Welcome to Sotheby’s Institute of Art Study Abroad!
We are really looking forward to meeting you in London and hope the information provided helps you begin to plan for your time abroad. This page will be updated when new program information is available, so please check this page frequently.
This information relates to the Spring 2025 Study Abroad Program.
This page was last updated: September 12, 2024
Before the start of term, students are required to:
- Review our Student Handbook
- Complete the Program Forms provided by the Programme Team, including
- Housing Information Form (if residing in SIA accommodation)
- Program Form
- Registration Form (HESA information)
- Provide student ID photo
- Provide information in compliance with visa regulations, including a passport copy and UK entry information
Pre-Departure Orientation
Virtual Pre-Departure Orientations will take place:
- Tuesday, December 3 (10am PT / 12pm CST / 1pm EST / 6pm BST)
Admitted Students will receive a Zoom link from the Study Abroad Program Team in advance of their Pre-Departure Orientation date.
If you were unable to attend your virtual pre-departure orientation, a recorded version may be made available following the session.
Program Overview
With London as the backdrop, Study Abroad students will gain a deep understanding of the art world, its museums and collections, dealers and auction houses, public and commercial galleries. Combining a global perspective on contemporary visual culture with matchless access to industry experiences, students will be equipped with the intellectual and professional skills that will benefit them both in their future employment and complement their studies at their home institution.
Please note the below schedule is subject to change, and you will receive a confirmed academic schedule during your on-site orientation. You should not make any personal travel plans until you arrive in London.
Important Program Dates
- Program Dates: Tuesday, January 21 – Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Please note: students in SIA accommodation may remain in accommodation until 10am Sunday, December 15
- Program Start Date: Tuesday, January 21
- Students in SIA accommodation can plan to move into their residence on this day
- Students not residing in SIA accommodation should plan on arriving in London on or by this date
- Orientation: Wednesday, January 22 - Friday, January 24
- Classes Begin: Monday, January 27
- Reading Week: Monday, March 24 - Friday, March 28
- Classes End: Friday, May 2
- Program End Date: Sunday, May 4
- Students can depart London once their in-person courses are complete.
- Final assignments may be due after the final in-person class, up to and possibly including Sunday, May 4. Assignments are submitted on-line and can be submitted remotely as long as received by the local (UK) deadline.
- We recommend students consider packing and preparing to depart London whilst confirming their departure plans, thus the recommendation to remain in London through Sunday, May 4.
Covid 19 Health & Safety London Campus COVID-19 Health & Safety Resources
While Sotheby’s Institute of Art – London does not require students to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19, it is strongly encouraged. It is also important to note other European countries may have vaccination entry requirements, including being up to date on boosters. It is your responsibility to research and comply with the Covid-19 restrictions and vaccination requirements related to any personal travel.
There are currently no UK entry requirements related to Covid-19, vaccinations, or documentation. This includes no current requirements to test and/or self-isolate upon confirmation of a positive test.
Covid-19 tests are readily available at local chemists (pharmacies) such as Boots, Lloyds, and Superdrug.
Sotheby’s Institute of Art will communicate any updates to UK guidance with you, and the current policies and procedures related to Covid-19 will be shared during your on-site orientation. Please direct any questions or concerns related to this to studyabroad@sia.edu.
Arrivals & Departures
Students are advised to arrive in London no later than the Program Start Date: Tuesday, January 21.
Study Abroad students residing in SIA accommodation may move on Tuesday, January 21; check-in begins at 3pm where possible, SIA will arrange for an early check-in time if your flight arrives earlier. You are welcome to arrive in London earlier, but you will need to arrange independent accommodation as access to the residence is only permitted from the dates and times stated.
Your arrival day is open so you can familiarise yourself with the area, buy groceries and other necessities, and settle into your London home.
You should plan on checking out of your SIA housing by 10am on your program end date (Sunday, May 4). If you wish to remain in London after this date, you need to arrange independent accommodation as the Institute cannot facilitate housing extensions.
Students who have arranged independent accommodation / housing for the program should plan to move in on or before the program start date.
Please note there are no luggage storage facilities available within the SIA accommodation nor provided by SIA.
ARRIVING IN LONDON
Students will receive additional information related to the below approximately a month in advance of their program start date and during their Pre-Departure Orientation.
