Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
London, United Kingdom
- Cost of Living£ 26,592
- Tuition Fee From£ 15,822
- Country Rank-
- Batch Strength1,100
- Global Diversity21.7%
- Gender Ratio31 : 68
Overview
About
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, based in London, United Kingdom, is one of the leading institutions for drama, theatre, and performance education and research. The institute was founded in 1906 by Elsie Fogerty as The Central School of Speech Training and Dramatic Art. Initially, the original motive was to offer advanced training in speech and drama, majorly to young actors and students. Being a part of the University of London, today, its goal is to train and prepare future performers and practitioners, to redefine the future of theatre and performing arts.
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is a member of Conservatoires UK and the institute is located in London's Swiss Cottage area. The university is well-known for its lively community. The institute is well-equipped with professional drama and music resources, supported by expert faculties and experienced industrial professionals. The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama course provides various kinds of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These courses are based on different aspects of theatre, acting, and performance. The programs are designed to offer students specialized skills and proficiency in their chosen fields.
Ranking
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Ranking
Do you wish to know the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama ranking positions? The below table provides a clear understanding of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama ranking in various categories during 2023.
|
Ranking System |
Category |
UK Rank |
Global Rank |
Special Notes |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject |
General |
- |
33 |
- |
|
The Guardian |
Specialist Institutions |
6 |
- |
- |
|
The Guardian |
Drama and Dance |
9 |
- |
- |
|
General UK Rankings |
Overall |
138 |
3880 |
- |
|
Complete University Guide |
Arts, Drama & Music League Table |
2 |
- |
- |
|
Webometrics Ranking Web of Universities |
General |
- |
8333 |
- |
|
UniRank |
General |
156 |
4330 |
- |
|
- |
Research Topics Recognition |
- |
- |
Recognized in 20 research topics |
Year
QS Ranks
US News Ranks
2023
-
-
2022
-
-
2021
-
-
Facilities
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama facilities are open to be explored by its students. These facilities are designed for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Also, students who are enrolled in short-term courses can enjoy The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama facilities. Here’s a look at the breakdown of the facilities at the institute.
- Main Building: Features a 234-seat Embassy Theatre, three rehearsal rooms, a café bar and canteen, nine practice rooms with pianos and soundproofing, and a professional recording room with a studio.
- North Block: A £16.7 million development housing a studio for film, media, and digital work, and five high-ceiling rehearsal spaces.
- Embassy Extension: Contains the Webber Douglas black box performance space (100-person capacity), an 80-seat New Studio, technical theatre workshops for design, props, puppetry, costume workshops (including dye room and costume store), scenic design workshops, and sound/video editing suites.
- East Block: Holds academic and administrative offices, an IT department, London's largest specialist library in the field, and a student bar.
- Norman Collins Building: Encompasses academic offices, stage management, technical and production management offices, and a lecture space.
- West Block: Features two black box performance spaces (70-80-person capacity), two large and eight smaller rehearsal rooms with sprung floors, soundproofing, and PA systems.
- University of London Facilities: Access to the University of London's facilities, including the Students’ Union and Senate House Library with over three million books.
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Entry Requirements
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama entry requirements differ for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. For both these programs, there are specific requirements regarding grades, qualifications, and additional criteria such as auditions or portfolios. These criteria can be varied by each program.
