Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about studying at Richmond American University London, from applications and admissions to student life and beyond.
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FAQ Questions & Answers
Explore our frequently asked questions.
Future Students
Tell me more about Richmond American University
Richmond has been operating as an independent university since 1972. It was founded by British educator, Cyril Taylor.
It was first established as Richmond, The American International University in London, and has been granted authority to award taught degrees since 2018 by the UK Privy Council.
Richmond also has American accreditation with the Middle States Commission for Higher Education (MSCHE) which means that graduates receive two diplomas, one American, one British.
Where is the campus located?
How many students are at Richmond and where are they from?
Around 1000 students, including 100 Postgraduate students. 10% of our student body is from the UK, 30% from the US, and around 60% from all over the world including countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America.
Is the university accredited?
Yes, the university is dually accredited by the UK and the US
What does UK and US dual accreditation mean?
Richmond students earn two degree certificates – one UK degree and one US degree – because the University has UK degree‑awarding powers and US degree‑granting authority from the State of Delaware under accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Richmond was the first university to combine UK and US degree‑awarding powers in this way.
What undergraduate and postgraduate degrees do you teach?
Do you do any research at Richmond? What are the areas of expertise at the university?
Richmond is committed to encourage research, with our faculty possess a wide array of expertise, and engage in a wide array of research and professional engagement activities across the globe: from academic publications and conference presentations, to exhibitions, performances, active contributions to professional societies and bodies, to volunteering and public service.
Our Research Centres contain groups of faculty and staff conducting research and professional activities in cognate areas, both within and across existing schools and Departments, including these centres: The Centre for International Visual Arts and Cultures (IVAC), Richmond Gender in Sport Research Centre, and The State, Power and Globalisation (SPG)
What are applied Liberal Arts degrees and what makes them different?
The programme aims to combine the breadth of a liberal arts education with the practical skills necessary for today’s world. The applied liberal arts education aims to empower students to solve problems, adapt, and collaborate. It also prepares students to foster their responsibility as citizens with a value foundation in equality, equity and diversity. Our liberal arts curriculum, integrated into every undergraduate programme, provides a well-rounded education that complements your major, specialist subject, and optional minor.
Your main subject will be a ‘major’. Not sure which subject to take? No problem, you can choose your subject in the first year. All majors are supported by a wide range of electives or optional courses, giving you more choice. You can also choose to take a ‘minor’, an optional, additional subject which doesn’t need to be related to your major, but it could be a subject that you’re passionate about. Or it could give you a competitive edge when it comes to graduation.
What does Spring and Fall intake mean? When do programmes start?
We have two start times per year. Spring is January and Fall is September.
View the official academic calendar.
Where do international students come from to study at Richmond?
30% of Richmond’s student body is from the US, and around 60% of the student body is from all over the world, including countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America.
Can I study abroad at Richmond or come to Richmond as a visiting student?
Yes, you can study abroad/be a visiting student at Richmond for a summer or one or two semesters. Please find more information here.
How long can I study abroad for?
You can study with us for a summer, one semester (3 months) or two semesters (1 year). Please read more here.
Can I study abroad as a graduate/postgraduate student?
Yes, you can study abroad at Richmond as a visiting graduate/postgraduate student. Find out more here.
Will the credits I earn transfer back to my home institution?
Yes, if the credits are taken according to your academic plan, they will transfer back to your home institution.
Does Richmond have any study abroad partner universities?
Who are your study abroad partners?
Is housing included as a study abroad student at Richmond?
You will have to pay for housing/accommodation as a study abroad student at Richmond. More housing details can be found here.
Does Richmond have specific housing for study abroad students?
No, all of our students live in the same housing/accommodation. However, you are welcome to find private accommodation if that better suits you. More housing details can be found here.
Do you organise cultural visits/activities as part of the study abroad experience?
Yes, being based in a city as diverse and multicultural as London, cultural visits and activities are a big part of the education at Richmond.
Do you have an internship programme for study abroad students?
Yes, Richmond offers students the opportunity to take a for-credit internship during their time with us. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
What career support does Richmond provide for students?
