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London Direct Enrollment - City, University of London
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. That is why we partnered with City, University of London (City).
You must meet the requisite minimum number of credits as stipulated for City University.
You also have to meet City University’s specific requirements, including the requisite minimum GPA (3.0 on a 4.0 scale), relevant prerequisites for your study track, and junior or senior standing. You should select courses in your major or minor and be prepared to provide documentation of relevant prior coursework.
City, University of London
City, University of London (City) gained its charter in 1966 (formerly Northampton Polytechnic, est. 1894) and joined the Univerisity of London in 2016. City has approximately 19,000 students from more than 160 countries with more than 50% of the students come from outside the UK. Graduate students account for about half of the student body. The Business School is AACSB- and EQUIS-accredited.
Location
City derives its name from its location. The area of London known as “the City” was, in the Medieval Age, the extent of London. Today, the City geographically represents only a small portion of greater London, yet its name is synonymous with the financial heart of Britain. With a resident population of about 10,000, but a daily working population of about 350,000, the economic significance of the City cannot be underestimated.
Courses
You are encouraged to enroll in one 3000-level course, two 2000-level courses, and in one 1000-level course. Typically, you will need 2-3 classes in a specific subject area in order to enroll in a 2000-level class, and 4-5 in order to enroll in a 3000-level class.
For full course listings, visit City University's Academic Programme site.
City offers IES Abroad students opportunities in:
- Actuarial Science
- Business
- Computer Science*
- Criminology
- Economics
- Finance & Management
- Journalism**
- Languages
- Law
- Mathematics*
- Music
- Politics
- Psychology***
- Sociology
*Available only to Spring semester and Academic Year students. Students enrolled in these courses must stay to take finals in May/June, if applicable.
**Students who wish to take Journalism courses must have already taken a least 1-2 Journalism course(s). Please also note that course selections in the Fall semester are more limited than those in the Spring.
***Courses are only available at upper levels that are more suitable for students majoring or minoring in Psychology.
Advising & Support
In a direct enrollment program, you are enrolled as a full-time student at one of our international partner institutions. Even though your local host institution is where you’ll take your classes, we’re still here to fully support you.
Advising
Choosing and directly enrolling in courses abroad can be confusing and overwhelming—we offer you predeparture advising that’s specific to you. Our goal is to provide support and guidance throughout your application and enrollment process.
On-Site Staff
As an IES Abroad student directly enrolled at a local British university, you have access to the IES Abroad London Center and staff who are specifically dedicated to your needs. Our on-site staff work with you and your local institution to answer any questions about academic requirements, housing, or well-being and safety.
Support
Our support services for direct enrollment students are designed to help you achieve your study abroad goals. We know studying abroad is an adventure, and, at times, you may need help or just someone to talk to—that’s why our staff is here for you.
Field Trips & Events
Even though your adventure starts in London, our field trips take you outside the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country and beyond. These trips are partially subsidized by IES Abroad.
Bath & Stonehenge
2 days | Fall & Spring
Visit mysterious Stonehenge and the ancient Roman baths in Bath. Marvel at the collection of world-class couture at the Fashion Museum and explore the Jane Austen Centre.
Brighton
1 day | Fall & Spring
Explore the historic maze of twisting alleyways and enjoy a visit to the Royal Pavilion, one of Europe’s most exotic palaces.
Cambridge
1 day | Fall & Spring
Visit this historic university town, with its picturesque colleges and punt in a gondola on the river.
Liverpool
1 day | Fall & Spring
Spend a Saturday experiencing Liverpool. Enjoy a guided tour around the city, including a visit to the Beatles Museum.
Stratford-Upon-Avon
1 day | Fall & Spring
Visit Shakespeare’s house, which was the place of his birth, and Holy Trinity Church, where he is buried.
IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and length of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Daily Life
Part of making you feel at home in London is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it is an orientation program that makes you feel prepared, housing that is well-located and comfortable, or field trips that take you off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
IES Abroad Orientation
Your program begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Upon arrival in London, you participate in an introductory orientation with the IES Abroad London staff. Designed specifically for direct enrollment students, our orientation program introduces you to your direct enrollment program, your fellow students, and to London.
University Orientation
You also attend City’s orientation, which acquaints you with the logistics of student life at the university.
Housing
As part of our direct enrollment services, we offer well-located, comfortable housing for all students because securing housing independently can be challenging. Our housing options reflect the local student culture and meet our safety and security standards.
