UK

The UK has some world famous tourist attractions and scenery is stunning and varied. There is so much to see and do, and the transport links can take you anywhere you choose to go! Each of the UK’s regions have their own unique culture and charm, so everywhere is worth a visit. The cities are vibrant and bustling, while the countryside is totally breathtaking, from rolling fields and hills, snowcapped mountains, forests, beaches and lakes, there really is something for everyone! Nightlife in the UK is a huge part of the student scene, while there are plenty of sports and other activities to occupy you. The culture is friendly and diverse, which is what makes it so great for international students.

Cost of Studying & Living in UK

Before you begin studying in the UK you will have to look at tuition and the living costs for your stay. There are a number of financial options available for international students, so make sure you do some research and find out what you may qualify for. The estimated living cost per year is between £7,000 – £9,000, so it’s important that you plan ahead and keep track of your spending! Many UK shops and restaurants offer a student discount and you can also get great deals on travel passes to help make life more affordable.

Tuition fees per year range from £7,000 to £9,000 for Arts courses and £7,500 to £12,000 for Science courses. The costs can vary depending on where you are studying, so it’s a good idea to get in touch with your chosen institution to find out the full cost of your course and what financial help is on offer. The duration of a UK undergraduate course ranges from three to four years, while a full-time postgraduate degree is generally a year. There are plenty of options available to you following your degree and there will always be lots of guidance to help you choose your next step.

Visas

Once you’ve decided what to study, you need to consider entry dates, application deadlines, UK student visa deadlines and English language requirements. The main intake is in September each year, though many universities have a smaller intake in January. If you wish to begin your course in September, keep in mind that the application deadline is in June, so make sure you have submitted all of your application documents well in advance of your cut off date.

When applying for your visa, you must make sure that you qualify. The UK visa requirements are subject to change, but you will generally need an unconditional offer letter from your chosen university, as well as proof of funds to cover course fees and living expenses. You can read more about the new UK points-based immigration system on our blog or visit the UKGovernment Border Agencywebsite.

Another thing to remember is that most courses have their own language requirements, so you may have to show evidence of your language skills. The preferred English language test is IELTS, though you will be able to find out more about this from your chosen university.

UK Facts

Population:63.23 million

GDP:$2.435 trillion

Number of universities:109

Foreign Student Enrolment 2012/2013:425,260

Currency:Pound Sterling (GBP)

Official Languages:English

Study in the UK offers you a long history of teaching the world’s greatest leaders, thinkers and artists. You can choose from traditional UK universities that have taught for hundreds of years, or modern, state-of-the-art universities and colleges throughout England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

Courses in London are always popular – living in one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities is a life-changing adventure. It’s a great place to learn English in the UK, or study an undergraduate or Masters Degree.

A UK education doesn’t have to be expensive either. The cost of living outside of London is much more affordable. UK degrees can be completed in three years with honours (saving a year of tuition compared with many other international degrees). Plus, students in the UK have access to free medical care through the NHS if they are studying for more than six months.