The Careers & Internships office aims to facilitate a wide range of activities and resources in an efficient and effective manner, utilizing both personable face-to-face support as well as on online platforms. In addition, the Office shall build on the accessible, proactive and innovative reputation of the wider Student Affairs department. More information can be found at our Careers & Internships page. Alternatively, you can contact [email protected].
Does Richmond help students get internships?
Yes, we have a dedicated Careers & Internships Office that offers students assistance on their internship/job search, CV/ cover letter reviewing and help, 1-to-1 interview preparation sessions, support and advice. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
Does Richmond offer any short courses?
Yes, contact [email protected] to find out what short courses are currently scheduled as this can vary each semester.
How do I apply to Richmond?
There are three ways to apply: directly via the Richmond website, through UCAS, or via the Common App. The “How to Apply” pages explain each route separately for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
I don’t have UK qualifications. Can I still apply?
Yes, the University accepts a wide range of international school leaving qualifications – some of these are listed on the website. If English is not your first language, you will have to submit evidence of English Language Proficiency. We understand that not every student is in the same situation, if you have any questions about your qualifications and entry requirements, please get in touch with us at [email protected].
Where can I find the institution code for UCAS when applying to undergraduate programmes?
Our UCAS code is R20.
UCAS have assigned code for each of our undergraduate programmes at Richmond, and you'll find these on the programme page when searching on UCAS. Please note there are different codes depending on whether you are applying to Year 1 or Year 2 of the programme, which depends on the qualifications you have.
What should my CV/Resume include?
Your CV should show all professional and educational experience, as well as a brief explanation of any employment gaps. You will also need to include a bulleted list of all job duties and responsibilities undertaken within each role, regardless of the number of years that you have been working. Please also label qualification titles and levels accurately so they match the file names provided as supporting documents with the application.
Can a parent, family member or agent contact Richmond on my behalf?
A third party can contact Richmond or submit materials on your behalf, but under UK GDPR you must provide written consent before staff can discuss your application with anyone else.
I have applied for RIASA, and I have questions – who do I contact?
For Men’s London enquiries, please contact Heather at [email protected]
For Men’s Leeds enquiries, please contact Claire at [email protected]
For Women’s Leeds and London enquiries, please contact Sue Stead at [email protected]
You may also refer to the RIASA website for further information.
Does Richmond look at my weighted or unweighted GPA?
Richmond valuates both weighted and unweighted GPA for students with a US High School Diploma.
Do I need SAT or ACT scores to apply?
You are welcome to submit SAT/ACT test scores, but Richmond does not require the submission of these scores as a part of our application. If you would like to submit your scores, our SAT code is 0823 and our ACT code is 5244.
My documents are not in English. Will I need to get them translated?
Yes. If your documents are not in English, please also provide official English language translations for them to be considered for application. We recommend you use UKVI translation requirements for guidance when finding a translator. If your application includes any documents which are not in English or Welsh, you must also include a translation of each document. Each translation must contain:
confirmation from the translator / translation company that it is an accurate translation of the original document
the date of the translation
the full name and signature of the translator, or of an authorised official of the translation company
the contact details of the translator or translation company; and
(if you are already in the UK and are applying for further leave) certification by a qualified translator and details of the translator or translation company’s credentials.
My medium of instruction was previously in English. Do I still need to take English Language tests?
Yes, if your first language is not English, we will require evidence of English Language Proficiency. Please see details for acceptable tests here: English Language Tests
What if my English test score falls just below the minimum grade accepted for admission?
Any English language score below the minimum grade required and published on the website (UG - English language requirements, PG - English language requirements) will unfortunately not be accepted (eg. a score of 59 in one of PTE exam's modules for a postgraduate applicant). If you have not passed your test, please reschedule to take it again whenever possible and submit your results to our admissions department as soon as available. This is to ensure you may move forward to the next application stages and make it in time for your chosen academic intake.
Will my IELTS One Skill Retake results be accepted?
We do not currently accept the IELTS One Skill Retake, so you will need to take a standard IELTS Academic test and meet the full criteria on a single test.
Do you accept Duolingo tests?
No, we do not accept Duolingo tests. Please see the full list of English tests we can accept here: Undergraduate English Tests; Postgraduate English Tests.
