Graduate Diploma application process

Applications for the May 2026 intake are now open. The application deadline is 10 April 2026 at 12 noon (BST).

We receive a substantial number of applications for the Graduate Diploma, which are reviewed in the order they are submitted. We encourage you to apply as soon as you are ready; if you delay your application, your preferred intake may be full.

You may not apply for the same programme more than once, and can apply for a maximum of two (2) different programmes, in the 2026 admissions year.

All applications should be made through our Applicant Portal.

Visit our Applicant Portal and create an account. You will need to follow the instructions to verify your email and set a password.

Complete the application form and upload your portfolio. You can save your application and retrieve it later, so you do not have to complete it all in one go.

Information you will need to supply

• Your personal details, date of birth and contact information.
• Which programme(s) you are applying for.
• Predicted or previous qualifications.
• Evidence of English language proficiency if English is not your first language.
• Any accessibility needs you may have, so we can better support you.
• Personal demographic information (this is used for equity, diversity and inclusion monitoring purposes; it remains confidential and is not used as selection criteria).
• An image of your passport to verify your identification.

As part of your portfolio, you will be asked to upload:

• A 300-word written personal statement about your motivation to study on the programme.
• A short video, up to two minutes, of yourself talking to the camera about your personal creative journey.
• Three to five files containing your portfolio. Depending on the programme, your portfolio may include files of your work and any written descriptions, explanations or justifications required. Each programme has different requirements; details are given on individual programme pages.
• Upload contact details for your referee(s)

See Portfolio advice for tips on submitting a strong portfolio.

Please only submit information via the Applicant Portal, as any additional information sent by email will not be shared with the selection panels.

Once you have completed your application it will be reviewed by our academic staff including the Programme Lead and in some cases Senior Tutors and Admissions Tutors. 

In a small number of instances, it may not be possible to make a decision based on an application alone. In these cases, you will be invited to attend an interview in-person or by video call. Your invitation email will contain full details of the interview and anything you may need to prepare. 

Once your application has been reviewed and interview completed (if applicable), you will receive one of the following application outcomes:

• a formal offer of a place
• a place on the waiting list, if the programme is already full
• an unsuccessful notification

All decisions will be communicated by email.

If you do receive an offer, we encourage all successful applicants to secure their place by returning their acceptance and deposit as soon as possible.