London
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
| HOST INSTITUTIONS | University of the Arts London (UAL) London College of Fashion (LCF) University of Roehampton (UR) |
|---|---|
| ACADEMICS | UAL: Advertising, Communications, Design, Fashion, Film, Fine Arts, Journalism, Media, Public Relations, Theatre, and more. LCF: Fashion Business, Fashion Product Design, Fashion Media and Communication and more. UR: Anthropology, Biological Sciences, Business, Communication and Media Studies, Creative and Performing Arts, Education, Languages, Liberal Arts, London Studies, Psychology, Social Sciences, Sport, Exercise and Leisure. |
| HOUSING | Residence Hall |
| SAMPLE DAY EXCURSIONS | Dover Castle & Canterbury, Stonehenge & Bath, Cambridge, Leeds Castle, Windsor Castle, Oxford |
| SAMPLE OVERNIGHT EXCURSION | York, Wales |
| PROGRAM CALENDARS | Click here! |
THE CITY
“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford…”
London is a city of both ancient history and 21st century modernity – a melting pot of the world’s cultures and nationalities. With a population of 7 million, 30% of whom are of overseas descent, London is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world. Over 300 languages are spoken within its confines.
London’s museums and galleries – several of them ranking among the world’s finest – are full of treasures from Europe and beyond. Monuments from this capital’s glorious past, from medieval banquet halls to St. Paul’s Cathedral, stand alongside modern wonders such as the Tate Modern and London Eye.
For entertainment, London is truly unsurpassed. A shopping mecca, the weekend markets of Portobello and Camden offer cutting edge designs and vintage treasures, or you can hobnob with the rich and famous in Harrods department store or Oxford Street. There are hundreds of theatres, nightclubs, and bars to choose from, as well as countless British pubs renowned for their character. The home of London’s West End, Royal Opera House, London Symphony, and Royal Albert Hall, London has something for every kind of music lover.
Contrary to popular belief, London isn’t necessarily expensive. The city’s large student population means that there are plenty of good values to be found, and many shops and attractions offer student discounts. From Michelin starred restaurants to all-you-can-eat Indian buffets, there are restaurants to suit every pocketbook in London.
COURSE OFFERINGS
semester & academic year programs
SUMMER PROGRAMS
HOST INSTITUTIONS
University of the Arts London (UAL)
University of the Arts London is Europe’s most influential university for art, design, fashion, communications, and performing arts. It has about 20,000 students and is made up of 6 Colleges, interspersed in different neighborhoods in central London.
The 6 UAL colleges within UAL are:
Camberwell College of Arts
Central Saint Martins (CSM)
Chelsea College of Arts
London College of Communication (LCC)
London College of Fashion (LCF)
Wimbledon College of Arts
Each college offers a closely-knit and welcoming environment, as well as a different range of courses. The University’s teaching staff are active professional artists, practitioners, designers, critics, and theorists, and lead students in creative and experimental practice alongside historical and theoretical analysis.
LONDON COLLEGE OF FASHION (LCF)
London College of Fashion (or LCF) is internationally known as one of the world’s leading fashion schools. With 6 campuses located throughout London, students from all around the world gain the opportunity to study in one of the fashion capitals of the world. With academics in Fashion Design, Fashion Business, Merchandising, and Fashion Media and Communication, study abroad students at LCF will experience a specifically tailored, professional program just for them.
A highlight of the Spring 2024 program is a 5-day fashion culture field trip to Paris that provides further learning and inspiration through tours, walks, and guided visits across yet another fashion capital.
University of Roehampton (UR)
The University of Roehampton was founded in 1975 when four local colleges joined together to form the university. The university has a beautiful 54-acre parkland campus, with historic buildings alongside modern, cutting edge facilities, including one of the best university libraries in London.
The campus is conveniently located in the heart of south-west London, close to Putney and Hammersmith and within easy reach of central London. Studying here will give you the best of both worlds: the community feel of a traditional university campus, with the culture of one of the greatest cities in the world.
The Hive Café, built out of former shipping containers, is a unique venue on campus that enables organic, ethical, and local food to be both affordable and accessible.
excursions
ASA semester programs in London include 2 day excursions and 1 overnight excursion. ASA summer programs in London include 1 day excursion per session. London College of Fashion Spring 2024 includes an extra 5-day excursion to Paris. Destinations may vary by term. Past terms have included trips to:
York (overnight excursion) – Explore the medieval streets and city walls before a visit to York Minster, Northern Europe’s largest cathedral. Next, visit tranquil and secluded Fountains Abbey, as well as Haworth, a village perched on the Yorkshire Moors that inspired the novels of the Bronte sisters.
