PROGRAM OVERVIEW
In partnership with Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), FIE is excited to offer a semester-long program that combines direct enrollment in QMUL courses with one of FIE’s signature British Life courses. This unique opportunity allows you to study alongside British, American, and international students in one of the UK’s top universities — all while living in the heart of London on FIE’s South Kensington campus. Queen Mary University of London a member of the prestigious Russell Group, representing 24 of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities. Ranked 14th in the world and 5th in the UK for research quality (The Times Higher, 2024), Queen Mary is home to academics at the forefront of breakthroughs in areas such as AI, cancer treatment, and low-carbon energy. With more than 32,000 students QMUL offers a truly global learning environment. Located in vibrant East London, the university provides the rare experience of a self-contained campus in one of the world’s most exciting cities, minutes from cultural landmarks and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
ELIGIBILITY
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Minimum standing: Freshman
- NOTE: Your GPA requirement may be different depending on your home institution requirements along with other prerequisites. Please contact your study abroad office to confirm the GPA requirement
- If you attend an FIE partner institution, contact your study abroad advisor on campus for any additional requirements
- If you do not attend one of our partner institutions,
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions or concerns
TERMS
- Fall Semester: 15+ weeks
- Spring Semester: 20+ weeks
Please visit our Program Dates page for the latest information on semester dates.
academics
Through our partnership with Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), FIE offers students a uniquely integrated academic and cultural experience in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. This model combines the strengths of a leading Russell Group university with FIE’s long-standing expertise in immersive, student-centered international education, offering both academic breadth and focused cultural engagement. Students split their studies between QMUL and FIE, allowing you to experience two complementary learning environments. While QMUL provides depth within traditional academic disciplines, FIE enhances this with experiential, place-based learning centered on British life and society. This dual structure allows students to engage deeply with UK academics while remaining supported through FIE’s holistic program framework.
At FIE’s South Kensington Study Centre, Foundation House, students enroll in one of FIE’s signature British Life courses which explore British culture, history, politics, and society through an interdisciplinary and experiential lens. Courses are taught by expert faculty and are closely connected to London itself, incorporating site visits, local engagement, and real-world context. This approach encourages students to critically examine British life while developing intercultural competence and global awareness. Visit the FIE Courses webpage to learn more about the Key Courses available
At Queen Mary University of London, students study within a globally respected research university known for academic excellence and international diversity. As Associate Students, FIE participants select three elective courses from QMUL’s extensive course catalogue of more than 800 undergraduate modules, with the flexibility to choose across multiple academic schools and disciplines. Click here for more details on course requirements and guidance. Students learn alongside peers from over 170 countries, benefiting from diverse perspectives and a truly global classroom. Based on QMUL’s fully campus-based university in London, students enjoy access to world-class libraries, academic resources, clubs, societies, and sports facilities, ensuring a comprehensive university experience both inside and outside the classroom.
Together, FIE and QMUL offer a best-of-both-worlds experience. Students gain access to a prestigious UK university and a vast selection of academic modules, while also benefiting from FIE’s dedicated student support, housing, and co- and extracurricular programming. Living at FIE’s South Kensington campus places students in the heart of London, with easy access to cultural landmarks, neighborhoods, and both academic sites. FIE’s comprehensive residence and student life support, including 24/7 emergency assistance, ensures students are well supported throughout their time abroad.
CREDIT AND TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION
- Queen Mary University of London - QMUL courses usually earns 15 ‘Queen Mary’ credits, which normally equates to 4 US credit hours. Therefore by undertaking 3 electives at QMUL you will be earning 12 US credit hours . Your transcript is issued by Queen Mary University of London
- FIE - Your chosen British Life course is worth 3 US credit hours for most institutions. Upon completion you will be issued an FIE grade report or, if preferred, a Drexel University transcript (additional fee applies)
Check with your study abroad office for credit transfer and course equivalencies.
housing
Living in FIE’s student residences you'll be located just a short walk from our Foundation House Study Center in the heart of the historic Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Upscale Kensington boasts world-renowned museums and shopping, as well as easy access to the rest of the city via the Gloucester Road tube station. All housing and study facilities are well-serviced by the 24-hour public transport system allowing you to optimize your study abroad experience by easily visiting and familiarizing yourself with all the city has to offer, from museums to clubs and cafes.
Student residential buildings in the Kensington area are mid to late 19th century converted townhouses. Housing is co-ed arranged in both apartment and floor styles. Most students will live in double, triple, and quad occupancy single gender, fully furnished bedrooms. Bathrooms are co-ed shared by residents of the assigned flats or floor. Common kitchens are equipped with cookware, silverware, and dishes. Students have access to app-operated laundry facilities. All residences feature common living areas where students can interact.
For more information including images and virtual tours, visit our London Student Housing webpage.
Student life
FIE’s Student Life team is here to help you make the most of your time studying abroad. We provide a comprehensive orientation program, organize activities outside of the classroom, offer travel advice, support your health and well-being, and can provide guidance on other opportunities and services in London. You probably have tons of questions about life in London such as what extra-curricular activities do you offer? What is the local area like? Where can I find a gym? How do I use the Tube? All these questions and more are answered in our handy Activities, FAQ, Health, and Travel pages here!
Health, Safety, and Support
As specialists in local life and culture, our local staff and partners on the ground are proud to help students realize their potential abroad. Your health, safety, and well-being are of the utmost importance to us here at FIE. Through preparation, orientation, and an open-door support policy, we ensure that you are fully supported throughout your entire study abroad experience. In addition to being covered by comprehensive, easy-to-utilize international travel insurance, FIE students also have access to professional counseling services if needed.
- No visa required for US passport holders
- Travel insurance included
- 24/7 onsite support. Health, safety and emergency procedures found here.
For more information visit our Health & Safety Abroad webpage.
FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Studying with FIE in partnership with Queen Mary University of London is an investment in an exceptional international academic experience. Program fees vary by term and include a range of academic and student support services, full details and what’s included can be found on the FIE Program Fees webpage.
FIE is deeply committed to helping students access life-changing study abroad opportunities through a variety of Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, recognising academic achievement, leadership, creativity, and community engagement. Additionally, as an Access Partner of the Fund for Education Abroad, FIE supports students pursuing broader scholarship opportunities that can help offset the cost of your program. Prospective participants are encouraged to explore all available funding options and apply early to make their study abroad goals a reality.
WHAT You'll experience
This program gives you the best of both worlds:
- Embedded in East London’s vibrant university life - study directly with Queen Mary University of London students on a full university campus known for research excellence and global diversity, giving you a traditional British experience
- Supported by FIE’s immersive London framework - combined with FIE’s place-based British Life course, tailored student support, central London housing, and cultural engagement from our South Kensington hub
