All you need to know about being an international student in the United Kingdom
A thriving, inclusive community that many international students revel in, the United Kingdom (UK) is often associated with academic excellence and is one of the more prominent cultural centers in Europe.
The United Kingdom is credited with generating 14% of the world’s most cited academic papers and 5% of the world’s scientific research, and a degree from a UK university is internationally respected. The United Kingdom’s countries are home to only 1% of the world’s population, which makes these figures all the more impressive. Ernest Rutherford, the father of nuclear physics, and Oscar Wilde, an acclaimed Irish writer and playwright, are among the luminaries who have graduated from prestigious UK tertiary institutions. The UK’s universities are known for their ability to cultivate brilliance in a variety of fields.
Why study in the UK
The economy
The United Kingdom sustains an enormous economy. It is, in fact, the sixth largest country in the globe and has experienced consistent economic growth prior to the current global economic downturn. However, businesses are still expanding and individuals are securing employment.
Education
The United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, such as Cambridge and Oxford, and it meets the requirements of numerous students.
Healthcare
A robust healthcare system is not present in every country. The United Kingdom is one of the few countries that has a National Health Service (NHS). Free healthcare is available to legal residents of the United Kingdom. Upon payment of the International Health Surcharge (IHS), international students are granted access to the NHS. Please refer to the Health Advice and Services for International Students section of this guide for additional information.
Culture
The United Kingdom is one of the few countries with a culture as extensive as the United Kingdom. It is an intriguing location to investigate due to its lengthy and intriguing history and diverse ethnic composition.
The UK is geographically well-placed
The United Kingdom is in an optimal location for short trips to other countries. London is an excellent travel center due to its proximity to numerous European destinations, which can be reached in just a few hours.
Education System in the UK
The United Kingdom has a demonstrated history of success in the realm of global university rankings. Imperial College London is ranked eighth in the 2017-18 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, while the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are ranked first and second, respectively. The United Kingdom is highly regarded for its quality of education, student satisfaction, and global reputation in all global ranking systems, criteria, and disciplines of study.
Additionally, the United Kingdom is renowned for its world-class research and innovation, which are complemented by a long-standing academic tradition. You will have access to the most advanced facilities. Many students opt to enhance their employability and perfect their English by enrolling in the UK’s higher education system.
How it works
Education is the responsibility of each of the four jurisdictions in the United Kingdom: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The educational systems, qualifications, and regulatory frameworks of the four countries differ. The distinctions are most apparent in secondary and general education. Because of this, there are numerous credit frameworks and qualifications.
Qualifications framework
There are two parallel frameworks for higher education qualifications of UK degree-awarding bodies: one that applies to Scotland and one that operates in the remainder of the UK.
There are the following:
- The FHEQ is the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications of Degree Awarding Bodies in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- Higher Education Institutions in Scotland’s Framework for Qualifications (FQHEIS)
In the United Kingdom, these frameworks serve as the primary national reference points for academic standards in higher education. In the United Kingdom, there are 160 universities and colleges that are authorized to confer a diverse array of degrees to accommodate the majority of educational aspirations.
Fees and scholarships
The tuition fees for a variety of higher education and further education courses in the United Kingdom are contingent upon:
- Wherever you decide to study in the United Kingdom, there are distinct regulations for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales.
- Your academic aptitude.
Tuition fees for undergraduate students vary from £10,000 to approximately £18,000 annually, contingent upon the institution and the course. The tuition fees for all postgraduate courses are subject to differences depending on the course provider.
Scholarships
There are numerous financial support options available to international students who aspire to pursue a course in the United Kingdom, including scholarships, grants, bursaries, fellowships, financial honors, and loans. The demand for scholarships is consistently greater than the supply, so it is advisable to submit your application as soon as possible in order to increase your chances of success.
Study UK serves as an excellent starting point for students searching for prospective support options. Additionally, students should examine the websites of the colleges and universities that pique their interest. The optimal time to seek financial assistance is well in advance of the course’s commencement. Obtaining funding can be exceedingly challenging, particularly during the middle of the academic year.
Teaching and learning style
The quality of education in the United Kingdom is widely recognized as exceptional, and the majority of international students express their satisfaction with the quality of instruction. You can anticipate receiving instruction in a variety of formats. The majority of students participate in seminars and lectures, and they occasionally participate in workshops and tutorials.
