International students

  • Overview
  • International applications

As a truly global organisation, we are immensely proud of our diverse and international student body.

Both on programmes delivered at our headquarters in London and those via distance learning, we have students studying with us from all over the world. We also have an incredible global network of passionate and skilled employees, teachers and members, each shaping and influencing the future of dance.

Though I am based in South Africa, I have joined a global community of teachers who have taught me the value of hard work, dedication, passion and enabled me to believe that anything is possible.”
Calvin Mathekga, Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies student
  • Planning ahead

    Planning ahead

    For those students who join our onsite programmes based in London, we understand that planning to leave your home country to study abroad is a big decision and we are here to help answer your queries and guide you through the process.

  • Applicants whose first language is not English

    Applicants whose first language is not English

    If you are applying for a programme where an English Language Proficiency test is required (International English Language Testing System (IELTS)), you must achieve the following:

    Undergraduate programmes of study:

    IELTS: band 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the subtests

    Postgraduate programmes of study:

    IELTS: band 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests

    The IELTS must be the academic test, and have been taken no earlier than one year before the start date of the programme you are applying to. If you need to evidence your English language ability for a Student Visa you should follow the guidance on taking the appropriate Secure English language Test (SELT) here: Student Visa

    If you have recently gained another English language qualification, check with Registry, to make sure that it is acceptable at faculty@rad.org.uk.

Lok Yiu Lee

  • BA (Hons) Ballet Education Student

    I moved to the UK when I was in Year 11 for a vocational dance course and at the age of fifteen, I was interested in becoming a ballet teacher. I wanted to learn the RAD style of ballet so looked for opportunities to study at the RAD.

    One of the most interesting modules on the BA (Hons) Ballet Education programme, for me, is the module ‘Frameworks for Dance Analysis’, where we learn how to analyse, describe and interpret different kinds of dance repertoires. Additionally, as our class sizes are quite small compared to other universities, it allows us to engage in a lot of smaller discussions during lessons. This kind of learning environment helps me to really understand my studies.

    Studying in the UK gives me a completely different experience as compared to Hong Kong. It allows me to develop critical thinking skills and creativity. As an international student, coming to London is an excellent choice. You can easily go to the theatre to watch all different kinds of ballet and there are many dance schools for you to explore or experience different styles of dance like street dance, contemporary dance, and more.

    My time at the RAD so far has been very rewarding. In just two years I have learned a lot of new things.

Studying in the UK is a completely different experience compared to Hong Kong; it really allows me to develop my critical thinking skills and creativity. As an international student, coming to London is an excellent choice!”
Tippi Lee, BA (Hons) Ballet Education student
  • Financing your studies

    Financing your studies

    International students wishing to apply for the BA (Hons) Ballet Education from outside the UK, Ireland and Channel Islands will be eligible for international fee status. Note that this can apply to UK passport holders who are living abroad, although some exceptions apply.

    To help international students plan and manage their money for studies in the UK, Brightside have developed the International Student Calculator. This features: an interactive budget builder to help students work out their income and expenditure, important advice about essentials like getting insurance and National Health Service (NHS) treatment, case studies of other international students sharing their money saving tips.

    Student Calculator

  • Tuition fees

    Tuition fees

    For a list of up-to-date tuition fees for international students, please visit HE Fees or contact Registry.

  • Visa requirements

    Visa requirements

    If you are offered a place on an RAD programme, you will need to check whether you require a visa to study in the UK.

    For more information, please visit UK Visas and Immigration.

  • Student visas

    Student visas

    If you do not hold a UK passport or have leave to remain, you will need a visa. The Home Office operates a tiered Points Based System for immigration (PBS). If you are coming to the UK to study a degree or college course for longer than six months, you will need a Student Visa and must apply before you come to the UK. The RAD is registered with UK Visas and Immigration and can sponsor Student Visa applications. A visa sponsored by us will allow you to attend programmes of study at the RAD only, not at another university or institution. For more information please visit Student Visa.

  • Foundation module

    Foundation module

    Our Foundation Module is available for applicants who reside in countries that do not have the equivalent of A levels, and allows you to meet the entry requirements for access to the BA (Hons) Ballet Education and BA (Hons) Dance Education programmes of study. The module, which will prepare you for the study of dance at degree level (FHEQ Level 4) is called ‘Investigating Dance: Theory and Practice’ and will allow you to study dance analysis, safe practice, choreography and performance by distance learning under the guidance of a tutor. The module content includes an even balance between theoretical and practical tasks, all of which contribute to the achievement of the module learning outcomes. For more details, please visit Foundation Module.

  • Auditions and interviews

    Auditions and interviews

    Some programmes require attendance at an audition or a telephone/Zoom interview in order to be offered a place. International students applying for a London-based programme who are unable to attend an audition in London may supply video/DVD and other evidence instead. Additionally, they are invited for a telephone or Zoom interview.

Even though moving away from my home in Japan and studying in English is challenging, I really enjoy my studies and life in London.”
Emi Shirakawa BA in Ballet Education student