postgraduate and mba guide 2013
TRANSCRIPT
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Your Guide to UK Education 2013
Postgraduate and MBA
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I n t r o d u c t i on
IntroductionWelcome to Your Guide to UK Education 2013: Postgraduate and MBA
Maximise your potential
A postgraduate education in the UK gives you
the skills and knowledge to become a leader
in your field. You’ll learn from top academics
in world-class facilities and come away with
qualifications respected by employers all
over the globe.
This guide helps you find information about the
opportunities available at postgraduate level,
including MBAs.
Find your way
The first section, ‘Studying in the UK’, explainsÔ
the different types of courses you can take at
postgraduate level. It includes details of entry
requirements, application methods, course costs
and fees, scholarships, teaching methods and
student support.
‘Coming to the UK’ looks at the process ofÔ
applying for a visa and the requirements you
will have to meet to get permission to enter
the country. It also helps you plan your arrival
in the UK.
‘Life in the UK’ tells you what it is like to liveÔand study in the UK. It features information
on opening a bank account, finding
accommodation, taking a part-time job and
staying healthy.
‘Institution profiles’ contains details of manyÔ
colleges and universities that offer postgraduate
courses. Each entry gives you an overview of
a college or university’s location, facilities and
academic profile.
‘Choose your subject’ helps you understandÔ
the different academic disciplines offered by
UK universities and colleges. Each subject area
has an introductory chapter, which includes the
views of a current international student, and
department profiles from academic institutions.
The section at the back of the book contains aÔ
list of British Council offices around the world
and a glossary of educational and academic
words and phrases.
Your Guide to UK Education 2013: Postgraduate
and MBA has a companion volume, Your Guide
to UK Education 2013: School, College and
Undergraduate, about courses at other levels.
You can find both guides at British Council offices.
You can also check the latest information on the
Education UK website (www.educationuk.org).
Good luck with your study plans – we hope to see
you in the UK soon.
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Y o ur Gui d e t o U K E d uc at i o n 20 13P o s t gr ad uat e and M B A
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Choosing to study in the UK as an
international student is a wise choice – and
one that hundreds of thousands make
every year. The UK’s postgraduate courses are
recognised worldwide for their excellence, and the
range and quality, together with the academic staff
and facilities on offer, mean students have access
to some of the best teaching in the world.
There are two systems of higher education in the
UK: one for England, Northern Ireland and Wales,
and one for Scotland. They’re fully compatible
with each other and offer students internationally
recognised qualifications (see ‘Postgraduate
courses’ on page 7 for more information).
A quality education
The UK’s educational institutions are renowned all
over the world for innovative teaching techniquesand high academic standards (see ‘Quality assured’
on page 26). World-renowned libraries, high-quality
teaching staff and cutting-edge research will all
help you reach your potential, both in and out
of the classroom.
There is a huge range of postgraduate
opportunities, and you can choose between
studying a taught course or carrying out an
original piece of research. Postgraduate study can
be academic or related to a particular career or
industry. Teaching formats vary from large grouplectures to one-to-one tutorials.
You’ll be challenged to think critically and
independently, and explore topics for analysis and
debate. You’ll develop excellent team-working skills,
and if your course includes a practical element
you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience.
Whatever you choose to study, your time in the UK
will do wonders for your English language skills.English is the international language of business,
science, IT and the internet, so this will be a great
way to improve your career prospects.
Why study in the UK?Top-quality teaching and research, combined with flexibility and innovation
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Whatever your tastes in music, sport,
art and food, you will find them
catered for in the UK.
If you enjoy a fast pace of life, you
can choose to study in one of the
UK’s many exciting cities. Or, if you
prefer more peaceful surroundings,
you could opt for a university ina town or out-of-town campus.
See ‘About the UK’ (page 46) to
find out more.
Lots to explore
The UK offers spectacular scenery
for walking, climbing, cycling,
mountain-biking and running.
You could scale the mountains,
experience the moors and hills,or explore the thousands of
miles of UK coastline. As the UK
is relatively small, it’s easy to get
Value for money
Most UK degree courses are not
as long as those in the US, which
means you’ll be committing less time
and money to your studies without
compromising on quality.
Many UK institutions or government
organisations also offer scholarships
or bursaries to help with the costs
of studying. See ‘Find a scholarship’
at www.educationuk.org
You may also get the opportunity
to boost your income while you
are in the UK. Check whether you
can work during your studies at
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/
working-during.php. (Also see
‘Working during and after your
course’ on page 60.)
If you plan to work in the UK after
finishing your course, bear in mind
that the rules on this are changing.
To remain in the UK, you will need to
have a firm offer of a job, paying a
minimum salary, before your student
visa expires.
It’s also likely that you’ll be eligible
for free healthcare under the UK’s
National Health Service (NHS), as
well as reduced-cost medicines,
dental treatment and eye tests.
See ‘Staying healthy’ on page 62
for more information.
Vibrant UK lifeThe UK boasts an incredible mix of
cultures, held together by a strong
sense of identity and tradition.
The UK’s world-renowned libraries,high-qualityteaching staffand cutting-edgeresearch will helpyou reach your
potential
© V
i s i t B r i t a i n / P a w e l L i b e r a
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around using the national air, rail, coach and bus
networks – often at student discount rates.
Studying in the UK also gives you the
chance to discover the rest of Europe, with
the Channel Tunnel, affordable flights and
regular ferries making travel easy. You may
need a ‘Schengen’ visa before visiting other
countries in Europe. Find out more in the
‘Travel’ section on page 50.
Choosing what to study
For help with choosing a postgraduate
programme, see the different subject
chapters, starting on page 173. You can
also see profiles of UK institutions from
page 67. Your local British Council office
will have lots of information and advice
about studying in the UK (see page 394 for
a list of addresses). You can find additional
information at www.educationuk.org
For most postgraduate courses, you will
need to apply directly to the institution.
For some courses and research places,
you can apply through the UKPASS system
(www.ukpass.ac.uk). To find out more about
applying for a postgraduate place, see
‘Application methods’ on page 20. Once youarrive in the UK, you’ll be given plenty of
support. For example, many institutions arrange
for you to be collected from the airport and
have a dedicated international students’ office.
See ‘Here to support you’ on page 64.
Having decided where, when and what you
are going to study, you can look forward to an
exciting time as a postgraduate student in the UK.
Not only will you be broadening your academichorizons, but the wide range of cultural and
sporting pursuits available will ensure you have
the experience of a lifetime. © V
i s i t B r i t a i n / D a n i e
l B o s w o r t h
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© B
r i t i s h C o u n c i l
To take a postgraduate degree
in the UK, you usually need
an undergraduate degree or
equivalent qualification from the UK,
or the same level of qualification
from your home country in a relevant
subject area. There are three main
levels of postgraduate study:
certificates and diplomas, master’sdegrees, and doctorates.
Some postgraduate courses specify
that you must have completed one
or two years’ professional experience
between your undergraduate and
postgraduate degrees.
Your institution will also usually
expect you to have English languageskills of about 6.5 on the IELTS
(International English Language
Testing System) scale.
If you need a Tier 4 (General) visa
to study in the UK, your institution
must be licensed as a ‘Highly Trusted
Sponsor’ by the UK Border Agency.
Visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
and search for ‘Tier 4 register
of sponsors’.
Under the Tier 4 (General) studentvisa rules, for most higher education
courses, you will be able to stay in
the UK for a maximum of five years.
PhD students and those studying a
few specific courses that take longer
to complete will be allowed to stay
beyond this.
If you are not sure how the
qualifications you have gained inyour home country compare with
UK qualifications, you can get advice
from UK NARIC, the national agency
There are threemain levels ofpostgraduatestudy in the UK:certificates anddiplomas, master’sdegrees, and
doctorates
Postgraduate coursesTake your studies to a higher level
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responsible for providing information
about qualifications from all over the
world (www.naric.org.uk). Your local
British Council office and your chosen
institution will also be able to help.
For most postgraduate courses
in the UK you apply directly to
the universities that interest you.For some courses you can apply
using the UKPASS service
(www.ukpass.ac.uk).
Certificates and diplomas
Postgraduate certificates
and diplomas are offered in a
huge variety of subjects, from
education, to management, to
network engineering. These areoften accepted as professional
qualifications. They usually take a
year to complete, studying full-time.
At some institutions, you may be
asked to register for a postgraduate
diploma as the first stage of a
master’s programme.
Some diploma courses enable you to
transfer to a master’s when you’ve
completed them, while some master’s
courses will give you a diploma ifyou decide you don’t want to write
the dissertation.
Master’s degrees
There are two kinds of master’s
courses: taught and research. And
you can enrol on a conversion
master’s if you want to move into a
new subject area – for example, law.
Taught master’s programmes
The structure of these programmes
varies from course to course and
© J
o h n C o o p e r / I k o n P a r t n e r s h i p
WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK
www.educationuk.org
British Council
www.britishcouncil.org
UK NARIC
www.naric.org.uk
Graduate Management
Admission Council
www.gmac.com
UKPASS
www.ukpass.ac.uk
UK Border Agency
www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk
Learn English
www.learnenglish.
britishcouncil.org
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you a solid grounding for a career
in business and management. (See
pages 12 and 343 for details on
studying an MBA and page 215 for
information on other master’s courses
in business and administration.)
Research master’s
If you study a research master’s, you
won’t normally attend lectures but
will instead devote the whole year to
research. Some courses allow you
to take a taught element as part of
the course, but your final mark will
mainly be determined by the quality
of your dissertation. It is usual forpeople to have a master’s degree
before they progress to a doctorate
(PhD) programme.
institution to institution. Some courses
are made up of core modules and
optional choices, while others provide
a less flexible ‘set menu’ of learning.
Teaching is usually through seminars
and tutorials, while assessment
can range from examinations,
vivas (interview-style exams) and
assessed projects, to group work
or coursework, with the weighting
of different elements varying
between courses.
You will probably also have to write
a long essay or dissertation as part
of your final assessment. There are
no grades for most master’s degrees
– you simply pass or fail – although
outstanding graduates may pass with
merit or distinction. If you fail you
can generally retake all or part of
the course.
Once you have passed, you will be
entitled to have letters after your
name, depending on the subject – MA
for arts courses, MSc for science
courses, MEng for engineeringcourses and so on (see box on page
10). Some four-year undergraduate
courses (in subjects such as
engineering) result in master’s
degrees, but these are not considered
postgraduate qualifications.
Business studies courses are
particularly popular. The Master of
Business Administration (MBA) is thebest-known business qualification,
but there are plenty of other
postgraduate courses that will offer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS – A QUICK GUIDEÔ
Have you got the qualifications you need for your course? Here’s a quick guide to the
entry qualifications that UK colleges and universities are likely to ask for.
English language courses
Admission to English language courses is flexible and based on your level of ability.
If you are required to apply for a Tier 4 (General) visa and want to study an English
language course alongside your main postgraduate course, you’ll need to satisfy the
college’s entrance requirements and will usually need a minimum International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or equivalent.
Postgraduate programmes
For entry to a taught postgraduate course (master’s degree, PG Cert/Dip), you’ll needan undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant area. In addition, an IELTS score
of 6.5 or 7.0 or equivalent is usually required, unless you are a native English speaker.
Your university can choose to assess your English language ability themselves. If
you don’t have the level of qualifications or experience required to begin a master’s
degree, you can top up your qualifications with a pre-master’s course. On successful
completion, you may be guaranteed entry to your chosen master’s course (see
‘Pre-master’s courses’ from page 185).
For a PhD programme, you will need a UK master’s degree or equivalent from your
home country. Alternatively, you may be able to register initially for a Master of
Philosophy (MPhil) or Master of Research (MRes) course with an undergraduate
degree, then transfer to the PhD programme later if you have made good progress.
MBA
Master of Business Administration (MBA) courses usually require a UK undergraduatedegree or equivalent, or a professional qualification. Most MBA courses also require
two or three years’ management experience, and possibly also a good score in the
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
There are no gradesfor most master’sdegrees, althoughoutstanding
graduates maypass with merit ordistinction
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Doctorates
A research degree at PhD level is
the ultimate opportunity to pursue
your specialist interest. You will be
expected to identify and develop
your topic under the supervision
of one or possibly two tutors. To
be successful, you will need to
demonstrate strong commitment
and intellectual independence. There
are a number of routes to gaining a
doctorate. The PhD by research is
the most common, but professional
doctorates and New Route PhDs are
becoming increasingly popular.
