What is Escape Studios? 

Escape Studios is one of the UK’s leading animation, games and VFX schools, supplying the industry with studio-ready talent.  We deliver undergraduate and postgraduate degrees plus a range of professional courses that are designed and delivered with industry experts. While we hold strong industry connections and our students often work on professional projects, Escape Studios is not a production studio.  

Who awards my degree? 

Escape Studios has a validation agreement with Coventry University. This means that our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are awarded through Coventry University. Coventry University’s validation, combined with our industry-approved content ensures our qualifications are rigorous and internationally recognised.  

No Escape Studios teaching takes place at Coventry University or in Coventry. All on campus classes and the graduation ceremony are run by Escape Studios in London. 

What are the campus opening hours? 

The studios are typically open from 8:00am to 10:00pm on weekdays and from 10:00am to 6:00pm on Saturdays. However, opening hours may vary depending on events or holidays, so we recommend checking with our reception team for the latest updates. Please note that studio tours need to be booked in advance via the website.  

Is there parking on campus? 

Escape Studios does not have dedicated parking facilities. However, there are public parking options available nearby, including The O2 car parks or North Greenwich Station Car Park.  We encourage visitors to use public transport where possible with the nearest tube station being North Greenwich (5-minute walk).  

Do you host open days?  

We regularly host open days where you can tour our studios, meet tutors and learn more about our courses. We also host taster days which are a great opportunity to experience what it’s like to be a student at Escape Studios. 

I'm a parent/prospective student and I want to talk to a tutor who teaches the course. Can you arrange a call for us?  

Absolutely! We’d be happy to arrange a call with one of our tutors to answer your questions and provide insights into the course (subject to tutor availability). Please contact us to schedule a convenient time. 

Is my course online or on campus? 

Escape Studios offers both on campus and online courses. However, please note that our undergraduate courses are on campus only. Postgraduate and short courses are available either on campus or live online. Evening online courses are online only. Please check the individual course pages for more details. 

What are the term dates? 

Term dates vary depending on the course you’re enrolled in. For undergraduate and postgraduate courses, term dates align with the academic calendar and are shared at the start of the year. Short and evening online courses have flexible start dates throughout the year. 

What software will I be using? 

You will use industry standard software relevant to your discipline, such as Autodesk Maya, Houdini, Unreal Engine, Adobe Creative Suite and Nuke. You can find more information on the software you will be taught on each course page on the website.  

Does Escape Studios offer work experience?  

At Escape Studios, we are passionate about helping our students to build their network of industry connections, skills and experience from day one, to help open the doors to their dream career. While studying at Escape Studios, students have access to unique events, workshops, resources and tailored guidance to build their employability in the creative industries. We can help you identify the best scheme for internships and advise you along the application process. 

I have no background in my subject of choice, will I be able to follow? 

Our undergraduate courses are designed to accommodate learners of all levels, including beginners. We start with the fundamentals and build your skills progressively. For our postgraduate courses, we do expect some existing knowledge on the topic you are about to study. If you’re unsure, we recommend exploring our short courses or evening online courses to get started. For more details, we have entry requirements listed on the individual course pages.  

What is Live Online study? 

When you apply to study a postgraduate or short course at Escape Studios, for most courses, you are presented with two options: On campus or live online. Live Online is a live stream of the class, you will be required to attend timetabled sessions but can do so from any location. Live online classes allow for real-time interactions as the class is being taught. Undergraduate degrees are taught on campus only.  

If I choose to study  ‘Live Online’, do I get the same access to on campus/face to face events as campus student? 

Online students do not have access to the campus and if you want to study in our London Studios it's best to choose the campus study option. Live online students have access to many of the same events as on campus students, including industry talks and networking opportunities. Some events may be exclusive to on campus students due to location or resources, but we ensure online students are included wherever possible. 

Can I attend the graduation ceremony as a live online student? 

Yes, live online students are welcome to attend the graduation ceremony. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate your achievements, meet your tutors and course mates, and be part of the Escape Studios community. If attending in person isn’t possible, we may also offer virtual options for you to join the celebrations. Please contact our Student Services Team for more details. 

What is the employment rate for Escape Studios students? 

