London is a global powerhouse for creativity, culture, and innovation, making it one of the best places in the world to study art. From iconic institutions like Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art to cutting-edge schools like UCL and Goldsmiths, London offers a rich mix of tradition and experimentation. Whether you’re drawn to fine art, fashion, design, or digital media, the city’s art schools provide world-class training, industry connections, and endless inspiration.
Learn more about the ten best art schools in London below (Guardian University Guide 2026), and don’t forget, if you need help applying to study art or any art-related subject in London, such as animation, interior design or photography, our UK education consultants can help you apply, ensuring your portfolio stands out from the crowd with expert advice and support.
Top Art Schools in London
The Slade School of Fine Art at University College London is known as one of the world’s best art departments. The MA Fine Art programme at Slade School fosters an environment for graduate students to grow as artists and researchers. It emphasises critical thinking and encourages students to relate their art to today’s culture. It’s an integrated programme without separate modules. Students participate in practice-based learning in the first year with critiques, seminars, and art history courses. The second year includes an assessed degree exam showcasing their practical work.
The school’s location near galleries, museums, and cultural institutions offers excellent learning resources, and the Slade Careers programme helps students consider the professional side of their art practice.
- Course in focus: Fine Art MA
- Entry requirements: A first degree in Fine Art at a second-class Bachelor’s level or above or overseas equivalent.
- International fees: £32,100
The University of the Arts London (UAL) is a prominent institution offering creative courses in various disciplines. Comprising six renowned Colleges, including Camberwell College of Arts and Central Saint Martins, UAL has nurtured over two-thirds of British Designer of the Year winners.
The BA Fine Art programme at UAL’s Chelsea College of Arts emphasises “thinking through making” and offers a dynamic environment for students to explore various artistic areas. Over three years, students engage in open and exploratory thinking and experiment with various techniques, culminating in a degree show, a publication, and an optional diploma opportunity.
- Course in focus: BA (Hons) Fine Art
- Entry Requirements: Pass at foundation diploma in art and design (level 3 or 4); 2 levels at grade c or above.
- International fees: £25,970
Goldsmiths’ art department is known for its creative and imaginative students and staff. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Its MFA programme focuses on improving artists’ motivation, self-reflection, and ambition. The programme covers contemporary art practices and their historical and social contexts and encourages artists from diverse backgrounds to explore different artistic forms.
The programme emphasises student-centred learning through studio seminars and personal tutorials. It’s split into two parts: the first year (Diploma stage) sets core goals, and the second year (MFA stage) allows participants to expand their artistic ambitions. You can complete both stages full-time in one year or part-time over two years.
- Course in focus: MFA Fine Art
- Entry Requirements: Undergraduate degree of at least second class (or international equivalent) plus experience as an artist.
- International fees: £26,090
The BA Fine Art programme at the University of East London offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary learning environment for students aiming to specialise in contemporary art. Taught by experienced artists, curators, and cultural experts, the course covers various art disciplines, from painting to film, photography, and even new media like virtual reality and robotics.
You’ll also have opportunities to engage with external organisations and artists through special events and visits. UEL is renowned for nurturing unique artistic talents, and the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students and staff make this course exceptionally rich and captivating. If you don’t meet standard entry requirements, there’s a foundation year to prepare you for the full undergraduate degree.
- Course in focus: BA (Hons) Fine Art
- Entry requirements: 112 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3, including A Levels in at least two subjects, International Baccalaureate – 24 points, including a minimum of 15 points at Higher Level.
- International fees: £14,580
The MA Fine Art programme at Middlesex University focuses on developing your art practice and connecting it with London’s contemporary art scene. You’ll visit galleries, meet curators, and create new work while exploring relevant contexts. Seminars and campus workshops support your art practice and provide critical dialogue. Experienced artists guide you in planning, curating, and promoting public exhibitions.
The course welcomes students in diverse disciplines, such as painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and more. It combines practical experience with critical analysis, preparing you for a successful career in the dynamic world of fine art. You’ll have access to excellent resources, industry connections, and opportunities to exhibit your work. The programme also includes access to the Adobe Creative Cloud suite.
- Course in focus: MA Fine Art
- Entry requirements: A graduate degree from an acceptable art-based degree with a grade of 2:2 or higher.