PhD by research
Although you would usually be
expected to have a master’s degree
before progressing to a PhD, it may
be possible for you to start a PhD if
you have a first-class undergraduate
degree or a significant amount of
relevant work experience. In this
case, you would enrol as an MPhil
student, and then demonstrate that
you are capable of transferring to a
PhD programme.
Doctorate-level study requires
serious commitment – it can take at
least three or four years of full-time
study to complete a PhD. At first,
you will engage in research, and in
your final year you will write your
thesis. This is an essay or report,
usually about 80,000 words long
that is based on an original idea and
explains the methods, results andconclusion of your research. You will
be assigned a supervisor with whom
you will agree your topic.
In most practical arts subjects it is
now possible to undertake a practice-
based research PhD, which allows you
to substitute the long dissertation
for a practical assessment. Some
subjects that allow you to do this
include architecture, choreography,
composition and computer music.
You will work on a creative project
that forms an original investigation
and be required to write an analytical
thesis contextualising your work.
New Route PhD
A New Route PhD provides a more
formal structure than a standard
research PhD and includes taught
modules, and an advanced
research project. This gives you an
opportunity to broaden and deepen
your subject knowledge. You will
also often have the opportunity for
interdisciplinary study.
This qualification is available in 17
core subject areas. Find out more
about New Route PhDs by visiting
individual universities’ websites.
Professional doctorate
These are doctorates for students
who are interested in a professional
rather than an academic career,
and usually require a master’s
degree. They often incorporate both
coursework and research.
The award has a specific subject in its
title, for example Doctor of Education(EdD), Doctor of Clinical Psychology
(ClinPsyD) or Doctor of Business
Administration (DBA).
MASTER’SÔ
DEGREES
Here are the abbreviations
used to describe some of
the most popular master’s
degrees:
LLM Master of Laws
MA Master of Arts
MArch Master of
Architecture
MBA Master of Business
Administration
MEd Master of Education
MEng Master of Engineering
MFA Master of Fine Art
MLitt Master of Letters
MMus Master of Music
MOrth Master of
Orthodontics
MPA Master of Public
Administration
MPH Master of Public Health
MPhil Master of Philosophy
MRes Master of Research
MSc Master of Science
MSocSc Master of Social
Science
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T y p e o
f c o u
r s e
Q u a
l i fi c a
t i o n s
o f f e r e
d
E n
t r a n c e r e q u
i r e m e n
t s
T e a c
h i n g m e
t h o
d s
A s s e s s m
e n
t
m e
t h o
d s
D u r a
t i o n
P o s t g r a d u a t e
f o u n d a t i o n
c o u r s e
M a y n o t l e a d t o a f o r m a l
q u a l i fi c a t i o n , b u t w i l l
u s u a l l y h a v e a g r e e d
p r o g r e s s i o n r o u t e s t o a
s p e c i fi c m a s t e r ’ s d e g r e e
A r e c o g n i s e d o v e r s e a s
u n d e r g r a d u a t e d e g r e e
E n g l i s h l a n g u a g e t u i t i o n
a n d t r a i n i n g i n s t u d y s k i l l s
a n d r e s e a r c h m e t h o d s ,
a l o n g s i d e a c a d e m i c
i n s t r u c t i o n
C o n t i n u o u s a s s e s s m e n t ;
i n s o m e c a s e s ,
e x a m i n a t i o n s a s w e l l
U p t o o n e
a c a d e m i c y e a r
P r e - m a s t e r ’ s
c o u r s e
M a y i n c l u d e p r o f e s s i o n a l
m a n a g e m e n t q u a l i fi c a t i o n
s
a n d / o r h a v e a g r e e d
p r o g r e s s i o n r o u t e s o n t o
a
m a s t e r ’ s d e g r e e o r M B A
A s a b o v e
A s a b o v e
A s a b o v e
A s a b o v e
D i p l o m a o r C e r t i fi c a t e
c o u r s e s
P G C e r t
P G D i p
A U K o r r e c o g n i s e d o v e r s e a s
u n d e r g r a d u a t e d e g r e e i n a
r e l e v a n t s u b j e c t , p l u s I E L T S 6 . 5 o r
a b o v e ( o r e q u i v a l e n t ) i f y o u n e e d
a T i e r 4 ( G e n e r a l ) v i s a
C l a s s e s , l e c t u r e s ,
p r a c t i c a l s , i n d e p e n d e n t
r e a d i n g a n d r e g u l a r w r i t t e n
a s s i g n m e n t s
C o n t i n u o u s a s s e s s m e n t
a n d / o r fi n a l e x a m i n a t i o n s
N i n e m o n t h s
( o n e a c a d e m i c
y e a r )
T a u g h t m a s t e
r ’ s
M A ( n o t i n S c o t l a n d , w h e r e
M A m a y b e a w a r d e d a s a n
u n d e r g r a d u a t e d e g r e e )
M S c
L L M
M E d
O t h e r s – r e f e r t o
i n s t i t u t i o n s
A s a b o v e
A s a b o v e
L e c t u r e s , c o n t i n u o u s
a s s e s s m e n t a n d / o r fi n a l
e x a m i n a t i o n s . S t u d e n t s
m a y a l s o h a v
e t o
c o m p l e t e a d
i s s e r t a t i o n
O n e y e a r
R e s e a r c h m a s t e r ’ s
M P h i l
M A / M S c b y r e s e a r c h
M R e s
A U K o r r e c o g n i s e d o v e r s e a s
h o n o u r s d e g r e e i n a r e l e v a n t
s u b j e c t , a t 2 : 1 o r a b o v e , p l u s
I E L T S 6 . 5 t o 7 . 0 o r a b o v e ( o r
e q u i v a l e n t ) i f y o u n e e d a T i e r 4
( G e n e r a l ) v i s a
I n d e p e n d e n t w o r k
u n d e r t h e g u i d a n c e o f a
s u p e r v i s o r ; s t u d e n t s w r i t e
u p t h e i r r e s e a r c h i n a
d i s s e r t a t i o n
D i s s e r t a t i o n
– t y p i c a l l y
3 0 , 0 0 0 t o 4 0 , 0 0 0 w o r d s
O n e t o t h r e e
y e a r s
D o c t o r a t e
N e w R o u t e P h D
T a u g h t o r r e s e a r c h m a s t e r ’ s i n a
r e l e v a n t s u b j e c t , p l u s I E L T S 6 . 5
t o 7 . o r a b o v e ( o r e q u i v a l e n t ) i f y o u
n e e d a T i e r 4 ( G e n e r a l ) v i s a
T a u g h t e l e m e n t s a n d
p r o f e s s i o n a l t r a i n i n g
C o n t i n u o u s a s s e s s m e n t
a n d / o r fi n a l e x a m i n a t i o n s
F o u r y e a r s
D o c t o r a t e
P h D
D P h i l
T a u g h t o r r e s e a r c h m a s t e r ’ s
i n a r e l e v a n t s u b j e c t , w i t h a n
o u t s t a n d i n g a c a d e m i c r e c o r d ,
p l u s I E L T S 6 . 5 t o 7 . 0 o r a b o v e ( o r
e q u i v a l e n t ) i f y o u n e e d a T i e r 4
( G e n e r a l ) v i s a
I n d e p e n d e n t w o r k
u n d e r t h e g u i d a n c e o f
a s u p e r v i s o r . S t u d e n t s
w r i t e u p t h e i r r e s e a r c h i n
a t h e s i s – t y p i c a l l y a b o u t
8 0 , 0 0 0 w o r d s
A w a r d e d o n
t h e q u a l i t y
o f t h e t h e s i s
T h r e e y e a r s
m i n i m u m
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The Master of Business
Administration (MBA) is
the most popular business
qualification with students from
countries across the world. At any
one time, there are about 12,000
international students studying
full-time for an MBA at UK universities
and business schools.
Joining an MBA programme in
the UK will help you develop key
management skills and give you
the ability to analyse complex
problems, and make strategic
decisions. You can choose from
hundreds of programmes that
range from general courses to
those tailored to particular careers,such as agribusiness, business and
finance, oil and gas, construction,
health, hospitality, transport and
technology. Many MBA courses
have links with industry to ensure
that they are relevant to future
employment.
Some students choose to study
while they continue to work and
some work from home using materials
provided by their institutions. Thesecan be paper-based, on CD-Rom or
accessible via the internet.
Choosing your MBA
There are many UK institutions that
offer MBAs. Courses vary, so you
should be careful to select one that
matches your exact needs.
The Association of MBAs (www.mbaworld.com) provides a list of
accredited providers in the UK (and
around the world).
You can choosefrom hundredsof programmesthat range fromgeneral coursesto those tailored toparticular careers
MBAsBoost your chances of succeeding in business
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information about each accredited
programme, including whether the
institution can deliver it through a
local provider in your own country.
The structure of MBA courses varies
from institution to institution, butyou will find that most courses
follow a standard format, with three
distinct stages:
You may also want to consider the
reputation of your MBA programme,
as many employers will take note of
the institution where you studied.
There are numerous commercial
rankings available, and the
Research Assessment Exercise ranks
business and management studies
research at UK institutions (see
page 220).
Do as much research as you can
into both the course and the
institution, and make sure they
provide everything that you’re
looking for. Ask yourself whether
you’re interested in a course that
focuses on broad basic areas of
business or one that specialises in
a specific area.
Check also whether your chosen
institution has links with industry.
Ask to see the career profiles
of alumni and take note of the
opportunities that former students
have had since graduating. For
example, what salaries do they now
earn? This is an excellent way ofdiscovering just how successful an
institution’s graduates have been.
Tuition fees, living expenses and
the length of the MBA are also factors
to consider.
Structure of MBA courses
The Association of MBAs categorises
the courses it accredits into full-
time, part-time, distance/openlearning, modular and blended –
the latter offers a mix of classroom
and online learning. It provides
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Stage 1
A general (or core) programme to give you an
introduction to a broad subject area (for example,
finance, economics, marketing, human resources or
business strategy).
Stage 2
Electives, where you are able to choose those
areas that interest you most. These may
be drawn from options such as corporate
responsibility, innovation, employment relations or
entrepreneurship.
Stage 3
A project or dissertation, which you’ll usually base
on your original research and which may be an
in-company project that you do in conjunction with
a work placement.
Course costs and finance
Costs vary greatly between various MBA courses,
much more than for other programmes. Tuition fees
can range from £10,000 to more than £50,000.
Prices for UK courses can be found in the MBA
courses section, from page 348.
Student profile
Nearly 90 per cent of MBA students on full-time
programmes in the UK are international students.You will encounter an enormous range of
nationalities: 76 countries have 10 or more
students studying a full-time MBA in the UK.
The average age of an MBA student is 31
for full-time courses and 35 for part-time.
On executive programmes, which are aimed
at senior management, students tend to be
in their late 30s to early 40s. About one in 12
MBA students studies for an executive MBA.Find out more about MBAs, including a list of
institutions that offer them, in the MBA subject
guide, which starts on page 343. © M a t W r i g h t / B r i t i s h C o u n c i l
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Good English language
skills are essential if you
are thinking of studying at
postgraduate level in the UK, and
many international students take an
English language course before they
start. The demands of a postgraduate
degree require confidence in both
verbal and written English.
If your English language score is just
below the required level, you may
be able to attend a pre-sessional
English course at your institution
a month before your postgraduate
course starts.
These language courses can also
be open to students who meetthe requirements, but want to be
confident about their level of English
before their course begins.
Student visas
If you need a Tier 4 (General) visa
to study in the UK, you may have
to demonstrate that your level of
English is of a high enough standard
when you apply.
For postgraduate courses, you must
be able to show level B2 on CEFR(Common European Framework of
Reference for Languages), which is
equivalent to 5.5 on the IELTS scale.
Most universities make their own
assessment to check that you meet
the B2 standard. Alternatively they
may require you to take a Secure
English Language Test (SELT).
If you want to attend an Englishlanguage course on a course lasting
no longer than 11 months, consider
applying for a student visitor visa.
