International Students
At the Royal Northern College of Music, you’ll join a diverse and welcoming community of performers, composers, producers, researchers, and educators from across the globe.
As one of the world’s most progressive conservatoires, we’re proud to combine an international reputation for excellence with a supportive and inclusive environment where talented musicians from every background can thrive. Students choose the RNCM for its exceptional teaching, vibrant artistic community, and the opportunity to study in Manchester, one of the UK’s most creative and dynamic cities.
Ranked among the very best institutions in the QS World University Subject Rankings, we’ve received six Times Higher Education Awards, a Global Teaching Excellence Award, and three Queen’s Anniversary Prizes in recognition of the quality and innovation of our work.
What sets us apart is the way we connect exceptional teaching and research with real-world experience. Through an unrivalled network of professional partnerships, placements, and industry opportunities, we help our students build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed.
Applications
How to Apply
Applications for most RNCM programmes open in July and should be submitted using UCAS Conservatoires and Acceptd. Full details can be found on our How to Apply page.
Overseas Auditions and Agents
Overseas auditions are held in select locations throughout the year. They are conducted in English and replicate the audition process held at the RNCM. We have a number of official agents and ambassadors who can assist you with your application and audition if required. Full information can be found on our main Auditions page.
Using an Agent
If you’re thinking about studying at the RNCM, you may choose to seek support from one of our authorised education agents or counsellors to help with your application. Please visit our dedicated Using and Agent for full information, including contracted agents.
Qualification on Entry
To study at the RNCM, you’ll need to meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen programme. For undergraduate programmes, we generally accept secondary school qualifications that provide access to university-level study in your country. For most postgraduate programmes, you’ll typically need a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification). The qualifications listed on our Qualifications on Entry page provide guidance on the standards we commonly accept, but they are not exhaustive.
English Language Requirements
Applicants to the RNCM must demonstrate that their English language proficiency meets the entry requirements for their chosen programme. If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, you will need to provide evidence of your English language ability. Learn more on our English Language Requirements page.
Visas and Immigration
If you’re offered a place to study with us, there’s lots of things to consider before you arrive in Manchester. Our Admissions team will be in touch in May regarding visa and immigration applications and will support and guide you as we move towards September. Learn more via our Visas and Immigration advice page.
Fees and Funding
The RNCM follows government policy on whether to admit a student as Home or International for fee purposes. If you don’t quality for Home status, you’ll be enrolled as an International student. Full fee information can be found on our Tuition Fees page.
International students who require a Student Visa must provide proof of sufficient cash funds to pay fees and support living costs. More information about this, including country-specific support, can be found on our International Funding page.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We provide over £3 million in financial support via student scholarships and bursaries each year. From Scholarship Awards to the RNCM Humanitarian Fund, the support we provide helps talented students from a wide range of backgrounds access and thrive during their studies.
More about us…
Student Spotlight
Emily Levy | Saxophone
‘Being a student at the RNCM allows you to have some of the most amazing experiences and opportunities as a musician. The best part is that if you apply on the ‘classical’ course it doesn’t stop you from getting involved in multiple different genres. RNCM is the place to be for opportunities, inclusivity and community.’
Student Spotlight
Isabel Street | Oboe
‘Chamber music has been a journey of such fun and growth for my reed quintet. From being placed in a group together at the start of year 1, we’ve had a year of rehearsals, coaching, competitions and gigs. RNCM also accepted us onto the externals list which means we get approached for various concerts and gigs in the area. Playing as a chamber group has helped each of us grow in our own playing and confidence as musicians, as well as gaining some great friends.’
