What You Need to Know About Applying to a Bachelors' Degree in the UK

The below information was provided by The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London.

If you’re considering making the journey across the pond to study a bachelor’s degree at a performing arts university in the UK, here’s what you need to know. 

Applying for undergraduate study 

To apply to most higher education institutions in the UK, including Central, you can make your application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (often known as UCAS). However, it’s important to note that not all performing arts institutions sit within this application system. For some you will need to make an application through UCAS Conservatoires, while others only accept applications directly, usually through their website. When researching different schools, be sure to make a note of each institution’s process so you’re clear about what you need to do when the time comes.  

If you are applying via UCAS, you will need to make your application before the UCAS Equal Consideration deadline to be considered for an interview or audition – this is typically near the end of January.  

Auditions and interviews 

Specific requirements for auditions and interviews vary depending on the course or institution you’re applying for. If you’re going for a performance course, such as Acting or Musical Theatre, you usually need to prepare audition material such as monologues and a devised piece. If you’re applying for a theatre-making or production course, such as Prop-Making or Writing for Performance, you might be asked to submit a portfolio or pieces of written work. Institutions provide clear and detailed instructions of exactly what you need to prepare and the information is usually readily available on websites, so you can familiarise yourself before you apply.  

As much as the process allows the audition panel or interviewer to find out about you, it’s also your chance to learn more about the institution. You want to feel like it’s a good fit for you, as much as the other way round. 

In most cases, you won’t need to take a plane to audition or interview for a place on a UK course. Many institutions, including Central, offer the option of interviewing and auditioning online.  

So what happens if you are offered a place? 

There are certain documents you’ll need to study in the UK including a Student Route visa . To obtain the Student Route Visa  you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which is issued by the institution you’re studying with. There are Visa application fees, ranging from £363 to £490, depending on whether you are applying from outside or inside the UK. Lastly, all Visa students will need to collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card within 10 days of arriving in the UK. This might sound complicated, but it’s all quite routine and will become clearer as you work through the steps.  

Wherever you end uppursuing your path of study, the institution should provide plenty of information for exactly what you need to do and when. It’s a good idea to do your research and make sure you have your documents ready so that you can act quickly if you need to! 

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is a leading UK performing arts institution, based in London. They offer bachelor’s degrees, graduate degrees and short courses across the breadth of the performing and dramatic arts. Find out more at www.cssd.ac.uk