Friday, 12 July 2013

STUDY IN THE UK

Overview

Want to study abroad in the UK? Our guide has all the information you'll need to get started at a university in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
In terms of popularity with international students, the UK lags only behind the considerably larger US. So: what exactly is the appeal of the UK?

UK universities

An obvious starting point would be the universities, one of which – the University of Cambridge – you may just have heard of, seeing as it is currently ranked the second best university in the world, according to the 2012/13 QS World University Rankings (it was first in 2010 and 11). You'll also probably know of Cambridge's historic rival, the University of Oxford.
But there’s a lot more to higher education in the UK than Oxford and Cambridge. Four UK universities currently rank among the world's top 10. There are a total of 30 institutions in the top 200, and 55 in the top 700. A shortage of options, then, will not be an issue for the UK-bound international student.

Living in the UK

But while finding the right university should be very high up on an international student’s checklist, it will not be the only consideration. So in what else does the UK have to offer? Quite a lot...
All four of the UK's constituent states (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) enjoy areas of outstanding natural beauty, and the nation’s storied and colorful past means that there’s no shortage of history – also evidenced in the idiosyncratic customs and traditions you’ll almost definitely encounter. And wherever you’re stationed, the country’s relatively diminutive dimensions mean you can easily hop on a train or in a car (just remember to drive on the left…) and be somewhere completely different in less than an hour.
There’s plenty going on culturally too: the contemporary live music scene is vibrant and varied, London is one of the world’s fashion capitals, and there’s no shortage of higher cultural activities should that be more up your alley.
If you fancy something a little less taxing on the mind, you can embrace the national passion for sport (football, rugby, cricket, boxing, motorsport, and tennis amongst others) or the classic British pastime of just going to the pub. And even the traditionally questionable British cuisine has undergone something of a renaissance in recent years, so you need no longer fear the tough meat and boiled vegetables of yesteryear.
Studying at master’s or PhD level? Read graduate-level guide to the UK >

Fast Fact


  • Four member states: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland 
  • Capital city: London (also the capital of England)
  • Capital of Wales is Cardiff, of Scotland is Edinburgh and of Northern Ireland is Belfast
  • Population: 62,246,610 (2010)
  • Total area: 93,800 sq mi
  • 14 overseas territories
  • Cars drive on the left
  • Dialling code: +44
  • Currency: Pounds Sterling (£)
  • Parliamentary democracy with bicameral legislature
  • Queen Elizabeth II is head of state, a largely ceremonial role
  • Head of government is the prime minister, currently David Cameron
  • Greenwich Mean Time (same as UTC); British Summer Time in summer (UTC+1)
  • Official language: English (Welsh has taken off as a second language in Wales in recent years)
  • Famous people from the UK include: JK Rowling (Harry Potter author), Wayne Rooney (footballer), Tom Jones (singer), Liam Neeson (actor)

Lifestyle

iscover the UK's top student cities...

Study in London

No discussion of life in the UK would be complete without a reference to its capital city. Home to 10 million people, London is the beating heart of the UK. Life in the city, which is the financial, cultural and political center of the country, is extremely fast-paced, and if you don’t like crowds or noise, it might not be the place for you. It is also one of the world’s most expensive cities.
However, if you can get past all that, there are few places which can guarantee you as exciting and intense – academically and otherwise – an experience. It also helps that its home to several of the world’s best universities, including two in the top ten of the QS World University Rankings (UCL and Imperial College London).

Study in Manchester

Manchester is famed for its music – few cities have produced as many prominent acts in the past 30 years. Resultantly, it is a bit of a party town, so if your social life is important to you, Manchester should be on your shortlist. But it’s not just about the drinking and the dancing. The city is also home to two universities, including the University of Manchester (also home to the Manchester Business School), which stands at the lofty position of 32 in the QS World University Rankings.
If you’re a fan of football, Manchester will also hold a special appeal. Manchester United is the most decorated club in the country, while local rival Manchester City is the richest. On top of this, the area around the city is awash with smaller clubs, which form an indelible part of the area’s character.