|
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama |
Undergraduate Entry Requirements |
Postgraduate Entry Requirements |
|
Application Process |
Applications through UCAS (institution code: C35). No direct applications accepted. |
Applications are made directly to the school via the online application portal. |
|
Specific Course Applications |
BA (Hons) Acting considers all three strands from a single choice. |
MA Acting applicants can opt for Classical or Contemporary strands. Separate applications for specific programs like MA Acting for Screen and MA Musical Theatre. |
|
Application Deadlines |
BA (Hons) Acting: last Wednesday in January. Other BA programs: open beyond this date, but early application is recommended. |
Around October 10th each year for the following September/October entry. Some performance courses close the first round in May. |
|
Second-Year Entry |
Possible for some courses with relevant experience or qualifications. UCAS application required. |
Not applicable. |
|
Clearing |
Opens July 5th each year. Requires UCAS application, possible additional fees. |
Not applicable. |
|
Deferral Requests |
Rarely granted, except in limited circumstances. |
Rarely granted, varies with standards of applications each year. |
|
References |
Minimum one reference, usually from a tutor or careers counselor. Mature applicants can use a senior colleague. |
At least one reference is required, from someone familiar with the applicant's academic or professional capabilities. |
|
Additional Requirements for Postgraduate |
Not applicable. |
Personal statement, referee notice, passport scan/photo for overseas applicants, share code for EU students with settled/pre-settled status. |
|
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) |
Not specified. |
Allows advanced entry based on previous learning. A formal application and additional evidence are required. |
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama Fees
Are you excited to know about the detailed Royal Central School of Speech and Drama fees? For the academic year 2024/25, the tuition fees at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London are as follows:
|
Level of Study |
Course |
Fees for Home Students |
Fees for Overseas Students |
|
Undergraduate |
BA (Hons) Acting |
£9,250 |
£25,200 |
|
Undergraduate |
BA (Hons) Contemporary Performance Practice |
£9,250 |
£25,200 |
|
Undergraduate |
BA (Hons) Theatre Practice |
£9,250 |
£25,200 |
|
Postgraduate |
Various Courses |
£2,625 - £22,750 |
£8,400 - £27,500 |
Royal Central School of Speech and Drama English Proficiency Requirements
Students who wish to learn at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama must fulfil the English proficiency requirements. The following section will help you understand the same:
General Requirements
- Applicant Category: Non-native English speakers applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- Requirement: Demonstrate English language proficiency at C1 level (CEFR).
- Evidence: Through previous studies or Secure English Language Test (SELT)
Previous Study Acceptable as Evidence
- English GCSE
- A level
- Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5
- Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English
Accepted Secure English Language Tests (SELT) and Requirements
|
Provider |
Test Name |
Location |
Minimum Score Requirements |
|
IELTS SELT Consortium |
IELTS Academic |
UK or Overseas |
Overall: 7.0, No component lower than 6.5 |
|
LanguageCert |
LanguageCert International ESOL |
UK or Overseas |
SELT C1: Scaled score of 75, Min 33 in each skill |
|
Trinity College London |
Integrated Skills in English (ISE III) |
UK Only |
Minimum scores per skill specified |
|
Pearson |
Pearson PTE Academic UKVI |
UK and Overseas |
Minimum score per skill: 76 |
|
PSI Services (UK) Ltd |
Skills for English UKVI C1 (4 component) |
Overseas Only |
- |
Additional Information
- Test scores must be no more than two years old at the time of enrolment.
- Scores are verified upon receipt.
- Evidence submission deadline: 1st August of the calendar year of intended enrolment.
Placements
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama placement offers excellent opportunities for its students. These placement facilities help to gain practical experience and professional exposure. The institute offers industry placements, masterclasses, visiting professionals, and partnering with external partners. In the below table, take a look at the placement options for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The table summarizes the placement opportunities for each program.
|
Program |
Placement Description |
|
BA (Hons) Acting |
Participate in the "Acting in the Industry" module: audition and work with a professional director on a showcase performance for agents, casting directors, and industry guests. |
|
BA (Hons) Drama, Applied Theatre and Education |
Undertake placements in various settings like schools, theatres, community centers, prisons, and hospitals. Involve in devising, facilitating, and evaluating drama projects with diverse groups. |
|
MA Acting for Screen |
Benefit from the Screen Industry Partnership scheme: connect with film/TV companies (BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Netflix). Offers workshops, masterclasses, mentoring, and networking opportunities. |
|
MA Applied Theatre |
Engage in practice-based research projects with partners (National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, Roundhouse, Young Vic). Explore theatre's role in social and educational contexts. |
|
MA/MFA Scenography |
Work on live projects with professional scenographers, directors, and designers. Showcase work in exhibitions, festivals, and competitions. Access Central Connections network for industry connections. |
|
Alumni |
Access to the Alumni Office for lifelong connections, leveraging the school's network. Includes alumni social media groups, career workshops, networking events, and celebrations. |
Scholarship
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London offers different types of scholarships, bursaries, and awards for its undergraduate and postgraduate students. This financial assistance helps in making the training accessible for all, regardless of their background or financial status.
