Undergraduate portfolio requirements
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Undergraduate portfolio requirements
Some undergraduate courses at the University of East London require a digital portfolio, e-audition or self-tape as part of the admissions process.
You will be asked to submit this after you apply, following the course-specific guidance on format and content.
These submissions help the admissions team assess:
- Your creative skills
- Your potential
- Your readiness for study at university level
Courses that may require a portfolio or audition include the ones listed below. Please check the pages below for detailed instructions.
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering
Architecture and Design — Portfolio request
As part of your application to the Architecture and Design programmes, you must submit a digital portfolio to support your application.
What to include
Your portfolio should show a broad range of your creative work and design thinking. Include:
- Sketchbooks full of ideas and visual experimentation
- Observational and creative drawing (e.g., mark-making, colour studies)
- Personal projects that reflect your interests and creativity
- Visual research evidence (e.g., gallery visits, documentary studies)
- Work in various media (e.g., collage, photography, model-making)
We are looking for evidence of your creative process - how you explore ideas and drive them forward.
How to send your portfolio
- Prepare your portfolio as one PDF file or a single link to an online site with your work.
- We will only consider portfolios in the formats above.
- Upload your portfolio via the Applicant Portal.
When to submit
Send your portfolio within two weeks of the request date. If you cannot meet this deadline, contact admissions as soon as possible - otherwise, your application may be withdrawn.
Need help?
If you have questions about preparing or submitting your portfolio, contact us at 020 8223 3333 or use Live Chat on the UEL website.
Commercial Photography BA (Hons) — Portfolio submission
Applicants to Commercial Photography BA (Hons) must submit a digital portfolio as part of the admissions process. Your portfolio helps the course team assess your creative ability, technical skills and potential to succeed on the course.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate your interest in commercial photography and your creative development. We are interested in seeing:
- your creative ideas and visual storytelling
- your technical photography skills
- your awareness of commercial contexts, such as: fashion, portraiture, editorial, product or advertising photography
Your work does not need to be professionally commissioned. Personal projects and coursework are acceptable.
What to include
Your portfolio should include a selection of your best work, such as:
- photographic projects or image series
- creative experiments or visual development work showing how your ideas evolve over time
You must also include a short written statement (up to 300 words) explaining your work and creative approach.
Portfolio format
Submit your portfolio digitally:
- upload a PDF, or
- provide a link to an online portfolio
Make sure:
- your images are clearly labelled
- your work is easy to view and navigate
- links are accessible (no passwords unless provided)
Do not send physical portfolios unless requested.
When to submit
You will be asked to submit your portfolio after you apply, following the instructions in your Applicant Portal or email. If you do not submit your portfolio by the deadline, your application cannot be progressed.
After submission
Your portfolio will be reviewed by the course team.
- Some applicants may be invited to a portfolio discussion or interview.
- This may take place online or in person. You will be contacted using the email address on your application.
Photography BA (Hons) — Portfolio submission
Applicants to Photography BA (Hons) must submit a digital portfolio as part of the admissions process. Your portfolio helps the course team understand your photographic practice, creative ideas and potential.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate:
- your visual thinking and creative approach
- your technical photography skills
- how you develop and communicate ideas through images
We are particularly interested in:
- your understanding of photographic techniques and processes
- your ability to research, edit and present work coherently
What to include
Your portfolio should include a carefully selected body of work, such as:
- edited image series showing a clear theme or narrative
- visual research and planning, including contact sheets or development work
- examples of your use of lighting, composition and exposure
- evidence of editing or post-production
- independent projects showing experimentation and curiosity
- references to photographers, artists or visual culture that influence your work
Focus on presenting work that shows both your ideas and your creative process, not just final images.
Portfolio format
Submit your portfolio digitally:
- prepare one PDF, or
- provide a single link to an online portfolio (for example, a website or a shared drive)
Make sure:
- your work is clearly labelled
- your portfolio is easy to navigate
Only these formats will be reviewed.
When to submit
Submit your portfolio within two weeks of receiving the request.
- If you miss the deadline, your application may not be progressed
- If you need more time, contact admissions as soon as possible
After submission
- Your portfolio will be reviewed by the course team.
- You may be invited to an interview or further assessment
- You will be contacted by email with the outcome
Accessibility and support
If you have access or communication requirements, inform the admissions team in advance so appropriate support can be arranged.
School of Arts and Creative Industries
Acting for Stage and Screen BA (Hons) — Self-tape submission
Applicants to Acting for Stage and Screen BA (Hons) must submit a self-recorded audition video (self-tape) as part of the admissions process. This allows the course team to assess your performance skills, creativity and acting potential.
