University of the Arts London

Overview

The University of the Arts London (UAL) is a world-renowned institution comprising six specialist colleges dedicated to art, design, and the creative industries: Camberwell College of Arts, Central Saint Martins, Chelsea College of Arts, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion, and Wimbledon College of Arts.

As the largest specialist art and design university in Europe, UAL is home to over 18,000 students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including 6,000 international students. With its global reputation for fostering creativity and innovation, UAL offers a rich and diverse environment for students seeking to develop their artistic and professional talents.

UAL offers an extensive range of courses covering areas such as photography, interior design, product design, media, graphics, fine art, and performance arts. The university has played a key role in launching the careers of many influential creatives. UAL's alumni include more than half of all Turner Prize nominees, over half of the designers recognised as British Designer of the Year, and more than a third of the 40 artists listed in the Catlin Guide’s most promising graduate artists. The university is also associated with 12 winners of the prestigious Jerwood Photography Awards, underscoring its leading position in nurturing artistic talent.

In addition to its degree programmes, UAL is a leading provider of short courses in creative subjects, allowing students to explore new areas of interest or refine their skills. The university’s platform programme also provides students with the opportunity to stage solo exhibitions and curate shows in collaboration with high-profile external arts organisations.

Services for International Students

University of the Arts London enables international students to receive the best possible preparation for study at the school by taking pre-sessional English classes. Students can also study during their chosen degree if they wish to improve their reading or writing skills.

Each of these courses is designed to prepare and integrate new students to life in the UK and for their university courses, while the in-sessional courses are designed to provide support and aid throughout student life.

Ranking

• 40th in the Times University Guide 2025
• 13th in the Guardian University Guide 2025

In the REF 2021, assessors graded 85% of UAL research as world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*) - a 2% increase on 2014. For Art and Design research (A&D), UAL is one of the highest performing specialist HEIs, and the top practice-based institution.

Accommodation

The University of Arts London currently has 12 halls of residence spread around London, providing over 3,000 beds. Undergraduate international students are given priority to live in halls of residence during their first year of study. House hunting workshops offer advice when attempting to look for somewhere to live on London’s private housing market.

The Accommodation Services team at University of the Arts London will be on hand to provide help and information throughout your degree.

Location

The University Arts London brings together six esteemed arts, design, fashion and media Colleges, which were founded in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located across London, each of the colleges draws on and contributes to the local culture.

All colleges and halls of residence are covered by London’s tube, rail and bus network enabling students to enjoy their study and the best that London culture can provide.

Alumni

• 13 Turner prize winners and 33 nominees
• 10 fashion designers named British Designer of the Year
• 12 Jerwood Photography prize winners
• Work on pieces involved in the BAFTAs and Oscars.