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Application advice

Colourful textile design with embroidered stitching details
Colourful textile design with embroidered stitching details
Yan Feng, (2019) MA Textile Design, Chelsea College of Arts, UAL. Copyright holder: David Poultney

Explore our advice for international students on how to apply, what documents we’ll need from you and how to apply for a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply

International students can apply to UAL courses through 1 of the following ways:

UAL representatives

Apply through one of our official representatives in your country to get specialist advice about our courses and personalised support. They can also offer advice on visas and immigration, accommodation and much more.

UCAS

For our undergraduate courses, you can apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Why not contact one of our official representatives in your country for support with this process?

Directly to UAL

For pre-degree and postgraduate courses, please use our online application system, which you can find on your chosen course page. Our official representatives can also provide guidance on this process.

Find out more

Requirements

Supporting documents

As part of the application process, we usually require the following:

  • Personal statement.
  • A copy of your academic transcripts (officially translated into English).
  • A copy of your English language certificate, if English is not your first language.
  • A copy of your passport and any current UK visa.
  • Immigration history form.
  • A portfolio of relevant work for practice-based courses.

Check the page of your course for specific details of supporting documents and entry requirements.

English language

If English isn’t your first language, you will need to prove your language level with a qualification like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Find out more about English language requirements and accepted qualifications.

You can still apply to a course with a different qualification. However, if you don't qualify for a testing exemption, you will need to have a valid English language qualification for both UAL and UKVI purposes.

UAL Language Centre offers a Presessional English programme to help you achieve the level required for your course without taking another English language test.

Visa

Depending on your nationality and UK immigration status, you will need a Tier 4 (General) visa to study in the UK.

The amount of time you can study in the UK is limited. You should plan your study carefully so you can complete all of your chosen courses.

Our Student Advice Service and our official representatives can help you with your visa application. Visit the Home Office and UK Council for International Student Affairs websites for official guidance.

Portfolio advice videos

Watch the first video in our portfolio playlist, 'What is a UAL portfolio'.

Head over to our YouTube channel to explore the full series which covers everything you need to know about preparing a portfolio for UAL. Our videos include animations by Rosa Beiroa, graduate of MA Animation at London College of Communication.

Our videos cover the themes:

  • what is a UAL portfolio
  • how to create your digital portfolio
  • how to upload your digital portfolio
  • portfolio tips from our students
  • portfolio tips from our staff.

After you apply

We process applications as soon as possible, but the time may vary depending on your course, College and also how you applied.

What happens after you apply?

Find out how we’ll be in touch and next steps.

Help and support

  • Woman holding a black ball against white wall
    Jeff Chun Hee Luu., Degree show work by Jeff Chun-Hee Luu 2013

    Meet us in your country

    Find contacts for UAL representatives and events in your country

  • Black words printed on white paper
    Image courtesy of UAL, Typography. Image courtesy of UAL.

    Immigration

    Find out more about visa requirements to live and study in the UK

  • Two people looking at art in a gallery
    Paintings by Jasmir Creed, Wimbledon 2013 Summer Show. Paintings by Jasmir Creed.

    International fees

    Find out about study costs for international students

  • Sign post in Tooting Bec Common
    Image courtesy of UAL, Tooting Bec Common. Image courtesy of UAL.

    Contact International

    Get in touch with the International Office at your College