Stonehenge and Bath (day excursion) – Stone circles, magic, mysticism, and the legend of King Arthur are all part of the story of Stonehenge, a 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, visit Bath, where you can drink the healing waters, visit the Roman baths, and take in stories of Jane Austen and high society.
Dover Castle and Canterbury (day excursion) – Just like the pilgrims in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales! Explore Canterbury’s cobbled streets and Canterbury Cathedral. Next, it’s off to Dover Castle and the famous White Cliffs of Dover.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. Detailed information for underrepresented groups considering London is below.
If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please call us at 617-327-9388 or email hello@academicstudies.com.
+ Culture & Ethnicity
London is truly one of the most diverse cities in the world. About 53% of residents are native Brits, 21% are of Asian descent, 14% are of African descent, and 12% identify as mixed or other.
Black salons and barbershops are available throughout London. Shops that carry Black haircare products are also available throughout London. You can also check out these haircare brands created by Black British women.
+ Disability Accommodation
The UK, with its favorable attitude towards disabled persons and legislation which requires employers to accommodate to disabled workers, is one of the most disability-friendly countries in the world.
Most public transportation in London (buses, subway (the Tube), and trains) is accessible for those with mobility disabilities. Click here for more information about accessible London transport.
According to Wheel the World, the UK has gone a long way towards becoming an accessible travel destination, with many public buildings and transport systems equipped with step-free access and accessible toilets. Due to the historic nature of some buildings and cities, disabled access may be more difficult or not possible, but this is generally indicated by researching in advance. Guide dogs are permitted in all public spaces.
We encourage you to open a dialogue with us so we can assess accessibility in housing and academic spaces.
The U.S. State Department has advice for international travelers with disabilities at this link.
+ Food
Housing is in student residence halls, where you can prepare your own meals.
Resources for dietary needs for allergies, religious beliefs, or other preferences below. We strongly encourage you to order food/allergy translation cards to help communicate your needs while abroad.
+ Financial Aid & Money Matters
ASA allows payment deferral until your institution releases your Financial Aid, and we offer payment plans upon request to students who need it. More information on billing and payment can be found here.
ASA also has several scholarships you can apply for within our program application. Students who receive a Pell Grant as part of their Financial Aid package are eligible to apply for the Gilman Scholarship.
+ First Generation
ASA provides hands-on support throughout the entire process. This includes housing, course registration, flight and arrival logistics, and student visa guidance. While you're abroad, our on-site staff is available to support you 24/7. They coordinate social and cultural activities and offer guidance on the local culture, to give you and your support system peace of mind throughout your program. We also have an online orientation for parents/families/support systems at this link.
+ Gender Identity & Sexuality
We welcome students with any gender identity and sexuality on all of our programs.
- Same-sex activity, marriage, and adoption are all legal in England.
- London hosts a Pride parade every year.
- Transgender people are able to change their legal name on documentation so that it matches their gender identity and changing sex assigned at birth is allowed.
Check out the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Guide here.
+ Mental Health
Students with a range of mental health conditions can successfully study abroad. If you take any medications, please review the U.S. State Department recommendations for traveling abroad with medications.
ASA is happy to talk to you about what resources are available for any mental or physical health needs you have. Please reach out to us at 617-327-9388 or hello@academicstudies.com. Having advance notice of what your needs are will allow us to identify resources to support you, such as therapy or ongoing medical care to allow you to be successful. Any ASA team member is a safe person to share things with!
With your ASA program, you'll also have a paid subscription to mindhamok, a 24-7 service designed to support study abroad students’ mental, physical and social wellbeing. mindhamok's curated online and live resources give you tools to help you succeed. You can use mindhamok to: Request an appointment with a coach/therapist; Live chat with a coach/therapist about concerns such as roommate issues, relationships, etc.; Discuss homesickness, culture shock, or adjustment concerns; and much more.
Prior to departure, there's a mandatory mindhamok online orientation, where you can ask questions about health and safety, culture, or anything on your mind. mindhamok, coupled with ASA's on-site staff, give you the tools and support you need to succeed.
+ Non-Traditional Students
ASA welcomes all degree-seeking undergraduate students on any of our programs. We are happy to talk through any component of your identity (e.g. age, marital status, parental/caregiver status, military affiliation, et al.) that may affect your ability to participate on a program. You can reach ASA at 617-327-9388 or hello@academicstudies.com.