When do you make decisions/give offers? Do you give Early Decisions?
Richmond uses a rolling admissions policy, meaning they give decisions and offers as soon as possible after receiving a completed application and all required documents.
I applied directly to the university but did not receive a confirmation email. What should I do?
Please email [email protected]. If you have not received confirmation of your application.
Can I withdraw my application or delay my start date?
For direct applicants and Common App applicants, you can withdraw your application by contacting [email protected].
For UCAS applicants, you can withdraw your application inside your UCAS Hub as long as you have not firmly accepted an unconditional offer.
You have the option of delaying or deferring your studies by contacting [email protected].
My contact details have changed since I submitted my application. How can I update my information?
Please email [email protected]. with your updated details
What does direct entry and preparatory semester entry mean on the Master of Science programmes?
The Preparatory Semester designed for students who need additional academic or English language support. Students on a Preparatory Semester will study with us for 4 semesters. Direct Entry is for students who meet IELTS requirements. These students will graduate after 3 semesters.
What is the difference between a conditional and an unconditional offer?
A conditional offer means you've been accepted onto a programme, but you need to meet certain conditions first — usually achieving specific grades or qualifications. An unconditional offer means you've been accepted with no further requirements to meet, so your place is secured regardless of upcoming results.
What does an insurance offer mean?
An insurance offer is when you put a university as your backup choice through UCAS — so if you don't meet the conditions of your first choice (your firm offer), your insurance offer kicks in as a safety net.
How do I accept my offer?
Please go to the UG Offer Holder Hub or the PG Offer Holder Hub on our website to accept your offer. The pages also list a checklist that offer holders will need to complete to get ready for enrolment.
How do I make payments to the university?
Please see here for details. Be sure to use the portal dedicated to your tuition currency (listed on your invoice). If you are invoiced in British Pounds (GBP) please pay in the same currency.
Do you have a CSS profile?
A CSS profile is used for an online application system managed by the US College Board, to determine eligibility for non-federal or institutional financial aid. No, Richmond does not have a CSS profile.
Are there any scholarships available? How do I apply for them?
Our scholarships are automatically awarded so you do not need to apply separately. They range depending on the programme you are applying for, your previous qualifications, and your nationality. For details, please see here for both undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships.
Are there any fully funded scholarships available for Richmond applicants?
Though our merit-based scholarships are attractive and intended to make it easier for applicants to afford studying at university, these aren’t fully funded. Applicants are expected to be able to cover the remainder of their tuition fees.
What is the difference between merit and need-based scholarships?
Merit-based scholarships are offered on the basis of the students’ academic qualifications. Details of Richmond’s merit-based scholarships can be found here: Scholarships
Need-based scholarships are awarded after assessing personal finances. Applications detailing personal finances need to be submitted to be considered for a need-based scholarship.
If I have been awarded a scholarship, will this be renewed each academic year?
Our scholarships are automatically renewed annually based on applicants’ academic achievement. Scholarship holders need to maintain good academic results throughout the duration of their studies at Richmond to retain the scholarship awarded at the time of application, as per the terms and conditions of the latter.
Can I use GI Bill funding for my studies?
Yes, we do have students who use GI Bill funding to cover their Richmond American University London expenses. Our Dean of Financial Aid would need to review your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to find out exactly how much of tuition could be covered. Please send a copy to [email protected].
Can I use FAFSA to fund my studies with Richmond American University London?
If eligible for FAFSA, students (both undergraduate and graduate) and parents (of dependent undergraduate students) can apply for FAFSA’s loan offerings. Please see our US Financial Aid webpage for information.
I am eligible for the Pell Grant - can I apply this grant towards tuition?
Richmond students are unable to utilize the Pell Grant, as this grant can only be used at institutions located within the United States.
Would I receive reimbursement in the case of a visa refusal?
In terms of the refund policy (click here for our full list), we can confirm that the tuition fees would be refunded to you in the case of a visa refusal.
Is there someone at the university I can talk to about immigration and visas?
Immigration rules change frequently and can be complicated. There may also be other issues you have questions about in relation to living and studying in London.
