.png)
A world-leading specialist institution for art, design and architecture, The Glasgow School of Art has been shaping creative practice since 1845. Our studio-based teaching, global outlook and industry connections prepare students to build influential careers across the international creative sector. We are ranked 3rd in the UK and 8th in the world for art and design in the QS World University Subject Rankings 2026.
Our graduates become exhibiting artists, award-winning designers, pioneering architects and creative leaders, working in major studios, cultural institutions, and innovative start-ups around the world. With an international student community and a city known for creativity and culture, the GSA offers an inspiring place to develop your practice and your future.
Founded in 1845, The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) is one of the world’s leading specialist institutions for art, design and architecture education.Internationally recognised for its studio-based teaching model and research-led practice, the GSA has built a strong global reputation for creative excellence, critical inquiry and innovation across disciplines.
Our programmes combine hands-on studio work with theory, research and interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students to develop both creative and professional capability. This approach has positioned the GSA as a major contributor to the creative and cultural industries in the UK and internationally.
Our Creative Network of graduates go on to successful careers across the global creative economy. Alumni include internationally exhibiting artists, award-winning designers, leading architects, curators, filmmakers, digital innovators and creative entrepreneurs. Many establish their own studios and practices, while others work within global design firms, architecture practices, technology companies and cultural organisations, and are regularly recognised through major awards, exhibitions, commissions and industry leadership roles. The strength of our worldwide Creative Network provides opportunities for students and graduates alike and creates lasting creative connections across continents.
We welcome around 800 international students each year. Diversity of perspective and practice is central to our studio culture, creating a collaborative environment where different approaches and experiences actively shape learning.
Studying at the GSA is an immersive creative experience, with studio-based programmes across our four specialist schools: Fine Art, Design, Architecture, and Innovation &Technology. Explore our degree programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
The GSA is a specialist, studio-focused institution located in the centre of Glasgow — one of the UK’s most dynamic student cities. As a student here, the city becomes more than a place to live. It becomes your studio, your research environment, and your inspiration.
With over 80,000 students across five higher education institutions, Glasgow is consistently ranked among the UK’s best student cities. It is known for its cultural energy, creative industries, music, architecture, and welcoming atmosphere and international students quickly discover that Glasgow offers both opportunity and warmth in equal measure.
Meanwhile our rural Highlands & Islands campus, near the town of Forres, is a centre for research and postgraduate study, where dedicated staff deliver Masters and PhD programmes that engage with complex issues facing the region and beyond.
Students from outside the UK and Ireland who plan to study for more than six months will usually need a UK Student Visa. We provide guidance and support throughout the visa process, including issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Helpful resources:
CAS enquiries: admissions@gsa.ac.uk
Visa support: welfare@gsa.ac.uk
Have questions about studying at the GSA as an international student? Our International Team is here to help with questions about your application, entry requirements, visas, and preparation for study.
Contact us:
International Team enquiries: international@gsa.ac.uk
Join one of our events
Join the mailing list
The GSA works with a network of approved international education agents who can support you in choosing the right programme and preparing your application. All approved agents operate under our Agent Quality Framework.
View our full list of approved agents and learn more on the Agents page.
From Germany to Japan, the GSA has an extensive student and staff exchange programme extending to all corners of the world, including over 75 of the world’s leading art, design and architecture schools.
Every year, students from departments across the GSA study at our partner institutions and we welcome students from around the world in return.
.png)
