Entry Requirements
You will find details of our standard entry requirements below. However we consider all applications on an individual basis and welcome applications from those with non-standard qualifications and from a variety of backgrounds. If you are returning to education, if you have commitment and are determined to succeed, we want to hear from you, so don’t hesitate to contact us.
IDI Admissions Process
The first step is to complete an application form You will then have an online discussion with an IDI Admissions Advisor, who will be able to give you further information about your chosen course and answer any questions you may have about studying with IDI, fees, funding and payment options. You will have the opportunity to show us some examples of creative work, and evidence of your previous qualifications and experience. This all takes place in the Admissions area within IDI-Study.
Higher Education Courses
The university requires applicants to have at least 2 A Levels (or equivalent) to begin an Honours Undergraduate Degree Programme. The entry requirements for undergraduate degrees are given generally in UCAS Tariff Points. Depending on the subject area, UK applicants normally require between 240 and 260 points from GCE A Levels (or equivalent) including a qualification in an art related subject, plus GCSE English language and maths at grade C or above - key skills are accepted as equivalent.
We are pleased to accept all qualifications included in the UCAS tariff points system (e.g. International Baccalaureate, key skills).
Returning to Study
We consider all applications on an individual basis and welcome applications from those with non-standard qualifications, and from a variety of backgrounds.
If you have prior higher education or equivalent work experience, it may be possible for this to be taken into account. It may also enable advanced entry to your chosen programme.
For example, if you have an HND in an appropriate subject and you are aiming to achieve an honours degree, you may be considered for exemption from Level 4 and Level 5 studies (the equivalent of the first and second year of a full-time degree).
You may also be awarded credit for relevant prior learning such as previous courses studied, industrial, or professional experience.
All applicants
We like to see evidence of previous study within art and design, or visual evidence of art and design experience. Here is some advice about the type of creative work that you could include a portfolio. If you need further information don’t hesitate to contact our admissions team.
UK applicants
Depending on your chosen course, you will normally require between 240 and 260 points from GCE A Levels (or equivalent) including a qualification in an art related subject plus GCSE English language and maths at grade C or above - key skills are accepted as equivalent.
International applicants
You will normally have completed either a pre-degree course in visual arts, which may be a Foundation or equivalent course leading to a BTEC National Diploma/Certificate or equivalent international qualification.
English language
All applicants from non-majority English speaking countries need to provide proof of English language proficiency. The following qualifications and grades will be considered, but other English language tests are accepted, contact us for more details.
- GCSE English language grade A-C
- IELTS 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in any band)
Advanced Entry
Entry is possible at Level 5 or Level 6 through Credit Accumulation and Transfer from other Higher education experiences that are roughly equivalent to the earlier levels of the programme (APCL), or through APEL where appropriate. This means that if you have an HND or equivalent qualification and professional experience, you may be able to study part-time to 'top-up' to an honours degree in as little as two years, or within one year if you are able to study on a full time basis.
Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Studies (art, design and media)
All applicants
We like to see evidence of previous study within art and design, or visual evidence of art and design experience. Here is some advice about the type of creative work that you could include a portfolio. If you need further information don’t hesitate to contact our admissions team.
UK applicants
UK applicants normally require three GCSE passes at grade C or above, and at least one GCE A2 Level at grade E or above.
International applicants
International applicants would normally have completed 12 years of school education and have a Certificate of Secondary Education or equivalent from a vocational school or college.
English language
For those whose first language is not English, IELTS 5.5 or equivalent is required.
Useful links:
TOEFL Internet Based Test
There are no formal entry requirements for City & Guilds courses
BA (Hons) Degree Programmes are subject to the University's Principles, Policies, Regulations and Procedures for the Admission of Students to Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate Programmes and will take account of University policy and guidelines for assessing accredited prior certificated learning (APCL) and accredited prior experiential learning (APEL)