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (£) |
Criteria |
|
Embassy Scholarship |
Undergraduate and postgraduate |
2,000-5,000 |
Course, academic merit |
|
Gareth Neame Scholarship |
Acting, technical, design, or craft (RCSSD) |
10,000 |
Financial need, artistic potential |
|
Dame Gillian Lynne Scholarship |
BA (Hons) Musical Theatre, MA Music Theatre (RCSSD) |
10,000 |
Talent, potential |
|
Leverhulme Major Scholarship |
Undergraduate and postgraduate |
10,000 |
Academic excellence, potential |
|
Mary Freeman Scholarships |
BA (Hons) Drama, Applied Theatre and Education; MA Applied Theatre; PG Certificate Applied Theatre with Young People (RCSSD) |
5,000 |
Financial need, commitment to social justice |
|
Michael Grandage Scholarship |
MA/MFA Creative Producing (RCSSD) |
10,000 |
Financial need, creative vision |
|
Rye Family Scholarship |
Acting courses (RCSSD) |
5,000 |
Financial need, artistic merit |
These are just a few of the scholarships offered by the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama to their students. You can find more details on UniScholars, a platform that helps students to find the right scholarship, based on their courses. UniScholars have a team of professional counsellors who help students with the pre and post-application procedures.
Finances
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (Central) is a public university and it is well known for offering various undergraduate and postgraduate courses in theatre and performance. Students who wish to know more about the loan facilities at the RCSSD can also feel free to approach UniCreds. It is a platform that assists students in getting education loans in a hassle-free way.
In the below table, you can get a detailed look at the loan options available for the students at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
|
Loan Type |
Eligibility |
Purpose |
Amount/Range |
Additional Information |
|
Undergraduate Loan |
Most UK residents (undergraduates) |
Tuition fees & and living costs |
Tuition: £9,250/year; Maintenance: Variable |
Tuition paid directly to Central; maintenance loan for living costs |
|
Postgraduate Loan |
Postgraduate students at Central |
Tuition fees & and/or living costs |
Up to £11,570 |
For MA and MFA courses; the amount can be used for tuition fees and/or living costs |
|
Tuition Fee Range |
Postgraduate students (specific) |
Tuition fees |
£7,500 - £18,000/year (varies by course) |
Applicable for full-time postgraduate courses |
|
Student Advice Service |
All students at Central |
Funding, money management, budgeting |
Not Applicable |
Assistance with funding options, including external grants, trusts, charities, and general financial advice |
Accommodation
In this section, let us take a quick tour of the student accommodation options provided by the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
Intercollegiate Halls by the University of London (UoL)
- Locations: Lillian Penson Hall: 15 – 25 Talbot Square, London, W2 1TT, The Garden Halls: 1 Cartwright Gardens, Kings Cross, London, WC1H 9EN, UK, International Hall: Lansdowne Terrace, London, WC1N 1AS, College Hall: Malet Street, London, WC1E 7HU, Connaught Hall: 36-45 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EX
- Features: Catering, laundry, internet, social events, security.
- Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Application: Varies by study level and stay duration.
Partnership with iQ Student Accommodation
- Location: iQ Bloomsbury, 200 Euston Road, London, NW1 2FA.
- Features: Self-catered en-suite rooms, shared kitchen and living areas, gym, cinema, study rooms, and social spaces.
- Eligibility: Available to undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Application: Different processes and deadlines from intercollegiate halls.
Private Rented Accommodation
- Options: Flats, houses, and rooms in various London areas.
- Features: Flexibility, independence, more responsibility, and planning required.
- Support: RCSSD Student Advice Service offers guidance and resources like the UoL Housing Services’ Private Housing Guide, RCSSD Accommodation Groups on Facebook, and the UoL Housing Database.
Other Accommodation Types
- Options: Private halls (other than iQ Bloomsbury), private lodgings, homestays.
- Details: Varied costs, benefits, and drawbacks based on student preferences and circumstances.
- Support: RCSSD Student Advice Service provides information on applications, expectations, and cautions.
To find the right accommodation, students can also seek help from professionals such as UniAcco. It is a globally recognized platform that aims at helping students abroad to get the first-class quality of accommodation.
Cost of Living
If you want to know about the detailed expenses that a student will have to face during their studies at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, this cost of living section is beneficial. It will help you to get a better look at the cost of living expenses, such as transportation, utilities, groceries, etc.
|
Particulars |
Cost (Monthly) |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,220 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
£ 1,200 |
|
Transportation |
£ 186 |
|
Food Cost |
£ 480 |
|
Entertainment |
£ 60 |
|
Groceries |
£ 200 |
|
Clothes |
£ 70 |
|
Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation |
£ 2,216 |
|
Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation |
£ 2,196 |
|
Annual Cost of Living |
£ 26,592 |