Erasmus guide University of the Arts London
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at University of the Arts London in London, UK.
Study abroad at University of the Arts London: overview
Study abroad at University of the Arts London means choosing Europe's largest specialized art and design university — composed of 6 world-renowned colleges (CSM, LCF, Chelsea..), offering premier studio-based creative education. In practice, the useful context is enrollment: ~21,000; international mix: ~9,000 (~43%); academically it fits best around Fashion and Textile Design, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Journalism and Communication. The part to check without romanticising it: London housing costs and department-level course approval can matter as much as the brand.
Enrollment
~21,000
International Mix
~9,000 (~43%)
Why students choose it
Best fit: students who want Fashion and Textile Design, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Journalism and Communication in London, with a course list that genuinely matches their home degree. Do not choose it on reputation alone; watch this trade-off: London housing costs and department-level course approval can matter as much as the brand.
Language of instruction: English
Exchange & application at University of the Arts London
The exchange route at University of the Arts London is open to nominated students. Applications must be completed online by April 15 for Autumn entry or October 15 for Spring entry.
✅Requirements
Home coordinator nomination, Creative portfolio (for practice-based courses), Academic transcript, English language certificate (IELTS 6.0+)
📨Nomination Process
Your home university must submit a formal nomination before you can apply online.
🛂Visa Support
Student visa required for stays >6 months. Standard Visitor visa allowed for 1 semester (<6 months). CAS letters issued to eligible visa applicants.
👥Buddy System
International student buddy scheme runs at the beginning of each semester to connect you with local student peers.
🧭Orientation Week
International orientation runs in the week before lectures start, helping you register and complete administrative setup.
🗓️Deadlines by intake
| Intake | Nomination deadline | Application deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term (Block 1) | April 1 | April 15 |
| Spring Term (Block 2) | October 1 | October 15 |
Arrival Checklist
- Complete online registration and upload passport photo for student ID.
- Apply for UK student visa (if staying over 6 months) or check Visitor rules.
- Confirm university-allocated housing or secure verified private flats.
- Get an NUS Extra / Totum card for student discounts.
Academics & courses at University of the Arts London
Academics at UAL are practice-heavy and project-based. Students develop creative portfolios and receive individual feedback from expert practitioners.
📝Course Registration
Online course registration opens several weeks before classes. Course selections must be pre-approved by your home university.
🎓Credit System
UK credits (typically 60 credits per semester = 30 ECTS; 120 credits per year = 60 ECTS).
💯Grading System
UK percentage scale: 70%+ (First), 60-69% (2:1), 50-59% (2:2), 40-49% (Third), <40% (Fail).
✍️Exam Culture
Assessments include final written exams, essay submissions, and group projects. Exam schedules are published mid-semester.
📚Library Access
Full access to university library buildings, including study spaces, group rooms, and complete digital databases.
Tuition & fees at University of the Arts London
Nominated exchange students receive a full tuition fee waiver. Material fees may apply depending on the course. London living costs are high.
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | £0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement) | Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to UAL. Home institution tuition fees apply. |
| Full degree - international | £22,000-29,000/year | International tuition fees for full-degree students are £22,000 to £29,000 per year depending on the college and course. |
£0 (Tuition waiver under reciprocal exchange agreement)
Nominated exchange students pay £0 tuition to UAL. Home institution tuition fees apply.
£22,000-29,000/year
International tuition fees for full-degree students are £22,000 to £29,000 per year depending on the college and course.
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Student housing at University of the Arts London
Student housing is available in UAL residences, offering designated short-term tenancies at Sketch House for exchange and study abroad students.
Full housing guide
Find housing in London
Official contacts, student residences, private platforms, tips & red flags.
Insurance & campus support at University of the Arts London
Student life at University of the Arts London
Student life at UAL is defined by creative collaboration, studio culture, and accessing London's world-leading art galleries and design hubs.
Key exchange dates at University of the Arts London
Key deadlines for the UAL exchange must be followed closely. Nominations open in March/September, with final applications due in mid-April and October.
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1
Orientation
Mid-September / Early January
Essential orientation events, registration, and social activities.
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2
Academics
September-December / January-May
Standard academic lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
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3
Assessed Exams
January / May-June
Confirm your exam schedule before planning departure flights.