LONDON AIRPORTS
London is served by 3 major international airports, and information related to the arrivals and departures of each can be found on their website:
TRAVEL TO AND FROM LONDON AIRPORTS
London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and London City are well-connected to the city centre via public and private transportation. While most travellers arriving in London find it convenient to take a cab directly to their accommodation, you may wish to utilise a combination of travel to reduce costs or time spent in traffic. For example, travellers may take the Heathrow or Gatwick Express trains to Central London and then utilise the Underground or a cab to continue the journey.
- Heathrow Express
- Gatwick Express
- National Rail
- London Underground, busses, London cabs, and mini cabs (Transport for London)
ADDITIONAL AIRPORTS
There are several other airports in close proximity to London, although please note these are geographically further away from London, not as directly connected to the city centre, and/or not connected via public transport to the city centre outside of normal operating hours. If you book flights departing from or arriving to London Luton, London Stansted, London Southend, or other regional airports, you are advised to confirm transportation to and from the airport before booking your ticket.
EURAIL
Eurail trains arriving from the Continent (Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam) most often terminate at London St Pancras Station. This station is connected to Kings Cross Rail Station, which is serviced by trains heading to and from the North (including Scotland). Kings Cross / London St Pancras is also a major connection on the London Underground (Tube), serviced by the Piccadilly, Victoria, Circle, Northern (Eastern Branch), Metropolitan, and Hammersmith and City lines. The Transport for London (TfL) website contains maps, ticket prices, and timetables for travel onwards from Kings Cross / London St Pancras Station.
TRANSPORT FOR LONDON
Transport for London (TfL) operates London’s public transportation routes, including the Underground (Tube), Overground, buses, and trams. Its extensive website contains maps, timetables for services, updates on planned closures or delays to the service, and the fares related to travel throughout the network. The Journey Planner is a helpful tool for navigating the city, estimating the time of travel, and avoiding congested stations or network closures.
ENTERING THE UK
Upon arrival to the UK, all passengers must clear Border Control. The www.gov.uk website contains thorough information on how to enter the country and what documentation and paperwork you will need to have. You should review this information prior to travel to ensure you are complying with the law.
- E-Gates
Upon arriving in London, Border Control Officers or signage in the arrival hall may direct you to an e-gate. Many travellers, including those carrying US passports, can enter the UK via the e-gate. Please ensure you are following the signage in the arrival hall to correctly enter the country, and if you have any questions, speak with a Border Control officer. - VISAS
Depending on your country of origin, you may require a visa to participate in Study Abroad in London. Generally, the Standard Visitor visa may be the most appropriate visa to use to participate in the program; however, we strongly encourage international students to contact their country of origin’s embassy/government office to confirm. We also encourage international students to visit the UK Government Visa website for additional details. The Institute can provide letters of verification upon request. To request a verification letter, please email studyabroad@sia.edu.
If you have any questions regarding entering the UK on a visa, please contact Sotheby’s Institute of Art’s Compliance Team at visa.compliance@sothebysinstitute.com.
Please note all students are required to complete a “Right to Study” form and check with the Compliance Team prior to entry to the UK.
Student Life
Accommodation
If possible, SIAL may secure accommodation for their study abroad program to assist students in finding housing for the duration of their program. This is an optional service provided alongside the academic program, although is not required.
Study Abroad students may request SIAL accommodation at the point of application, students who do so receive additional information regarding the residence and are asked to complete a Housing Information Form.
Students may arrange their own accommodations for their time in London; the Program Team can provide resources to assist with this but are unable to facilitate other housing options.
Meals
Students will be responsible for their own meals throughout the week. In the event a meal is provided by the program, SIAL will make every reasonable effort to meet the dietary requirements of students. Please ensure you notify SIAL of any food allergies and/or dietary requirements using the Program Form.
Meals and Packages
If you are staying in SIA accommodation, you can order items to be delivered for the beginning of your program. Please do not schedule any deliveries or mail to arrive before you check-in, as the residence may not have room to store your items until you arrive. Mail or packages that arrive before you do may be returned to sender, and you are responsible for any costs associated with the return.
Students who have arranged independent accommodation are advised to consult their booking agent, landlord, or host to confirm any processes or procedures regarding mail and package delivery.
