How to Apply for an aac Workshop

In workshops aac brings together young architecture students and graduates from all over the world to develop solutions for future-relevant architectural tasks together.

aac organized two workshops per year, usually within the semester breaks in spring and autumn of every year. Each workshop is an intensive design production, from concept to final proposal, lasting 3.5 weeks.

Application Process

To join an aac workshop, you need to apply. Below you will find details on how to apply for an aac workshop.

You can already apply for future aac workshops in individual cases. For more details, see the "Early Applications" section.

Who Can Apply?

Students and graduates of architecture.

Requirements

To apply, you must meet the following criteria and provide proof:

1. Must be studying for a bachelor's in architecture or have graduated within the past year (diploma, master’s, or equivalent).

2. Excellent design skills in architecture and urban design.

3. Good CAD software skills (2D+3D).

4. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Photoshop, and InDesign.

5. Fluent in English (speaking and writing).

You must meet all the above requirements to apply. Only the applicant can submit their application; you cannot apply on behalf of someone else. Applications must be submitted as outlined below.

Required Documents

Submit the following documents as PDFs

1. Cover Letter:
Explain why you want to join the workshop (max 1 page).

2. CV:
Include a photo, education history, work experience (if any), and current contact details (address, phone number, email).

03. Qualifications:
Proof of study status (e.g. degree certificate if available, notes table, enrollment certificate)
Include reference letters if available.

04. Scholarship Form (Optional):
Apply for coverage of participation fees by the gmp Foundation (see “Costs and Scholarships”).

05. Portfolio:
At least four projects showcasing your work from university or professional experience. Group work is acceptable if your contribution is clearly identified.

06. Hand Drawings:
Four hand drawn sketches or freehand drawings on a topic of your choice 


How to Submit your Documents

There are two ways to send your application documents to aac:

1. Online via the Talentstorm application platform
You can easily upload your application documents (max. 20 MB) directly on the Talentstorm application platform. Use this link to access the platform.

2.Via E-Mail
Alternatively, you can email your application (max 12MB) to: apply@aac-hamburg.de.

Applications must be in English or German. If your documents are in another language, include an English or German translation. aac might ask for verification later.

Selection Process

The aac jury will review applications. Selected candidates might be shortlisted for an interview conducted in English. All applicants will be informed of the decision via the email.

Interview Details
If selected for an interview, you will be notified by email about the time, location, and medium of the interview.

Callback Process
There is a waiting list for each workshop. Candidates who are not initially accepted may be offered a place at a later date by email.

Application Deadline
The deadline for each workshop is announced on the aac website. Late applications will not be considered.

Early Applications
You can submit applications for future workshops at any time if you need early confirmation for your commitments. Highly qualified candidates may receive early confirmation.

Costs and Scholarships

aac candidates can apply for two main benefits. The first is the gmp Foundation scholarship, which covers EUR 4,900 for tuition fees and course excursion costs. The second is free accommodation in Hamburg (shared room) during the workshop period, offered by aac. You can find the scholarship application form here.

Other expenses, including travelling from your hometown to Hamburg and visa-related expenses, are not covered.

For catering during the workshop, aac provides fresh fruits and coffee every day. There is a small kitchen in the studio where participants can cook their own meals. Hot meals are also provided on special occasions.

Conditions gmp Foundation Scholarship

The gmp Foundation will cover tuition fees and other costs only if the workshop is successfully completed. If a participant misses the workshop without a valid reason or leaves early, they must repay the full scholarship amount.

Scholarship Application

To apply for a gmp Foundation scholarship, please use the scholarship application form available here. Submit the completed form with your other application documents.

Accommodation

Free accommodation in Hamburg (shared room) during the workshop period is offered by aac. Please indicate your interest in this offer on the scholarship application form.

Application Feedback

Each aac candidate will be informed at the same time if they have been accepted for the workshop and if they have been awarded the gmp Foundation scholarship and free accommodation.

Visa

Each candidate is responsible for their own visa. However, aac will assist by providing any necessary documentation for the process. Costs related to the visa application process are not covered by aac or the gmp Foundation.

Further Questions

Please check our list of frequently asked questions. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at apply@aac-hamburg.de.