What your self-tape should include
Your self-tape should include two parts:
- Introduction
- State your name and where you are from
- Talk briefly about yourself and why you want to study the course
2. Monologue
- Perform a monologue from a published play
- Introduce the piece by stating: the character name, the play title, and the author
You must read the full play beforehand so you understand the character and context.
Time limits
- Introduction: up to 2 minutes
- Monologue: up to 2 minutes
Your full recording should not exceed 4 minutes in total.
All performances must be delivered in English.
Performance guidance
- Perform your monologue without reading from a script or notes
- Use an appropriate eyeline (either slightly off camera or directly to camera)
- If possible, perform to someone standing just off-camera
- Leave a short pause between your introduction and monologue if recording in one take
Recording your self-tape
You can record your self-tape using a smartphone or basic camera — professional equipment is not required.
When filming:
- choose a quiet space with minimal background noise
- use a plain background ensure your face is well lit (light source in front of you)
- frame the shot to show your head, shoulders and torso
- keep the camera steady using a tripod or stable surface
How to submit
Submit your self-tape by:
- uploading a PDF or Word document (max 10MB)
- including a link to your video (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo or Google Drive)
- adding a password if your video is private
When to submit
- Submit your self-tape within two weeks of receiving the request
- If you cannot meet the deadline, contact admissions as early as possible
Your application may not progress if the self-tape is not submitted on time.
Accessibility and support
If you need support or adjustments, contact the admissions team before submitting your self-tape.
Animation BA (Hons) — Portfolio request
Applicants to Animation BA (Hons) must submit a digital ePortfolio as part of the admissions process. The ePortfolio helps the course team understand your creative interests, visual skills and potential, and how you approach animation and storytelling.
What your ePortfolio should show
Your ePortfolio should demonstrate your creative process, not just finished work.
We are interested in seeing:
- how you generate and develop ideas
- your ability to explore movement and visual storytelling
- your technical and creative strengths
You can include:
- concept art and development work
- illustrations or drawings
- experimental or exploratory visual work
You do not need to include only animation. Related creative work is welcome.
Preparing your ePortfolio
When preparing your submission:
- focus on showing how your ideas develop over time
- include a carefully selected range of your best work
- organise your portfolio clearly and logically
Quality and clarity are more important than quantity.
Portfolio format
Your ePortfolio must be submitted digitally.
- If submitting a PDF, keep the file size manageable
- Present your work so it is easy to view and navigate
Make sure any links or files are clearly labelled and accessible.
How to submit
Upload your ePortfolio through the Applicant Portal, using the link provided in your application communications.
If submitting links, include them clearly in the document or submission field as instructed.
When to submit
- Submit your ePortfolio with your application, where possible
- If requested later, submit it as soon as possible
Your application may not progress until your ePortfolio has been received.
After submission
- Your ePortfolio will be reviewed by the course team
- You may be invited to an interview or offered a place, depending on your application
- You will be contacted by email, so check your inbox regularly (including spam folders)
Creative courses — Portfolio request
Some creative courses at UEL require you to submit a digital portfolio as part of the admissions process. Your portfolio helps the course team assess your creative skills, ideas and potential to succeed on your chosen course.
Portfolio requirements vary by course, so you should always follow the specific guidance provided for your programme
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate:
- your technical skills (where relevant to your subject)
- your creative development and potential, not just final outcomes
- your ability to explore and develop ideas
You can include:
- college or school work
- personal projects
- experimental or exploratory work
Admissions tutors are interested in how you think and develop ideas, not just polished pieces.
Portfolio format
Portfolio format and submission methods vary by course.
- You will receive clear instructions and deadlines after you apply
- Follow the guidance in your Applicant Portal or portfolio request email
- Do not send physical portfolios unless you are specifically asked to do so
When to submit
You will normally be asked to submit your portfolio after you apply.
- Submit your work within the deadline provided
- If you need more time, contact admissions as soon as possible to avoid delays
Your application may not progress until your portfolio has been received
After submission
- Your portfolio will be reviewed by academic staff
- Reviews may take place online or in person, depending on the course
- Decisions are made after all portfolios have been assessed
- You will be contacted using the details on your application
Due to the number of applications, individual feedback may not be provided.
Accessibility and support
If you have a disability, access need or communication requirement, let the admissions team know as early as possible so appropriate support can be arranged.
Dance BA (Hons) — e-audition submission
Applicants to Dance BA (Hons) must submit a digital e-audition as part of the admissions process. This allows the course team to assess your movement ability, creativity and potential as a dance artist.