Health Care
In the UK there is a service called the National Health Service (NHS) that provides healthcare for all UK citizens based on their need for healthcare rather than their ability to pay for it. As a visitor to to the UK, you are entitled to a limited range of NHS treatments, such as emergency or routine care, but not dental services or complex treatment. You can attend A&E (Accident & Emergency) departments for emergency care and also Sexual Health clinics for free treatment. Sotheby’s Institute of Art maintains a relationship with local General Practitioner (GP) services, who often are available to see SIA students; however, there may be a fee involved in any visits or use of GP services. Further, if you are referred to specialist services or admitted to hospital as an in-patient, you may be charged a fee and this can be expensive.
Medical Insurance
If your course is less than six months, you are strongly advised to take out private medical insurance, as you will be liable for NHS charges for the treatment you receive in the UK except for in a medical emergency and this is limited.
Some countries have a reciprocal agreement with the UK which may entitle you to some free healthcare on the NHS, but you should seek advice from the health authorities in your home country about exactly what treatment will be covered.
Travel in London and the UK
Students will travel to locations within London using Transport for London (TfL) services.
Transport for London (TfL) and London Travel
Transport for London (TfL) operates London’s public transportation routes, including the Underground (Tube), Overground, buses, and trams. Its extensive website contains maps, timetables for services, updates on planned closures or delays to the service, and the fares related to travel throughout the network. The Journey Planner is a helpful tool for navigating the city, estimating the time of travel, and avoiding congested stations or network closures.
Oyster Travelcard
You will receive an Oyster Travelcard for the duration of your program; you will receive this during orientation, and it can be used for travel throughout the TfL network. Your Travelcard is valid for unlimited travel in Zones 1 – 2 on the Tube, and all bus routes; you can add “Top-Up” funds for any travel outside of Zone 2. You are responsible for keeping your Travelcard safe and secure, and SIA is not responsible for replacing the card should it be lost or stolen. Lost or stolen Travelcards can be replaced by reporting it to TfL, and you are responsible for the cost of any travel until your card is replaced.
Provisions
Sotheby’s Institute of Art welcomes requests for student provisions (academic, personal, or other) from students using the Program Form. We ask that students submit requests and other important information that may affect their experience in the Study Abroad Program Form as early as possible in order to provide us with sufficient time to make any necessary arrangements, and ensure that all students have a fulfilling, enjoyable and safe experience.
Packing List
The weather in London is unpredictable and variable – so the best packing plan is to pack layers!
You will have time on your arrival day and during orientation week to shop for food, toiletries, and other necessities. However, it is a good idea to pack items you may wish to have immediately to hand upon arrival, including a small towel, travel-size toiletries, travel adapters, and chargers.
Medication, devices such as your phone and computer, and other necessities should be packed within your carry-on luggage. You must always travel with your passport on you, and other important documentation such as prescriptions for medication you are traveling with and/or vaccination cards should also be kept in a safe space. Please consult your airline carrier’s policies for checked luggage / baggage for guidance on where batteries, chargers, and electronics / electrical items can be safely packed and transported.
It is important to remember you should be able to manage your luggage as you move within the airport, find transportation to / from the airport to your residence, and arrive at your housing. Some Tube stations do not have step-free access, and there can be quite a distance to walk within airports or train stations.
Suggested Packing List
- Clothing: layering clothing for varying weather, comfortable walking shoes
- Weather gear: raincoat or jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella
- Academic supplies: laptop, notebook or journal
- Personal electronics: smart phone, camera, alarm clock, headphones, etc.
- Personal items: toiletries, towels, reusable water bottle, reusable coffee cup
- Passport and copy of health insurance details
- Proof of Covid-19 vaccinations (if applicable)
- Prescription medication for the duration of your program (if applicable); please note some medications commonly prescribed in the US may not be readily available in the UK
*Students should bring clothing that is smart casual and appropriate for class site visits, including to offices and workspaces. Formal wear is not necessary, but students may wish to bring a few smarter pieces for personal use including evening meals, trips to the theatre and other venues, and for travel abroad.
What NOT to Bring:
- Students may not bring flammable materials, including but not limited to candles, incense, matches, lighters, explosive devices or fireworks. Items with an open flame (including candles) are not allowed in student housing, and violators of this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.
- Students are not allowed to bring weapons of any kind, including but not limited to firearms, knives, paintball guns, or other dangerous items. Please note pepper spray, Mace, and similar items are illegal in the UK. Violators of this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.
