If you enjoy using clothing and fashion as a means of expressing your creativity and would like to learn more about knitting, sewing, fabrics, and materials, you might want to explore getting a degree in fashion. The world’s best fashion schools are listed in this blog for people who are considering studying Fashion and Design overseas.
Accessing a global network requires a robust platform. As a result, it becomes crucial to pursue fashion courses at a university with a robust industry partnership and an active alumni network. Fashion studies encompasses more than just clothing. It offers a range of classes on design, marketing, business, fashion history, and other topics. These top fashion schools are situated in the “Big Four” fashion capitals of Paris, Milan, London, and New York, which are among the world’s most prominent fashion hubs.
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Why should you choose Fashion Design?
In global marketplaces, the fashion business brings in billions of dollars annually. If you’ve ever been influenced by designers such as Versace, Carolina Herrera, or Comme Des Garçons, you’ve witnessed the power of fashion to shape global trends. These cutting-edge brands will influence your own personal style while you’re studying fashion overseas.
Remember to broaden your search overseas as you assemble your list of the best fashion schools. Keep in mind that the world’s most stylish labels are found in Europe. High fashion brands like Prada are based in European locations like Milan. Additionally, it is there where fashion schools such as Accademia del Lusso and Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA) blend the historic cultural influences of Italy with the art of modern design.
Do you find London’s fast-paced fashion culture intriguing? Or perhaps you place greater value on history and a rich cultural legacy? Think of moving to Paris to attend ESMOD and becoming fully immersed in the French haute couture and prêt-à-porter industries. If the diverse range of European fashion viewpoints appeals to you more, you should visit Barcelona’s Istituto Europeo di Design, one of the best fashion schools in the area.
Your study abroad experience will provide you with the abilities you need to become a global influence in the fashion industry and the information you need to break into it, wherever you decide to go.
10 Best Fashion Design Schools in the World
Fashion design is a fiercely competitive and challenging field that calls for technical proficiency, inventiveness, and imagination. Through their demanding and extensive fashion design curricula, the top ten fashion design schools in the world are able to transfer skills.
These schools offer a range of features, from modern facilities to industry connections and internships, helping students develop their unique voice and launching them into successful careers in the fashion industry.
Each of these institutions, which serve a variety of interests and career pathways in the fashion industry, has its own strengths and areas of specialization, whether it’s Central Saint Martins in London, Parsons School of Design in New York City, or Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo.
Here is a list of well-known alumni who attended the best fashion design schools in the world and are now well-known in the field.
Schools | Famous alumni |
|---|---|
Central Saint Martins (London, UK) | – John Galliano – Stella McCartney – Alexander McQueen. |
Parsons School of Design (New York City, USA) | – Marc Jacobs – Donna Karan – Tom Ford. |
Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp (Antwerp, Belgium) | – Dries Van Noten – Ann Demeulemeester. |
Fashion Institute of Technology (New York City, USA) | – Calvin Klein – Michael Kors. |
Bunka Fashion College (Tokyo, Japan) | – Yohji Yamamoto – Kenzo Takada. |
Istituto Marangoni (Milan, Italy) | – Franco Moschino – Domenico Dolce. |
Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Los Angeles, USA) | – Monique Lhuillier – Pamela Skaist-Levy. |
London College of Fashion (London, UK) | – Jimmy Choo – Sophia Webster. |
Polimoda (Florence, Italy) | – Peter Dundas – Massimo Giorgetti. |
École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne (Paris, France) | – Yves Saint Laurent – Valentino Garavani. |
1. Central Saint Martins (London, UK), University of the Arts London:
London, UK’s Central Saint Martins is a globally recognized arts and design school. It is renowned for its cutting-edge and avant-garde approach to teaching art and design and is a component of the University of the Arts London.
The school offers a wide range of courses taught by distinguished academic members and professionals in the field, such as fashion, fine arts, communication design, and more. A distinctive and varied skill set is developed by students at Central Saint Martins thanks to its emphasis on experimentation, teamwork, and interdisciplinary learning. The QS World University Rankings previously placed Central Saint Martins as the second-best art and design school in the world.
The requirements for admission to undergraduate programs are as follows:
- Must have High school graduation or completion of a comparable program
- Must submit portfolio which highlights your creative work
- Personal Statement or Essay
- You have to submit recommendation letters. Providing SAT or ACT results (not required, but advised)
The following are the admission criteria for Post Graduate Programmes:
- An Undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- A portfolio showcasing your talent.