It is probable that you will be afforded substantial autonomy to investigate your own concepts and to exercise your creativity during a course in the United Kingdom. You may be anticipated to participate actively in the teaching and learning process, which may involve conducting your own research or collaborating with other students on certain assignments. At first, some international students may find the development of critical and analytical thinking in all subjects at UK universities to be somewhat intimidating. Nevertheless, this fosters a more profound comprehension of the subject matter and the necessary communication abilities.
U.K. education is also highly interactive. Tutors may organize activities, including debates, discussions, and exams, and will encourage you to share ideas. The concept is that learning will be more effective if you are engaged and have joy. Initially, this method of learning may appear intimidating; however, students will receive ample assistance from their educators and will soon achieve a sense of comfort.
Higher education
The majority of destinations provide a diverse array of pathways for both domestic and international students to transition into further education. These programs are commonly referred to as foundation courses or pathways.
Students have the option to enroll in higher education courses in order to obtain an advanced degree and continue their education in the United Kingdom. Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are the three primary categories of higher education.
Bachelor or undergraduate degrees
Students are intended to acquire a comprehensive comprehension of a subject through academic study in undergraduate degrees. Ordinary and honors degrees are the two categories into which degrees are divided. An ‘ordinary’ degree is typically a three-year full-time program, whereas an ‘honors’ degree is typically a four-year full-time program.
Postgraduate study
How can you determine whether or not postgraduate study in the United Kingdom is the appropriate course of action for you after completing your bachelor’s degree? Making the decision to pursue postgraduate studies is a significant undertaking. In the long term, it can be a highly worthwhile investment, despite the fact that it requires a bit more time and a lengthier absence from the workforce.
Pathway programs
There are numerous pathway programs into higher education for international students, such as English language preparation programs and foundation studies. These guarantees that students are provided with the additional support and assistance necessary to achieve success.
Academic year
The standard academic year in the United Kingdom commences in September or October and concludes in June or July. Nevertheless, certain courses are more adaptable and provide a variety of commencement dates. The deadline for applications to undergraduate universities that begin in September is typically in the preceding January of the year. A reduced January intake is also available, with a limited selection of undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and foundation courses. Additionally, private pathway providers may provide additional commencement dates throughout the year.
Learning English
The United Kingdom is the premier destination for English language study on a global scale (Study Travel Magazine, December 2012). For an extended period, the United Kingdom has been at the forefront of language instruction and has developed numerous methodologies that are currently employed worldwide. The emphasis is on learning through participation and enjoyment, rather than merely listening to the teacher. Classes encompass discussions, problem-solving, and activities. Additionally, students may engage in activities such as reading magazines, watching television, or listening to music in order to enhance their comprehension abilities. Additionally, universities and colleges provide numerous English language courses to assist international students in their preparation for a degree program in the United Kingdom. These degree preparation programs are referred to as “pre-sessional English courses” by universities.
The UK Government has recently announced significant modifications to the language testing process for visa applications. These changes include a decrease in the number of tests that are recognized for visa purposes and the introduction of new requirements for the administration of the tests. The IELTS, the most widely used high-stakes English test for global migration and higher education, has been certified for all UK visas that necessitate documentation of the applicant’s English proficiency.
IELTS Academic, IELTS General Training, and IELTS Life Skills are recognized by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as evidence of English proficiency. Nevertheless, the students’ reasons for being in the UK determine the appropriate IELTS test for them to take.
After graduation
Numerous international pupils desire to remain in the United Kingdom upon their graduation and apply the skills they have acquired. If students satisfy the criteria for the UK Government’s operational schemes, they may be eligible to extend their stay.
The following are the most significant schemes for students who have completed their education.
Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur): Aimed at recent graduates and postdoctoral researchers who possess Tier 2 immigration permission possess “genuine and credible business ideas and entrepreneurial skills,” and whose UK college or university is willing to endorse them under this scheme to assist them in the development of these ideas.
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur): This necessitates that the pupil invest in a business located in the United Kingdom. The pupil does not require a sponsor or an endorsing body.