Study in Birmingham

The UK’s second city is home to the respected University of Birmingham (ranked 77 in the QS World University Rankings), as well as two other smaller universities, and two university colleges. The city came to prominence during the industrial revolution. Today, though, it is a thriving commercial hub, and is home to largest shopping area outside of London (which, in the local branch of Selfridges, is home to one most striking buildings in the country). Birmingham (or Brum, as it known affectionately by locals) is also one of the most multicultural places in the UK, and resultantly, few cities can offer you as varied and colourful a cultural experience.

Study in Glasgow

It may have lived for many years in the genteel shadow of Edinburgh, but Scotland’s largest city has in recent years shaken off its former gritty reputation to emerge as one of the UK’s most dynamic up-and-coming cities. With historic architecture, distinctive local traditions and museums to rival any city in the UK, Glasgow now also has enough trendy bars, restaurants and gig venues to keep even the most hardened hipster entertained. Following the upward trajectory of the city, the University of Glasgow has improved its ranking performance in recent years and now stands at 54 in the QS World University Rankings, while the University of Strathclyde ranks at 254.

Study in Oxford or Cambridge

Okay, Oxford and Cambridge are two separate and distinct cities with their own history and character, but these two cities are bound together in the collective imagination as semi-mythical academic enclaves with a profound historic affinity, as well as an ever so slightly tongue-in-cheek rivalry. Both are old medieval towns, built on rivers and situated towards the south of England (a stone’s throw from London), both are relatively quiet and peaceful, and both are completely dominated by their universities – the two oldest in the Anglophone world.
Oxford and Cambridge are both collegiate, and their constituent colleges loom large over the cities’ town centers, which you’ll also notice are teeming with the bright young attendees. These, as you know, are some of the most prestigious universities in the world (Cambridge is 2nd and Oxford is 6th in the world), and to list their notable alumni would have an effect somewhat akin to snow blindness.

Practical Information

Admission, entry and visa requirements

The UK employs a centralized admissions service for students through which you will need to go if you want to apply to a British university. Universities, of course, decide on their own intake, and any questions that do not directly pertain to the technicalities of application should be directed to the institutions concerned.
The application itself, and all communication regarding it, however, will be handled by UCAS (the University and College Admissions Service). Deadlines and the technicalities of your application (such as the number of institutions to which you can apply) differ according to where you’re from, so do your research as soon you’ve made up your mind to study in the UK.
Students from the EEA are subject to the governmentally determined caps on numbers imposed on local students, while students from outside are excluded from these limitations.
Fees and visa requirements will also differ according to whether or not you’re from the EEA.

Applicants from the EEA (and Switzerland)

•    Fees are the same as local students, averaging at around US$13,200 and capped at US$14,000 per year
•    Automatic right of residence if accepted onto a recognized university course (you can apply for an optional Residence Certificate)

Non-EEA applicants

•    Fees set by universities, averaging at around US$20,000 per year, with no maximum cap
•    Must apply for a Tier 4 visa through UK immigration authorities in your home country
•    To gain a visa you must have been accepted onto a course, and have enough money to cover living expenses – your tuition fees plus £600 a month, rising to £800 in London (US$940 and US$1,250). You will need enough money for nine months. Rent paid to the university in advance can be deducted but private rent cannot (though you can spend the money on private rental afterwards)
•    If you are not from an Anglophone country, you will also need to prove your proficiency in English. The required level at present is B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Language
•    Residents of some countries may be required to register with the police, and others may have to provide a certificate to prove they are free from tuberculosis
•    Your visa will be valid until four months after the completion of any course longer than a year (and for two for a course shorter than this)
•    You will be allowed to work for 10 or 20 hours per week in term-time, depending on where you are from
•    You may also apply for entry as a prospective student. To do this you must prove you have been in touch with some universities. It will be valid for six months, during which you may study – though it’s advisable to upgrade sooner rather than later.
Got questions about studying in the UK? Get advice in our international student forum >