Our team of specialist and experienced student advisers can help you with guidance on all of these matters, please contact: [email protected]
Can I transfer credits from another university to Richmond?
Yes. After you submit an application, the Registry team conducts a Transfer Credit Evaluation (TCE) based on your high school and university transcripts. Undergraduate students must complete at least 45 US credits at Richmond (typically three semesters or 1.5 years) to earn a Richmond degree, and credits are only awarded for modules passed at grade C / 50% or above.
UNDERGRADUATE
The application process is the same as the normal process – see here for it. Once you submit an application, our Registry team complete a TCE (Transfer Credit Evaluation) to determine how many credits you can transfer to us. We would look to give you as many credits as possible – both from your High School Qualifications and your University classes. You need to study with us for a minimum of 45 US credits (normally 3 semesters/1.5 years) to get a Richmond degree. You can read more about credit transfer by clicking here – we can only give you credit for university courses at grade C, 50% or above.
POSTGRADUATE
The application process is the same as the normal process – see here for it. Once you submit an application, our Registry team complete a TCE (Transfer Credit Evaluation) to determine how many credits you can transfer to us. We would look to give you up to 12 US credits from your previous study at Level 7/Masters Level. You need to study with us for a minimum of 24 US credits (normally 2 semesters) to get a Richmond degree. You can read more about credit transfer by clicking here – we can only give you credit for university courses at grade C, 50% or above.
Postgraduate applicants may be able to transfer up to 12 US credits from previous Level 7/Master’s study. They must then complete at least 24 US credits at Richmond (typically two semesters) to receive a Richmond degree, subject to TCE approval.
Am I able to transfer into a specific year at Richmond?
As a US institution, applicants transfer individual credits, rather than transferring into a specific year as they would do when completing a standard UK degree (e.g., you won’t be able to join us on a top up degree giving you direct entry into the final year of your chosen degree programme). When you have submitted your final transcripts and your offer has been made unconditional, these transcripts are referred to our Registry Services department who will assess your transfer credit eligibility by undertaking a TCE (Transfer Credit Evaluation). This will confirm which previously completed credits are eligible for transfer, the number of classes you will need to complete as part of your Richmond degree and provide you with an estimated time of graduation.
Richmond assesses and transfers individual credits rather than placing students directly into a fixed year of study. Your TCE outcome will confirm which credits are accepted and your expected time to graduation rather than assigning you to a “final year” top‑up programme.
Where can I learn more about internships and career support?
Richmond has a dedicated internships and careers service within Student Affairs, supporting CV and cover‑letter review, job search strategy, employability skills, and access to internship opportunities. Full details are available on the internships webpage
What career services are available?
The Office of Careers and Internships provides personalised advice on CVs, cover letters, job searches, internships and wider employability skills for all students, including international students. Please contact them at: [email protected] and [email protected]
Can I work while studying at Richmond?
Work rights depend on your visa type. At the time of writing, students on a Student Route visa can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time, while students on a Standard Visitor visa are not permitted to work or volunteer. Applicants must always check the latest guidance on the UK Government website.
Where can I find my course code for UK student finance (SLC)?
Please find the codes listed here on our website. If you need further assistance please contact our Associate Dean, Financial Aid & Scholarships Jason Elliot at [email protected]
How do I make a payment?
You can find all information on how to pay us here on the website.
I am an international student; do I need a UK guarantor?
If you are living in Richmond housing, the university will act as your guarantor so you will not need an additional one. If you choose an alternative option, you will need a UK guarantor.
How do I get discounted travel in London and the UK?
Eligible students can purchase a national Railcard (such as a 16–25 Railcard or mature student equivalent) for reduced train fares and apply for a Student Oyster card for discounted tube travel. Applications can be made after registration and require Richmond to confirm enrolment to Transport for London.
When should I apply for loans?
It is advisable to apply as early as possible after receiving your offer from Richmond.
What financial support is available for current students?
Richmond’s Office of Financial Assistance is available to help students access a variety of funding programs including Scholarship (academic merit based) awards, Grant awards and Student Loans to assist students with meeting their fees and living expenses.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes, you are required to pay a booking fee of £250 to reserve your place. This is a damage deposit that will be returned upon move-out when we have confirmed there have been no damages to the room.