Tier 2: The primary pathway for students who wish to pursue employment. The lowest wage for this scheme is £20,800; however, the wage may be higher depending on the role. Employers are generally not required to demonstrate that they have advertised the position and that no one else is capable of performing it (resident labor market test) prior to offering it to the student.
Tier 5 (Temporary Worker): Depending on the scheme, students are permitted to engage in specific categories of work in the United Kingdom for a duration of one or two years. The pupil must have a Tier 5 sponsor under the relevant scheme. Before the pupil can submit their immigration application, they must receive a certificate of sponsorship from their Tier 5 sponsor.
Tier 4 Doctorate Extension Scheme: This enables a recent PhD graduate to engage in employment or self-employment in the United Kingdom for a period of one year following the completion of their studies. Before the student completes their doctorate, they must submit an application.
Applying For A Visa
The type of study you wish to pursue and your age will determine the form of visa you require. The following is a summary of the study visa categories and application requirements. For additional information, please refer to the Gov.UK website.
In order to qualify for a Tier 4 student visa, you must:
- Possess an unequivocal offer of enrollment in a course with a licensed Tier 4 sponsor.
- Possess the ability to read, write, communicate, and comprehend the English language.
- Possess sufficient funds to cover the cost of your education and your living expenses.
Applying for your visa online
Unless you are applying from North Korea, you must submit your student visa application online through the official Gov.UK website of the British Government. In that instance, you may use a hardcopy form.
Applications may be submitted up to three months prior to the date of travel to the United Kingdom. The date on which your application fee is paid is the date of your application.
If you are applying for a Tier 4 visa, you will typically require the following:
- An authorized travel document, such as a current passport
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses for the duration of your course
- Reference number and documents utilized to acquire the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- a color photograph that is the size of a passport
- Tuberculosis screening (if necessary)
- Assessment documentation
- Certificate of clearance from the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) (if necessary)
An additional set of documents may be required if you are:
- Not a citizen of the country from which you are applying
- Individuals who are under the age of 18
- Own a household (dependents)
If any of your supporting documents are not in English, they will require translation. Each translated document must be date-stamped, contain the translator’s name and signature, and be confirmed to be an accurate translation of the original document.
English language requirements
When applying for a visa, it is necessary to submit evidence of your proficiency in the English language. This typically entails successfully completing a secure English language evaluation.
The minimal English language requirements for reading, writing, listening, and speaking are determined by the level of study and are enforced by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The English language requirements of your educational institution (sponsor) may differ.
As part of the visa application procedure, it is possible that you will be interviewed by a UKVI officer. Regardless of your English language accomplishments, you may be denied entry to the United Kingdom if you are unable to engage in a basic conversation without an interpreter.
Biometric residence permit
In addition, you are required to obtain a biometric residence permit (BRP) from UKVI as part of your application. To have your fingers and thumbs scanned and a digital photo of your visage taken, you will need to schedule an appointment with UKVI.
The UK Culture and Way of Life
It is probable that you have already formed a fairly accurate mental image of the United Kingdom. Its influence is evident worldwide, and it is one of the most recognizable countries in the world.
Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and England constitute the United Kingdom. Thus, it is feasible to traverse the Shetland Islands, situated off the northern coast of Scotland, to the Isles of Scilly in southwest England, and subsequently cross the sea to Northern Ireland, all without departing the United Kingdom.
England is home to the majority of the approximately 65 million individuals who reside in the United Kingdom. London, the capital metropolis of the United Kingdom and England, is the largest city in the country. London is a city that is proud of its multicultural and multifaith heritage, much like the rest of the United Kingdom. It is expected that you will respect the religious beliefs of others, just as they are expected to respect your own.
Although English is the official language of the United Kingdom, it is not the sole native language. Welsh may also be heard in Wales, Gaelic and Scots in Scotland, Irish Gaelic in Northern Ireland, and Cornish in Cornwall. Nevertheless, your proficiency in English will suffice to navigate your daily commute, as it is widely spoken throughout the nation.
Weather
The United Kingdom may evoke images of rain, but this is not always the case.
The weather in the United Kingdom is occasionally unpredictable, but it is rarely severe. Although the weather forecast indicates that it will be dry and warm, it is possible for the weather to change multiple times in a single day. Consequently, it may be necessary to include a warm jacket and an umbrella in your study pack.
