IED – Istituto Europeo di Design

What It’s Really Like to Visit IED’s Milan Campus

Thinking about studying fashion or design in Italy?

Let’s talk about IED – Istituto Europeo di Design. This school might just be what you’re looking for.

Earlier this spring, we visited Milan to explore universities with our daughter, who’s laser-focused on building a career in the fashion industry. Milan? It’s the place to be. With a mix of iconic fashion houses and international business opportunities, it’s no surprise she wants to pursue a business degree that will connect her directly to the industry.

We toured several schools, including the prestigious Bocconi University and Cattolica, a well-regarded Catholic research university. But our third stop? IED – and it left a strong impression, even if it wasn’t ultimately the right fit for our daughter.

So, what is IED really like?

IED (Istituto Europeo di Design) is a private design school with campuses across Italy and Spain. It’s becoming increasingly well-known for offering a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s programs in fields like Fashion, Graphic Design, Jewelry Design, and Interior Design. What really drew me in, though, was their Business Design program – tailored for students who want to blend creativity with real-world business skills.

Curious about what makes IED stand out? Let’s dive in.

First: The Setting and Student Experience

One thing’s clear: IED is not your traditional university. The vibe is creative, hands-on, and industry-driven. Students don’t need prior experience in their chosen field, and while a portfolio is required for admission, it’s more about showcasing your creative thinking than presenting polished work.

Here’s what we noticed:

• Small class sizes allow for intimate, workshop-style learning.
• Students spend a significant amount of time outside the classroom, working on real-world projects.
• The creative labs (which we toured) are vibrant, modern, and actively used.
• Faculty are industry professionals, not just academics.

And that’s not all…

Career Connections & Outcomes

IED boasts a 90% employability rate, with many students going straight into the workforce after earning their bachelor’s degree. The career services team plays a strong role in this, connecting students with internship and job opportunities across fashion and design sectors.

They also offer excellent visa and housing support for non-EU students. I had the chance to meet with international office staff during our visit – their energy and dedication were evident.

Let’s Talk Admissions

If you’re from the U.S., here’s what you’ll need to apply to an Italian bachelor’s program at IED:

• 3 AP courses (preferably related to your field of interest)
• A creative portfolio
• Personal statement Admissions interview

Wondering about deadlines? Applications open in October and stay open until seats are filled. So apply early to maximize your chances.

What About Tuition Fees

While we were at IED, we got clarity on costs. The Istituto Europeo di Design tuition fees for bachelor’s programs vary slightly by campus and program, but most hover around €17,000–€19,000 per year. Compared to top U.S. design schools, this is still a more affordable option—especially considering the location and internship access in Milan.

And the Acceptance Rate?

Let’s break it down. While official numbers are not widely published, IED has a moderate acceptance rate. The school is selective but accessible to students who show passion, creativity, and commitment. It’s not as competitive as Bocconi, but you still need a thoughtful application.

Bottom Line

While IED wasn’t the right fit for our daughter—she realized she preferred a more traditional business school setting—it’s an excellent choice for students seeking a more creative, experiential, and international approach to business and design. Especially for those aiming to enter fashion, branding, or creative entrepreneurship, this school checks a lot of boxes.

If you’re looking for authentic IED reviews from families who’ve visited, I can say this: the school left a strong impression, and the students we met seemed inspired and confident about their futures.

Want help figuring out if IED or another school might be right for you?

👉 Book a free strategy session with Beyond the States – we’ll help you find the best fit. Or explore our College Admissions Packages to streamline your path to studying in Europe.