Featured University



Universities in United Kingdom

Rank   Universities     Locations

1  University of Cambridge
Cambridge
2  University of Oxford
Oxford
3  The University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh
4  University College London
London
5  University of Glasgow
Glasgow
6  The London School of Economics and Political Science
London
7  The University of Manchester
Manchester
8  Imperial College London
London
9  University of Leeds
Leeds
10  The University of Nottingham
Nottingham ...
11  The University of Warwick
Coventry
12  Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne
13  King's College London
London
14  Durham University
Durham ...
15  The University of York
York
16  University of Liverpool
Liverpool
17  University of St Andrews
St Andrews
18  University of Leicester
Leicester
19  University of Surrey
Guildford
20  University of Aberdeen
Aberdeen
21  University of Strathclyde
Glasgow
22  University of Bath
Bath
23  Cardiff University
Cardiff
24  Lancaster University
Lancaster
25  University of Kent
Canterbury ...
26  Queen Mary, University of London
London
27  University of the Arts London
London ...
28  University of East Anglia
Norwich
29  City University London
London
30  University of Bristol
Bristol
31  University of Essex
Colchester ...
32  University of Sussex
Brighton
33  University of Dundee
Dundee
34  Queen's University Belfast
Belfast
35  University of Exeter
Exeter
36  Heriot-Watt University
Edinburgh ...
37  Loughborough University
Loughborough
38  Aberystwyth University
Aberystwyth
39  Cranfield University
Cranfield ...
40  University of Reading
Reading
41  Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester ...
42  University of the West of England
Bristol
43  Sheffield Hallam University
Sheffield
44  Birkbeck, University of London
London
45  University of Hertfordshire
Hatfield ...
46  Brunel University
Uxbridge
47  University of Southampton
Southampton ...
48  De Montfort University
Leicester ...
49  The University of Hull
Hull ...
50  Royal Holloway, University of London
Egham ...
51  University of Salford
Salford ...
52  London Business School
London
53  Plymouth University
Plymouth
54  Oxford Brookes University
Oxford
55  London Metropolitan University
London
56  University of Stirling
Stirling ...
57  Middlesex University
London
58  University of Birmingham
Birmingham
59  The University of Sheffield
Sheffield
60  Kingston University
Kingston upon Thames
61  Bournemouth University
Poole ...
62  School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London
London
63  University of Greenwich
Greenwich ...
64  Anglia Ruskin University
Cambridge ...
65  Nottingham Trent University
Nottingham
66  University of Wolverhampton
Wolverhampton
67  Bangor University
Bangor
68  University of Portsmouth
Portsmouth
69  University of Brighton
Brighton
70  Goldsmiths, University of London
London
71  University of Ulster
Coleraine
72  Keele University
Newcastle under Lyme
73  University of Central Lancashire
Preston ...
74  University of East London
London ...
75  Royal College of Art
London
76  The Robert Gordon University
Aberdeen
77  University of Glamorgan
Treforest Pontypridd ...
78  Swansea University
Swansea
79  Edinburgh Napier University
Edinburgh
80  University of Derby
Derby
81  Northumbria University
Newcastle upon Tyne
82  Staffordshire University
Stoke-on-Trent ...
83  Coventry University
Coventry
84  University of Westminster
London
85  University of Sunderland
Sunderland
86  School of Advanced Study, University of London
London
87  Aston University
Birmingham
88  Leeds Metropolitan University
Leeds ...
89  London South Bank University
London ...
90  London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London
London
91  Birmingham City University
Birmingham
92  Liverpool John Moores University
Liverpool
93  University of Lincoln
Lincoln ...
94  Roehampton University
Roehampton
95  Southampton Solent University
Southampton
96  Teesside University
Middlesbrough
97  University of Bedfordshire
Luton ...
98  University of Huddersfield
Huddersfield
99  University of London
London
100  Institute of Education, University of London
London
101  The Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London
London
102  Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow
103  The University of Northampton
Northampton
104  University of Abertay Dundee
Dundee
105  Canterbury Christ Church University
Canterbury ...
106  Royal Veterinary College University of London
London ...
107  University of Bolton
Bolton
108  Queen Margaret University
Edinburgh ...
109  Glyndwr University
Wrexham ...
110  Royal Academy of Music, University of London
London
111  University for the Creative Arts
Canterbury ...
112  University of Bradford
Bradford
113  University of Chester
Chester ...
114  Bath Spa University
Bath
115  University of Gloucestershire
Cheltenham ...
116  Glasgow School of Art
Glasgow
117  Liverpool Hope University
Liverpool
118  University College Falmouth
Falmouth
119  Edge Hill University
Ormskirk ...
120  University of Wales, Newport
Newport
121  The University of Buckingham
Buckingham
122  Royal College of Music
London
123  University of Wales
Cardiff ...
124  The University of Winchester
Winchester
125  University of Cumbria
Carlisle ...
126  University of the West of Scotland
Paisley ...
127  St George's, University of London
London
128  Bucks New University
High Wycombe
129  University of Worcester
Worcester
130  Richmond, The American International University in London
London ...
131  Royal Agricultural College
Cirencester
132  University of Chichester
Chichester
133  University of West London
Ealing ...
134  Central School of Speech and Drama
London
135  University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Carmarthen ...
136  Heythrop College, University of London
London
137  York St John University
York
138  Swansea Metropolitan University
Swansea
139  University College Birmingham
Birmingham
140  Bishop Grosseteste University College Lincoln
Lincoln
141  Harper Adams University College
Newport
142  The Arts University College at Bournemouth
Poole
143  European School of Economics
London ...
144  Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff
145  Scottish Agricultural College
Edinburgh ...
146  Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Glasgow
147  The School of Pharmacy, University of London
London