According to the Graduate Outcomes 2021/22 by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), an impressive 85% of full-time undergraduate students from Escape Studios who graduated in the 2021/22 academic year are now employed. Even more noteworthy, 82% of those employed are in highly skilled graduate-level positions.  

What can I expect from studying an integrated masters course?  

Our integrated masters option provides an extra year of modules, taking your degree from three years to four. This is designed for those who might want to one day start their own studio or work freelance. Additionally, if you’re funding your degree through Student Finance, all four years are covered by the tuition fee student loan.

How do I apply? 

You can apply to Escape Studios online for most courses. Undergraduate degree applications need to be submitted through UCAS. For short courses and live online, simply complete the application form on our website. If you have any questions, our Admissions Team is happy to assist.  

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

What is the difference between applying directly and through UCAS? 

Applying directly means submitting your application through our website, which is common for postgraduate and short courses. Applying through UCAS is typically required for undergraduate degree courses in the UK, allowing you to apply to multiple universities simultaneously. Both routes are valid, and our Admissions Team can guide you on the best approach for your situation.  

If you are applying to one of our undergraduate courses from outside the UK, you do not need to apply via UCAS but can apply directly.  

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

What are the entry requirements? 

Entry requirements vary by course.  

Undergraduate minimum academic requirements: 

GCSE English at grade 4/C or equivalent 

GCSE Maths at grade 4/C or equivalent (BSc/MSci courses only) 

Have or predicted a minimum of 80 UCAS points.  

Once we received your UCAS application, you’ll be invited to submit an online portfolio of your work. 

Postgraduate minimum academic requirements: 

• An undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject or significant industry experience 

• Applicants without a degree who have significant industry experience in a related subject will be considered 

• Suitable applicants will be asked to submit a creative portfolio. 

Short courses or evening online courses often have no formal requirements. Please check the specific course page for detailed requirements or contact our Admissions Team for guidance.  

All our courses are taught in English. If your first language is not English, you may need to complete an English language test, such as a Pearson English language test (PTE Academic) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test, to demonstrate you have the language skills needed to complete your degree. 

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

Can I submit my UCAS application without a reference?  

It is possible to submit a UCAS application without a reference. If after submitting your application a reference is required, then our Admissions Team will be in contact directly to request one. 

How soon will I hear back about my application? 

On average, applicants will hear back within two weeks of applying. Some offers may take longer if we require more information to make a decision. You will be notified via email as soon as an update is available. All applicants receive login details to the applicant portal the same day of applying.  

Is it possible to change the course I applied for? 

Yes, you can request to change your course after applying. Contact our Admissions Team as soon as possible to discuss your options. Changes are subject to availability and meeting the entry requirements of the new course. In case you would like to change the course, your portfolio may need to be reassessed.  

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team: admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

Can I transfer from another university? 

If you are interested in transferring from an external undergraduate course to Escape Studios, we will need some information to check if your learning completed so far is the same as our degree. You will need to provide the following information from your current studies. 

• An academic transcript 

• Full programme overview 

• All modules studied so far and marks achieved 

• If you are an international student, further checks may be required. 

Can I withdraw my offer?  

Yes, you can withdraw your offer at any time before enrolling. If you’ve accepted through UCAS, you’ll need to follow the UCAS guidelines for withdrawing. For direct applications, simply inform our Admissions Team in writing.  

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

Do I need a portfolio? 

When you apply to one of our undergraduate or postgraduate courses, you’ll be asked to submit an online link to your portfolio of work for our tutors to review.  

We are happy to see almost any creative work in your portfolio, as long as it tells a story and is something you are proud of.  

We have Undergraduate and Postgraduate Portfolio Guides available to help you make the most out of your submission.  

Does Escape Studios offer scholarships or bursaries? 

Yes, Escape Studios offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with financial needs or exceptional talent. We encourage you to check our website for the latest details and eligibility criteria.  

How much does a course at Escape Studios cost? 

The costs of our courses depend on the type and duration of the course. Undergraduate degree courses are priced per year, while postgraduate courses have a total course fee. Short and evening online courses vary based on length and format. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, please visit the specific course page.  

When do I need to pay my tuition fees? 

Tuition fees are usually paid in instalments from enrolment and throughout each academic term. We encourage you to check our website for details on your tuition's fees.  