- Personal statement and statement of purpose.
- Recommendation letters
- GRE or GMAT score depending on the course and universities.
Parameters | Detail |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: £28,570 (INR 30L) PG: £41,010 (INR 43L) |
Course Length | UG: 17 months full-time |
Scholarship |
|
2. Parsons School of Design ( New York City, USA)
Previously ranked #2 in the world for Art and Design by QS World University Rankings, Parsons School of Design is a prominent fashion design school situated in New York City, USA.
The institution provides a variety of fashion design programs, such as BFA, AAS, and MFA degrees. Modern facilities, industry connections, and a focus on sustainability in fashion design are all offered by Parsons School of Design. With its extensive curricula and excellent faculty, the school equips students with the knowledge and abilities necessary to thrive in the fiercely competitive fashion industry.
The following are the admissions criteria for Undergraduate programmes
- Must have a High school graduation or completion of a comparable program
- Must submit a portfolio which highlights your creative work
- Personal Statement or Essay
- You have to submit recommendation letters. Providing SAT or ACT results (not required, but advised)
The following are the admission criteria for Post Graduate Programmes:
- An Undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- A portfolio showcasing your talent.
- Personal statement and statement of purpose.
- Recommendation letters
- GRE or GMAT score, depending on the course and universities.
A portfolio and personal statement are required for admission to the esteemed and extensive fashion design program at Parsons School of Design.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: $50,000 (INR 42L) |
Course Length | UG: 4 years |
Scholarship | Parsons Sccholars Program |
3. Fashion Institute of Technology (New York City, USA)
Located in New York City, USA, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a prestigious public institution of art, design, business, and technology. The college has been regarded among the best fashion schools in the world for many years and is well known for its fashion and design programs.
FIT is one of the top fashion schools in the world, having been placed #5 in the last few years by the QS World University Rankings for Fashion & Textiles. Advertising, fashion design, graphic design, interior design, and other fields are among the programs offered by the college.
4. London College of Fashion (London, UK)
Located in London, UK, London College of Fashion is a globally recognized center for fashion research and education. QS World University Rankings has placed it in the top 50 fashion schools worldwide in recent years, making it a reputable and first-rate choice for students from all over the world.
The college is renowned for its cutting-edge research and creative teaching strategies, and it offers a wide range of courses in fashion design, communication, business, and technology. Its dedication to ethical and sustainable fashion industry methods is its distinctive selling proposition.
To assist students in realizing their artistic ideas, the institution offers a range of resources in addition to its academic programs, such as design studios, workshops, and exhibition spaces.
The requirements for admission to undergraduate programs are as follows:
- One of the following complete level 3 credentials is required of you:
- Two or more A-levels totaling 112 UCAS tariff points (math, design, art, and English are desirable subjects)
- Distinction at Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- At the BTEC Extended Diploma, distinction, merit, and merit in the recommended subjects of art and design; at the UAL Extended Diploma, merit.
- 112 new UCAS tariff points from the Access to HE Diploma, an Access Diploma, or an equivalent full Level 3 certificate, or 112 new UCAS tariff points from a combination of the aforementioned qualifications
- equivalent credentials from the EU or outside, such as an International Baccalaureate Diploma with at least 25 points
The requirements for admission to postgraduate programs are as follows:
- Admission requires an honors degree in a related field with a minimum grade of 2.1 or higher.
- The University requires an IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each section, as the minimal level of English proficiency for this study.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: £20,000 (INR 24L) PG: £35,000 (INR 37L) |
Course length | UG: 3-4 years PG: 1-2 years |
Scholarships | LCF Master’s107 Scholarships LCF International Excellence Scholarships |
5. The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (Los Angeles, UK)
In Los Angeles, California, there is a fantastic fashion design school called the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM). A variety of programs in fashion design, fashion merchandising, graphic design, interior design, and entertainment are available at the institution. Prominent fashion designers are among FIDM’s alumni, and the school is well known for preparing students for employment in the fashion business.
With its advanced facilities and emphasis on practical experience, FIDM guarantees that its students have the abilities and know-how needed to be successful in the field. In prior years, the university was placed #25 in the QS World University Rankings for Art & Design.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: $50,000 (INR 4,150,615.93) PG: $30,000 (INR 2,490,541.46) |
Course Length | UG: 3-4 years |
Scholarships | FIDM Scholarship foundation |
6. ESMOD International, Paris
The Paris-based École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode, or ESMOD, is one of the “Big Four” and has been a prestigious private French fashion school for more than 173 years. It has 20 schools in more than 13 countries, including Dubai, Istanbul, Beijing, Tokyo, and more, and five networks of schools throughout France.