If you need a Tier4 (General) visato study in theUK, you may haveto demonstratethat your level ofEnglish is of a high
enough standardwhen you apply
English languageMeet the standard required for postgraduate study
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Examining board Qualifications
Cambridge ESOL
ESOL Helpdesk, University of Cambridge, ESOL
Examinations, 1 Hills Road, Cambridge CB1 2EU
Tel +44 (0)1223 553997
www.cambridgeesol.org
Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE), Certificate in Advanced English
(CAE), First Certificate in English (FCE), Preliminary English Test (PET), Key
English Test (KET), Business English Certificates (BEC), Cambridge Young
Learners English Tests, International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
City & Guilds
1 Giltspur Street, London EC1A 9DD
Tel +44 (0)20 7294 2885
www.cityandguilds.com
International ESOL Diploma, International ESOL, International Spoken ESOL,
English for Office Skills, English for Business Communications, Access
Certificate in English Language Teaching (ACE), ESOL for Young Learners,
Spoken ESOL for Young Learners
Edexcel
190 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BH
Tel +44 (0)1204 770696
www.edexcel.com
IGCSE in English as a Second Language, IGCSEs in English Language A
and English Language B
English Speaking Board (ESB)
9 Hattersley Court, Burscough Road, Ormskirk L39 2AY
Tel +44 (0)1695 573439
www.esbuk.org
ESB Certificate in EFL (ESOL) at Entry Level 3, ESOL Skills for Life, ESB ESOL
for Work, Family Learning. ESB also has contextualised assessment tasks for
embedded ESOL courses in childcare, health and social care, business studies
and hospitality
Institute of Linguists Educational Trust (IoLET)
Saxon House, 48 Southwark Street, London SE1 1UN
Tel +44 (0)20 7940 3100
www.iol.org.uk
Certificate in Bilingual Skills (CBS), Diploma in Public Service Interpreting
(DPSI), Diploma in Translation (DipTrans), International Diploma in Bilingual
Communication (IDBC)
International English Language Testing
System (IELTS)
British Council Information Centre
58 Whitworth Street, Manchester M1 6BB
Tel +44 (0)161 957 7755
www.takeielts.britishcouncil.org
IELTS is the world’s most popular language test for education and work. It is
designed to assess the English language ability of candidates who need to
study or work where English is the language of communication
London Chamber of Commerce and Industry
International Qualifications (LCCI IQ)
Education Development International, International House,
Siskin Parkway East, Middlemarch Business Park,
Coventry CV3 4PETel +44 (0)24 7651 6500
www.lcci.org.uk
English Language Skills Assessment (ELSA), English for Business (EfB), English
for Commerce (EfC), First Certificate for Teachers of Business English (FTBE),
Foundation English Language Skills Assessment (FELSA), Junior English Tests
and Senior English Tests (JETSET), ESOL International Qualification, Practical
Business English, Spoken English for Industry and Commerce (SEFIC), WrittenEnglish for Tourism (WEFT), Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign
Language (CertTEFL)
Pearson Language Tests
80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL
Tel +44 (0)845 543 0243
www.pearsonpte.com
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), Pearson Test of English
General (PTE General), Pearson Test of English Young Learners (PTE Young
Learners)
Test of English as a Foreign Language
Educational Testing Service
P.O. Box 6151
Princeton, NJ 08541-6151, USA
Tel +1 609 771 7100
www.ets.org/toefl
The TOEFL internet-based test is offered 30-40 times a year at more than
4,500 authorised test centres worldwide. The paper-based test is offered six
times a year in areas where internet-based testing is not available
Trinity College London
89 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP
Tel +44 (0)20 7820 6100
www.trinitycollege.co.uk
Graded Examinations in Spoken English (GESE), Integrated Skills in English
(ISE), Certificates in ESOL Skills for Life (SfL – available in the UK only),
Certificates in ESOL for Work (EfW – available in the UK only), Spoken English
for Work (SEW)
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More than 550language providersare accredited bythe British Councilthrough theAccreditation UKscheme, providing aguarantee of quality
UK visa rules can change, so always
check the UK Border Agency website,
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
Teaching excellence
The UK has a tradition of excellence
in English language teaching and
you will be joining a community of
more than 600,000 English language
students from around the world.
More than 550 language providers
are accredited by the British Council
through the Accreditation UK scheme.
This is managed by the British
Council in partnership with English
UK, providing a guarantee of quality.
When you choose an accredited
centre, you can be sure your
institution will meet high standards.
Qualifications and
examination boards
To study English in the UK you may
be asked to sit a test that will assess
your level of ability. The three main
tests are IELTS, the Test of English as
a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and the
PTE Pearson Language Tests.
Each system assesses four key areas:
listening, speaking, reading and
writing. For IELTS, you’ll be given a
grading in nine bands, from 1.0 (the
lowest, describing someone who may
know a few isolated words of English)
to 9.0 (the highest, describing
someone who is fluent).
If you want to enrol on apostgraduate course and are not
a native English speaker, an IELTS
score of at least 6.5 to 7.0 is usually
required. You may also be required
to get a PTE Pearson Language Test
score of 66 to 70, or 97 to 103 in a
TOEFL. You can find more information
about IELTS, including details and
locations of test centres, and the
dates of the next tests, at www.ielts.
org. To find out more information
about TOEFL, visit www.ets.org/toefl.
For details of Pearson Language
Tests, see www.pearsonpte.com
Teaching methods
No matter which level of course you
choose, accredited English language
providers, with years of experience
working with students from all over
the world, are available to teach you.
The teaching style is mainly practical,
featuring role-playing exercises
and group discussions, and you will
be encouraged to communicate
in English. You’ll use technology
and language laboratories to study
independently.
Course length ranges from a few days
to a whole year, you may be assessedby continuous assessment to exams.
You can find a list of British Council
accredited English language schools,
together with links to their websites,
on the British Council website (www.
britishcouncil.org/accreditation).
Language and study skills courses
are offered by many universities and
colleges alongside academic courses.See ‘English Language’ (page 175) for
more on English language courses
and the institutions that offer them.
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Type of course Description Teaching method
General and Intensive English Courses at various levels, from complete
beginner upwards. Courses are available for
both adults and children
Varies, depending on the centre, the level of
the course and the age of the students, but the
main aim is to develop your communication
skills in English. Activities may include
discussions, problem-solving, simulations and
practising specific language topics
For an intensive course, you can study general
English on a one-to-one basis with your own
teacher
A home tuition course offers immersion in thelanguage: you live as a paying guest in your
teacher’s home
English for Academic
Purposes (EAP)
Designed to develop the language and skills
needed for academic study
Focuses on developing skills such as essay
writing, note taking, seminar participation,
academic reading, library work, using a
computer and subject-specific vocabulary
Pre-university entrance
English courses
Designed to prepare you for study at a specific
UK institution, these cover EAP plus particular
study skills for your chosen course. You may
need to take one if your English is below or
only just at the level required for your course
Focuses on developing skills for your chosen
course, such as essay writing, note taking,
seminar participation, academic reading, library
work, using a computer and subject-specific
vocabulary
English for Specific Purposes Courses are tailored to suit the needs of
particular professions, including art, banking,
computing, electronics, engineering, fashion,
international trade, management, marketing
and public relations, medicine, office work,
airlines, science and technology, teaching,
and tourism
Emphasises developing skills needed in specific
professional settings, from basic telephoning,
report writing and presentation skills, to
business negotiation and using complex
technical language
Exam preparation courses These courses prepare you for a particular
exam, such as IELTS, which can then be used
for employment and education purposes
around the world
Varies from one course to another but aims
to provide students with the techniques
needed for improved performance in the exam.
Students may have the opportunity to practise
the test and to look at reading, writing, listening
and speaking exam papers
English for Young Learners English courses for students typically aged
five to 17
Learning through fun, activity-based
lessons rather than formal grammar orvocabulary lessons
Vacation courses These are run from June to August (UK summer
vacation) or March/April (UK Easter vacation)
and often include holiday activities. Courses are
available for both adults and children
Varies from course to course but the main aim is
to develop your communication skills in English.
Activities may include discussions, games,
problem solving, visits, project work, simulations
and practising specific language topics
English Plus courses Courses include extra study or activities away
from the school such as work experience or
a sport, and may lead to formal vocational
qualifications such as NVQs in floristry or
sports coaching
Depends on the course. For example, English
with work experience could be some weeks
of study followed by some weeks working
in a local business. English with sport might
mean English lessons in the mornings and golf,
football or horsemanship in the afternoons
Teaching English as a Foreign
Language (TEFL) and Teaching
English to Speakers of Other
Languages (TESOL)
Training courses for those who wish to teach
English to others. Courses are available for
those with no experience or for existing
teachers who wish to extend their knowledge
and skills
Courses combining practice and theory are
available at certificate and diploma level.
TEFL/TESOL can be studied up to postgraduate
research level
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Once you have decided
where, when and what
you want to study in the
UK, the next step is to submit your
application. You can find out about
the application process in the
libraries of British Council offices.
They will be able to provide you with
all the information you need througha wide range of useful resources.
A full list of British Council offices
around the world can be found on
page 394.
If you are a Tier 4 (General) visa
student, you will only be able to
study at an institution that is known
as a ‘Highly Trusted Sponsor’. You
can see a list of these on the UKBorder Agency’s website (www.ukba.
homeoffice.gov.uk). Search for ‘Tier 4
register of sponsors’.
Finding out who to approach
Unlike the undergraduate application
procedure, postgraduate admissions
are not centralised for most
institutions. In most cases you will
need to apply directly to the college
or university you want to attend.
Many institutions allow you to apply
online via their websites.
For some postgraduate places, you
can apply online using UKPASS. This is
a service run by the Universities and
Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
With UKPASS, you can apply for up to
10 programmes. You can find details
of the universities and colleges that
UKPASS deals with on its website
(www.ukpass.ac.uk).
Some types of postgraduate
course have a different application
Departments willoften allocateplaces on a first-come, first-servedbasis, so try to getyour application inby the end of April
if your course startsin the autumn
Application methodsHow to get on the course you want
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Although you can apply to as many
courses as you like in any one
year, it’s recommended you make a
shortlist of about six to eight. Some
courses fill up quickly, particularly
law and medicine, so apply well in
advance of the advertised deadline.
Departments generally start receiving
applications from the beginning of
the academic year before the year
in which students wish to study. They
will often allocate places on a first-
come, first-served basis, so try to get
your application in by the end of April
if your course starts in the autumn.
This is particularly important if you
are applying for funding.
Details of courses, including master’s
degrees, PhDs and MBAs, are
available online at www.educationuk.
org, along with profiles of the
institutions that offer them.
Studying for a UK
qualification in your
own country
If you want to study on a UK coursebut stay in your own country, your
application will still be handled by the
university or college in the UK.
Contact details of the English
language institutions that run distance
learning courses can be found at
www.educationuk.org/english. You
can download and print off application
forms from most institutions’ websites;some allow you to submit your form
by email. You may also be able to
apply via the UKPASS service.
procedure. For postgraduate
teaching courses, you apply through
the Graduate Teacher Training
Registry (www.gttr.ac.uk). Its website
has information about the institutions
you can apply to. You can also use it
to submit and track your application.
If you are applying for a practice-
based music course at a UK
conservatoire, use the Conservatoires
UK Admissions Service (www.cukas.
ac.uk). For some postgraduate social
work courses, you should apply to
UCAS (www.ucas.com).
Submitting your application
The procedures for applying vary
from one institution to another. While
some have dedicated postgraduate
admissions offices, others will expect
you to apply to the department that
teaches your course.
In general, you will need to complete
a detailed form setting out your
academic qualifications, work
experience and reasons for wanting
to do the course (a ‘personalstatement’). If you are applying for a
research place, you may be asked to
outline a proposal or research plan.
You may also be asked to attend an
interview in the UK, or take part in
one over the telephone or on Skype.
It is important to have good
academic references to support your
application. Choose your refereeswith care, discuss your plans with
them and ensure they can write a
reference promptly.
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WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK
www.educationuk.org
Conservatoires UK
Admissions Service (CUKAS)www.cukas.ac.uk
Edexcel International
www.edexcel.com/
international
Graduate Teacher Training
Registry (GTTR)
www.gttr.ac.uk
UCAS
www.ucas.com
UKPASS
www.ukpass.ac.uk
National Council for
Drama Training
www.ncdt.co.uk
The Council for Dance
Education and Training
www.cdet.org.uk
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AUK degree will give you a
head start on the career
ladder, thanks to state-of-
the-art facilities and the reputation
of UK universities as world leaders
in innovation.