Studying in the UK

Studying overseas

UK students are increasingly considering the option of studying abroad, particularly since the introduction of higher tuition fees.


The opportunity for an adventure attracts many students to international study and a period of time spent abroad has also become a valuable addition to the CV in today’s increasingly difficult graduate employment market.

The number of courses taught in English is growing across Europe and the creation of the European Higher Education Area under the Bologna Process has made universities on the continent a much more credible alternative to studying at home. Universities in the US, Australia and Asia are also keen to recruit English students and international league tables can provide a good starting point when it comes to researching universities around the globe.

With UK institutions now able to charge up to £9,000 per year for courses, the cost of studying at home is no longer even significantly less than the cost of choosing to go abroad to countries such as Australia, the US and Canada. In fact, a HSBC survey conducted in October found that even taking into account two return flights a year, a student would pay just £100 more per year to study in Canada compared with the UK. According to the study, opting for Australia or the US would cost students about £4,000 more per annum than the £15,600 it calculated was the average cost of tuition, living expenses and accommodation in the UK.

In contrast, HSBC said Germany was the least expensive study destination, putting costs at just over £4,200 per year, with France next on the list of affordable destinations with an annual cost of about £5,300.

Looking at the figures, it would seem like studying in Europe was a bit of a no-brainer financially. Why graduate with close to £50,000 worth of debt if you can escape with £15,000 just by hopping across to the continent? Aside from the fact there is more to consider than just finances — language, course availability and an institution’s reputation also play a big part in determining where to take a degree — the comparison isn’t quite as clear cut as it seems.

While on the face of it a number of European countries appear to be cheaper places to study, in most countries there are no student loans available to UK students to cover the costs. Students who study at a UK institution are able to access loans that will cover both their tuition fees and their living costs. So although the overall cost may be higher than in some countries in the EU, the upfront cost is much lower.

A survey carried out by Graduate Prospects earlier this year found that while almost three-quarters of students were considering studying at a university abroad, 27% were worried about the financial implications. 

However, it isn’t primarily the idea of saving money that drives students to consider looking outside the UK for an education. In fact, the Graduate Prospects survey found that for 33% the main motivation was actually an appetite for adventure. A further 26% cited a desire to build an international career.

A growing awareness among young people of the importance of international exposure was also recently noted by a British Council study, which found that one-third of UK adults that had not spent time living or studying abroad felt that it had harmed their career prospects. Among the under-25 age group, 54% believed that a lack of global experience was holding them back.

The challenge for those looking to broaden their horizons then is to find a way to fund it and there are a number of options.

  • See our guide to funding overseas study to see if there's an option that might work for you.

Advice for International Students

The UK is the second most popular destination for students from overseas, after the USA. More than 350,000 international students enrol each year, more than 20 per cent of the world's share.

  • International students considering the UK have a choice of over 140 universities and higher education institutions, each offering a great range of tertiary qualifications that will be recognised the world over. (More in our UK university ranking.)
  • The factors to take into account in reaching a decision go beyond a choice of university and degree course.
  • Tuition fees vary between institutions, and many international students will need to be aware of visa requirements, including English language qualifications, and work permit restrictions.
  • The application process – how and when to apply – is also important.
  • Then you will need to decide on your accommodation.
The Complete University Guide offers a wealth of information and advice on some of the key factors international students will need to consider. Want to know more? Send us a question.