- International fees: £16,800
The Fine Art Mixed Media BA programme is innovative, allowing you to explore various art disciplines and reference critical debates. You’ll be encouraged to bring your unique approach to studio work, emphasising experiential learning. The course offers flexibility to work across different fields within fine art.
You’ll have your own studio space at our Harrow Campus and learn from practising artists with national and international profiles. The course combines creativity with technical skills and culminates in a degree show in a central London gallery. Throughout the programme, you’ll gain insights into London’s contemporary art scene and undertake work placements in the creative industries to test your aspirations.
- Course in focus: Fine Art Mixed Media BA Honours
- Entry requirements: A levels – CCC to BBB (96 to 120 UCAS Tariff points). T levels – 96 to 120 UCAS Tariff points. International Baccalaureate – 96 to 120 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the diploma programme.
- International fees: £15,400
Kingston School of Art is a top global art school known for its excellence and research in various fields. It’s close to central London, with a campus featuring the Stanley Picker Gallery and a modern extension designed by Haworth Tompkins architects. The School collaborates with London’s ICA, BFI, LUX, and Chisenhale Gallery.
The MFA in Fine Art at Kingston is a unique programme blending studio and theory. It helps students develop their artistic skills, encourages deep thinking, and relates their work to the changing social and cultural world. The programme focuses on studio work and research, urging students to start their projects. They get personal guidance through tutorials, seminars, and practical workshops.
- Course in focus: Fine Art MFA
- Entry Requirements: A 2:2 or above honours degree in fine art or an equivalent British or overseas qualification.
- International fees: £18,700
The Fine Art – BA (Hons) at LMU offers an opportunity to learn from renowned artists in top-notch facilities. You’ll attend international events, develop essential skills, and gain the expertise needed for a career in the art world. You’ll also benefit from artists-in-residence, exhibit your work, and explore London’s vibrant art scene.
In this challenging programme, dedicated artists who have showcased their work worldwide will guide you. You’ll have access to modern studios, 3D printing, exhibition spaces, and more. Collaborate with diverse art students and engage with various creative minds. Showcase your work in student exhibitions and get guidance from artists to kickstart your art career.
- Course in focus: Fine Art – BA (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A minimum of BBC grades in three relevant A-level subjects such as the arts, humanities, and social sciences (or a minimum of 112 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification in relevant art and design subjects).
- International fees: £19,250
The Royal College of Art is a top-ranked art school globally, known for shaping successful careers. Most graduates credit their RCA education for a positive impact on their careers. The Arts and Humanities MFA programme is tailored for creative practitioners, focusing on collaboration and solving current and future challenges in art and humanities.
This programme lets students choose their path, with elective units aligned with the school’s expertise. Core courses cover art history and its context, including ongoing discussions on decolonisation. The programme also helps students explore their professional direction. The “Live” unit offers hands-on experience and audience interaction, a valuable programme part.
- Course in focus: Arts and Humanities MFA
- Entry Requirements: A level 6 qualification such as a Bachelor’s degree or Graduate Diploma in a subject associated with the arts or humanities.
- International fees: £36,750
Jobs and Careers
Graduates from London’s top art schools go on to shape the creative industries worldwide. Career paths include:
- Fine Artist or Illustrator – Exhibiting in galleries or working freelance
- Fashion Designer – Joining major labels or launching independent brands
- Graphic Designer or Art Director – Working in advertising, publishing, or digital media
- Curator or Arts Administrator – Managing exhibitions and cultural programmes
- Creative Technologist or UX Designer – Blending art with tech in emerging fields
- Film, Animation, or Game Artist – Contributing to visual storytelling across platforms
Many schools offer career support, portfolio development, and industry placements to help students transition into professional roles.
Scholarships
Studying art in London can be expensive, but there are several scholarships and bursaries available:
- University Scholarships: Most institutions offer merit-based and need-based awards
- International Student Bursaries: Targeted funding for non-UK applicants
- Arts Council England Grants: Support for postgraduate study and creative projects
- Chevening Scholarships: For international postgraduates with leadership potential
- School-Specific Awards: For example, UAL’s Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships or RCA’s full-fee scholarships
Applicants are encouraged to check each school’s website for deadlines and eligibility, and to prepare strong portfolios and personal statements to boost their chances.
Study Art in London
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