UNITED KINGDOM
Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design
public · Founded 1989 · Languages: English
In short
Central Saint Martins (CSM), a part of the University of the Arts London, is a leading global college for art and design located in London. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and is known for its influential alumni and strong industry connections.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1989
- Students
- 5,000
- International students
- 2,500
- Acceptance rate
- 15%
- Tuition (intl)
- €22–32k/yr
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Location
- United Kingdom
Central Saint Martins (CSM) is a globally renowned constituent college of the University of the Arts London, located in the iconic Granary Building at King's Cross. Founded through the 1989 merger of two colleges with roots going back to the 1850s, CSM has shaped generations of influential artists, designers, and performers. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes spanning fine art, graphic design, fashion, product design, performance, architecture, and jewellery. Alumni include Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and Ridley Scott.
Why study here
- Part of University of the Arts London — ranked 2nd globally for Art & Design by QS.
- Iconic alumni network spanning fashion, film, fine art, and graphic design.
- State-of-the-art studios, workshops, and performance spaces in King's Cross.
- Strong links with London's world-class creative industries and galleries.
- Highly international environment with students from over 100 countries.
Student life
Students enjoy a vibrant creative community at the heart of London's thriving arts district in King's Cross. The campus hosts exhibitions, performances, and public events throughout the year. London's galleries, studios, fashion houses, and design agencies are right on the doorstep, offering unparalleled opportunities for internships and professional exposure. Student unions and societies support wellbeing and community life across all UAL colleges.
Fees
InternationalApproximately £22,000–£32,000 per year for international (non-EU/non-UK) students depending on the programme.
HomeUK/home students typically pay £9,250 per year at undergraduate level.
LivingLondon living costs are approximately £14,000–£18,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
UAL offers scholarships and bursaries for international and UK students; tuition varies by programme and level.
Admissions
PortfolioA strong portfolio of creative work is required for most programmes.
InterviewShortlisted applicants are usually invited to an interview or portfolio review.
Personal StatementA personal statement explaining your creative interests and motivations.
Academic QualificationsTypically A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent foundation studies.
IELTS6.0 overall (5.5 in each component) for undergraduate; 6.5 for postgraduate.
TOEFL iBT80 overall for undergraduate; 88 for postgraduate.
Rankings
QS World University Rankings by Subject (Art & Design) – via UAL2
University scholarships
UAL International ScholarshipUp to £5,000 toward tuition fees for international students.
CSM Dean's ScholarshipVaries; awarded on merit to outstanding creative talent.
Accreditation
Central Saint Martins is a constituent college of the University of the Arts London, which is a recognised degree-awarding body in the United Kingdom. Programmes are validated by UAL.
For international students
United KingdomStudent visa & funds
International students apply for the UK Student visa, which replaced the former Tier 4 (General) route. You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and must show maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days. As of November 2025 the requirement is £1,529 per month (for up to nine months) for courses in London and £1,171 per month for courses elsewhere, on top of tuition. Students who have already held a UK visa for 12 months, and nationals of certain low-risk countries, are exempt from evidencing the funds.
Working while you study
On a degree-level course at a licensed higher-education provider, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods; sub-degree courses are capped at 10 hours per week. There is no distinction between on-campus and off-campus work, but self-employment and working as a professional sportsperson or coach are not permitted. Once you have completed all course requirements you may work full-time until your visa expires.
After you graduate
Graduates of an eligible UK degree can apply for the Graduate visa (the Graduate Route) without needing an employer sponsor. As of 2026, bachelor’s and master’s graduates receive two years of open work permission and PhD graduates receive three years. Under the 2025 immigration reforms, applications made on or after 1 January 2027 will grant 18 months instead of two years for non-doctoral qualifications, while PhD holders keep three years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; competitive/Russell Group courses up to 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–90; PG 90–100; top research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 51–65; PG 59–75
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,400/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Scholarships
for United Kingdom
full fundingWellcome Trust
Wellcome Discovery Awards
Open to established researchers and research teams with a proven record of research delivery who are based at, or will be hosted by, an eligible not-for-profit organisation in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or an eligible low- or middle-income country (excluding India and mainland China). Projects must propose bold, transformative research aligned with Wellcome's mission to improve health. The award does not cover the lead applicant's own salary, and a researcher may lead only one active Discovery Award submission.
full
Funding
€4000k
Max
Nov 25, 2026
Deadline
full fundingThe Alan Turing Institute
Open Source AI Fellowship (UK)
Open to AI professionals and researchers who are legally eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship, have resided in the UK for at least 5 years (a security check is required), are employed by a UK-based organisation willing to support a 12-month secondment, and hold a PhD or equivalent professional experience in AI or a related discipline.
full
Funding
€98k
Max
17d left
Deadline
full fundingSkoll Foundation / University of Oxford Saïd Business School
Skoll Scholarship for the Oxford MBA
Open to applicants of any nationality admitted to the full-time one-year Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School who can demonstrate a track record of entrepreneurial action creating positive social or environmental impact, and for whom the cost of the programme is a significant financial burden.
full
Funding
€95k
Max
Jan 8, 2027
Deadline
full fundingRhodes Trust
Rhodes Scholarship
For talented young people from around the world to undertake postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Around 100 scholars are selected each year from more than 60 countries and constituencies; applications are made in your home country or constituency, each with its own age and eligibility rules.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingGates Cambridge Trust
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Open to citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom applying for a full-time postgraduate degree (PhD, MSc/MLitt, or one-year master's) at the University of Cambridge. Selection weighs academic excellence, a strong fit with the chosen Cambridge course, a clear commitment to improving the lives of others, and leadership potential.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Dec 3, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAfrica Initiative for Governance (AIG), tenable at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford
Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) Scholarships at the University of Oxford
Open to West African nationals (for example from Nigeria and Ghana) seeking to study the Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Applicants are generally aged between 25 and 45, hold a strong undergraduate degree (typically second-class upper or above), demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to Africa's public sector, and intend to apply their learning in their home country's public service.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Jan 9, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is Central Saint Martins (CSM) known for?
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Central Saint Martins is a world-renowned college of art and design, part of the University of the Arts London. It's celebrated for shaping influential artists and designers across various disciplines and boasts a notable alumni network.
What are the tuition fees for international students at CSM?
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International students can expect tuition fees to range from approximately £22,000 to £32,000 per year, depending on the specific programme of study.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted for international applicants?
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CSM accepts IELTS with an overall score of 6.0 (5.5 in each component) for undergraduate study and 6.5 for postgraduate study. TOEFL iBT scores of 80 overall for undergraduate and 88 for postgraduate are also accepted.
What are the typical admission requirements for CSM programmes?
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Most programmes require a strong portfolio of creative work, a personal statement, and academic qualifications such as A-levels or the International Baccalaureate. Shortlisted applicants are often invited for an interview or portfolio review.
Are there scholarships available for international students at CSM?
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Yes, CSM offers scholarships such as the UAL International Scholarship, which provides up to £5,000 towards tuition fees for international students. The CSM Dean's Scholarship is awarded based on merit to outstanding creative talent.
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