The United Kingdom

There are four parts of the United Kingdom (UK): England, Scotland and Wales – sometimes collectively called Great Britain – and the province of Northern Ireland.

Of the 125 universities and colleges ranked in The Complete University Guide:

  • 102 are in England
  • 14 are in Scotland
  • 7 are in Wales
  • 2 are in Northern Ireland.
In the late 1990s, a Parliament in Scotland and an Assembly in Wales were established, each with devolved powers. These bodies have a significant impact on university education in these countries. For example, EU students at Scottish universities (except those from the rest of the UK) do not pay tuition fees. Scottish universities have seen a surge in numbers of overseas applicants, no doubt as a result of such policy changes.

Find the right university

Use our UK university ranking to search for a university by location or by subject.

British Universities


British University History


The UK’s universities have their origins in the ancient seats of learning at Oxford (1096), Cambridge (1209) and St Andrews (1411). There are now in excess of 140 universities and other higher education providers that share a world-wide reputation for the quality of their courses, teaching and research. Responsibility for managing the higher education sector within overall government policies is shared by two independent bodies: Higher Education Funding Councils; Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.

  • The appointment of external examiners at each university also guarantees good standards.
  • These, in turn, are reflected in high entry requirements, short and intensive courses of study, and high completion rates, the latter resulting from an infrastructure that offers strong student support.
  • A degree from a British university is a well-respected qualification throughout the world, not least because of an increasing emphasis on employability alongside knowledge and skills.

Students receive free medical and subsidised dental and optical treatment under the National Health Service.

  • Also, full access to a professional counselling service.
  • A university careers service network – with an enviable reputation throughout the world – to help with the decision on what to do on completion of your studies.
The fact that degree courses here are more intensive, and thus shorter, than those in many other countries has an obvious financial advantage, not only in study and living costs, but also in the opportunity to enter, or re-enter, the employment market sooner.

The Culture

More than 60 million people live in the UK, creating a multicultural society with people from all over the world.

Migrants from the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, Africa and the West Indies mingle with mainland Europeans, especially those who have arrived since 2004 from the 12 countries (mainly in eastern Europe) who then joined the EU.

  • The British have a reputation for tolerance and fair play. The media are independent and frequently critical and outspoken, and there is a strong belief in justice, law and order. Generally, the British are polite and deferential.
  • The British sense of humour is subtle and sometimes difficult to understand. Being on time for an appointment is expected. Being late for a lecture or a doctor's appointment is considered rude.
  • Aim to get involved in sport, voluntary work or one of the many student societies on campus or perhaps act as a mentor or a student representative. This is a great way to improve language skills and offer a good insight into British culture.
  • One of the many benefits of living and studying in another country is to experience other ways of doing things, so take advantage of every opportunity to meet people.

Students from your own country and culture may provide help, information and support, either before deciding whether to study in the UK or after arrival.


Many national student societies organise at university level but there are a number of UK-wide organisations that may be helpful:

This list is not exhaustive and The Complete University Guide does not endorse any of the organisations named.

The Weather

Because of the way the weather dominates conversation in Britain, people who have not lived here could be forgiven for thinking that the climate is extreme. In fact, the UK’s temperate climate is exactly the opposite and needs little effort to adjust to.
  • Given its position west of the European mainland, Britain tends to have low humidity, warm summers and mild winters.
  • Days are long and bright in June but short and grey in December.
  • Average maximum daily temperatures range from 6°C in January to 19°C in July, while rain can fall at any time of the year, mainly in and close to the hilly regions in the north and west where over 1,200 mm a year is typical. Southern and eastern Britain is drier. Snowfalls occur most during most winters (but rarely accumulate in the south).
  • From sunshine and heat-waves to rain showers and snowfall – the UK gets it all.
  • Many websites offer daily, even hourly, weather forecasts, and the Met Office and the BBC are good places to start.

To make your time in the UK more enjoyable – and to ensure you're well prepared – The Complete University Guide recommends that you budget for the following items in preparation for your stay.


