Royal College of Art Overview

The Royal College of Art (RCA) is a world-leading postgraduate art and design university located in London, UK. Established in 1837, RCA offers highly specialized creative programs and is renowned for its innovation, research, and contribution to the arts and design sectors globally. It focuses exclusively on postgraduate education, supporting students in developing their artistic and design practices at the highest level.

Royal College of Art Offered Programs

  • MA Animation
  • MA Architecture
  • MA Communication
  • MA Design Products
  • MA Fashion
  • MA Film
  • MA Fine Art
  • MA Global Innovation Design
  • MA Illustration
  • MA Information Experience Design
  • MA Interior Design
  • MA Photography
  • MA Textiles
  • MPhil/PhD in Art and Design

Royal College of Art Tuition Fees

Program LevelTuition Fees (GBP per year)
UK/EU Students£16,400
International Students£34,500

Royal College of Art Required Documents and Admission Requirements

  • Completed online application form
  • Portfolio of recent work
  • Academic transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Two academic or professional references
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent) for non-native speakers
  • Interview (usually online or in-person)

Royal College of Art Deadlines

Application StageDeadline
Autumn Intake ApplicationJanuary 7
Scholarship ApplicationVaries, often January
Interview PeriodFebruary – March
Course Start DateSeptember

Royal College of Art Scholarships Offerings

The RCA offers various scholarships, bursaries, and awards based on merit and financial need, including RCA-funded scholarships, government scholarships, and external awards.

Royal College of Art Rankings

Ranking CategoryPosition
UK Art and Design SchoolsRanked 1st
World Art and Design SchoolsTop 2 globally

Royal College of Art Acceptance Rate

Admission is highly selective, with an acceptance rate estimated at approximately 10-15%, reflecting the competitive nature of postgraduate art and design education.

Royal College of Art Student Campus Life (with accommodation options)

Students experience a creative and collaborative environment with access to cutting-edge studios, workshops, and galleries. Accommodation options include college-managed residences and private housing in London, with a range of catered and self-catered choices available.

Royal College of Art Cost of Living

Living in London is relatively expensive; students should budget carefully for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.

Expense TypeEstimated Monthly Cost (GBP)
Accommodation£800 – £1,300
Food£250 – £350
Transportation£100 – £150
Utilities & Internet£50 – £100
Personal Expenses£150 – £250
Total Estimate£1,350 – £2,150

Royal College of Art Contact Informations

Phone Number: +44 20 7590 4444
Email Address: admissions@rca.ac.uk
Address: Kensington Gore, London SW7 2EU, United Kingdom

Royal College of Art Online Application

Applications are made online through the RCA application portal. Applicants must submit all required documents, including portfolios and statements, and may be invited for interviews as part of the selection process.