What your e-audition should include
Your submission must include both a video and written responses
1. Solo performance video
- Upload one solo dance video (YouTube or Vimeo)
- Maximum length: 2 minutes
- The video should demonstrate: movement range, musicality, body control, and performance skills
You can choose any dance style that reflects your training and interests
2. Written responses
Include short written answers covering:
- where you live and how you became interested in dance
- why you want to study this course
- a professional dance work that inspires you
- the skills you need for university-level dance study
- your future interests in the dance industry
Performance guidance
We want to see your authentic movement style and creativity.
Your solo can be:
- semi-structured (part choreography, part improvisation)
- focused on core movement and performance fundamentals
You do not need to be perfect — the focus is on your potential and individuality as a performer.
Portfolio format
Submit your e-audition as one PDF document that includes:
- your video link, and
- your written responses
Make sure:
- links are accessible
- your document is clearly organised and easy to read
When to submit
- Submit your e-audition within two weeks of receiving the request
- If you cannot meet the deadline, contact admissions as soon as possible
Your application may not progress if the e-audition is not submitted on time.
After submission
- Your e-audition will be reviewed by the course team
- You may be invited to the next stage (such as an audition or interview)
- You will be contacted by email or through your Applicant Portal
Fashion Marketing and Communication BA (Hons) — Portfolio request
As part of your application to Fashion Marketing and Communication BA (Hons), you must submit a digital portfolio to support your application. The portfolio allows the course team to assess your creative thinking, research skills and engagement with fashion culture and communication.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate that you are actively engaged with fashion and understand the subject beyond trends. We are interested in seeing evidence of:
- your ability to research, analyse and communicate ideas visually
- your creative thinking and concept development
- your interest in fashion culture, marketing and communication.
What to include
Your portfolio should be presented clearly and thoughtfully. It may include:
- Sketchbooks or idea development showing experimentation, visual thinking and progression of ideas
- Visual research, such as gallery visits, fashion articles, photography or curated inspiration
- Fashion-related projects, including coursework or independent creative work
- Photography, graphics or visual storytelling relevant to fashion communication
- Research and analysis demonstrating your understanding of fashion marketing and contemporary culture.
Preparing your portfolio
When organising your portfolio:
- present your work clearly and logically
- include a range of creative and research-based work
- show how your ideas develop from research to outcomes.
Your portfolio should reflect your interests, creativity and curiosity about the fashion industry.
Portfolio format
Your portfolio must be submitted digitally. You may include:
- a single document or presentation, or
- a document containing links to online work.
Make sure all files or links are clearly labelled and accessible.
When to submit
You will normally be asked to submit your portfolio after you apply for the course.
Follow the instructions provided in your Applicant Portal or portfolio request email, and submit your work within the stated deadline.
Fashion Design BA (Hons) — Portfolio request
As part of your application to Fashion Design BA (Hons), you must submit a digital portfolio to support your application. The portfolio helps the course team assess your creative thinking, technical ability and understanding of fashion design processes.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should be presented with clear intent and careful organisation.
It should demonstrate your:
- creative thinking and design development
- visual research and inspiration
- understanding of fashion design processes and techniques.
The course team is particularly interested in seeing how your ideas develop from research and experimentation into design outcomes.
What to include
Your portfolio may include a range of work such as:
- Sketchbooks or exploratory work showing idea development and experimentation
- Visual research, such as gallery visits, photography, articles or fashion collections
- Drawing skills, including life drawing, observational studies or fashion illustration
- Mixed media work, combining traditional and digital processes
- Coursework or independent projects that demonstrate initiative and creativity
- Examples of technique, such as colour studies, collage, sculptural work or photography
- Computer-aided design (CAD) work where relevant.
You may also include work that demonstrates your awareness of different fashion markets and industry contexts.
Preparing your portfolio
When preparing your submission:
- select your strongest examples, rather than everything you have produced
- organise your work clearly and logically
- include short captions explaining each piece.
Quality and clarity are more important than quantity, so focus on presenting your best and most relevant work.
Portfolio format
Your portfolio must be submitted digitally. Prepare your portfolio as:
- one PDF file, or
- one document containing a link to an online portfolio.
Make sure your work is clearly labelled and easy to navigate.
When to submit
Submit your portfolio within two weeks of receiving the portfolio request.
If you are unable to meet the deadline, contact the admissions team as soon as possible to discuss your options.
What happens next
Once your portfolio has been reviewed, the admissions team will contact you by email or through UCAS to confirm the outcome of your application.
