Direct answer
Applicants who are not graduates or whose degree is in an unrelated field may also be considered if they have relevant experience and can demonstrate the ability to work at postgraduate level. For international applicants whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 is required. The international full-time tuition fee for the 2026/27 academic year is £23,000.
Entry requirements for Chinese applicants
Degree classification
The programme page specifies that you should have, or expect to be awarded, an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard in a relevant or related subject. Goldsmiths accepts a wide range of international qualifications, and the page directs applicants to a separate list of accepted qualifications from around the world. The page does not provide a specific equivalency for Chinese degree classifications. To confirm the exact Chinese qualification equivalency for a UK 2:2, you must check the live international qualifications list on the Goldsmiths website.
Non-standard entry
If you are not a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, you might still be considered. The page states that you must have relevant experience and show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level.
English language requirement
If English is not your first language, you need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0. The page also accepts equivalent English language qualifications, and a link is provided to check which alternative qualifications are accepted. If you need assistance with your English language, Goldsmiths offers a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study.
Programme structure and assessment
This is a theory-led MA, not a film-making course. You will study two compulsory modules: Archaeology of the Moving Image (30 credits) and Experimental Media (30 credits). You will also complete a dissertation worth 60 credits, which can be a 10-12,000 word written submission or a hybrid submission of 6-8,000 words plus video work of approximately 8 minutes. The page notes that production values are not the focus of any video submission; the interest is in what you do with an idea.
You will also choose 60 credits of optional modules from a list that includes Strategies of World Cinema, Film Craft Fundamentals, Immersive & Generative Arts, Activist Film & Social Change, and others. The page states that the module list is indicative and not a definitive list of what might be available in any given year; module content and availability is subject to change.
Assessment is primarily through coursework essays and written projects. Practical modules may require audiovisual elements to be submitted.
Fees and funding
For students starting in the 2026/27 academic year, the international full-time tuition fee is £23,000. The page notes that it is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while on another visa type, you are directed to contact the Admissions Team for more information.
You can explore funding opportunities through the Goldsmiths scholarships finder. The page also advises that if you are applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.
How to apply
You apply directly to Goldsmiths using the online application system. Before submitting your application, you will need to have details of your academic qualifications, the email address of your referee or a copy of your academic reference, copies of your educational transcripts or certificates, and a personal statement. The personal statement must demonstrate an awareness of the historical and contemporary significance of screen-based media and a willingness to accept the challenge of interdisciplinary study.
Applications are accepted from October for students wanting to start the following September. The page encourages you to complete your application as early as possible, even if you have not finished your current programme of study. Late applications will only be considered if spaces remain available.
Selection process
Admission to many programmes is by interview, unless you live outside the UK. The page states that occasionally, candidates are made an offer of a place on the basis of their application and qualifications alone.
What the official page does not confirm
The page does not provide a country-specific equivalency for Chinese undergraduate degrees. It refers to a separate international qualifications page for this information. The page also does not state the application deadline date, only that applications open in October and that late applications depend on space availability. Any specific deadline for funding applications is not listed on this page and requires a live recheck.
FAQ
What is the minimum UK degree classification required for this MA?
You should have, or expect to be awarded, an undergraduate degree of at least 2:2 standard in a relevant or related subject.
Can I apply if my degree is in an unrelated field?
You might be considered if you are not a graduate or your degree is in an unrelated field, provided you have relevant experience and can show that you have the ability to work at postgraduate level.
What is the IELTS requirement for this programme?
You need an IELTS score of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0. Equivalent English language qualifications are also accepted.
Is this a film-making course?
No. The page explicitly states that this is not a film-making course. It is a theory-led MA, though you can choose to include video work as part of your dissertation submission.
Can international students study this programme part-time?
The page states that it is not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you hold another visa type, you should contact the Admissions Team for more information.
What is the international tuition fee for 2026/27?
The international full-time tuition fee is £23,000 for the 2026/27 academic year.
Further reading
Official sources
- MA Film & Screen Studies – Goldsmiths, University of London
- International qualifications accepted by Goldsmiths (linked from the entry requirements section)
- Equivalent English language qualifications (linked from the entry requirements section)
- Postgraduate fees guidance (linked from the fees and funding section)