Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, part of the University of London, is a drama school with a specialist focus. Its origins lie at the Royal Albert Hall, where Elsie Fogerty established it in 1906 under the name Central School of Speech Training and Dramatic Art, intending to give young actors a fresh approach to training in speech and voice. In 1957 the school relocated to Swiss Cottage in north London. It joined the University of London as a college in 2005, and the Royal title was conferred in 2012.

About 1,000 students study at Central, around two thirds of whom are undergraduates. Its provision is broader than at many comparable schools. As well as acting and musical theatre, courses cover stage management, theatre design and scenography, voice, technical and production arts, drama therapy, applied theatre and performance studies, and research forms a strong part of its profile. Teaching is based in Swiss Cottage, at the Embassy Theatre and a modern building adjoining it. Harold Pinter, Judi Dench, Peggy Ashcroft and Laurence Olivier are among its former presidents.

Information for International Students

Central asks international students for a high level of English, set at CEFR level C1, which in IELTS Academic terms means 7.0 overall and at least 6.5 per component, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Undergraduates apply via UCAS and postgraduates through the relevant course page. Places are awarded after an audition or interview, and candidates living outside the UK are usually assessed online instead of in person.

When an applicant accepts an offer, the admissions team requests a CAS. To obtain a visa, applicants must demonstrate funds for tuition and living costs covering at least the first year. Newcomers attend Induction Week, while an international welcome event presents the main university teams along with practical tips for life and study in the UK. Before arrival, students receive advice on documents, travel from the airport, healthcare and banking. Each year Central is allocated a share of the University of London's Intercollegiate Halls; it also works in partnership with iQ Student Accommodation, and for students renting privately, the Student Advice Service offers help. Scholarships, bursaries and other awards are offered, and eligible graduates are able to apply for the Graduate Route.