Filmmaking BA (Hons) — Portfolio submission
Applicants to Filmmaking BA (Hons) must submit a digital portfolio as part of the admissions process. Your portfolio helps the course team assess your creative skills, experience and potential as a filmmaker.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate:
- your creative ideas and storytelling ability
- your interest in film and moving image
- your experience or potential in filmmaking
We are looking for original ideas, a clear presentation and enthusiasm for film.
What to include
Your portfolio must include the following:
- Personal statement: A short written piece explaining your interest in filmmaking and your creative journey
- Showreel (2–4 minutes): A short video showcasing your best film or video work
- Work samples: Links to short films, videos or media projects (Include coursework if you have studied film or media)
- Additional creative material such as: scripts, storyboards, sketches or design work, photography or animation, works in progress or social media content
- Written work (if needed)
If you do not have film work, you can submit:
- scripts
- film reviews
- video essays or other written pieces
Preparing your portfolio
When preparing your submission:
- present your work clearly and professionally
- include a range of creative work
- explain your role in each project (e.g. directing, editing, sound)
This helps the course team understand your individual contribution and skills.
Portfolio format
Submit your portfolio digitally.
- combine everything into one PDF, or
- submit a document with links to your work.
Make sure:
- links are accessible
- your work is clearly organised
Only accepted formats will be reviewed.
When to submit
- Submit your portfolio within two weeks of receiving the portfolio request.
- If you need more time, contact the admissions team as soon as possible.
After submission
- Your portfolio will be reviewed by the course team
- You may be contacted with the outcome or next steps
- Keep an eye on your email and Applicant Portal
Music BA (Hons) — Portfolio submission
Applicants to Music BA (Hons) must submit a digital portfolio as part of the admissions process. Your portfolio helps the course team assess your musical skills, creative development and potential.
What your portfolio should show
Your portfolio should demonstrate your engagement with music, whether through performance, production or composition.
We are interested in:
- your musical ability and technical skills
- your creative ideas and development
- your interest in music practice and the wider music industry
Your work should clearly show your strengths and potential as a musician.
What to include
Your portfolio may include a selection of work such as:
- Audio or video recordings of performances
- Original compositions or productions
- Songwriting or music projects
- Collaborative work (clearly stating your role)
- any other material that shows your musical development and creativity
You should select your strongest examples rather than submitting everything.
Preparing your portfolio
When preparing your submission:
- present your work clearly and professionally
- organise your portfolio so it is easy to follow
- combine all materials into one document with links rather than sending multiple files
Make sure all links are working and accessible.
Portfolio format
Submit your portfolio digitally.
- provide a single PDF document, or
- include links to online work (e.g. audio/video platforms)
Your submission should be well organised and easy to navigate.
When to submit
You will be asked to submit your portfolio after you apply, following the instructions in your:
- Applicant Portal, or
- portfolio request email
Submit your work within the stated deadline to avoid delays in your application.
After submission
- Your portfolio will be reviewed by the course team
- You may be invited to an interview or further assessment
- You will be contacted by email or through your Applicant Portal
Portfolio FAQs for undergraduate applicants
What is a portfolio request?
Some undergraduate courses ask you to submit a digital portfolio, e-audition or self-tape after you apply. This helps UEL assess your creative work, potential and suitability for the course.
Which undergraduate courses require a portfolio submission?
Portfolio or audition submissions are common for creative and performance-based subjects, including:
- Architecture
- Fine Art
- Graphic Design
- Photography
- Filmmaking
- Animation
- Dance
- Acting
Your course page or Applicant Portal will confirm if a portfolio is required.
What format should my portfolio be in?
Most courses ask for:
- A single PDF, or
- A link to an online portfolio (such as a website or digital gallery)
Always follow the course-specific guidance on file type, size and content.
What should I include in my portfolio?
Submit your best and most relevant work that shows your creative skills and ideas. For example:
- Visual arts: sketches, project work, photography, animation
- Filmmaking: video links, storyboards or scripts
Check your course page for detailed guidance on what to include.
When do I need to submit my portfolio?
You should submit your portfolio within the timeframe stated in your request, often within two weeks. If you need more time, contact UEL Admissions as soon as possible to avoid delays or your application being withdrawn.
Useful links
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Postgraduate portfolio requirements
Find out what to include in your postgraduate portfolio, how to prepare it, and how to submit it. Follow these guidelines to give your application the best chance of success.
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Interviews for undergraduate and postgraduate courses
Some of our courses at UEL require interviews as part of the admissions process.
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Student declaration form
Information about Declaration of Convictions.