The school provides a range of fashion business (ISEM) and fashion design (ESMOD) programs. There are numerous programs to select from, such as the Foundation Course in Fashion Design & Business, Graduate Program Diploma in Creative Director, Fashion Designer – Undergraduate, MBA short courses in pattern creation, a fashion business, and many more.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: €15,930 + €1,080 (materials) PG: €17,375 + €441 (materials) |
Course Length | UG: 3 years PG: 1 year |
Scholarships | – ESMOD Grant (merit-based, from 2nd year) – Erasmus+ (for EU students) – Company-sponsored contests (e.g., Inditex, Kobe Fashion Contest) |
7. Polimoda, Florence, Italy
Polimoda is a private fashion school located in the stunning city of Florence, Italy, and is ranked in the top 20 by major fashion league tables. The university provides a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Additionally, there are other seasonal programs available in the fall, winter, spring, and summer. Fashion Design, Fashion Business, Art Direction, and Design Management are the four main branches under which the studies fall. Fashion Technology, Leather Technology, Fashion Art Direction, Fashion Design Management, and more intriguing disciplines are available at the undergraduate level.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: €14,000 – €18,000 per year |
Course Length | UG 3 to 4 years |
Scholarship | Undergraduate: Full and partial scholarships available; partial scholarships cover 20% (1st year), 30% (2nd year), and 50% (3rd year) of tuition fees |
8. Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Antwerp
The esteemed Royal Academy of Fine Arts, one of the oldest in Europe, is situated in Antwerp, Belgium. The school provides a range of courses, including sound design, sculpture, and spatial art. In addition to theoretical courses on international literature, art history, and cultural studies, the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in fashion design offer specializations in areas including graphics, tailoring, and pattern design. Students pursuing master’s degrees in their last year are allowed to create their overall final collection anyway they see fit, drawing inspiration from a favorite artist, celebrity, or even a social issue. The program emphasizes the holistic growth that is essential for a fashion designer to succeed.
9. Istituto Europeo di Design, Milan
IED, or Istituto Europeo di Design, is based in Milan, one of the four major fashion capitals of the world. It is also present in Spain and Brazil and provides top-notch programs in design, fashion, visual communication, and management in English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. IED provides continuing education, master’s, undergraduate, and short-term summer and winter courses. Depending on your area of interest, you can select from a variety of popular courses, such as Fashion Design, Visual Communication – Fashion Printing, Fashion Trends Investigation, Fashion Marketing, and short programs like Fashion Design Summer Kids and Beachwear Design. International faculty members and professionals from the industry teach the programs.
Parameters | Details |
|---|---|
Fees | UG: €18,200 – €20,100/year + €2,500 (registration & materials) |
Course length | UG: 3 years PG: 1 year |
Scholarships | – IED Scholarships (merit-based, partial tuition waiver) – Early Bird Discounts – Erasmus+ (for eligible EU students) – Project-based financial aid via partner brands |
10. Bunka Gakuen, Tokyo
The Tokyo-based fashion school of Bunka Gakuen University is among the most renowned in the world and among the top-ranked in Asia. Studying in Tokyo, one of the top ten fashion capitals in the world, gives you access to the best of East-West Fusion, the region’s contemporary art style, Tokyo’s up-and-coming avant-garde designers, and much more.
Fashion Creation, Fashion Technology, Fashion Marketing and Distribution, and Fashion Accessories and Textiles Department comprise the four departments that comprise Bunka Fashion College’s undergraduate degrees. Graduate courses in fashion management, design, and creation are available at the Bunka Fashion Graduate University. Fashion Business Administration and Research Project Fashion Management are more options for those interested in fashion business.
Parameters | Details |
Fees | UG: ¥1,400,000/year (approx. €8,500–€9,000) PG: ¥1,500,000/year (approx. €9,300–€10,000) |
Course Length | UG: 4 years PG: 2 years |
Scholarships | – Bunka Fashion Graduate University Scholarship (merit & need-based) – JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization) Scholarships – MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship – Tuition reductions for high-performing students |
Average Salary of a Fashion Designer
Fashion designers receive different incomes in different nations, indicating the global reach of the fashion business. For example, the average income for a fashion designer in India is INR 40L. However, in fashion capitals like Paris (INR 57L) and New York (INR 74L), fashion designers can make significantly more money.
A fashion designer’s pay is influenced by a number of criteria, such as brand or company, location, experience, and fashion type.
Factors such as:
- Where do you work
- How much experience do you have?
- Whether you design haute couture for the runway?
- Create designs for a high-street brand,
- Whether you work for a high-end brand
Country | Average Salary per Year |
|---|---|
United States | INR 73L |
France | INR 57L |
United Kingdom | INR 56L |
Belgium | INR 28L |
Italy | INR 52L |
How Will We Help You With The Application Process?
At Rostrum, we provide end-to-end support tailored to your dream fashion school. Here’s how we guide you through the entire application journey:
Profile Evaluation
We assess your academic background, creative portfolio, extracurriculars, and goals to recommend the best-fit programs and campuses.
University Shortlisting
Based on your aspirations, budget, and preferred locations, we help you select institutions that align with your strengths.
Portfolio Guidance
Our design mentors work closely with you to conceptualize, curate, and refine a standout portfolio that showcases your unique style and creativity.
Statement of Purpose & Essays
We support you in crafting compelling personal statements and essays that reflect your passion, journey, and future ambitions.
Application Support
From filling out forms to meeting deadlines, we ensure your applications are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Interview Preparation
If your chosen schools require interviews, we conduct mock sessions to help you articulate your vision confidently.
How Will We Help You In Enhancing Your Portfolio?
Your portfolio is your personal brand — and we’re here to make it unforgettable.
Personalized Portfolio Strategy
We help you understand what top fashion schools are looking for and build a concept that reflects your identity and strengths.
Theme & Concept Development
Our mentors guide you in developing cohesive themes and narratives that bring your work together creatively.
Creative Project Support
Whether it’s illustrations, garments, digital work, or mood boards, we offer feedback and structure to help you level up.
Skill Building Workshops
Get access to sessions on sketching, garment construction, digital design (Photoshop, Illustrator, CLO3D), and more.
Critique & Iteration
Regular review sessions to help refine your work, ensuring it meets the expectations of top-tier fashion institutions.
Book A Free Session With Us!
Want to know what it takes to get into a top fashion school like Central Saint Martins, FIT, or Bunka?
Book a free 1-on-1 counselling session with our fashion education experts.
We’ll walk you through:
Your profile and goals
Target colleges
Portfolio planning
Application timeline
Let’s turn your passion into a profession.
FAQ on 10 Fashion Design Schools/Colleges in the World 2025
1. Which is the best country to study fashion designing?
Some of the top countries to study fashion design in 2025 include:
Italy – Home to Milan, a global fashion capital, and schools like Istituto Marangoni & IED
UK – With prestigious institutions like Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion
USA – Offering cutting-edge programs at FIT, Parsons, and SCAD
France – Renowned for classic haute couture training at schools like ESMOD
Japan – Innovating the industry through Bunka Gakuen and Tokyo Mode Gakuen
The best country depends on your preferred design style, language comfort, budget, and future career goals.
2. Which university is best for fashion design?
Top-ranked fashion design universities globally in 2025 include:
Central Saint Martins (UK)
Fashion Institute of Technology – FIT (USA)
Parsons School of Design (USA)
Istituto Marangoni (Italy/UK/France)
Bunka Gakuen (Japan)
London College of Fashion (UK)
ESMOD (France)
Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp (Belgium)
Polimoda (Italy)
Savannah College of Art and Design – SCAD (USA)
Each school has its unique strengths in fashion, from sustainable design to couture techniques.
3. How to study fashion designing abroad
Here’s a step-by-step guide to study fashion design abroad:
Research: Find schools that align with your interests (e.g., streetwear, couture, sustainable fashion).
Build a Portfolio: Most fashion schools require a visual portfolio demonstrating your creativity and technical skills.
Prepare Documents: SOP, academic transcripts, LORs, resume, and language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL).
Apply Early: Application deadlines vary — many top schools close their intakes months in advance.
Interview Prep: Some schools conduct interviews to assess your vision and intent.
Seek Scholarships: Apply for merit-based or need-based financial aid.
Get Visa & Accommodation Support: Once admitted, start planning logistics for your study abroad journey.