+ Religion
The UK's official religion is Christianity. Roughly 14% are part of the Church of England, 9% identify as Catholic, about 7% are Muslim. Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism are also practiced. Roughly half of English people do not practice any religion. More detailed info on Religion in the United Kingdom can be found here. ASA is happy to help you find a place of worship in London - just ask us.
Getting out and exploring on your own is one of the best parts about studying abroad. Here are just a few of the unforgettable experiences you can have abroad with ASA!
HOUSING
University of the Arts London (UAL) and London College of Fashion (LCF): All students live in UAL residence halls. Meals are not included. Flats typically have 4-8 single bedrooms and are shared with other international students or local students. In some cases, each bedroom has its own bathroom “pod,” and in other cases, bathrooms are shared. Each flat has a kitchen and common area shared by all flatmates, as well as Internet. Flats are usually all gender. University of the Arts London has residence halls and campuses located in various parts of London; therefore, students usually have to take the London Tube to and from class, and the commute may be 45 minutes. In a city the size of London, 45 minutes is a normal commute.
University of Roehampton (UR): All students live in on-campus residence halls. Meals are not included. Flats typically have 5-6 single bedrooms and are shared with other ASA students, international students, or local students. Rooms with private bathrooms may be available for an additional charge. Each flat has wifi, a kitchen, common area, and 1-2 shared bathrooms. Flats are usually all gender.
HOUSING FAQ
+ Can I room with a friend?
You may request to live with a friend by emailing ASA at hello@academicstudies.com. Roommate requests must be mutual, so be sure your friend requests you back. However, the host university is responsible for all hall allocations, so we cannot guarantee that you will be placed in the same flat or residence hall as your friend. You will meet your flatmates upon arrival; they could be from the U.S., the UK, or other countries.
+ When will I find out where I’ll be living?
ASA will notify you of your living arrangements via email approximately 1-2 weeks before the start of your program.
+ Will I have a roommate?
Rooms are single occupancy, but you will share a flat with 3-7 additional students. Flats are usually all gender.
+ Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but your flat will have a kitchen, and grocery stores are within walking distance.
+ What should I bring with me?
A detailed list of what to bring (and what not to bring) will be included in your ASA pre-departure handbook, which will be emailed to you about a month before your program begins.
+ How far will I live from school?
UAL students typically live 45 minutes from classes and commute on the London Tube. In a city the size of London, 45 minutes is a normal commute! UR students can be anywhere between a 5-minute walk to class or a 10-16 minute bus ride.
ELIGIBILITY
University of the Arts London & LONDON COLLEGE OF FASHION
Summer/Semester/Academic Year
Requirements
Minimum GPA 3.0. (Students with GPA between 2.80-2.99 are considered on a case-by-case basis.)
At least 18 years of age
Completed at least 2 semesters at a U.S. or Canadian college/university before applying. This program is recommended for students with junior or senior standing.
Official transcript from your college or university. If you have attended more than one institution, you must submit an Official Transcript from each institution. Official transcript from current institution must also show courses currently in progress.
One letter of recommendation from a professor who has taught the student or an adviser at the student’s home institution that has assessed their fitness for Study Abroad. This must be on college/university letterhead and signed by the person providing the reference. If a professor, we recommend they be within your major department.
Personal Statement/Letter of Motivation (300-500 words) describing: What would you like to achieve both academically and personally during your time London? Why have you chosen to study at University of the Arts London? Click here for tips on writing your Personal Statement.
A portfolio of images, videos, or written work may be required depending on which academic field you plan to study. If a portfolio is required for your area of study, you will receive detailed instructions on what to include and acceptable file types. Click here for portfolio guidelines. Click here for video “What Is a Portfolio?”
ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. A scan of your valid passport is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.
For Application Deadlines, please click the Cost & Dates tab.
University of Roehampton
Summer/Semester/Academic Year
Requirements
Minimum GPA 2.80 (Students with GPA below 2.80 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
At least 18 years of age
Completed at least 1 semester at a U.S. or Canadian college/university before applying
Transcript from your college or university (unofficial is ok)
Personal Statement (1-2 pages) describing your person and academic reasons for wanting to study abroad at University of Roehampton
ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. If you don’t have a valid passport, confirmation of an expedited passport application is required before you can be accepted into this program. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.
For Application Deadlines, please click the Cost & Dates tab.
COST & DATES
Billing Information and Cancellation Policy
Price Breakdowns / Estimated Costs of Attendance
Please wait to book a flight until you receive arrival instructions from ASA.
UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON & London College of Fashion
| DATES | PRICE | APPLICATION DEADLINE | PAYMENT DEADLINE | PROGRAM CODE | VISA NEEDED FOR U.S. PASSPORT HOLDERS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2024 Arrive Jan. 5 - Depart April 13 London College of Fashion | $22,895 | Oct. 1, '23 | Oct. 30, '23 | LES324 | No (See note below) |
| Summer I 2024 Arrive June 29 - Depart July 20 University of the Arts London | $7,400 | March 15, '24 | April 15, '24 | LESU2SUM1-24 | No (See note below) |
UNIVERSITY OF Roehampton
| DATES | PRICE | APPLICATION DEADLINE | PAYMENT DEADLINE | PROGRAM CODE | VISA NEEDED FOR U.S. PASSPORT HOLDERS? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2024 Arrive Jan. 17 - Depart May 25 Standard Housing | $17,995 | Oct. 1, '23 | Oct. 30, '23 | RES124 | No (See note below) |
| Spring 2024 Arrive Jan. 17 - Depart May 25 Deluxe Housing | $19,595 | Oct. 1, '23 | Oct. 30, '23 | RES224 | No (See note below) |
| Summer 1 2024 Mid June - Early July | $5,595 | April 1, '24 | April 30, '24 | RESUM1-24 | No (See note below) |
| Summer 2 2024 Late June - Late July | $5,595 | April 1, '24 | April 30, '24 | RESUM2-24 | No (See note below) |
| Summer 3 2024 Mid June - Late July | $8,595 | April 1, '24 | April 30, '24 | RESUM3-24 | No (See note below) |
| Fall 2024 Mid Sept. - Mid Dec. Standard Housing | $18,695 | May 1, '24 | May 30, '24 | REF1-24 | No (See note below) |
| Fall 2024 Mid Sept. - Mid Dec. Deluxe Housing | $20,295 | May 1, '24 | May 30, '24 | REF2-24 | No (See note below) |
| Academic Year 2024-2025 Mid Sept. - Late May Standard Housing | $35,740 | April 1, '24 | May 30, '24 | REAY1-24-25 | Yes |
| Academic Year 2024-2025 Mid Sept. - Late May Deluxe Housing | $38,940 | April 1, '24 | May 30, '24 | REAY2-24-25 | Yes |
| Spring 2025 Mid Jan - Late May Standard Housing | TBA | Oct. 1, '24 | Oct. 30, '24 | RES125 | No (See note below) |
| Spring 2025 Mid Jan - Late May Deluxe Housing | TBA | Oct. 1, '24 | Oct. 30, '24 | RES225 | No (See note below) |
US passport holders do not need to obtain a visa before departing for this study abroad program in the UK. The visa will be issued upon arrival in the UK. To get your visa, you simply present several documents. ASA will give you details about those documents before you depart.
US passport holders going to the UK for a full academic year do need to obtain a visa before departing.
Academic Year price includes a $1,000 discount, applied during the second semester of participation.
**Academic Year Students – Please Note** A housing surcharge may be added to your Billing Statement for winter break housing.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
INCLUDED
HOUSING in a residence hall with kitchen facilities. Meals not included.
TUITION for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee.
ACADEMIC CREDITS: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.
OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT: Final transcript is issued by your host institution. Upon completion of the program, ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution.
EXCURSIONS: Semester programs include 2 day excursions & 1 overnight excursion. Summer programs include 1 day excursion. Locations to be decided.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES in London (museum visits, walking tours, etc.)
INTERNET ACCESS: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.
AIRPORT PICK-UP: Group ground transportation is provided from London Heathrow (LHR) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.
SITE DIRECTOR: Students will have an on-site director to assist them with any academic or cultural difficulties they may encounter.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.
VISA ADVISING: Students are ultimately responsible for obtaining their visa (if required for their term), but ASA will provide detailed, helpful information upon acceptance about which visa students will need and how to go about applying for one. Please click here and scroll down to “Student Visa Information” to find out if a visa is required for your program.
PRE-DEPARTURE HANDBOOK & ON-SITE ORIENTATION
SUBSCRIPTION TO SAFETURE SAFETY-ENHANCING MOBILE APP
SUBSCRIPTION TO MINDHAMOK: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs
NOT INCLUDED
Round trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location
Books, materials, lab fees
Local transportation
Personal expenses
Meals
Laundry
Meals on excursions
Visa, if required
Transportation from the airport if the student does not arrive on the official arrival date by the designated time
Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program
For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students only, medical insurance during winter break is included.
If you need a budget or Costs of Attendance for your financial aid office, or if you simply want an estimate of the not-included costs listed above, please click here.