  • Winter coat, hat, scarf and gloves for use from late November to March.
  • Shorts, t-shirts, sunhat, flip-flops and sunscreen for those hot summer days.
  • Suitable shoes for walking through the British countryside.
  • Rainwear.

 Applying to a British University

How and When to Apply

  • Make sure you get your application in well before the deadline, particularly if you want to study at one of the top universities in the UK.
  • All applications to UK universities are made through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Simply fill in a UCAS application form on the UCAS website or visit the nearest British Council office.

Non-EU international students

International students from a non-EU country can submit an application to UCAS at any time between 1 September and 30 June in the year preceding the academic year that studies commence.
However, most students apply well before 30 June to make sure that places are still available and to allow plenty of time to make immigration, travel and accommodation arrangements.

EU international students

  • Applicants from within an EU country must ensure their application form is received by UCAS by 15 January; otherwise they will be treated as late applicants. Different, usually earlier, dates apply for Oxford and Cambridge, and for medical and art and design courses. Check when an application is due on the application timetable.
  • As well as the UCAS application, remember to check on eligibility for any possible scholarships, loans and grants.
  • Find out more about the UK application process in our Applying to university section.

Tuition Fees for International Students


Choosing to study for an undergraduate degree at one of the top universities in the UK will be a worthwhile experience, but it can also be an expensive one. 


  • International students normally resident in countries outside the EU (European Union) and EEA (European Economic Area) pay near-full-cost tuition fees in all of the UK universities. These are likely to be in the range shown below and in the university profiles. Students from outside the EU will not be eligible for the loans and grants available to UK and EU students.
  • Students from the EU pay the same fees as home students. Non-EU students from the European Economic Area and Switzerland should consult the guidance provided here by UKCISA – the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
  • While many international students from outside the EU receive financial support from their home countries, UK scholarships for international students, whether from the UK government, sponsors or the individual universities themselves are limited. The vast majority are for post-graduate study, although there are one or two schemes for which undergraduates can be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Students from overseas should therefore make sure they have sufficient funds for the full tuition fees and all necessary living costs before leaving home.

  • They will almost certainly be asked to guarantee in writing that they have sufficient funds for the complete duration of their course (see under Entry Regulations below).
  • It is virtually impossible to arrange financial support after leaving home.

Tuition fees for international students 


Subject                                                                      £ Sterling

Humanities and Social Sciences                                £9,000–£10,800

Sciences and Engineering                                        £10,200–£13,800

Clinical subjects                                                     £23,200–£26,000

  • Some international students may be exempt.
  • However, since February 2012, students who had applied for asylum and have been granted discretionary leave to remain are no longer eligible for home student fees at universities in England (unless they started their courses before April 1 2011).
  • Students with discretionary leave to remain will still be eligible for the home student rate in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Read more about Tuition Fees and Funding and managing your money while studying in the UK.

Entry and Employment Regulations

The UK welcomes international students from all around the world, but there is a rigorous visa process you must follow.

It is important to be aware of the entry and employment regulations that affect international students in the UK. In this section, The Complete University Guide has information on:

A guide to the regulations introduced between April 2011 and April 2012 can be downloaded here.

Current passport

  • A valid passport current for the duration of the stay in the UK is required.
  • In addition, students from certain countries coming to university in Britain will need to obtain entry clearance (often called a 'visa') from the UK Border Agency before arrival. This could take several weeks to arrange.

Application process

  • The application is assessed on a Points Based System (Tier 4). Under this system you will need 40 points by satisfying two criteria:

  • one by obtaining a Visa Letter or Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university where you plan to study (30 points);
  • and the other by proving that you have enough funds for you (and your family, if applicable) to live here (10 points).
  • The UK Border Agency has determined the level of maintenance money required in addition to your tuition fees for your first year.

  • From April 2012, Tier 4 applicants without dependants will be required to show they have £1,000 for each month of the course up to a maximum of nine months in inner London; or £800 for each month of the course up to a maximum of nine months elsewhere.
  • You must have 40 points to be considered for a visa but, once in possession of firm evidence in writing covering both criteria, you will have the necessary paperwork to complete the visa application form.

Institution of study

If your application is successful, you will be expected to study at the institution which has accepted you, not at another one.