Are there any more deposits after this?
No, you will only pay the refundable £250 damage deposit.
Will there be staff on site?
We have residence life staff living at Stay Club with you, so if you have any issues with your flat, they will be your first point of contact. If there is a maintenance issue in the building, you can report these directly to the reception team or through a specified WhatsApp number we have created for all residents.
Can I have a service animal?
If you have a certified and licensed service animal, please speak to Stay Club directly before you sign your student accommodation contract to ensure they can be accommodated. If this is not possible, we have a list of alternative providers who may be able to help.
Is there any parking AT Stay Club North Acton?
No, The Stay Club North Acton does not have on-site parking. However, there are private parking options available to book on nearby streets via services like JustPark. It is best to reserve a spot in advance
What is the guest policy?
Yes, overnight guests are permitted, but residents are only allowed to host guests for a specified number of nights per month. Please refer to the Stay Club resident’s manual for more information.
Can overnight guests visit students in residence?
Overnight guests are allowed at Stay Club North Acton, subject to limits on the number of nights per month and adherence to the residence rules set out in the residents’ manual.
What happens if I need to break my housing contract?
If you cannot take up your housing offer due to a visa refusal and notify the University by the specified deadline, you may be entitled to a full refund. In other situations, you are normally expected to meet the financial terms of your housing agreement, and you should contact Student Affairs for advice.
Is smoking allowed in my room?
No, all accommodation is non-smoking. You may smoke outside in designated smoking areas. Please do not smoke anywhere near other residents’ windows as the unwelcome smoke can drift into their rooms
Can I sublet my room to someone else?
No, please don’t try. If you find yourself needing to move out for any reason, please contact our Student Affairs Team can advise you on next steps.
Where can I find out more specific information on the accommodation options to choose from?
Please find photos, exact location, pricing, and more details on the Accommodations page of our website.
How do I reach out for help with accommodation?
If none of your questions are answered here, please get touch with our Student Affairs Team: [email protected]
How do I access healthcare in the UK as a student?
Access depends on your visa. Students on a Student Route visa have NHS access via the immigration health surcharge. European visitors may use an EHIC card, while others should arrange private insurance. In emergencies you should call 999 or attend A&E; for routine care, you must register in advance with a local GP
What support is available if I have a disability or additional needs?
Richmond works with students who have physical or sensory impairments, medical or psychiatric conditions, or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia to personalise academic and extracurricular opportunities. The University aims to make reasonable adjustments so that students can fully participate and succeed
What mental health support is available?
Richmond offers free, confidential counselling services with up to six sessions per semester, in person or online, plus access to Nightline for out‑of‑hours support. The Student Affairs team provides broader wellbeing support and helps students access appropriate services.
What mental health support do you offer for students?
We are committed to supporting our students’ mental, emotional and physical health, and offer a wide range of easy-access services dedicated to their well-being.
Richmond American University London invests in positive mental health to support every student to achieve their potential.
Our Student Affairs team provide help and support to any students experiencing any mental health issues and to assist them in gaining the best student experience possible while at University.
Richmond American University London offers free, confidential counselling services to students, who all have access to six free sessions a semester with a university counsellor who is available both in-person and online. All Richmond American University London students can also phone Nightline, a confidential listening service, for after-hours mental health support.
I’ve got additional needs, what kind of support do you offer to students?
We will support any students with personal challenges to achieve their potential at Richmond.
Personal challenges could include a physical or sensory impairment, a medical or psychiatric condition or a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia. In all cases, we will explore how personalising a student’s academic and extracurricular opportunities will help them to succeed.
Richmond American University London endeavours to make all practical and reasonable adjustments to ensure students are able to fully participate in the University community.
Please email Student Affairs [email protected] and we’ll be happy to talk about what support would help you achieve your potential.
I am an alumni / I studied here and need my certificate and/or transcript.
You can view and download your unofficial transcript via your Self-Service account if you still have access to it. If you no longer have access to Self Service you will have to order your official transcript here as we are not authorised to send transcripts (official or unofficial) electronically.
