University of The Arts London

Making an international application to University of the Arts London

International application guidelines for undergraduate and further education courses

You may apply directly to the University either through the International Development Office or through the individual International Offices located at each of the Colleges. Please complete only one application form. 

Please complete the application form clearly, in blue or black ink.

Students wishing to apply to multiple universities in the United Kingdom will need to make their application through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS).

Applying through a local representative

University of the Arts London has representatives in a number of countries across the world.

It encourages the applicants who have a representative in their country to make them their first point of contact with the University. The  representatives can assist with all aspects of the application procedure, offer information about programmes and courses and assist with immigration matters.

When the senior academics make their next scheduled visit, a local representative can arrange for applicants to have an interview or an advice session with an academic.

English language requirements

The ability to understand, communicate and learn in English is an important requirement for acceptance into University of the Arts London. If English is not your first or primary language, you must provide us with evidence of your English language ability (such as an IELTS or TOEFL score). You can apply before you have the required level of English language ability. The requirements for entrance to full-time courses are shown below:

Fashion Portfolio:

 IELTS 4.5

Foundation Studies, Diploma, Access and ABC Diploma courses:

 IELTS 5.0 / TOEFL 500 / TOEFL CBT 173

Foundation Degree Award:
 
 IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 550 / TOEFL CBT 237

Bachelor of Arts / Graduate Certificate / Graduate Diploma:

 IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 580 / TOEFL CBT 237

Some courses require a higher level of English language. Please refer to the prospectus or ask at the International Office if you are unsure of the level of English language ability required for the course you wish to apply for.

University of the Arts London offers a free English Language University Preparation Programme to new international students who have been offered a place on a full-time course and who have paid their first year's tuition fees in full. To qualify, students should be close to meeting their English language requirement.

The English Language University Preparation Programme runs from May to the end of September.

Sending your application

Before submitting your application please ensure that you have included the following:

• An original, completed, signed and dated application form
• Your academic transcripts (officially translated into English). 
• A portfolio of your work (if appropriate)
• Evidence of your English language ability (such as an IELTS or TOEFL score), where English is not your first language. If this is unavailable please provide us with your test date.

Students who apply for art and design courses will require a portfolio. Only by looking at your work can it assesses your skills and strengths and how you develop your ideas.

When assessing a portfolio, understanding the processes you have used to develop your work is as important as the final work itself.  It is essential that you include sketchbooks, drawings and the visual research and planning you did to develop your work. Remember that it is particularly interested in your most recent work, even if it is unfinished.

If you are sending your portfolio please send colour copies, slides/ photos, or CD ROMs rather than original work. 

University of the Arts London offers a number of courses at various levels, which do not require portfolio submission. What happens next?

Applying from overseas

If you have applied for a course through one of the overseas representatives, they will be able to arrange an interview for you when the senior academics make their next scheduled visit. Applicants who are available for interview through one of the overseas representatives should bring their portfolio to their interview, where applicable.

International applicants, who will not be available for interview in London, or at the representatives' offices, are required to submit their portfolio, where applicable, with their application form to the International Development Office.

When will I know if I have been accepted?

It aims to provide applicants with a decision within four-to-six weeks of receiving your application. If your application to your first choice college is unsuccessful, your application will be automatically forwarded to your second choice, where again it aims to provide a decision on your application within four-to-six weeks from receipt.