Your College Mobility team will have the specific details you need to apply. You should only apply once your College Mobility team has confirmed the application has opened- contact them directly for details of application cycles. Your application will only be reviewed by academics at UAL- it is not shared with exchange partners.
This guide gives you a quick overview of:
- What documents you may need to apply.
- The stages of the application (and what happens next). Note that you will apply internally first, and if accepted will be prompted to apply directly to the host university.
- Where to get more help and advice.
Remember: Your exchange is not confirmed until you have applied to and been accepted by the host university. Students should not book flights/accommodation until they receive acceptance from the host.
1. Understand your options
It is important to research the destinations available for exchange for your programme. Consider the following:.
- Your interests (both within and outside of your course)
- Your budget: while there are funding opportunities available, these are not guaranteed.
- Any language requirements: some exchange partners may not teach in English, in which case you will need to provide evidence that you meet any foreign language requirements.
Students should indicate their top 3 partner universities locations on their application, as there are only a select amount of exchange spaces.
2. Gather your supporting documents
As part of your online application, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Personal statement: this should outline why you would like to go on exchange and how it will benefit you.
- CV: this should outline your education and work experience, as well as skills.
- Portfolio (if applicable): students should speak to their College Mobility team for details on this.
After your application has been reviewed and accepted by UAL, you will then apply directly to the host university. They may ask for similar and further documentation to confirm your exchange. Further information is given closer to this time.
3. Start your online application
If you decide to apply for an exchange, you will need to apply through the online form. This will be provided when the application opens.
Each College has their own exchange application deadline. Contact your College Mobility team to confirm the deadline for the exchange.
Once you have confirmed the deadline, give yourself enough time to complete it. Late applications will not be accepted. Speak to your College Mobility team if you have any issues with the application.
4. Getting your portfolio ready (if applicable)
Some Colleges may ask for a Portfolio as part of your supporting documents. You will be able to include a link in the application form to this. Please follow the instructions below:
- Central Saint Martins: The portfolio should include 20-25 images. Use an online sharing service and provide the link in your online application.
- Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon: The portfolio should make a focused selection of your work in 10-12 images. Please use Flickr for images and Vimeo for all film clips and include the link on the online application. Please ensure your Flickr portfolio is set to public and your Vimeo clip is rated suitable for all audiences. You can include more than one link.
- London College of Communication: The portfolio should be a focused selection of your work in 10-12 pages, submitted as a web link. Only practice-based courses need a portfolio. If you are unsure if you need to provide a portfolio, contact LCC's Mobility team: mobility@lcc.arts.ac.uk.
- London College of Fashion: Students from the School of Design and Technology and School of Media and Communication need to provide a portfolio. The portfolio should be a focused selection of your work in 10-12 pages, submitted as a web link. Only practice-based courses need a portfolio. If you are unsure if you need to provide a portfolio, contact exchanges@fashion.arts.ac.uk.
5. Submitting your application and next steps
Once you’ve prepared all your documents, you’re ready to submit your application!
But what happens next?
- Applications are only reviewed after the final deadline. Submitting your application earlier doesn't increase your chances of your application being approved.
- Course leads review applications and forward feedback to the College Mobility teams.
- The general strength, quality, and suitability to complete an exchange is key.
- The College Mobility teams send the outcome of your application via email. If your application is approved, you should accept or reject your offer.
- If you accept your offer, you will then be sent details to apply to the host university.