The university, for its part, will be responsible for keeping your personal details up to date, and reporting students who do not arrive, do not have a satisfactory attendance record or who leave before completing their course. You should apply at least one month, but not more than six months, before coming to the UK.

With the introduction of the new Points Based System, international students can also apply through Tier 1 to extend their stay for up to two years after graduation in any UK country. The Fresh Talent initiative in Scotland is now part of these new arrangements.
Non-visa nationals clearly do not require a visa for entry but it might be a sensible precaution to submit your study documents to the British Consulate in your own country to obtain an official entry certificate. Nationals of an EU country, and also Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, are free to travel to the UK without a visa to study or work.

After Arrival

Managing Your Money

Student bank accounts

It is important to be able to access money while studying as an international student.

  • Most banks in the UK offer a student account and the services they provide are very similar.
  • However, it is still important to research the different accounts available to find one that best suits your needs.
  • A number of high street banks in the UK offer an account specifically for international students.
  • The British Bankers' Association has a helpful guide on opening a bank account for international students.

Living costs

Accommodation and living costs will depend on where in the UK you have chosen to study, but will range from £5,000 to £8,000 per year. 

Some of the general costs include:

  • £25 to £30 – a typical weekly food bill.
  • £19.30 – seven day Oyster travel card on the London underground, Docklands Light Railway and London Overground (includes 30% student discount).
  • £6.55 – peak hour cinema ticket (but there are super saver tickets available at other times).
  • £5 – English breakfast at a café or pub.
  • £2.80 – premium take-away sandwich.
  • Find more information about the best university cities in the UK in The Complete University Guide's city guides.

Student discounts

Student Jobs

Choosing to study at one of the leading universities in the UK is an exciting experience, but it does come with a catch – money.

  • International students pay higher tuition fees than domestic students and also fund their accommodation and living costs.
  • Fortunately, there is support available and opportunities for part-time work to top up funds.

Part-time work

  • A student working part-time has the same rights as a full-time employee.
  • The UK has a National Minimum Wage (NMW) that all employers must abide by.
  • The NMW for a student aged between 18 and 20 is £4.98 per hour; for those 21 and over, the NMW is £6.08 per hour (£6.19 from 1 October 2012).
  • More about working part-time and your employment rights at Directgov.

National Insurance Number

  • To work part-time while studying, a National Insurance number is required. This ensures all tax and national insurance contributions made while working are recorded correctly.
  • Find out more about National Insurance from HM Revenue & Customs.

Types of student jobs

Getting a part-time job not only provides some extra pocket money, but is also an opportunity to meet other people and extend networks.

There is a range of part-time jobs available for students. Some of the more popular part-time student jobs are in:

  • Retail
  • Hospitality
  • Seasonal jobs
  • You can search for part-time jobs here.
  • Alternatively, it may be possible to find an internship with a company that is relevant to the subject you are studying. In certain circumstances interns who carry out work for an employer may be entitled to the National Minimum Wage.

Work on campus

  • Part-time student work can also be found on campus.
  • During the summer, professors may be looking for research assistants, or there might be some work in a university facility such as the library.
  • The National Association of Student Employment Services has useful guidance for international students seeking part-time work.

Volunteer

  • Volunteering is also an option for the spare time in between study, work and travel. There are plenty of clubs and societies on campus to join and volunteer at events. 

Have a look at our university profiles which give details of part-time work and volunteering opportunities available.

Student Accommodation

There's a range of accommodation options available to international students.

The choice of student accommodation could make or break your student experience – there would be nothing worse than living in a freezing cold flat during the middle of winter, or in a neighbourhood where you don't feel safe. Therefore, it is important to make sure the accommodation is suitable.

  • Will this be university-owned or in the private sector?
  • How far is it from the university?
  • Is it secure, safe and warm?
  • Does it have internet access?
  • Would you have to move out in the vacations?

For students living away from home for the first time, a university hall of residence can be a good solution.

  • These are large buildings often situated on or near the university campus, where each student has their own room but share bathroom and kitchen facilities.
  • While some halls of residence have cooking facilities for students, most of the time you will eat your main meals in large dining halls, which makes for a great social atmosphere.
  • Many universities have contracted with private sector operators such as Unite and Nido to provide premium accommodation with en suite facilities. Check out our guide to university halls and houses to find out more.