Residence Hall in Central London – While you’re studying at City, you live in a student apartment located in central London. You and another IES Abroad student will share a room, and will have access to a shared bathroom and common kitchen space. No meals are included. There are laundry facilities and WiFi access throughout the building, and you will have access to a fitness facility.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Take advantage of the cultural events we organize in London, such as:
- Organized walks and activities introducing various London neighborhoods
- Outings to London’s diverse markets
- World-class performances at London’s many entertainment venues
University Clubs & Events
While you’re in London, getting involved in a social or sports club is a great way to meet local students. City’s student union is home to more than 40 clubs and societies, the university magazine, and a range of student services including the Student Centre, which provides confidential advising on financial, housing, and legal issues. City students may also take advantage of CitySport, which offers fitness opportunities, including team sports, free weights, and martial arts.
Get to Know Your New City
Explore Neighborhoods
The best way to get a feel for this culturally-vibrant metropolis is to visit some of its 48 distinct neighborhoods.
Walk Along the Thames
Snap an obligatory photo from the Westminster Bridge as you begin your stroll along the Southbank.
Tour the Tower of London
Set along the River Thames, this imposing castle has been a part of the London skyline since 1078.
Unwind in Parks & Gardens
From small garden squares to sprawling grounds with herds of deer, you are always close to a green space in London. Whenever you need a break from the craziness of the city, relax and recharge in one of the city’s many parks.
Take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter
Make the short trek to Leavesden to pay homage to J.K. Rowling and discover the magic of all things Harry Potter.
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Scholarships & Aid
Featured Scholarships
Robert McNeill Need-Based International Business Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of Robert McNeill, member of the IES Abroad Board of Directors for 25 years (6 years as Chairman). Open to students who have an interest in international business. Majors might include management, marketing, economics, finance, international relations, and social and behavioral sciences.
Dr. William Louis Gaines Need-Based History or International Relations Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of Dr. William Louis Gaines, President of IES Abroad from 1974-1992. Dr. Gaines was dedicated to strengthening IES Abroad's academic framework, broadening the scope of IES Abroad locations, and securing the financial foundation of the organization.
Open to students majoring in History or International Relations.
Edward Mowatt Endowed Scholarship
These scholarships are for students on IES Abroad London semester and year programs.
Study Abroad Scholarship for Future Engineers
The Study Abroad Scholarship for Future Engineers was established by an anonymous donor to encourage more engineering students to have the enriching, life changing experience of study abroad.
Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Our Center
The IES Abroad London Center is an 18th-century Georgian building located in thecentral London neighborhood of Bloomsbury and a two-minute walk from the British Museum.
Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad.
- Take your IES Abroad courses in the Center’s classrooms
- Meet with staff in their offices
- Study in the library
- Bring your lunch to eat on the outdoor patio
- Meet up with friends in the student lounge
- Other features include: WiFi, printing facilities, and gender-neutral bathrooms.
The IES Abroad London Center is recognized by The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) for meeting or exceeding UK expectations as a quality higher education provider. Learn more about our recent QAA reports.
Our Staff
John Ockey
Center Director
John brings over 15 years of experience with IES Abroad, including seven years with IES Abroad Milan and nearly three years with IES Abroad Siena before coming to IES Abroad London. Here, he oversees all programs in London and Oxford. During his time in Siena, John developed and implemented a banner program with a strong focus on cultural immersion and academic rigor. In Milan, he played a key role in improving and developing the Milan program, notably in the areas of student housing, student activities, orientation, and supervision of the student services staff. Prior to working for IES Abroad, John received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in Italian Literature and Art History from Brigham Young University and worked in Geneva for the United Nations.
IES Abroad London Staff
Zosia Rutkowska
Assistant Director and Head of Customised Programmes
Martin Hannan
Head of Operations
Rohima Ahmed
Academic Coordinator
Beth Lehlbach
Internships Manager
Nicoletta Pazzaglia
Student Affairs & Wellness Manager
Health & Safety
With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.
How We Support You
We plan for "what if" so that you don't have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:
- International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
- 24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
- Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
- TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
- A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
- Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
- And more!
Health & Safety Resources
You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.
Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:
- IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
- Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
- IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
- And more!
Fall 2021
We all know that Fall 2021 is going to look a bit different from other study abroad terms, but that doesn’t mean it still won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!
We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live and learn abroad (and have some fun along the way!). Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Fall 2021 Health & Safety page.