In many other countries postgraduate
programmes last two years or more.Many UK programmes last just one
year, saving you time and money
without compromising on quality.
For postgraduate places, course
costs and tuition fees are set by the
university, so check with institutions
for their exact fees. In particular, fees
for MBA courses vary greatly.
Depending on your nationality, you
may be eligible to pay ‘home’ fees at
the same rate as UK students.
If you are not a European Economic
Area (EEA) national it is likely that
you will have to pay the ‘overseas’
rate. Whatever your nationality,
check UKCISA’s information sheets
at www.ukcisa.org.uk for more
information about tuition fee rates.
Some institutions offer bursariesto talented students, which may
cover the cost of fees or pay the
difference between home fees
and international fees. You can use
Education UK’s Search facility to
find out about scholarships in your
subject area. You will find this on
www.educationuk.org
Fee rangePostgraduate fees for students who
are eligible to pay ‘home’ fees start
at about £3,500 a year. For other
There are manysources of fundingfor internationalpostgraduatestudents. However,competition forthis funding can
be intense
Fees and scholarshipsWhere to find help with funding for your studies
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For other postgraduate places, you may be
able to get help through a number of grants,
awards and scholarships. The British Government
and other UK organisations offer a range of
international student scholarships and awards,
which show the UK’s commitment to sharing the
excellence of its universities with students from
around the world.
To find out if you’re eligible to apply for a
scholarship or a financial grant, start by asking your
Ministry of Education or local British Council office.
They will have information about UK and country-
specific award schemes. Here are some of the main
ones available.
The British Chevening Scholarships
These cover all or part of the cost of a
postgraduate course and are awarded topotential future leaders and decision-makers
from around the world. You can learn more at
www.chevening.com
students, fees start at about £10,000 and may
reach more than £50,000 for programmes that are
in high demand, such as MBAs or science courses
involving extensive laboratory work. You can find
more information about fees for MBA courses in the
MBA section starting on page 12.
It is a good idea to check in advance whether
your course has costs on top of tuition fees – for
specialist equipment or research materials, for
example. This may be the case for subjects such as
medicine, law, finance and science.
For some creative arts courses you may need
to rent your own studio space and provide
your own materials. Make sure you also budget
for essential course items, such as textbooks
and stationery.
English language courses
Fees for English language courses can vary
enormously, so start your research by checking
course costs with individual institutions. A week’s
tuition at an accredited English language school
can cost £150-£200 for a general English course
without additional benefits, to more than £1,000 for
more specialised, tailored or intensive tuition.
Some UK universities offer free English languagecourses to students registered on undergraduate
and postgraduate courses. These are usually
included as part of the programme on postgraduate
foundation and pre-master’s university courses.
Applying for funding
There are many sources of funding for international
postgraduate students. These can cover both fees
and living expenses. Competition for this funding
can be intense.
Some postgraduate places come with funding
attached, called studentships (see page 25).
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WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK has sections on fees and scholarships
www.educationuk.org
British Council, Funding Your Studies
www.britishcouncil.org/learning-funding-your-studies.htm
Scholarship programmes
www.scholarship-programs.org/positions/united-kingdom
UKCISA Information Sheet Sources of funding for
international students
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/information_sheets.php
Hotcourses Scholarship Search
www.scholarship-search.org.uk
International Education Financial Aid
www.iefa.org
Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship
Plan (CSFP)
CSFP awards can cover travel to and from the UK,
tuition fees and living expenses for one to three
years. The CSFP is primarily for postgraduates from
developing Commonwealth countries. You can find
out more at www.csfp-online.org
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
This is a joint initiative between the Commonwealth
Scholarship Commission (with funding from the UK
Department for International Development) and
UK universities to support scholarships for students
from developing Commonwealth countries. To
apply, you should be of high academic calibre and
wish to study a subject of developmental relevance
to your country. For more details visit cscuk.dfid.
gov.uk/apply/shared-scholarships/
Unesco Fellowship Bank Scheme
If you are planning to study education, the natural
sciences, the social sciences, humanities, culture,
communication and information, or informatics,
you can apply for a United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) grant
through your local National Commission.
Unesco cannot consider individual requests for
funding. See www.unesco.org for more information.
Royal Society Fellowships
These enable key post-doctoral scientists from
a selection of countries to carry out research in
the UK. Further details and a list of participating
institutions are available on the Royal Society’s
website at royalsociety.org/funding
Research programmes
Scholarships for research programmes areavailable from Research Councils UK (www.
rcuk.ac.uk). The organisation provides funding
for applied and pure sciences, medicine, social
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SCHOLARSHIPS ONLINEÔ
You can search for scholarships online at the British Council’s
Education UK website. It will give you details of thousands ofscholarships appropriate to your country of origin, level of study,
subject, and the UK institutions at which you hope to study.
To search online, visit www.educationuk.org and click on the
‘Scholarship’ tab in the search box.
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sciences, arts and humanities, as well as through
British Council schemes.
Studentships
Studentships – specific areas of study with funding
attached – can be found via a number of websites,
including www.postgraduatestudentships.co.uk and
www.scholarship-programs.org
Charities, trusts and other grant-making
organisations
Many charities and trusts provide postgraduate
students with grants and other forms of funding.
Financial help is often reserved for students
from poorer backgrounds, or for those who have
achieved academic excellence.
You can find out more about these charities andtrusts at your library, online, or by ringing the
Educational Grants Advisory Service’s student
advice line: +44 (0)20 7241 7459. Useful
© M a
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publications include The Educational Grants
Directory , Charities Digest , The Grants Register
and The Directory of Grant Making Trusts.
Other websites have versatile and accessible
systems to help students examine their funding
options. KnowUK (www.knowuk.co.uk), for example,
has a database that includes the contents of TheEducational Grants Directory and The Guide to
Grants for Individuals in Need .
The direct approach
Many institutions offer postgraduate scholarships,
so find out whether any awards are available to you.
Other sources of funding include the Association
of Commonwealth Universities (www.acu.ac.uk)
and Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships (www.scotlandscholarship.com). Visit www.educationuk.org/
scholarships for more information on funding for
international postgraduate students.
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Safeguarding the quality
of education is taken
seriously in the UK, which
is why it is a world leader in the
setting of education standards. All
UK institutions are monitored by
government-appointed agencies.
The quality of teaching is checked
regularly and recognised UKqualifications must satisfy strict
criteria. English language and
professional qualifications have
their own quality systems.
English language courses
The British Council and English UK
(www.englishuk.com) are partners in
the world’s largest English language
teaching (ELT) quality assurancescheme, called Accreditation UK.
English language schools on the
scheme are inspected regularly to
ensure all aspects of their services
meet rigorous standards.
Look out for the ‘Accredited by the
British Council’ logo (see right) in
information sources, including the
English language subject profiles on
pages 179-183, to see which centres
are registered. You can also find alist of accredited centres at www.
britishcouncil.org/accreditation
Other English language
course accreditations
Several other organisations vouch
for the quality of particular English
language courses in the UK. These
include the British Association of
Lecturers in English for AcademicPurposes (www.baleap.org.uk) and
the European Association for Quality
Language Services (www.eaquals.org).
Quality assuredThe UK maintains rigorous standards of education
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Higher education institutions
Government authorisation
To award degrees, UK universities and colleges
must demonstrate a commitment to quality
assurance and show they have strong systems
for safeguarding academic standards.
In the UK it is illegal to offer degrees or related
qualifications without proper authorisation. This
authorisation – held by 159 institutions – may be
granted by a Royal Charter, Act of Parliament or
the Privy Council.
You can find a list of the UK’s higher education
institutions with degree-awarding powers at
www.bis.gov.uk/recognisedukdegrees
Quality assurance
UK universities and FE colleges are self-governing
institutions with full legal responsibility for the quality
and standards of their programmes and awards.
All UK universities have quality assurance systems,
including external examiners. Methods vary from
country to country within the UK, but a 2011 study,
the Review of external examining arrangements in
universities and colleges in the UK , found that the
overall systems were working well.
The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher
Education (QAA) is an organisation set up and
funded by the UK higher education sector. It
checks how well UK universities are meeting their
quality assurance responsibilities.
The QAA usually reviews individual institutions
every five to six years. It also advises institutions
on how to develop their systems to ensure
they are delivering a high-quality experience tostudents. You can read the QAA’s review reports
of individual institutions on its website
(www.qaa.ac.uk).
© U K S t o c k I m a g e s L t d / A l a m y
© R o s e m a r y R o b e r t s / A l a m y
WEB LINKSÔ
Accreditation UK
www.britishcouncil.org/accreditation
Department for Education
www.education.gov.uk
UK Government information on universities
www.direct.gov.uk/en/educationandlearning
Department for Business, Innovation & Skills
www.bis.gov.uk
Register of Regulated Qualifications
www.accreditedqualifications.org.uk
Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)
www.qaa.ac.uk
Department of Education, Northern Ireland
www.deni.gov.uk
CollegesWales
www.collegeswales.ac.uk
Scotland’s Colleges
www.scotlandscolleges.ac.uk
Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)
www.scqf.org.uk
Scottish Executive
www.scotland.gov.uk
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© M a
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The QAA usually reviews individualinstitutions every five to six years. It alsoadvises institutions on how to develop theirsystems to ensure they are delivering ahigh-quality experience to students
Research Assessment Exercise
The four higher education funding bodies in the UK
collaborated on the Research Assessment Exercise
(RAE) 2008. This assessed the quality of research
being carried out at UK universities, which, in
turn, decided how funding should be distributed
in 2009-10. The research was scored on a scale
from 4* to unclassified (see box to the right for a
detailed description).
The exercise used an expert review assessment,
in which distinguished academics reviewed the
work of their fellow researchers. Some assessment
panels also included experts from industry and
professional bodies.
The 2008 RAE quality assessment results are listed
in this guide in the ‘Choose your subject’ chapters
(from page 173) and are also available in Your
Guide to UK Education 2013: School, College andUndergraduate. For a detailed breakdown of the
results, see www.rae.ac.uk
Accreditation
A course that leads to a vocational or professional
qualification may be accredited by the trade
or professional organisation for the sector.
IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology)
accreditation, for example, is an internationally
respected benchmark.
Educational institutions should be able to tell you
which of their courses have industry accreditation.
RAE GRADES: WHAT THEY MEANÔ
4* Quality that is world-leading in terms of originality, significance
and rigour.
3* Quality that is internat ionally excellent in terms of originality,
significance and rigour, but that nonetheless falls short of the
highest standards of excellence.
2* Quality that is recognised internat ionally in terms of originality,
significance and rigour.
1* Quality that is recognised nationally in terms of originality,
significance and rigour.
Unclassified Quality that falls below the standard of nationally
recognised work, or work that does not meet the published
definition of research for the purposes of this assessment.
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You may need a student visa
to study in the UK. This gives
you permission to enter the
country and stay for the duration
of your course, usually with a bit of
extra time at the end so that you can
collect your results and attend your
graduation ceremony.
The following pages explain the
application process and offer
guidance on how to get the entry
clearance you need. The regulations
change frequently, so it’s important to
check the UK Border Agency website
(www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk) for the
latest information when you apply for
your visa.
Do I need a visa?
You can find out if you need a visa
on the UK Border Agency website.
Applying can take some time, so it is
important to apply well in advance of
the date you intend to travel. You can
also find out about visa processing
times in your country on that website.
If you plan to study in the UK for more
than six months, for most courses
you will need a Tier 4 (General) visa.
Student visitor
If you are over 18 and intend to stay
in the UK for less than six months
you can apply for a student visitor
visa. If your English language course
lasts up to 11 months, you’ll need an
extended student visitor visa.
Only do this if you are sure youwon’t want to stay for longer than
six months (11 months for English
language courses) and do not need
As the regulationschange frequently,it is importantto check theUK Border Agencywebsite for thelatest information
when you apply foryour visa
Help with your visaUnderstanding UK immigration procedures
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(Go to www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.
uk and search for ‘Register of Tier 4
sponsors’.) The register is designed
to give you peace of mind that you
are applying to an officially registered
institution.
An approved course
To qualify for a Tier 4 adult visa,
you must be planning to study
full-time on a course that leads to
an approved qualification, or take a
recognised Foundation Programme
as a postgraduate dentist or doctor.
You can also come to the UK to work
as a student union sabbatical officer
if you are elected to this post at the
institution where you are studying, or
where you recently finished studying.