In general, the following climatic conditions are present during each season:
- Summer (June to August) is typically characterized by the most favorable and warmest weather, featuring extended periods of sunshine and occasional thunderstorms.
- Autumn (September to November): The temperature begins to decrease, and the weather can be either mild and dry or rainy and windy.
- Winter (December to February) is the coldest season, characterized by the possibility of snow and frigid temperatures.
- In the spring (March to May), the weather is typically pleasant, with a combination of brief, sunny periods and abrupt showers.
Politics and government
People occasionally believe that the Queen is the ruler of the United Kingdom; however, the royal family’s primary responsibility is ceremonial. The United Kingdom is a parliamentary democracy, which means that the government is elected by the people through a general election that is typically conducted every five years.
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is accompanied by the Cabinet, which is composed of the most senior members of the government, and Ministers. Subsequently, the implementation of government policy is the responsibility of individual government departments and their agencies.
Parliament is composed of the House of Commons and the House of Lords and is distinct from the Government. Parliament is responsible for the scrutiny of the government’s actions, the passage of new laws the debate of issues, and the establishment of taxation.
Local government councils are responsible for making decisions regarding local services.
Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have ‘devolved’ administrations that are accountable for a variety of domestic policy matters, including health, education, and transportation.
Health and Support Services
It is not always straightforward to relocate to a new country. This is the reason why the majority of universities, colleges, and educational institutions provide specialized support services to assist international students in adjusting to life in the United Kingdom and maximizing their study (and holiday) time.
Support services
UK institutions offer exceptional support services, such as a dedicated international students office, international student societies, academic support, counseling support, and personal tutors.
Staying healthy while you study
While residing in the United Kingdom, you may require medical assistance.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides free medical treatment to all international students who are enrolled in a course for a period exceeding six months. This benefit is substantial and alleviates any concerns regarding prospective healthcare expenses.
In order to be eligible for free or discounted NHS treatment, you must satisfy specific criteria and submit an additional International Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. For additional information, please consult the website of the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).
Finding a local doctor
If you are ill, your local General Practitioner (doctor) will be able to provide confidential, fundamental healthcare, as well as assist in the prevention of future health risks. In the event that it is necessary, they can also refer you to a specialist.
It is imperative that you promptly register with a local doctor upon your arrival in the UK, as they will be able to provide assistance with a diverse array of health issues.
To register, you must visit the doctor’s clinic during consulting hours and present the following:
- A letter from your institution that serves as evidence of your enrollment as a student
- your passport
- any stray immigration documents
It is crucial to inform them that you prefer to receive treatment from the NHS (provided that you are eligible) in order to prevent the expense of the complete private treatment.
Visiting a dentist
It is recommended that you visit a dentist every six months to have your teeth examined. Therefore, if you plan to remain in the United Kingdom for an extended period, you may need to register with a UK dentist. There are numerous dentists in Britain who provide NHS treatment. NHS treatment is less expensive than private treatment; however, it is not complimentary.
Typically, the most effective method of locating a dentist is to conduct an online search or consult with a friend or family member.
What to do in an emergency
Urgent medical assistance should be sought at the emergency department of the nearest hospital or by dialing 999.
Calling 999 is free, and all emergency medical services are provided at no cost in hospitals. Depending on your location and circumstances, there may be an ambulance service surcharge.
If you have a severe medical condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or medication allergies, you may desire to wear a medical necklace or bracelet that contains your medical information.
In the event that you are transporting medication to the United Kingdom, it is also necessary to possess a letter or prescription from your physician.
Cost of Living in the UK
You desire a study experience in the United Kingdom that is both enjoyable and wholesome. An excellent starting point is to determine the amount of money required for living expenses. However, it is important to consider that the cost of living may vary depending on the location.
According to the United Kingdom government, you will require:
- If you reside in London for the majority of your studies (more than 50%), you will receive £1,265 per month.
- If you reside outside of London for the preponderance of your academic pursuits (more than 50% of your study time), you will receive a monthly payment of £1,015.
The cost of your education and tuition fees is not included in these figures.
There are several websites that can assist you in budgeting for your time in the UK. Expatistan is one viable alternative, as it utilizes current, crowd-sourced data to determine the expense of living in the United Kingdom.
