Creative portfolios, interviews and auditions

Art, design and animation portfolios

A portfolio is an important part of your application for an art and design course. It is a collection of your work to give the tutors an idea of what you can do and assess if you are suitable for the course.

We've put together some helpful tips to make the most of your portfolio.

Portfolio guidance

For many of our creative courses, students will be asked to submit a portfolio as part of their application.

We recommend that you upload your portfolio as a single PDF. Alternatively, you can submit a Microsoft Word document or PowerPoint with a URL to view your portfolio on a separate platform – such as Instagram, Behance or your website. Each course will provide you with clear instructions.

What to include:

Select your work carefully and make sure that it is well organised and presented clearly.
Include 15-20 pieces of your best visual work, including college projects and independent work that showcase your skills and interests.
Highlight your creativity, and willingness to explore, focusing on process and experimentation over polished, finished pieces.
Try to showcase at least one piece that demonstrates a relevant skill or interest aligned with the course you are applying for.
Show a variety of techniques and media, this could be drawing, painting, photography, 3D pieces, modelmaking, collage, digital art, moving image, art, designs and mixed media. Refer to your programme page to get further information on this.

If you have moving image work to show you can:

Submit a Powerpoint or PDF with embedded or hyperlinked YouTube / Vimeo videos.
Submit a word document with a link to your website or blog. You could use Wix, Tumblr, Behance or Instagram.

Presenting your work:

If you have 3D work, then photograph it. But consider how you take the photo.
Present your work against a neutral background, avoid clutter, and allow plenty of space for each piece.
Keep text minimal with brief captions or titles for context, without overwhelming the visuals.
Ensure all images are clear and at a high resolution (250 dpi or above).
We are not necessarily looking for highly finished and polished results, but are more interested in seeing how you set about solving problems or handling new techniques. Experimental work is very welcome (even if the experiment hasn't entirely succeeded!) because it shows how you think creatively and take risks.

Please refer to the programme page for further information, including tutor contact information if you would like further guidance on your portfolio before submitting it.

What to expect at your interview and audition for music

Euan explains what happens at your interview and audition for a music course and why you don't need to worry. Hear his advice on how to make the most of this opportunity to meet your tutors and come to campus.

Entry onto this course requires an online or face-to-face interview.

The interview will start with a group welcome talk followed by one-to-one interviews. Details of your subject-specific interview will be emailed to you.

If you are an international student, you can submit a portfolio instead.

Your audition is a chance to show us what stage you're at in your musical development. You'll be asked to perform on your first-study instrument or voice. Choose a short (three minutes maximum) piece you've learned in advance and are comfortable performing.

You will be expected to be familiar with standard musical notation, and basic music theory and harmony. As a rough guide, you should aim to be at the Associated Board (ABRSM) Grade 5 level or similar.

We'll also invite you to talk briefly about a musical topic of your choice and ask about your musical interests and aspirations.