To find out more about acceptable
courses, go to www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying
Enough money
To get the remaining 10 application
points, you will need to show
evidence you have paid all or part
of your course fees and (if relevant)
accommodation fees to your Tier 4sponsor; and/or you are receiving
official financial sponsorship; and/
or you have enough money to cover
your course fees and living costs.
If you are bringing dependants, you
need to show you have enough
money to support them too. The
amount of money depends on where
in the UK you will be studying, andwhether you have already been
studying in the UK. Check the UK
Border Agency website for more
to earn money during this time, as
you won’t be able to extend your visit
or work in the UK with this visa.
Prospective students
You can apply to come to the UK as
a prospective student, to help you
decide which course to study or if
you plan to start a course of study
within six months. You will be able to
apply for a Tier 4 (General) visa while
you are in the UK.
How do I enter the UK on a
Tier 4 (General) visa?
The UK’s points-based system aims
to be objective and transparent. To
study full-time you’ll need 40 points
to qualify for a Tier 4 (General) visa.
You can use the UK Border Agency’s
online points calculator to check
whether you are eligible. To qualify
you will need:
Confirmation of acceptance for
studies (CAS)
This unique reference number,
provided by your future university,
college or school, confirms you havean unconditional offer of a place
on a course with a licensed Tier 4
sponsor. It includes details of the
course and your qualifications, and is
worth 30 points towards your visa.
A licensed sponsor
When an institution offers you a place
on a course, it becomes your Tier
4 sponsor. You can apply to studyat any institution on the UK Border
Agency’s register of sponsors, except
those classed as legacy sponsors.
© J
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WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK
www.educationuk.org
Foreign & Commonwealth
Office
www.fco.gov.uk
UK Border Agency
www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk
UKBA Visa Services
www.ukvisas.gov.uk
UKCISA advice on
immigration and visas
www.ukcisa.org.uk/
student/immigration.php
UKCISA on Twitter
@UKCISA
UKBA Points Calculator
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.
uk/pointscalculator
UKBA Register of Tier 4
Sponsors
www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk/business-sponsors/points/
sponsoringmigrants/
registerofsponsors
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information (www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk).
Valid supporting documents
The documents you submit to
support your visa application must
be original (not photocopies) on the
official letter-headed paper of your
institution. They will usually include
certificates of your qualifications and
the results of any English language
tests you have passed to be accepted
for study in the UK.
If your documents are not in English
or Welsh, you must send the originals,
with a fully certified translation,
including the translator’s name,
signature and contact details, and the
date they translated the letter.
You must also show you have held
the money the UK Border Agency
estimates you will need to cover
your fees and basic living costs in
your bank account for a period of at
least 28 days ending no more than a
month before you apply.
In most cases you will need to supply
bank statements or other documents
such as a pass book, letter from your
bank or building society, or letter
from a financial institution regulated
by the home regulator confirming
funds or a loan.
The UK Border Agency publishes
local lists of companies it will notaccept statements from, so check
that your evidence is acceptable
before you apply. UKBA will also not
accept mini-statements from ATMs
(cashpoint machines). However,
students from certain ‘low-risk’
countries will usually be exempt from
having to provide this evidence at
the time of application, although they
must still have these documents and
must submit them to the UK Border
Agency if requested to do so. The
bank account should be in your name
or in your parents’ name(s). If you use
evidence of funds in your parents’
name(s) you must also provide
your birth certificate and a letter
of consent from your parents.
How do I apply for a
Tier 4 (General) visa?
You will have to provide a 10-digit
finger scan and a digital photograph.
This biometric data is a standard part
of the process for British Embassies
and visa application centres run by
commercial partners VFS Global and
WorldBridge Service.
You also need to complete the
application form VAF9 – PBS Migrant
and either Appendix 8 (General)Student or Appendix 9 (Child)
Student . You can get the forms
from your local British Embassy or
download them (www.ukvisas.gov.
uk). In some countries the application
form must be completed online.
At the time of writing, it costs £289
(payable in your local currency) to
apply for a student visa from outside
the UK.
Complete the application form and
add your supporting evidence and
VISA CHECKLISTÔ
1. Application form VAF9 –
PBS Migrant and PBS Migrant
guidance notes
2. PBS Appendix 8 (General)
Student or PBS Appendix 9
(Child) Student
3. Your passport or travel
document
4. The visa fee
5. Your biometric details
6. A recent passport-sized
photograph
7. All supporting documents
as specified in Tier 4. For
details, visit www.ukba.
homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-
immigration/studying/
adult-students/evidence
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application fee. Go to www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
and click on ‘Where to apply’ to find out which visa
application centre you should use and how to apply
in your country of residence.
Then take or send your form(s), visa fee and
supporting evidence to the application centre.
You must also arrange to provide your biometrics,
which is usually done at the centre.
It can take anything from 24 hours to several
weeks to process your application and issue your
visa, depending on where you live. Check the
latest information at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/
visas-immigration/general-info/processing-times
If you have to make your application online, go
to www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk and select the link
under the ‘Help and support’ panel on the right of
the page. If your home country is not on the list
of supported countries, do not apply using this
method as your application will not be accepted.
What if there’s a problem?
If the UK’s entry clearance officer (ECO) isn’t
satisfied with the evidence you have given or if you
have been denied entry clearance, immediately
contact the school, college or university that
you applied to, to find out what to do next. Ifyou can’t get through, telephone UKCISA on
+44 (0)20 7107 9922, between 1300 and 1600
(UK time) or visit www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_
sheets/immigration_uk.php#ec_refused
What happens next?
Once you have got your visa, check it carefully.
Make sure it says ‘Tier 4 Student’ and that it is
valid for slightly longer than the full length of
your course. If there are any errors, tell yourvisa application centre at once so they can be
amended in good time. Your permission to be in
the UK expires on the date indicated on your entry
© D
a v i d P e a r s o n / A l a m y
clearance. Make sure that your course will have
finished and you will have left the UK by this date.
Errors can be costly later on.
What happens when I arrive?
Only travel to the UK on or after the ‘Valid from’date of your visa and make sure you leave by
the ‘Valid until’ date. When you get to the UK,
you will pass through immigration control. If you
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are travelling from outside the EU,
an immigration officer will usually
stamp your passport to show
when you arrived. They may ask to
see some of the documents that
you presented to get your entry
clearance, so make sure you have
these with you.
If you arrive within the dates of your
visa, and the application information
you have given is accurate, you
shouldn’t have any problems at
immigration control.
Can I change my visa status?
It is vital you apply for the right kind
of visa. If you need to come to the UK
before your Tier 4 course starts (for
example, for an interview or exam),
explain this to the ECO when you first
apply for your entry clearance and
back it up with relevant documents,
such as the letter inviting you for
an interview.
Once the ECO is satisfied that you
intend to study if you are offered
a place, and that you meet theimmigration requirements, they
will give you entry clearance
for six months on a prospective
student visa.
When you have travelled to the UK
and enrolled on a course (you must
do this before the expiry date of
your Prospective Student visa) you
should apply to switch into the Tier 4(General) visa category. At the time
of writing, a postal application made
in the UK costs £394.
Can I bring my family?
Government-sponsored students
who are studying a course that is
more than six months long, as well
as postgraduate students who are
doing a course that is at least 12months long at a higher education
institution, can bring their spouses or
civil partners, and children under 18
to the UK. To qualify you must show
that you can support your family
financially. For each dependant, you
will need to show you have £450 a
month (£600 in inner London) for up
to nine months.
Your family members should also
apply for entry clearance. The ECO
will need to see evidence of your
Some postgraduatestudents bringtheir spouses, orcivil partners, and
children under 18with them to the UK
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arrangements to support and accommodate them,
together with your marriage certificate, and a birth
certificate for each of your children. If your family
is given permission to stay in the UK, it will normally
be for the same period as you have been granted.
If they apply at a different time to you, make sure
they have a copy of your passport and your visa.
The ECO will need to see the page that shows your
name, entry clearance sticker and how long you
are allowed to stay. For more information, see the
UKCISA Your family’s immigration information sheet
and ‘Family Matters’ on page 40.
What happens once I’m living in the UK?
Your institution must keep accurate attendance and
enrolment records. It will report to the UK Border
Agency if you do not attend your course, if it stops
being your immigration sponsor, if there are any
other significant changes in your circumstances,
or if it suspects you are breaking the conditions of
your permission to stay in the UK.
Can I work during my studies?
Students with a Tier 4 (General) visa on postgraduate
courses at a higher education institution can work
up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time
in holiday periods, provided they are not filling a
permanent full-time vacancy. But you can’t be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson or
entertainer, or set up and run your own business.
Regulations about working can change so it is
important to check UK Border Agency guidance
on working before you take a job, as breaking the
rules could have serious consequences. Find out
more at www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
Can I stay in the UK after my studies?If you have a Tier 4 (General) visa, you can stay in
the UK until your visa expires, this will normally be
for the full length of your course, and for some time
after your course finishes (depending on the type
and length of your course).
At the end of that time, you must leave the UK
unless you have applied to extend your stay or to
switch to another immigration category. If you want
to work in the UK after your studies, you may be
able to remain:
as a skilled worker under Tier 2 if you haveÔ
graduated in the UK and you have an offer of
work from a Tier 2 sponsor
as a graduate entrepreneur under Tier 1 if youÔ
have been identified by your UK university as
having developed world-class innovative ideas
or entrepreneurial skills. Check whether your
university takes part in this scheme, and visit the
UKBA website for more details
under Tier 5 via the Youth Mobility Scheme orÔ
as a temporary worker. In most cases Tier 4
students must leave the UK and apply for a Tier
5 visa from their home country. Go to the UKBA
website and search for ‘working Tier 5’.
There is more advice on working after your studies
at www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/working_after.php
Can I travel elsewhere while I’m
studying in the UK?
Your Tier 4 visa will allow you to leave and re-enter
the UK, but you will need to check whether you need
a visa for the country you want to visit – this will
depend on which country you come from. You might
need to obtain a Schengen visa in order to visit
Europe. Speak to a welfare officer or student adviser
at your institution before you plan a trip abroad.
All details, including costs and procedures,Ô
correct at April 2012. Always check the UKBA
website for the latest information.
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Name Jingsi Li
Home country China
Course MA Anthropology
I applied for my visa about two months before
I came to the UK. I had some help and advice
with it because I went to an international
undergraduate school in China.
There was a teacher in the school who helped us
to prepare the documents to ensure we got our
visas. He would tell us what mistakes students
usually make and what you should pay attention
to, so that was really helpful.
The visa requirements have changed since
I applied. I had to give a lot of details about
how much my mother and father earned every
month and what their work was. But now it’s
more simple. You need to check the updated
information to see the latest requirements.
I looked at the UKBA website for information. It
gives very official instructions for how to apply.
Also, there are some websites designed to
help students apply for overseas universities.
You can find people on these who share their
experiences and any problems they’ve got,
including tips on applying for visas, graduation
and living abroad.
Coming to the UK was worth the effort of getting
the visa, because of the experience I’ve had
and everything I’ve achieved. It’s not only about
gaining knowledge – it’s also about learning
through experience.
Back in China I was always just a daughter, living
with my family and being taken care of all the
time. Now, I can live independently without a
problem. You get used to living with people of
many different backgrounds and cultures. It’s
like a global network and I’m sure it will have an
affect on the path my life takes, so it’s definitely
been worth it.
Look out for this symbol over the
next few pages to see more of my
tips on applying for a UK visa.
Getting a Tier 4 visa
Step 1Work out if you
need a visa
Step 2Find out which
visa you need
Check the UKBorder Agency
website (www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk)to see whether you
need a visa
You will need a Tier 4student visa unless youare coming to the UK fora course that lasts less
than six months orcoming for an Englishlanguage course that
lasts less than
11 months
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Applying for your visa
Step 3Check that you
are eligible
To qualify for a Tier 4(General) visa, you musthave a confirmation of
acceptance for studies for
an approved course at alicensed institution, enoughmoney for your fees and
living costs, and validsupporting documents
Make sure your institutionsends you a confirmationof acceptance for studies.This shows that the college
or university wants you
Depending on whichcountry you come
from, you may needto submit your
application in personat a visa application
centre or online
Step 6Submit yourapplication
Step 4Complete your
applicationforms
Step 5Provide your
biometric data
Make sure you have theright amount of moneyin your bank account
You will haveto provide a
10-digit finger
scan and a digitalphotograph
Depending onwhich country you
live in, you apply online(www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk)
or use the VAF9and Appendix 8application form
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Using your visa
Make sure you know howlong your visa lasts for. Ifyou are doing a foundationcourse, you may need to
apply for another visa tostart your academic course
The applicationfee is currently
£289. Check theUKBA website
for updates
It may takeseveral weeks foryour visa to comethrough. You cancheck processing
times on theUKBA website
Make sure theinformation is correct
and tell your visaapplication centre ifthere are any errors
Use the resources on the web.The UK Border Agency website(www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk)has official instructions onhow to apply
Step 9Check itcarefully
Get a lot of people tocheck the English versionof your documents, evenif they have beentranslated professionally.