Academics
Know that you’ll be learning from the best of the best this fall. On our London Direct Enrollment - City, University of London program, you’ll take courses at City, University of London (City). Courses at City may be a hybrid of online and in person presentations. Explore all the course options from City on the “Academics” tab.
Health & Safety Protocols
We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. So, to enhance effective social/physical distancing, IES Abroad is taking proactive measures in the classroom, including:
- limiting class enrollment sizes
- adjusting space layout and room choice
- and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Learn more about our health and safety measures for Fall 2021.
Housing
You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable residence hall where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms. At this time, homestays will not be offered through IES Abroad programs this fall. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Fall 2021.
Field Trips
Across all IES Abroad programs, field trips will stay local and regional this fall. Your fields trips will all take place in the United Kingdom, which means you’ll get fully immersed in the culture(s) you came for! Possible trips include:
- Rye and Hastings - Meander through these beautiful and historic seaside towns.
- Canterbury and Dover - Explore the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and walk to the famous White Cliffs.
- Cambridge - Discover this famous university city with a tour of Kings College and a chance to go punting along the 'Backs'.
- Brighton - Visit the famous pavilion and enjoy a tour of this wonderful seaside resort.
- Stonehenge - Tour perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument.
- Stratford-upon-Avon - Travel to the home of Shakespeare!
Our Center
Our Center in London is your go-to spot for student services and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.
Cost
Cost details for Fall 2021 can be found on the Cost tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost breakdown PDF. Consider those prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Fall 2021: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.
And thanks to our Fall 2021 Refund Policy, there’s no commitment just yet. What’s more, once you start an application, you’ll be in the loop and hear directly from us if any changes are made to your program.
Spring 2022
Looking ahead to Spring 2022, there will likely be some aspects of the pandemic that we are still navigating—and that’s okay! Program details may need to pivot as conditions shift, but throughout that experience our commitment to do right by you will guide the way. While it might look different from other study abroad terms, that doesn’t mean Spring 2022 won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!
We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live, learn, and have some fun abroad. Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Spring 2022 Health & Safety page.
Academics & Partner Universities
Know that you’ll be learning from the best of the best this spring. On our London Direct Enrollment - City, University of London program, you’ll take courses at City, University of London (City). Explore some of the options you may be able to choose from on the “Academics” tab.
Health & Safety Protocols
Starting this spring, IES Abroad will require that students participating in our study abroad programs and in-person internship programs abroad be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to the start of their program. Read more in our Vaccine Policy.
We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. IES Abroad is taking proactive measures based on the local health and safety guidelines of your study abroad location. As more information for London becomes available, we will provide updates here and in your predeparture guide, which you’ll gain access to after applying. In the meantime, review safety measures we have taken with students this fall, some of which may extend into your experience.
- limiting class enrollment sizes
- adjusting space layout and room choice
- and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Many countries are requiring proof of vaccination to access public and private spaces, such as restaurants, libraries, museums, festivals, sporting events, and other indoor spaces or gatherings of people. In some cases, students will be required to obtain a “Green Pass” or other health pass as official proof of vaccination, which is required upon entry to many locations. We will provide more information about your host country’s entry and green pass requirements prior to your departure through the Predeparture Information and virtual orientation sessions.
We know stepping into the unknown is part of your study abroad experience but know that you’re never alone and we’ll always have your back.
Housing
You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable residence hall* or apartment* where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms as needed. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Spring 2022.
*Additional fee may apply. See the Cost tab for more information.
Field Trips
So much of the study abroad learning experience happens outside of the classroom. Our field trips and course-related excursions help you explore the ins and outs of your city and local region, adding real-life context to what you’ve read about in textbooks for years. Possible trips include:
- Rye and Hastings - Meander through these beautiful and historic seaside towns.
- Canterbury and Dover - Explore the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, and walk to the famous White Cliffs.
- Cambridge - Discover this famous university city with a tour of Kings College and a chance to go punting along the 'Backs'.
- Brighton - Visit the famous pavilion and enjoy a tour of this wonderful seaside resort.
- Stonehenge - Tour perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument.
- Stratford-upon-Avon - Travel to the home of Shakespeare!
Our Center
Our Center in London is your go-to spot for classes, student services, and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.
Cost
Cost details for Spring 2022 can be found on the “Cost” tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost-breakdown PDF. Consider those prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other considerations.
Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Spring 2022: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.
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