What are my payment options?  

We offer payment plan options for all courses, offering up to three payment instalments. Following an initial deposit at registration stage, your chosen payment plan will break down your remaining fees into instalments to be paid before the end of the course.  

What hardware does Escape Studios provide? 

The studios classrooms are kitted with high-end HP Z Workstation Desktop PCs and Eizo ColorEdge monitors which are extensively used in the creative industries. Where relevant, we also provide Wacom Intuos drawing tablets. You can learn more about the hardware Escape Studios provides on our website.  

Do I need a computer or laptop to study the course? 

Owning your own computer or laptop is not a study requirement, however, if you are considering building or buying your own workstation, our IT team have put together a hardware requirements guide.  

Do you have on campus accommodation? 

Escape Studios works with a range of recommended accommodation providers (the closest being a 10-minute walk from our studios), who have been used by existing Escape Studios students.  

For help and support, current students and offer holders can access University of London Housing Services for free.  

Does Escape Studios provide a space to practice my faith? 

Yes, Escape Studios provides a multi-faith room (Oasis) on the 10^th floor, next to The Hub. 

Is there a cafeteria on campus?  

While there is no cafeteria on campus, we do provide kitchens with fridges, microwaves and tea/coffee/hot chocolate facilities. We also have vending machines! 

There are lots of food options in our neighbourhood on the North Greenwich Peninsula, many of them offering student discounts too. 

Can I visit the campus before I start my course? 

The best way to check out our campus is at one of our open days or taster days. Here you can meet tutors and student ambassadors, attend talks and see demos of our equipment.  

If you cannot attend a large event, you can take a personal tour of our studios with an Applicant Advisor and get your questions answered. You are welcome to bring a guest with you for your studio tour. You can book a studio tour via our website.  

What support is available for students with a disability or special learning need? 

Escape Studios is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment. We offer a range of support for students with disabilities or special learning needs. Contact our Student Services Team early in your application process to discuss your needs and ensure appropriate support is in place. 

How can I access student support? 

You can access student support by contacting our dedicated student services team via email, phone or by visiting the team on-campus. Support is available for academic, personal and wellbeing needs.  

Get in touch with the team at studentservices@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

I'm a disabled student in a wheelchair. Can I get free parking near campus during my studies? 

The nearest parking is the O2 arena car parks and the North Greenwich station car parks. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer free parking to students with disabilities. For parking prices, please see the relevant websites. 

As a short course student, do I benefit fully from the Aftercare package e.g. face to face Escapee events, showreel clinics and studio access?   

Students who complete a short course have access to the aftercare package for a 12-month period following the completion of the course. You can find all details of what is included in the aftercare package on our website.  

What is the typical class size? 

Our class sizes are intentionally small to ensure personalised support and meaningful interactions with tutors and studio assistants. Our studio classrooms hold a capacity between 12 and 40 students. The majority of our undergraduate classrooms are 30-seaters, and the majority of postgraduate/short course classes have less than 18 students. 

Can I work alongside my studies? 

Yes, many of our students work part time while studying. We recommend a maximum of 15-20 hours per week for part time work if you are enrolled in a full time course.  

How much study is required outside of class times? 

For undergraduate students, per week, your overall workload will be approximately 40 hours. Each week, you will spend 15 hours in workshops and practical classes and 20-25 hours on self-study learning and working on your projects.  

For postgraduate students, you will spend around 30 hours per week studying in tutor-led sessions or practice supported by studio assistants. The Studio Project will take around 8 weeks, during which you will have around 15 hours of feedback sessions with your tutor. Finally, you will spend around 16 weeks on the Production Project, including around 30 hours of feedback sessions with your tutor.  

Is there a student union? 

Our Escape Studios Student Association (ESA) is run by our students, who manage student-led societies such as Skate Society, Rock Climbing Society, Anime Society, Tabletop Society, and many more. There are also regular social events such as game tournaments, seasonal parties or industry events. Learn more about what student life at Escape Studios looks like on our website.  

Do I need a visa to study at Escape Studios as international student? 

Whether you will need a visa to study at Escape Studios depends on your individual circumstances. You can use the government check list to find out if you require a visa upon your studies.  