Currency
In the United Kingdom, the currency used for finance and payments is typically pounds and pence. You have the option of using a debit or credit card, coinage, or notes to make purchases at stores.
It is possible that the notes you receive in Scotland and Northern Ireland appear to be slightly different in appearance. This is due to the fact that Scottish and Northern Irish institutions produce their own notes, despite the fact that the currency is the same. However, if you encounter any complications and require a conversion to Bank of England notes, you may do so at any significant bank in the United Kingdom. These are typically accepted throughout the remainder of the United Kingdom.
Bank accounts
While you are residing in the United Kingdom, the majority of institutions will be pleased to establish an account for you. In general, the following are required to establish an account:
- Your passport
- A document that verifies the school, institution, or university you are or will be attending.
- Proof of residence in the United Kingdom and at home
- Statements and references from your primary financial institution
To facilitate the process, it may be beneficial to consult with the bank with which you currently conduct business in your country of origin to determine whether they have an affiliation with a UK-based institution that can assist you in opening an account.
In order to withdraw funds from your account, you may:
- Utilize the online or telephone banking services provided by your financial institution.
- Visit the branch of your local bank.
- Withdraw funds from an ATM.
- When making an in-store purchase with your debit card, request a ‘cash return’.
Getting your phone and internet organized
Upon your arrival in the United Kingdom, it is likely that you will wish to promptly resolve any issues with your telephone and internet service.
In the realm of smartphones, there are three primary alternatives:
Landline: typically only pertinent for individuals who reside off-campus. You may be able to obtain a more favorable rate by combining your landline with Internet access, or you may opt to forgo a landline altogether and rely solely on your mobile device.
Mobile prepaid: You have the ability to regulate your spending and discontinue use at any time. Pre-paid SIM cards are readily accessible from mobile phone providers, as well as from retailers and supermarkets in the United Kingdom.
Mobile phone contract: The cost of a contract with a UK-based mobile phone provider may be less expensive, depending on the frequency of use and the purpose of the phone.
Making international calls
International communications can be significantly more expensive than those made within the United Kingdom. If you prefer, you may wish to acquire an international calling card, which offers more favorable rates, or utilize online alternatives such as Skype or FaceTime. Most convenience stores offer international calling cards for purchase.
In order to contact a UK number from abroad, one must first input the country code (44) followed by the area code and the telephone number.
To make a phone call to another country from the United Kingdom, input 00, followed by the appropriate country code, the area code (if necessary), and the telephone number.
Accessing the internet
In the United Kingdom, there are numerous options for Internet access. However, it is advantageous to conduct an extensive search to identify the plan that provides the most favorable price and download limits for your requirements.
The majority of educational institutions offer complimentary Wi-Fi, which can be accessed by using your student login and password. If your laptop or computer is unable to connect to the Internet, you can typically locate a device to use at the student library, an off-campus public library, or an Internet café.
Some locations provide complimentary Wi-Fi, while others, such as Internet cafés, charge by the hour. Be sure to verify the security of the network to which you are connecting.
Insurance
Health Insurance
You may still prefer to obtain private insurance, even if you are eligible for free treatment through the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom. Your insurance may provide you with access to private medical care, which typically involves significantly shorter waiting periods than NHS treatment. Additionally, it may assist in the coverage of other medical expenses, including:
- Fees that are forfeited in the event that you are unable to finish your course
- The expenses associated with returning home in the event that a family member is unwell
- Expenses associated with a relative’s visit to the United Kingdom in the event of illness
- The expense of returning to one’s country of origin for medical treatment
It is advisable to verify whether your medical insurance in your country of origin extends to your time in the United Kingdom.
Contents Insurance
Contents insurance provides protection for your personal property, including furniture, clothing, and appliances. It is particularly beneficial if you possess valuable items that would be difficult to replace in the event of theft or loss.
It is advisable to conduct preliminary research to identify the most advantageous offer, as certain organizations implement unique policies for students.
Travel Insurance
In the event that you intend to travel outside of the United Kingdom during your academic career, it may be prudent to acquire travel insurance, as you would if you were traveling internationally from your country of origin. It is important to note that you will need to purchase insurance that is appropriate for an international learner, as opposed to a UK citizen. Possess valuable objects that would be challenging to replace in the event of theft or loss.