Transcripts are mailed and will take 2-3 days for courier, or around 3-4 weeks for international standard orders. The replacement diploma can take up to 8 weeks to be sent to you.
How can I obtain my transcript or a replacement diploma?
Alumni with access to Self Service can view and download unofficial transcripts online. If access has lapsed, official transcripts must be ordered via this website: Request a Transcript. They are sent by courier or international mail. Replacement diplomas may take up to eight weeks to be processed and delivered.
Can I request a graduation or verification letter?
A virtual copy of a graduation or verification letter can be ordered through the Richmond store and is usually provided electronically.
You can request an official transcript and/or replacement diplomas here: Request a Transcript
What are open days?
Open Days are way to get a glimpse of what life at Richmond looks like. It is an excellent way to discover the unique opportunity to earn a UK/US dual degree at Richmond American University London. You will also meet our community and engage with our team of faculty and students who will share their experiences and answer any questions you might have about the degree programmes, student life, facilities and support services.
What happens at open days?
Our Open Days usually include arrival and welcome drinks, introduction to Richmond American University London, campus Tours, meet and chat with students and staff, and academic subject talks. You will also have the opportunity to mingle with staff and faculty to ask any questions you may have about academics and life at Richmond.
When is your next open day?
You can register for our in person open days here, and our virtual ones here.
You can register for our postgraduate webinars here.
I've booked to attend an event on campus. Do I need a print the ticket?
No, you do not need to print the ticket. You will be asked to sign in as a guest, so please ensure you have a smartphone with you.
What should I do if I didn't receive a confirmation email?
Please email [email protected] if you have not received a confirmation email.
Do my guests need tickets?
No, only a confirmation email is required to attend with a guest.
Is there parking on campus?
No, the Chiswick Park campus does not offer parking. However, it is connected to some excellent public transport. Gunnersbury station is the closest station to campus, connected by the District Line as well as London Overground. Chiswick Park is a short walk, connected by the District Line. The closest bus stops are served by a number of London buses.
What if I have access needs?
Please email [email protected] to make arrangements for access needs.
Do you offer campus tours?
Yes, we offer campus tours. Please book campus tours on our website. You can also email [email protected] with your availability. Please note that we do not work on weekends.
I’m not in the country. Do you have a virtual tour I can view?
Yes, you can view our virtual campus tour on our website.
What should I do if I need to change or cancel my booking for an event?
Please email [email protected] if you need to make changes to your bookings or cancel them.
I booked to attend an online event, but I did not receive a link to join. What should I do?
Get in touch with us, by email [email protected], and we will provide you with a link to join the online event/webinar. Please check you spam and junk folders.
How do I get to the Chiswick campus?
The Chiswick Park campus is connected to some excellent public transport. Gunnersbury station is the closest station to campus, connected by the District Line as well as London Overground. Chiswick Park is a short walk, connected by the District Line. The closest bus stops are served by a number of London buses.
Which buses and trains are best to take to Chiswick Park campus?
Gunnersbury station is the closest station to campus, connected by the District Line as well as London Overground. Chiswick Park is a short walk, connected by the District Line. The campus is also a short distance from the bus stops served by bus numbers 70, 110, 237, 267, 440, and H91.
Are there printing services on campus?
Students can print for free on campus using their unique uniFLOW code, provided to them via their student email during the first week of their first year at Richmond.
Is there anywhere I can charge my phone on campus?
Please ask at the front desk reception for a charger you can borrow to charge your phone.
Is parking available for me to attend events or to attend appointments with staff?
Please email [email protected] to discuss your needs.
I don’t feel well. Are there trained medical personnel on campus?
Yes, Richmond has first aid trained staff on campus at all times. If it is an emergency, please dial 999
I am visiting my friend or family at the university. Is there a hotel nearby?
Yes, there are plenty of options near Chiswick Park. Please contact: [email protected] for recommendations.
Is the university hiring? What jobs are available?
We have a number of students jobs that can be viewed here. For working professionals, please see current job vacancies here.
Who are Richmond’s official university partners?
Richmond has 48 Study Abroad partners – please see here for a full list.
Who does Richmond validate degrees for
Richmond validates degrees for a range of universities. Please see here for a full list.