Escape Studios holds an UKVI Student sponsor licence and we can sponsor international students to study in the UK. If you are an international student and you are coming to study in the UK for more than six months, you will require a Student Visa.  

If you are interested in taking short courses that are shorter than 6 months, you can study the course on a visitor visa.  

What is a CAS? 

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is an electronic document issued to sponsored students who need to make a Student Route visa application. Your CAS number, which is required on your visa application, will be found on the CAS statement that you receive from Escape Studios.  

Will Escape Studios help with my visa application? 

Yes, we provide free visa application support if you do not have an educational agent who helps with the visa application. Please do let us know if you require visa application supporting services, we will then provide you further details. 

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

Do I need to translate my qualifications when applying? 

Yes, if your qualification is not in English language, we would require the qualification to be officially translated and certified. Further information can be provided by the Admissions Team.  

To contact the Escape Studios Admissions Team, please email admissions@escapestudios.ac.uk. 

What English Language qualifications do I need to apply? 

Our courses are taught in English. If your first language is not English, you may need to complete an English language test, such as a Pearson English language test (PTE Academic) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test, to demonstrate you have the language skills needed to complete your degree. 

Visit our International Hub for more details. 

Can I remain in the UK to work following graduation? 

Depending on your course length, you will be given an extra two or four months on your student visa as a wrap-up period. Escape Studios graduates are not eligible to apply for post-study work visas.  

When should I apply for my visa? 

You can apply for your student visa three months before your course start date and Escape Studios can also provide you with a CAS three months before your course start date. We would encourage you to apply for your student visa as early as possible as it will give you sufficient time to arrange your visa application, accommodation and travel arrangement.   

Can I work in the UK whilst studying? 

Unfortunately, you are not permitted to work in the UK while studying at Escape Studios if your student visa is sponsored by Escape Studios.   

As a new provider we are currently working towards becoming a ‘Higher Education Provider with a Track Record of Compliance’ with UKVI. This is a requirement for all new sponsoring higher education institutions in the UK. Whilst we work towards earning full privileges there are some limitations that apply to those studying on a student visa.  

What documents do I need to make a student visa application? 

Application form: You can start your application via this link. You should download a copy of your online application for your own record.  

Application fee: You will need to pay a fee in your local currency. 

Immigration Health Surcharge: You will need to pay the immigration health surcharge fee as part of your application. You can calculate the surcharge fee using the calculator. 

Passport(s): You will need to provide your current/valid passport and any previous passports needed as part of the application.  

CAS statement: You will need a CAS from Escape Studios.  

Financial evidence: For information about what evidence you need to provide for your finances please see check the government website. If your documents are not in English you will need to supply an official verified translation.  

English language: You will be required to provide English language evidence which meets our entry requirements and criteria.   

TB screening: In some countries you must show that you have been screened for Tuberculosis (TB). Please check with your local visa centre to see if you need to obtain a certificate confirming you are free from TB before you apply for a visa. More information can be found on the UKVI website.  

Translation of documents:  

1) Confirmation that the translation is an accurate translation of the original document.  

2) The date of the translation.  

3) The full name and signature of the translator or of an authorised official of the translation company.  

4) The contact details of the translator or translation company.   

5) The translation must be verifiable by the Home Office  

Do I need a UK address for my visa application? 

No, you do not need a UK address to make your student visa application if you currently live abroad. However, if you are currently in the UK and make a visa application from the UK, you will need to provide a UK address.   

Can I stay in the UK after my visa has expired? 

No, you cannot stay in the UK after your visa has expired unless you are making a visa application under a different category.   

Will I be interviewed as part of my visa application?  

As part of the Student Visa application process, the UKVI may ask you to undertake a Credibility Interview so that they can assess that you are a genuine student and have considered all of your options before deciding to study in the UK. They will also be using the interview to check your ability to communicate in English. If you have any difficulty hearing the questions, please raise this during the interview.  Interviews will be carried out remotely via video link when you attend your visa appointment and will be conducted in English.  You will be speaking with a UKVI staff member based in the UK and the interview will normally last around 30 minutes.  A report of the interview will then be sent to the Caseworker that is assessing your application for this to be considered alongside your other supporting documents and application form.