- Students are not allowed to use or possess drugs or unauthorized medications. Violators of this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.
- Students may not bring pets except for licensed service animals.
- Students may not bring kitchen appliances, such as toaster ovens or hot plates.
- Students may not bring drones or any other motorized objects.
- We recommend that students not bring any valuable items, or items of a sentimental nature that would be difficult or impossible to replace; SIA does not take responsibility for lost, damaged, or stolen items.
SMALL APPLIANCES & UK ADAPTORS
Due to the UK voltage being different than the US’s (and many other countries’), these items may “short out”, causing a fuse to trip or, more seriously, smoking or a fire. For your health and safety, it is recommended you purchase small electrical items and appliances in the UK.
Small electrical items (hairdryers, curlers or straighteners) can easily be bought at local shops like Boots the Chemist, Superdrug, and many grocery stores with a Homeware or Health and Beauty department. Kitchen appliances and similar items can be purchased at any store with a Homeware department, including M&S and Argos.
If you travel with larger electrical items (including a laptop), you should confirm if you additionally need a voltage convertor / converter; many larger items can convert voltage, but you should check with the manufacturer to avoid any damage being done to the appliance. There are Apple Stores in London, and stores like Currys can offer advice for other PCs.
The UK plug has 3 straight prongs, and therefore a plug adaptor is needed for any US and EU plugs. A universal adaptor is recommended, particularly if you plan to travel to other European countries during your program, and is easily purchased at any travel company, airport or train station, or from shops like Currys, PC World, the Post Office, and many corner shops. They are also readily available online, and many now include a USB port.
MOBILE PHONES
SIA recommends students have a functioning mobile phone, able to make and receive phone calls, texts, and access the internet, for the duration of their program. A UK phone number is recommended as many delivery services, hotels, venues, and other service providers require a local phone number when placing orders, making reservations, or booking tickets.
It is also important to note that while WiFi and internet access is readily available at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, SIA provided accommodation, and many local cafes, restaurants, and social venues, it is pragmatic for you to have access to the internet independent of WiFi. This may also be a consideration based on your plans to travel.
- International Plans
Your phone may have an international plan already, or you may be able to purchase an international plan with your current provider. It is recommended you contact your provider in advance of your program to investigate costs and options associated with travel and additional data. - SIMS
UK SIM cards are available for purchase and offer a variety of plan options, including Pay-As-You-Go, Monthly, and Annual plans. If you choose to purchase a UK SIM card to place in your current phone, you must ensure your phone is unlocked. You can order a SIM in advance of your arrival and have it delivered to your residence.Whilst Sotheby’s Institute of Art does not endorse any particular company or plan, previous students recommend Giff Gaff. Other UK providers include EE, 3 (Three), 02, and Vodaphone.
- Mobile Phones & Plans
You may decide to buy a phone for your time in London and purchase a short-term contract. Phone packages (mobile, data, SIM, etc.) are available from the major UK providers (EE, 3 (Three), 02, Vodaphone, Giff Gaff) as well as stores such as Carphone Warehouse, Tesco Mobile, Currys Phone, and ASDA. Many of these stores have local outlets in which you can compare device and plan options and speak with a member of their service team.
This is not an exhaustive list of options, and you should do research to ensure you are choosing the plan and provider that is best for you.
MEDICATION
If you take regular medication, you should discuss plans for your study abroad program with your attending / prescribing physician, doctor, therapist, or counsellor. You should arrange for a full supply of medication for the duration of your program, including any travel you plan to do before or after your study abroad program. If you are unable to be prescribed medication for the entire program, your doctor will be able to offer alternatives to ensure your health and wellbeing is maintained while abroad.
It is important to note that not all medication you are familiar with, or take, is readily available in the UK; this includes prescribed medications. Additionally, chemists (pharmacies) in the UK are unable to fulfil prescriptions written by a physician located outside of the UK.
In the event you run out of medication during your program, you must contact the Study Abroad Program Team immediately for advice and support.
If you travel with prescribed medication, you must always have documentation confirming you are prescribed that medication. All medication must be clearly labelled with your name, in the event you are questioned while going through security or Border Control.
Questions?
We look forward to providing you with a truly rewarding learning experience this summer. If you have any questions as the program approaches, please feel free to contact us at studyabroad@sia.edu.