativity and industry connections, makes it an excellent choice for aspiring designers.
Link to Apply for 2026 Admission:
To apply for the 2026 academic year at the Design Academy of Fashion, visit the official application page:
