| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Full Name: Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (LIM) College
Location: New York City, New York, USA
Founded: 1939
Type: Private, for-profit college
Website: N/A
LIM College is unique because it specializes in the business side of fashion and lifestyle industries — blending fashion, marketing, management, technology, and entrepreneurship.
LIM offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including:
Fashion Merchandising
Marketing
Management
Visual Studies
International Business
Business of Cannabis
The Business of Fashion (online)
Fashion Media
MPS in Fashion Marketing
MPS in Global Fashion Supply Chain Management
MPS in The Business of Cannabis
MPS in Consumer Analytics
MBA in Fashion Management and Leadership
Programs are offered on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format
LIM College welcomes students from over 30 countries and provides:
F-1 visa support
International student orientation
ESL support if needed
Internship and career guidance
LIM places a strong emphasis on internships and real-world experience. Students typically complete 3 required internships during their studies, often at top fashion brands and companies like:
Gucci
Bloomingdale’s
LVMH
Michael Kors
Vogue
Estée Lauder
Nike
Situated in Manhattan, New York City — the fashion capital of the U.S. — LIM students are in the perfect place for industry exposure, networking, and career opportunities.
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$32,000/year
Graduate Tuition: ~$25,000 – $30,000/year
Living Expenses in NYC: ~$18,000 – $25,000/year
Scholarships are available for international and domestic students
LIM partners with local student housing providers (no on-campus dorms), offering:
Student residence halls near campus
Fully furnished shared apartments
Support with finding safe and convenient accommodation
Each of these programs is typically 4 years long (can vary for transfer or online students):
BBA in Fashion Merchandising
Learn buying, planning, retailing, and product development in fashion.
BBA in Marketing
Focuses on branding, digital marketing, social media, and consumer behavior.
BBA in Management
Business management with an emphasis on fashion/lifestyle industries.
BBA in International Business
Global trade, marketing, and supply chain with a fashion industry lens.
BBA in The Business of Fashion (Online Program)
Fully online, covering fashion business, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
BBA in Visual Studies
Combines creative direction, store design, visual merchandising, and styling.
BBA in Fashion Media
Prepares students for roles in fashion journalism, PR, and digital content.
BBA in Business of Cannabis
Business, marketing, and regulations in the fast-growing cannabis industry.
Most Master’s programs are 1–1.5 years (can be done online or in person):
MPS in Fashion Marketing
Advanced marketing strategies in the fashion/lifestyle industry.
MPS in Global Fashion Supply Chain Management
Operations, logistics, and sourcing for global fashion businesses.
MPS in The Business of Cannabis
Focuses on cannabis business regulations, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
MPS in Consumer Analytics
Data-driven strategies for understanding and influencing consumer behavior.
MBA in Fashion Management and Leadership
Combines core MBA skills with leadership training tailored to fashion.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
BBA in Fashion Merchandising |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in Marketing |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in Management |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in International Business |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in Visual Studies |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in Fashion Media |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in Business of Cannabis |
4 years |
~$32,000 |
|
BBA in The Business of Fashion (Online Program) |
4 years |
~$24,000 (online format) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MPS in Fashion Marketing |
1 – 1.5 years |
~$27,000 |
|
MPS in Global Fashion Supply Chain Management |
1 – 1.5 years |
~$27,000 |
|
MPS in The Business of Cannabis |
1 – 1.5 years |
~$27,000 |
|
MPS in Consumer Analytics |
1 – 1.5 years |
~$27,000 |
|
MBA in Fashion Management and Leadership |
1.5 – 2 years |
~$27,000 |
LIM College is a top destination for students who want to study the business side of fashion, lifestyle, beauty, media, and cannabis industries. Located in New York City, one of the world’s fashion capitals, it gives international students access to real-world industry experience, global networking opportunities, and hands-on learning.
Studying in Manhattan means you're surrounded by world-famous fashion brands, media companies, marketing agencies, and luxury retailers. LIM students often intern and work at companies like Gucci, Estée Lauder, Vogue, Michael Kors, Nike, and more — many just a subway ride from campus.
LIM offers both undergraduate (BBA) and graduate (MPS/MBA) degrees that are ideal for students pursuing careers in:
Fashion marketing
Visual merchandising
Fashion media
Global supply chain
Fashion business management
Cannabis industry business
Consumer analytics and digital marketing
All programs are career-focused, with built-in internships and capstone projects.
LIM College welcomes students from over 30+ countries and offers personalized support through the International Student Services Office, including:
Help with F-1 visa and immigration
Pre-arrival and orientation support
Ongoing academic and personal advising
CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) guidance
Cultural adjustment and social integration activities
To apply, international students typically need:
High school diploma (for bachelor's) or a bachelor’s degree (for master’s)
Proof of English proficiency: TOEFL iBT (≥75), IELTS (≥6.0), Duolingo (≥105)
Academic transcripts (translated to English)
Copy of passport
Proof of financial support (~$50,000 USD for 1 year)
Application fee and personal statement
Undergraduate tuition: ~$32,000/year
Graduate tuition (MPS/MBA): ~$27,000/year
Living expenses in NYC: ~$18,000–$25,000/year
Total annual cost: ~$50,000–$57,000
Scholarships: Available for international students (merit-based)
LIM doesn't have its own dorms but partners with trusted student housing providers in NYC. Housing options include:
Shared apartments
Furnished student residences
Homestays (less common)
The International Office also helps students find safe and affordable housing near campus.
LIM College welcomes international students for both undergraduate (BBA) and graduate (MPS/MBA) programs, as long as they meet academic and visa requirements.
Decide whether you're applying for:
A Bachelor’s program (BBA in Fashion Merchandising, Marketing, Media, etc.)
A Master’s program (MPS in Fashion Marketing, Global Supply Chain, or MBA in Fashion Management)
Required Documents:
Completed Online Application (via LIM College website)
Academic Transcripts:
High school transcripts for undergraduate
Bachelor’s degree transcripts for master’s
Must be translated into English and evaluated (if needed) by NACES-approved agencies like WES or SpanTran
Proof of English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 75
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
Exemptions available for English-speaking countries or prior English education
Passport Copy
Proof of Financial Support:
Bank statement showing funding for one year (~$50,000 USD)
Affidavit of support (if someone else is sponsoring you)
Personal Statement or Essay
Résumé/CV (for graduate programs)
Submit your application online at
Pay the application fee (typically $40–$60, depending on the program)
If accepted, LIM will issue:
Acceptance Letter
Form I-20 for your F-1 student visa application
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Schedule a visa interview at your local U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Bring your I-20, passport, admission letter, financial documents, and any required forms
Attend LIM’s pre-arrival orientation (virtual or in-person)
Plan for housing (LIM provides support for student accommodations)
Register for classes after visa approval
Fall Intake (September start): Apply by July 1
Spring Intake (January start): Apply by November 1
Rolling admissions — apply early for better housing and visa planning
LIM College offers multiple intakes throughout the year for both undergraduate and graduate programs:
Fall Semester (Main Intake)
Starts: Late August or early September
Most popular intake for new students
Best time for scholarships and housing options
Spring Semester
Starts: January
Available for most programs
Summer Session (limited programs only)
Starts: May or June
Check with LIM for program availability
LIM has rolling admissions, so students can apply throughout the year — but it's best to apply at least 3–4 months before your intended start date to allow time for visa processing and housing.
You must have:
A high school diploma or equivalent
Transcripts (translated into English if needed)
Proof of English language proficiency (see below)
Proof of financial support (~$50,000/year)
A valid passport
You must have:
A Bachelor’s degree (any field) from an accredited institution
Transcripts (evaluated if from a non-U.S. institution)
Résumé/CV (required for most graduate programs)
Proof of English language proficiency
Personal statement
Passport and financial documents
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD) |
When to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
New undergraduate students with strong academic records (GPA, grades) |
Up to $9,000/year |
Automatically considered with admission |
|
Graduate Merit Scholarship |
New master's students with strong academic or professional background |
Up to $4,000 total |
Automatically considered with admission |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Exceptional academic achievement and leadership (limited awards) |
Full or partial tuition |
Early application recommended |
|
LIM Need-Based Grant |
Based on demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required for U.S. citizens only) |
(not available to international students) |
– |
|
External/Private Scholarships |
Available through search platforms or industry-specific foundations |
($500 – $5,000+) |
Apply directly to each donor |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost/Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City — close to major fashion hubs |
– |
– |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not available (LIM does not operate its own dormitories) |
– |
– |
|
Student Housing Partners |
LIM partners with providers like Educational Housing Services (EHS), FOUND Study, and Kapi Residences |
$1,500 – $2,500+ |
$18,000 – $30,000+ |
|
Shared Apartment (Off-Campus) |
Shared rental with roommates; less expensive but limited availability |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
$15,000 – $22,000 |
|
Private Studio Apartment |
Independent living; higher cost, ideal for privacy seekers |
$2,000 – $3,500+ |
$24,000 – $40,000+ |
LIM’s campus is right in Midtown Manhattan, just steps away from some of the biggest names in fashion, media, and business. You're not just learning about the industry — you're living in it. Students regularly walk past stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, visit fashion exhibits at The Met, or intern at showrooms and offices of brands like LVMH, Gucci, or Condé Nast.
LIM’s programs are hands-on and immersive. As part of your studies, you’ll:
Work on real-world fashion projects
Attend industry events, fashion weeks, and trade shows
Hear from guest speakers from top companies
Participate in company tours and site visits
Complete up to three internships before graduating
This real-world exposure makes LIM one of the most career-focused colleges in the industry.
LIM has a variety of student-run clubs and organizations that reflect the interests of its diverse student body. These include:
Fashion Styling Club
DEI Collective (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion)
Student Leadership Council
Sustainability & Ethical Fashion Club
Marketing & PR Society
Gaming and Entertainment Club
There are also frequent student showcases, fashion events, networking nights, and workshops where you can display your creativity and connect with peers.
If you're an international student, you’ll get:
Support from the International Student Services Office
Cultural orientation and visa workshops
Access to CPT/OPT and work experience guidance
Opportunities to meet students from all over the world
New York is one of the most international cities in the world — so you’ll never feel out of place.
LIM hosts:
Internship and career fairs
Resume and LinkedIn workshops
Portfolio reviews
One-on-one career coaching
Many LIM students land internships that turn into full-time jobs — even before graduation.
Your college life isn’t just about studying. In NYC, your weekend could include:
Visiting a gallery in SoHo
Thrifting in Williamsburg
Attending a rooftop fashion show
Grabbing bagels in Brooklyn or brunch in the East Village
LIM students often say that New York City becomes their classroom, playground, and career-launching pad all in one.
LIM’s curriculum is designed to make students career-ready from day one. Every student is required to complete at least one internship, and most do three or more before graduation. These internships are often with leading companies, including:
Gucci
Nike
LVMH
Vogue
Estée Lauder
Michael Kors
Bloomingdale’s
Hearst Media
Urban Outfitters
PVH (Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein)
Nearly 90% of LIM graduates are employed or continuing their education within 6–12 months of graduation
Many students receive job offers from their internship sites
Career outcomes are strong in areas like:
Fashion buying and merchandising
Marketing and branding
Public relations
Retail management
Social media and influencer marketing
Product development
Visual merchandising
Fashion tech and e-commerce
LIM’s Career and Internship Services office provides:
Resume building and interview coaching
Job and internship fairs (virtual and in-person)
Networking events with alumni and recruiters
Access to Handshake (online job platform)
One-on-one career coaching
Employer spotlight events
They also help international students understand CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) options for working legally in the U.S.
F-1 students can gain paid internships via CPT while studying
After graduation, they’re eligible for OPT (1 year) — and potentially STEM OPT extension (for analytics or supply chain programs)
Many international students secure jobs and sponsorships thanks to LIM’s NYC location and industry network
The acceptance rate at LIM College is approximately 84%, making it a moderately selective institution.
LIM is accessible to a wide range of students, especially those passionate about fashion, business, media, and lifestyle industries.
The college looks for applicants who are creative, motivated, and career-driven — not just high academic achievers.
You don’t need perfect grades or test scores to get in, but your interest in the industry, personal statement, and overall fit do matter.
For both undergraduate and graduate applicants, LIM considers:
Academic performance (high school or college transcripts)
English proficiency (for international students)
Personal statement or essay
Résumé (for graduate programs)
Letters of recommendation (optional but helpful)
Demonstrated interest in fashion/business industries
LIM College
216 East 45th Street
New York, NY 10017
United States
Just steps away from 5th Avenue, Times Square, and Grand Central Station
Surrounded by fashion headquarters, corporate offices, PR agencies, and design showrooms
Short walk or subway ride to major hubs like:
Bryant Park
The Met Museum
Madison Avenue shopping
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) area for collaboration events
Easily accessible via subway (MTA), bus, and regional trains
Grand Central Terminal is just a few blocks away
Students get discounted public transit options through MTA Student MetroCards
