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Develop your academic, language and careers skills so that you can thrive at UAL, and in the real world.

Academic support

In addition to teaching teams, there are lots of ways that you can get academic support while studying at UAL.

Library services

As a UAL student you can access all our libraries.  The libraries have open access and bookable study spaces with computers, photocopying and printing facilities. You can also borrow a laptop and get help from the library staff to develop your research or digital skills.

Find out everything you need to know about Library Services.

Special Collections and Archives

The libraries have outstanding physical and digital collections in art, design, communication, fashion and performance. These collections include historical archives and special collections such as zines, material samples and artists’ books.

You can also access the University Archives and Special Collections Centre at LCC which specialises in material on printing, graphics and film, including the famous Stanley Kubrick Archive. Other collections in the University include the LCF Archive and the Museum & Study Collection at CSM.

Find out more about collections and archives.

Language support

If you have English as a second language, our teams are here to help you develop your language and intercultural skills. So that you can gain confidence studying and working in the UK.

  • A model with prosthetic facial additions poses in a red outfit
    Night Falling, Yanqi Li, 2022 BA Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Performance, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Yanqi Li

    Language Development

    English language development and tutorials for international students who are speakers of English as an additional language.

  • a pink ceramic sculpture of dainty flowers
    Tianqi Xu, 2021 MA Design for Art Direction, London College of Communication, UAL

    Academic English Skills

    Improve your language skills with our art and design focused English Skills Courses.

  • a cylindrical weight with an iron chain attached. Illuminated by a low light lamp at the base of the object.
    Augustin Cantenot, 2017 Foundation in Art and Design, Central Saint Martins, UAL

    Intercultural workshops and resources

    Develop your intercultural awareness and communication skills.

  • a piece of curled bronze sheet metal with light reflecting off the surface.
    Lena Heubusch, 2016 BA Fine Art, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: John Sturrock

    Progress Test

    For current UAL students who want to progress to the next level of university study. It will help you achieve the IELTS equivalent score you need.

Careers advice and resources

Are you ready to take your skills out into the world? Our student careers support can help you gain the confidence and skills needed to be successful. Look at some of our top resources below or explore the full student careers hub.

  • An illustration of a person carrying their portfolio into an office
    Gracie Dahl, Image by Gracie Dahl

    Career resources

    A selection of guides and resources to help you start your career or business.

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    Image by Tasia Graham

    Opportunities for underrepresented students

    Learn more about Creative Shift, our programme of opportunities and events designed to help you kick start your career.

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    Networking by Catarina Fonseca Chaica

    Events and workshops

    Our free events and training sessions will help you learn practical skills, gain advice and meet creative professionals.

  • Illustration of people supporting each other to achieve a trophy
    Illustration by Gracie Dahl

    Awards and funding

    Get funding, mentoring and advice to help you get your business off the ground.

Careers stories

  • Image by Alys Tomlinson
    Image by Alys Tomlinson

    Time management - how to balance getting a job and studying and networking

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed balancing both studying and working a job? Fear not, we're here to support you! Let's dive into our practical time management tips to unlock your full potential.

  • Students at The Elephant's Secret Kitchen, Book Launch, Sundeep Verdi
    Students at The Elephant's Secret Kitchen, Book Launch, Sundeep Verdi

    Introduce yourself with an elevator pitch

    When you start working as a freelancer, finding ways to connect with professionals and build your potential client base can feel daunting. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, to not know where to begin or if you are ‘doing it right’, so we have highlighted some key strategies to help you realise the potential in networking for collaboration and work opportunities and recognise that there is no one ‘right way’.