For greater independence, private accommodation could be the answer. Options include a studio or one bedroom flat, or in a flat share.

  • A flat share is a house with two or more rooms and everyone has their own private room, with a shared bathroom and living facilities.
  • Some students choose to share with friends, while others are happy to move in with strangers who may become good friends.
  • Find out more about flatsharing in our guide to private accommodation.

To find out what real life is like in the UK, try boarding with a family.

This will give some interaction with local people and, if English is your second language, it is a great way to improve your English skills. Read more information on hostels and lodgings.

Leaving home and travelling abroad to study at one of the top universities in the UK can be slightly daunting, particularly if it is your first time away from home.

  • Culture shock and homesickness are not uncommon but support is available.
  • Spend time with friends, talk to an international student support officer and try to think positively about your time here in the UK.
  • Our section on preparing to go to university also has lots of helpful tips and advice, including how to stay safe and secure as a student.

The UKCISA Guidance for New International Students Seeking Accommodation contains detailed information on finding and securing accommodation.

Highest Ever Satisfaction Ratings for UK Universities

An annual poll has found that students studying at UK universities are more satisfied with their universities than at any time over the past eight years.
The National Student Survey (NSS), carried out every year since 2005, measures the responses of students at 154 higher education institutions, as well as a slightly smaller number of further education colleges.
The survey asks final year undergraduate students how satisfied they are with various aspects of their university experience, with 30 questions asked in total. Teaching, assessment and feedback, academic support, organization and management, learning resources, personal development, overall satisfaction and access to health facilities are covered by the questions, and this year students were also asked how satisfied they were with their students’ union for the first time.
Improvements were recorded across every category, with overall satisfaction standing at 85%. Satisfaction with students’ union was the lowest at 66%. Liam Burns, President of the UK’s National Union of Students commented in an official statement: “It is clear that these initial results pose challenges and identify scope for continuous improvement. We are committed to continuing our work with our member unions to both develop their work and better communicate it to their students.”
An improvement in the levels of satisfaction with assessment and feedback was particularly welcomed by the UK higher education establishment, as scores have traditionally been low in this regard.

Demanding more

It is widely accepted that, in face of rising higher education costs, students will demand more for their money. The rise in costs has been particularly pronounced in the UK, where the maximum annual fee for UK and EU students has been tripled this year to £9,000 (US$14,600).
There is no cap on fees for students from outside the EU, who as well as requiring specific support, pay higher fees. In this light, these results will please students considering studying the UK.
Pat Killingley, British Council director of Higher Education, commented, “The British Council welcomes today’s findings from the National Student Survey that student satisfaction has improved. The UK is the second most popular destination in the world for international students, because of the quality of our teaching and the quality of the student experience. These findings reinforce that and will help us in our role of promoting UK education around the world.”
...oh, and in case you wondering, the most satisfied students were at St Mary's University College Belfast, at which 98% of students reported being satisfied.

New consumer website for students

The release of survey results came alongside the launch of a new website called Unistat, on which the results can be viewed on a course-by-course or an institution-by-institution basis.
In addition to the satisfaction levels, the website also contains a range of other statistics. These include employment statistics, average salaries, the fees you can expect to pay, expected accommodation costs, the time spent in lectures and year-by-year percentages of how the course is assessed. Like the satisfaction levels, these can be viewed for each course at each university.
The site in intended to help students make a more informed choice as university becomes a bigger and bigger investment. Together with the recent opening of a new elite £18,000 a year (US$29,200) private college in London (the New College of the Humanities), fee rises have led some in the UK to worry that the country’s universities are moving towards privatization.
Perhaps fittingly, it was the UK’s minister in charge of business, Vince Cable, who commented on the launch of the website: “Applying to university is a big decision and we want to ensure that all students, whatever their background, have the key facts at their fingertips to help them make the right choice for them.”
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Student satisfaction levels

Area                                                  % students definitely or mostly satisfied
 

Teaching of academic courses                                               86
 
Assessment and feedbac                                                        70
 
Academic support                                                                 79
 
Organisation and management                                                77
 
Learning resources                                                                82
 
Personal development                                                            81
 
Overall satisfaction                                                                85
 
Students' union                                                                     66
 
National Health Service practice placements                             85

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