The quality of languagecould affect yourchances of getting a visa
Step 8Get your
visa
Step 7Pay for yourapplication
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Living in the UK
Make sure youcome on or
after your visa's
'valid from' date
Your institution will letthe UK Border Agencyknow if you don't seem
to be sticking to theterms of your visa
Depending on yourinstitution and course,you may be allowed to
undertake a limitedamount of employmentduring your studies – it’s
important to stick to
these rules
Step 10Travel to
the UK
Step 12Know your
limits
Step 11Attend your
course
Make sure you know whatyour visa allows you to do.Visas from certain countriesmay not allow you to travelto the rest of Europe while
you are studying
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You may want to bring your
family with you when you
come to study in the UK.
If so, it makes sense to come on
your own first to organise a place to
live and find out about schools for
your children.
The advice and information belowdoes not apply to European
Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss
nationals and their family members.
Please see UKCISA’s Information
Sheet for EEA nationals at
www.ukcisa.org.uk
Although many international
students do bring their families
with them when they come tostudy in the UK, this is not always
possible, so it is important that
you factor this into the decisions
you make and that you get specialist
advice if you have any concerns
about these arrangements. In
some countries, visa advisers can
help fill out your visa application
to maximise your chances of
getting entry clearance for your
immediate family.
Who can I bring?
As an international student in
possession of a valid Tier 4 (General)
visa, you may be able to bring your
spouse or civil partner and any
children under 18 to the UK with
you, provided the postgraduate
course you are studying lasts at
least 12 months.
Each of your family members
(or you) has to show that they
have the resources to support
Each of your familymembers (oryou) has to showthat they havethe resources tosupport themselvesfinancially and
provide a homefor themselves
Family mattersThe relatives you can bring to the UK
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However, you and your family will be eligible for
free health care and subsidised dental treatment
through the National Health Service (NHS). You can
find out more in the ‘Staying healthy’ section (page
62) and at www.nhs.uk
Contact the UKCISA students’ advice line on
+44 (0)20 7107 9922 for further advice about
bringing your family to the UK.
themselves financially and provide a home for
themselves, as well as proving they won’t stay
in the country longer than you do. You can find
more details in the ‘Help with your visa’ section
on page 30.
Can my family visit me?
Your parents, other relatives or any other
family members who have not come with you
to the UK can visit you, for example to attend
your graduation ceremony or simply to make a
visit. They will need to apply for a visitor visa and
should check the UKBA website for details and
the application form.
Child care
Some of the bigger universities will have
nursery facilities on site, which are used by
the children of lecturers and teaching staff
as well as the children of students, and are
often competitively priced. Alternatively, your
international student office will be able to help
you find local child-care facilities.
Can my family study?
Children between the ages of five and 16 receive
a free state education while they are in the UK. It is
compulsory for children under 16 years old to be in
full-time education.
If your children are aged between 16 and 19 they
can attend a further education college, but they
might have to pay.
Can my family work?
Family members older than 16 will probably be able
to work full-time if your postgraduate course lasts
at least 12 months.
What about welfare benefits?
You won’t usually be able to claim benefits for your
family while you are here.
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WEB LINKSÔ
UK Border Agency
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk
UKCISA INFORMATION SHEETS
Your family’s immigration
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/your_family.php
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The idea of living in a different
country might seem
overwhelming at first, but
preparing carefully for your arrival
in the UK will mean you can begin
this exciting new chapter of your
life with confidence – and there is
a plenty of support available. From
registering with your institution tochecking your travel arrangements,
it is essential to do some planning
before you set off.
Research
Once you’ve accepted the place
on your course, your university
or college will send you plenty of
information to help you prepare
for your arrival in the UK. This willinclude insights into your institution
(including the all-important
registration details) and your local
area, as well as all the travel and
accommodation options available.
If your institution offers pre-departure
briefings in your country, don’t
miss out.
The British Council runs similar
sessions in many countries where
it has an office. These coverimmigration and passport control
procedures, how to travel, financial
matters, budget planning and cultural
differences. Your nearest British
embassy, high commission or British
Council office will be able to tell you
what documentation you’ll need to
take with you to the UK.
Arrange travelCheck what time you’ll arrive in the
UK. Outside London it’s rare for
transport to run throughout the
From registeringwith your institutionto checking yourtravel arrangements,it is essential todo some planningbefore you set off
Your arrivalStarting your life in the UK
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night, so aim to arrive in the UK in the morning
or afternoon. That way you’ll be able to travel to
your university or college when transport is most
frequent and facilities, such as banks and shops,
are open.
Some schools and colleges arrange for students
to be met at the airport and driven to their
accommodation, so check to see whether this
is available to you.
Taking the plane
No matter where you are studying, the UK is
very well serviced if you’re flying in from abroad.
With more than 40 airports and excellent rail
and coach links, it doesn’t matter whether
your institution is in the heart of London or the
Scottish Highlands.
London, for example, has five international airports:
Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and London
City. Other cities with international airports include
Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh,
Glasgow, Belfast and Cardiff.
Most airports have both international and domestic
flights, as well as their own well-staffed rail or
coach stations that can take you to nearby towns
and cities where connections can be made forfurther travel.
The international office at your university, college
or school will tell you which is the best airport to fly
to, and the best route to take from there.
Airport security
The UK enforces rigorous security measures at
its international and domestic airports. There
are strict rules about what you can carry in yourhand luggage. Many seemingly innocent items,
such as scissors and matches, will be confiscated.
If in doubt, ask your airline. It’s also essential to
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a g e b r o k e r / A l a m y
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DOCUMENTS TO KEEP WITH YOUÔ
1. Your valid passport, with the valid entry clearance if you need
it (see page 32)
2. Your travel itinerary
3. Money (cash, traveller’s cheques, credit cards)
4. Health documents, if required
5. The letter of acceptance from your institution
6. Documentation to show you have enough money to pay your
fees and meet your living costs for the duration of your course
7. Originals (or certified copies) of any degree certificates
or technical qualifications you have and English languagecertificate if appropriate.
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leave plenty of time to check in
and pass through security control
before boarding connecting flights –
remember there can be long queuesat busy times.
Ease your arrival
If your institution doesn’t provide an
airport collection service, make sure
you check timetables so you can
arrive safely on your own. For more
travel information, see page 50.
If you need to spend your first nightsomewhere else, before continuing
on to your institution, you should
arrange your accommodation before
If your institutiondoesn’t provide an
airport collectionservice, makesure you checktimetables so youcan arrive safelyon your own
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r i t i s h C o u n c i l
you leave home. On no account
accept an offer of accommodation
from a stranger.
If you need help with transport
or accommodation issues when
you arrive, you can ask at an
official tourist information office
or information desk. However, if
you contact your institution well in
advance it should be able to provide
you with all the information you
require, such as maps, timetables
and details of places to stay. Then,when you arrive in the UK, you’ll be
more than ready for your adventure
to begin.
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With the next Commonwealth
Games and Rugby
World Cup, and annual
favourites such as Wimbledon and
the Edinburgh Festival in the UK, the
next few years will be an exciting
time. Many cultural activities will
run alongside these events. And
the Olympic Park, which hosted the2012 London Olympics, is being
transformed into one of the largest
urban parks in Europe.
In 2010 approximately 30 million
tourists visited the UK – and with
good reason. The country has a long
history of welcoming visitors from
other cultures. London is the most
densely populated and ethnicallydiverse part of the country, but you
will find people from different areas
of the world throughout the UK. The
international student community is
part of this rich culture and you are
likely to encounter people from many
backgrounds, cultures and beliefs.
A fun way to explore the UK is with a
university society or your students’
union. International student societies
regularly organise day or weekendtrips to cultural sites, sporting events
and famous UK attractions. These
offer opportunities to explore new
areas in a friendly and social group.
Enjoy your stay
With world-famous football teams,
cricket clubs, art galleries, theatres
and music venues all over the UK,
there is bound to be something tointerest you. The UK has some of
the world’s best sporting venues,
including Cardiff’s Millennium
There are hundredsof music venueslocated all aroundthe UK. In Londonyou can see aband every nightof the week
About the UKFour countries, one nation
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sea-life centres. Cornwall’s Eden
Project is a scientific wonder, and
historic sites, such as the Neolithic
monuments at Stonehenge and
Avebury in Wiltshire, and the Jorvik
Viking Centre in York, shed light
on the UK’s past. You can find
information about the UK’s latest
exhibitions at www.culture24.org.uk
There are theatres and cinemas in
most UK towns. You could also visit
the world-famous Edinburgh Festival,
which takes place in August and early
September, and catch the latest in
comedy, drama, film and books.
You can check out some of the UK’s
best landmarks and attractions usingthe Education UK interactive map. Go
to map.educationuk.org and click the
icons to explore.
Stadium for rugby and football;
St Andrews Links for golf; Lord’s
Cricket Ground; the All England Lawn
Tennis Club, home to the Wimbledon
championships; and Old Trafford, the
home of Manchester United football
club. England alone has more than 90
professional football clubs, so you are
never far from one of them.
There are hundreds of music venues
around the UK. In most cities, you can
see a band every night of the week.
Even in some of the UK’s smallest
towns, you will find live music. If
you enjoy performing yourself, your
university will be able to help you find
a band, choir or orchestra to join.
The arts scene
You could visit an art gallery every
weekend for a year and still not
see all that the UK has to offer.
For cutting-edge modern art, start
with the Tate galleries in Liverpool,
London and St Ives. If your interests
are more specialised, you can find a
list of all the UK’s art galleries at
www.britisharts.co.uk/artgalleries.html
Whatever your interests, the UK has
a museum to match and many of
them are free. York has the National
Railway Museum, while in Bradford
there’s the National Media Museum.
There are industrial museums around
Bristol, Sheffield and Derby, and
agricultural museums from Midlothian
in Scotland to Kent in south-east England, while Birmingham,
Greenwich, Hull, Portsmouth and
Liverpool boast major maritime and
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CLIMATEÔ
There are four distinct
seasons in the UK: winter,
spring, summer and autumn.
Temperatures seldom
fall below 0ºC or rise
above 32ºC. The hours of
daylight range from 16 a
day in June to just eight in
December. The weather can
be very varied.
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WEB LINKSÔ
CULTURE
Education UK
www.educationuk.org
VisitBritain
www.visitbritain.com
Discover Northern Ireland
www.discovernorthern
ireland.com
ARTS, MUSIC AND THEATRE
British Arts FestivalsAssociation
www.artsfestivals.co.uk
eFestivals – an online guide
to festivals
www.efestivals.com
Edinburgh Festival
www.eif.co.uk
NATIONAL PARKS AND
COASTLINE
National Parks
www.anpa.gov.uk
The National Trust
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
MEDIA AND NEWS
BBC
www.bbc.co.uk
The Guardian
www.guardian.co.uk
The Telegraph
www.telegraph.co.uk
A taste of the UK
The food in the UK reflects the many
ethnic influences in its society. Most
supermarkets sell Asian, African,
Caribbean and Latin American
ingredients, and you can find
restaurants offering dishes from
around the world, including Chinese,
Indian, Thai, Mexican, Italian and
French cuisine.
Most universities have subsidised
restaurants, cafes and bars, which
are often run by the students’ union.
Your union card will also give you
discounts at local eateries. If you
live in a hall of residence, you may
get a cooked breakfast and dinner
as part of the package, but if you
prefer to cook your own food you
can choose self-catering university
accommodation.
Urban living
London, the capital of England, is the
UK’s largest city with a population
of nearly 8 million people. Brimming
with culture, shops and nightlife,
London attracts about 30 milliondomestic and international visitors a
year and is a major draw for students.
