PROGRAM OVERVIEW
In partnership with Richmond American University London (RAUL), FIE is proud to offer a distinctive semester-long study abroad experience that combines direct enrollment at one of London’s most unique universities with FIE’s signature British Life course. Located in the green surroundings of Chiswick Park in west London, Richmond offers students an intimate, modern campus environment while remaining exceptionally well connected to the cultural, professional, and social life of the capital. Richmond American University London is truly one of a kind: it is the only university in the UK accredited in both the United Kingdom and the United States, delivering an American liberal arts education within a British academic context. Known for its small class sizes, student-centered teaching, and globally focused curriculum, Richmond attracts a diverse community of British, American, and international students from around the world. Courses are taught in English and emphasize critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world application. Through this partnership, students benefit from Richmond’s internationally recognised academic standards while enhancing their experience through FIE’s immersive cultural programming. Together, FIE and Richmond American University London offer an exceptional opportunity to live, study, and grow academically and personally in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
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: 16+ weeks
Please visit our Program Dates page for the latest information on semester dates.
Academics
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 Richmond American University London, students study at a distinctive institution that delivers a US-style liberal arts education within a British academic framework. As direct-enrollment students, FIE participants select three elective courses from Richmond’s undergraduate curriculum, which is designed to promote intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary thinking, and academic flexibility. Students can explore a wide range of subject areas including international relations, business and economics, psychology, art history, fashion, film and music, allowing them to tailor their studies to personal and academic goals. Courses are taught in small, discussion-based classes by faculty with professional and global expertise, ensuring a highly personalized learning experience with close student–faculty interaction. Richmond’s academic model encourages critical thinking, experiential learning, and real-world engagement, supported by internships, research opportunities, and project-based assessment. Visit the Richmond Study Abroad webpage to learn more about available courses.
Together, FIE and RAUL offer a best-of-both-worlds experience. Students gain access to a dynamic and multicutural UK university and a broad 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
- Richmond American University London - RAUL courses are 4 US credit hours. Therefore by undertaking 3 electives at RAUL you will be earning 12 US credit hours. Your transcript is issued by Richmond American University 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 Richmond American University 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 Richmond’s global academic community - studying alongside British, American, and international students at the UK’s only university accredited in both the UK and the US, engaging with small class sizes, a liberal arts curriculum, and a highly personalized learning environment that blends American-style education with a British academic setting
- 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