Besides London, cities such as
Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester,
and Newcastle – and the UK’s other
capital cities, Belfast (Northern
Ireland), Edinburgh (Scotland) and
Cardiff (Wales) – all have modern
city centres with shops, nightlife andvisitor attractions. They also boast
vibrant multicultural communities with
synagogues, mosques, temples and
churches, and specialist food shops.
You will find most cities have ‘student
areas’ where it is cheap to live.
Historic cities
The UK’s historic smaller cities such
as York, Bath, Canterbury, Exeter, and
Chester provide a different student
experience. Several are home to
some of the UK’s oldest buildings.
In York, for example, you can visit
the 900-year-old cathedral, wander
around the ruins of the 13th-century
castle and see the remains of the
city’s Roman walls.
In some cases, the universities
themselves may have an equally
impressive history, which can be
reflected in the way they are run
today. Durham, Cambridge and
Oxford, for example, are collegiate
universities, where students live and
learn in small colleges, some of which
date back 800 years.
Coastal cities
With thousands of miles of coastline,
the UK offers plenty of places tostudy by the sea. Seaside cities such
as Portsmouth, Liverpool, Cardiff
and Brighton, and towns such as
St Andrews in Scotland, Aberystwyth
in Wales and Falmouth in Cornwall
are all home to institutions that
can offer you a wide range of
undergraduate degrees.
As well as giving you easy accessto beaches and coastal walks,
these places have their own
unique characters, shaped by their
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With thousands of miles ofcoastline, the UK offers plentyof places to study by the sea
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proximity to the sea. From the vibrant
alternative arts scene in Brighton to
Liverpool’s historic docks, you’ll find
something to spark your interest.
You could even learn to surf at
Europe’s first artificial surf reef in
Bournemouth.
As most coastal towns are smaller
than the UK’s inland cities, they often
have a friendlier community feel.
However, their locations can also
mean they are less easily accessible
and less culturally diverse than other
parts of the UK.
Campus universities
Not all UK universities are in towns.
Some, like the University of Warwick
and the University of East Anglia,have campuses that provide student
accommodation, teaching facilities,
libraries, shops and entertainment
venues all in one place.
Being on campus can mean you
miss out on the life and culture you
would experience if you were living
in a city or town. However, there are
advantages: you don’t need to rely onlocal towns and services, you can find
your way around quickly, and it can
be easier to meet other students.
UK FACTS AND FIGURESÔ
Area 244,820 sq km; 960km from north to south; 480km across at its widest point.
Highest point Ben Nevis in Scotland, which rises 1,344m above sea level.
Population 62.3 million (2010); 84 per cent live in England, eight per cent in Scotland,
five per cent in Wales and three per cent in Northern Ireland.
Density The UK has 246 inhabitants per square kilometre on average. England has the
highest population density.
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The transport infrastructure in
the UK is excellent, so, once
you’ve safely arrived, visiting
the major tourist attractions and
discovering some of the nation’s
diverse heritage will be easy.
You could get a train to Stratford-
upon-Avon, the birthplace ofShakespeare; a coach to Stonehenge,
the neolithic site; or a domestic
flight to Edinburgh to check out its
vibrant international theatre festival.
Nowhere is too far away and you can
move between city, countryside and
coastline in a matter of hours.
Student discounts
Students can get discounts on trainand bus fares in the UK. If you are in
full-time education or under the age
of 26, you can buy a 16-25 Railcard.
It costs £28 a year and gives you
a third off rail fares across the UK.
Visit www.16-25railcard.co.uk
In addition, for £10 a year, the
Coachcard gives you up to 30 per
cent off coach travel and access to
special offers. For more details, see
www.nationalexpress.com
Megabus offers low-cost travel to
more than 60 towns and cities across
England, Scotland and Wales, and
is famous for offering £1 (plus 50p
booking fee) fares around the UK.
EasyBus offers low-cost transfers
from London airports. See www.
megabus.com and www.easybus.
co.uk for more details.
An International Student Identity Card
(ISIC) will prove you are eligible for
You could get a trainto Shakespeare’sbirthplace, a coachto Stonehengeor a flight to theEdinburgh Festival
TravelExplore the UK
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You can usually buy single tickets or
weekly and monthly passes for these
journeys. Intercity coach travel with
companies such as National Express,
Megabus and easyBus will take you
longer distances. Coach companies
also offer special tours to popular
destinations all over the UK.
Look out for special offers (tickets
from London to the coast can
cost as little as £1) and ‘travel and
admission’ package deals to music
venues and festivals.
Taking to the road
The UK has an extensive network
of well-maintained motorways and
roads linking towns and cities.As a student, you can drive a car or
a motorbike in the UK for up to 12
months if you have a valid licence
a range of student discounts. Go to
www.isic.org for more information.
Some travel agents, such as STA
Travel, cater especially for students,
offering budget deals.
Taking the train
The train is the fastest and most
efficient way to travel in the UK. There
is a modern rail network that covers
all the main cities, as well as smaller
regional towns.
Most trains are air-conditioned,
and some have electrical sockets
so you can charge your laptop and
phone. There will often be a wireless
internet network that you can either
access for free or for a small fee.
Train travel is a good option if you
have work to catch up on, as many
seats have tables.
To plan your journey across the UK
by rail, use the VisitBritain journey
planner (visitbritain.transportdirect.
info). You can buy tickets at any
train station or online. For best-
value tickets, book in advance andmake sure you travel outside peak
hours. You can book tickets and get
information on routes, fares and
times at www.nationalrail.co.uk or
www.thetrainline.com
Bus and coach
Bus and coach is the most affordable
way to get around the UK, but may
take longer than the train.
Local buses run regularly and will
get you around cities and towns.
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WEB LINKSÔ
VisitBritain
www.visitbritain.com
Discover Northern Ireland
www.discovernorthern
ireland.com
HOST UK
www.hostuk.org
National Rail
www.nationalrail.co.ukThe Train Line
www.thetrainline.com
16-25 Railcard
www.16-25railcard.co.uk
National Express
www.nationalexpress.com
Megabus
www.megabus.com
easyBus
www.easybus.co.uk
Ryanair
www.ryanair.comeasyJet
www.easyjet.com
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from your own country (or an International Driving
Permit) and are at least 17 years old (16 years old
to drive a moped).
After this time you must apply for a UK licence,
or, in some cases, you may be able to exchange
your licence for a UK one. For further information
about driving in the UK see the Driver and Vehicle
Licensing Agency (DVLA) at www.dvla.gov.uk
Remember that people drive on the left side of the
road in the UK and that it’s illegal to use a mobile
phone when driving. You must also wear a seatbelt.
Check out the Highway Code at www.direct.gov.uk/
highwaycode
There is a network of cycle lanes in the UK and you
can plan your journey at www.cycle-route.com.
The UK is small enough to cross comfortably in a
week by bike and its hills are not too demanding.
Always take extra care when sharing a road with
fast traffic. A bicycle can also be a good way to get
across campus and save money on bus fares – look
in local newspapers or on www.gumtree.com for a
cheap secondhand one.
Air travel
Budget airlines, such as easyJet and Ryanair,
often offer domestic flights that are cheaper than
long-distance rail fares. There are also cheap
flights to other European cities from airports
across the UK. However, you may be required to
obtain a ‘Schengen travel’ visa before visiting other
countries in Europe. Check with the embassies of
the countries you wish to visit.
Travel in the capital
The bus and tube – underground train – network
in London is one of the largest in the world. Invest
in a prepaid Oyster card, which allows you to save
money travelling on London’s buses, trams, tubes,
trains and boats.
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You’ve chosen the university
or college you’re going to
study at and have officially
accepted an offer, so the next step is
to decide where you are going to live.
Most universities will guarantee
international postgraduate students
a place in university-managedaccommodation for at least your
first year, provided you are travelling
alone. You will be given a deadline to
apply for housing (usually some time
in July or August). The university will
either provide you with a brochure
outlining the options, or you will be
asked to search an online database
and, in some cases, apply online.
What are the options?
Depending on the size of the
university you have applied to, you
may be offered one or all of the
following options:
Flats and houses
This includes living accommodation
where several students have their
own study bedroom and share
kitchen facilities. Some flats and
houses also have a communaldining area or lounge and bathroom.
Shower and toilet facilities may
be shared.
Studios
These are single rooms with small
kitchens, living and sleeping areas,
and private bathrooms (‘en suite’).
Halls of residenceThese are accommodation blocks
on the university campus with rooms
reserved for postgraduate students.
You will probablyshare with otherinternationalstudents, becausehome postgraduatestudents aren’tguaranteed a
place in universityaccommodation
AccommodationFind a home in the UK
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day and usually cater for vegetarian,
halal and kosher diets.
What to expect
Most student bedrooms contain a
single bed, desk, chair, wardrobe,
bookshelf and wastepaper bin.
Some will also have a lamp. If you
are in an en-suite room you will
also have a shower cubicle, sink
and toilet – otherwise you may
have a sink in your room and
share a toilet and shower with
other residents.
If your accommodation is self-catered
and you are sharing with other
students, you will also have a shared
kitchen. The kitchen is good a place
to socialise with your housemates
and learn how to cook food from
different cultures. You will usually
be assigned a cupboard in which to
store your food.
Most shared houses and flats will
also have a common room or lounge.
This will have comfortable chairs
and may have a television, DVDplayer and music system. Some
bigger blocks of shared flats or halls
will also have coin-operated laundry
facilities in a separate room, while
others may have a washing machine
in the kitchen.
Communal living
The people you share with will
come from a variety of culturesand backgrounds, and you may
find they behave differently in
relation to things such as noise,
Most universities allocate a mix of
male and female students to each
residence. However, if you ask for
single-sex occupancy, the university
will usually do its best to meet your
request. You will probably find you
are sharing with other international
students, because postgraduate
home students aren’t guaranteeduniversity accommodation.
Prices will vary depending on factors
such as whether catering is provided,
whether your room has an en-suite
bathroom, how recently the building
has been refurbished, the proximity
to the university and the number
of people you share with. The cost
usually includes gas, water, electricityand internet connection. If you have
been given a catered option, it will
also include two cooked meals a
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WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK
www.educationuk.org/International-student-accommodation-in-the-UK
UKCISA Accommodation for International Students information sheet
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/accommodation_overview.php
Accommodation for Students
www.accommodationforstudents.com
tidiness, food preparation, personal
and communal space, study
practices or socialising. It is useful
to approach this experience with
an open mind and a respect for the
needs of others.
Get to know your housemates
as soon as possible. It is also
important to agree at the start
how you will all use the shared
fridges, cupboards and cooking
arrangements. For example: will
you share any food, such as bread
or milk, or will you each buy your
own? Are there any foods that
need to be kept apart for dietary
or cultural reasons? Will you cook
together or separately?
Bringing your family
Most universities will have a
limited number of self-contained
flats for married postgraduate
students and their families. But the
demand for these is high and it
is unlikely you will be guaranteed
a place in university-managed
accommodation. You may find iteasier to travel alone to the UK and
for your spouse and children to join
you when you have found a place to
live (see page 40).
Private rentals
After your first year of study, you
may need to find somewhere
else to stay. The accommodation
office at your university will beable to provide you with details
of available flats and houses, and
approved landlords.
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Your living costs will depend
on where you to choose
to live and study in the
UK. Generally, it costs more to live
in London and the south-east of
England than in other parts of the UK.
Your institution will be able to
provide you with more information
on living costs, but you can expect
to pay anything between £5,000 and
£10,000 a year. You can also ask your
institution about any scholarships and
awards that may be available to you to
help fund your studies (see page 22).
Basic costs
If you’re studying in the UK on a
Tier 4 (General) visa, the UK Border
Agency requires you to show that
you have £1,000 per month if you are
living in London and £800 per month
if you are living outside London.
This is the minimum to cover your
rent, food, bills and basic expenses.
In addition you must show that you
can cover your course fees for the
first year, or the whole course if your
course lasts less than a year.
Your rent will depend on where you
are living. Sharing a private house
may look cheaper, but you will need
to pay bills as well as your rent.
Renting a single room in London is
likely to be more expensive than in
other UK cities. Bear in mind that
most landlords will expect a deposit
in advance (usually equivalent to amonth’s or six weeks’ rent), which is
returned at the end of your stay if the
property has not been damaged.
Fees for halls of residence often
include lighting, heating and water
bills as well as telephone and internet
access. For more information on
how to find a place to live in the UK,
see the ‘Accommodation’ section(page 53).
As well as rent, you will need to
budget for your weekly groceries,
including food, laundry and toiletry
items. If your rent is quoted as
‘exclusive of bills’, you’ll also need to
set aside some money to pay for your
gas, electricity and water.
Use the international student
calculator on the educationuk.org
homepage to help plan your budget.
Living costsWhat you might spend on the basics
WEB LINKSÔ
EDUCATION UK
Budget planning in the UK
www.educationuk.org/
Budget-planning-in-the-UK
International student
discountswww.educationuk.org/
International-student-
discounts
UKCISA
Advice for international
students
www.ukcisa.org.uk
NATIONAL UNION OF
STUDENTS (NUS)
Organisation that campaigns
on behalf of students
www.nus.org.uk
UKCISA INTERNATIONAL
STUDENT CALCULATORHelp with managing your
money for your UK studies
international.student
calculator.org.uk
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There are also student discount fares on trains and
buses. Find out more at your students’ union or at
www.nus.org.uk
Health and educational benefits
All international students on a full-time UK course
lasting more than six months can use the National
Health Service. See the ‘Staying healthy’ section on
page 62 for more information. If you have children
who are where as your dependents, education in
state schools is free for five- to 16-year-olds.
Money-saving ideas
When you start your course, there will be a list
of books and equipment you need to buy. Study
materials can be expensive, so check what is
essential with your institution.
You can buy many things second-hand – look on
campus noticeboards or check out auction sites
such as eBay (www.ebay.co.uk).
Shop at local markets for fresh food and affordable
clothes. You can also save money by buying
food in bulk at supermarkets, where you’ll find
inexpensive clothes and household goods. Cheap
clothes, books and household items can be found
in the UK’s many charity shops.
If you are buying a mobile phone, check the
details of the package you’re being offered. Some
may seem cheap but come with high monthly
subscriptions or call charges.
International phone cards and Skype are two of the
cheapest ways to call home. Skype is an internet
service that allows you to make low-cost phone
calls or to speak PC-to-PC free of charge.
For more information on the best ways to make
international telephone calls from the UK, visit
a website such as www.moneysavingexpert.com
Other possible costs
If you live with people who are not full-time
students, you may have to pay Council Tax. This is
a charge for community services, such as police,
fire brigade, rubbish collection, street lighting
and leisure facilities. You can find out more about
Council Tax at www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_
sheets/council_tax.php
If you own a television in the UK, you must pay an
annual television licence fee. Even if you watch
programmes on a laptop or a mobile phone at
the same time as they are broadcast on TV, you
must still be covered by a licence. A licence costs
£145.50 and there are no plans to change this
until 2016-17.
Halls of residence usually have a licence for
communal areas, but you will usually have to buy
your own licence if you have a TV in your room.
For more information, see www.tvlicensing.co.uk
Student discounts
One of the great things about being a student in
the UK is the many discounts. The students’ union
at your institution will organise social events and
trips that cost very little or nothing at all.
The area around your university or college will alsocater for students, so you’ll probably find cinemas,
nightclubs, restaurants and theatres that offer
student discounts.
In your leisure time there are plenty of free things
to do, such as visiting one of Britain’s many free
museums and galleries. See www.visitbritain.com/
en/cheap-and-free-Britain for ideas.
An NUS extra card, which costs just £11 a year,gives you discounts on books, clothes, sports
equipment, CDs, travel, computer equipment,
cinemas, concerts, restaurants and much more.
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There are several things you
can do to manage your
finances effectively when
you come to study in the UK. From
opening a British bank account, to
finding the best credit card for your
needs and even sending money
home, this section gives you the
information you need to makearrangements that will work for you.
Why open a UK bank
account?
Opening a UK bank account lets you
pay in money, use debit cards for
purchases, withdraw money from
cash machines (ATMs) and pay bills
by standing order or direct debit. It
is safer, cheaper and more efficientthan using cash or accounts in your
home country. You may also be
eligible for a credit card.
Choosing a bank
Many banks will offer you free gifts,
such as money, iPods, shopping
vouchers and travel discounts, if you
open a student account with them.
However, banks’ services, such as
overdraft facilities and the interest
they charge, are much moreimportant than gifts and can save
you money in the long term.
Choose a bank that is local to you.
Some banks have student financial
advisers and a branch on campus.
You can compare the benefits offered
by each bank independently at
www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/
yourmoney
Check whether the bank has
telephone and internet banking.
Setting up yourbank account maytake a few weeks,so make sureyou have enoughmoney to live onin the meantime
Managing your financesStay in control of your money
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your money to the UK to pay your
course fees.
If you need help, you can ask the
international students adviser at
your institution or download the
British Bankers’ Association’s leaflet
International students: opening a UK
bank account at www.bba.org.uk/
download/1805
Prepaid credit cards
If you are on a tight budget you may
want to consider a prepaid credit
card that will only allow you to spend
money that you have pre-loaded on
to it. The advantage of this is that you
can ensure you don’t get into debt,
while having a card that enables you
to make purchases over the phone
and online.
These cards are available to
everyone and don’t require
credit checks, so you don’t have
to worry about having a good credit
history. There can be charges and
set-up fees attached to different
cards, so it is worth comparing thefull range of what’s available on
price-comparison websites such
as moneysavingexpert.com
Sending money home
Before sending any money home,
make sure you know what the
charges are and how long it will take.
There are many money-transfer
services available. You can comparedifferent rates and fees using the
independent FX Compared service
(www.fxcompared.com).
Managing your account in this way
can save you time and help you keep
on top of your finances. If you are
opening an internet-based account,
make sure you can withdraw cash
from an ATM when you want to.
With some internet-based accounts,
you can only withdraw money after
transferring it to another bank
account first.
Cheques are less common than
they once were in the UK, but some
landlords may want you to pay your
rent this way, so find out whether a
chequebook is available.
Opening a bank account
Different banks have different rules
about the documents you need to
open a bank account. But in most
cases, you’ll need proof of identity
(passport or national photo ID card),
your address in your home country
and in the UK, and an acceptance
letter from your institution. You may
also need references and statements
from your home bank.
Setting up your account may take a
few weeks, so make sure you have
enough money to live on in the
meantime. If you can, bring cash
in pounds sterling, or a common
currency such as dollars or euros.
For larger amounts of money,
travellers cheques, credit cards or
cash cards are the safest options.Check if you can use your cash cards
from your home bank in UK cash
machines and how you can transfer
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WEB LINKSÔ
EDUCATION UK
International student bank
accounts
www.educationuk.org
British Bankers’ Association
www.bba.org.uk
The Money Advice Service
www.moneyadviceservice
.org.uk
UKCISAAdvice for international
students
www.ukcisa.org.uk
UKCISA INTERNATIONAL
STUDENT CALCULATOR
Help with managing your
money for your UK studies
international.student
calculator.org.uk
Financial comparison sites
moneysavingexpert.com
moneysupermarket.com
www.fxcompared.com
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Working while you are
studying in the UK can be
a fun way to meet other
students and improve your English
at the same time as earning a bit ofextra money. If you are in the UK on a
visa, before you take a job check UK
Border Agency guidelines on working
to see what is allowed under the
terms of your visa.
The UK has a minimum wage (in 2012,
this was £4.98 an hour for workers
between the ages of 18 and 20, and
£6.08 an hour for those aged 21 orover). If you’re lucky you may be able
to find a job that pays more than the
minimum wage.
The amount you earn will depend on
the type of work you do and the part
of the UK you are working in. You
should never accept a job that pays
less than the minimum wage.
Getting a job
The careers advice centre or the
students’ union at your college or
university can help you find a job.
They can show you where to look
(local newspapers, recruitment
agencies, magazines, job centres,
websites and campus noticeboards).
They’ll also give you help withessentials such as writing CVs and
job applications, and preparing for
job interviews.
Work during and after your courseA boost to your career and budget
WEB LINKSÔ
EDUCATION UK
Working while you study
in the UK
www.educationuk.org/
working-while-you-study-
in-the-UK
UK BORDER AGENCY
Guide to working in the UK
www.ukba.homeoffice.
gov.uk/visas-immigration/
working
UKCISA
Working in the UK during
your studies
Working in the UK after
your studies www.ukcisa.org.uk
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few months of your course for
up-to-date information.
If you are a national of a country
outside the EEA and Switzerland,
you’re in the UK on a Tier 4
(General) visa and you want to
stay on after your studies to work
in the UK, you may be able to apply
under the Tier 2 (General) route
for skilled workers. You will need to
have a firm offer of a job (usually
paying over £20,000 a year) from
an employer who has a Tier 2
sponsor licence. Go to www.ukba.
homeoffice.gov.uk and search for
‘Tier 2 register of sponsors’. You
could also apply under the Tier 1
Entrepreneur route if your universityis part of the scheme.
If your degree is sponsored by your
government or an international
scholarship agency, you will need
permission from your sponsor to
stay longer in the UK before you
can apply to any UK employment
or visa-extension schemes.
Check with your sponsor or with a
suitable adviser before you make any
definite plans.
For many students, university
campuses themselves provide
good opportunities for casual,
part-time work. There are often
shifts available at the union bar, or
opportunities to get involved with
running events and entertainments.
Ask your fellow students and tutors
to see what’s available.
Many UK universities also have
partnerships with local employers
who want students to work for them.
Some universities run an online
service to help students find work
and employers find staff. Once
registered, you can find part-time
and holiday work that fits around
your studies. Check whether your
university offers this type of service.
Try not to let part-time work interfere
with your studies, and reduce your
hours if possible around exam time
to give yourself the best chance
of succeeding.
Working after your studies
As you near the end of youruniversity studies, you may be
thinking about whether you can
stay on to work in the UK. The UK
Border Agency’s rules on whether
you can stay in the UK to work
after your studies can change, so
check the latest UK Border Agency
guidance (www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.
uk/visas-immigration).
You can also discuss your options
with an adviser at your institution
or contact UKCISA during the last
Many UK universitieshave partnershipswith local employerswho want studentsto work for them
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BEFORE TAKING A JOB:Ô
If you’re in the UK on a visa, make sure that you have the right visa sticker in your1.
passport – one that permits you to work.
Check the number of hours you are able to work with UKBA.2.
Apply for a National Insurance (NI) number. This is for the UK’s social insurance3.
programme that provides payment to people who are unemployed or retired. Your
number will ensure your contributions are properly recorded. See www.direct.gov.uk/
nationalinsurance for information on how to apply for your number.
Make sure you have enough time for your studies.4.
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Hopefully, the time you spend
studying in the UK will be
a happy, healthy period of
your life. But if you do become ill
and require treatment, you will have
access to the UK’s well-established
health-care system, which will be able
to provide all the help you need.
The UK’s National Health Service
(NHS) is the world’s largest publicly
funded health service. Paid for by
national taxation, it provides care for
anyone who is resident in the UK –
everything from routine treatments
to major surgery. Most care is free at
the point of use, although there are
some charges for prescriptions and
dental treatment.
As an international student you can
access the NHS if your course lasts for
at least six months. If your course is
shorter than six months you can only
get certain types of NHS care free.
If you are from the EEA (European
Economic Area), a Swiss citizen, or
studying full-time in Scotland, you’ll
get NHS care no matter how long
your course lasts. Europeans needto make sure they are in possession
of a valid European Health Insurance
Card (EHIC).
Check with your institution or see the
Keeping healthy information sheet on
UKCISA’s website (www.ukcisa.org.uk/
student/info_sheets/keeping_healthy.
php) for more details.
Before leaving home
If you think that you may not be
entitled to full treatment on the NHS,
Staying healthyKeep well while you study
WEB LINKSÔ
EDUCATION UK
Health advice for UK
international students
www.educationuk.org
UKCISA INFORMATION
SHEETS
Keeping healthy
Welfare benefits
www.ukcisa.org.uk
NHS Choices
www.nhs.uk
SKILL
National Bureau for Students
with Disabilities
www.skill.org.uk
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this was £7.40), unless you’re under 19 years of
age and in full-time education. If you have a medical
condition that requires repeat prescriptions, you
can save money by buying a prepayment certificate
(in April 2011, this was £29.10 for three months and
£104 for 12 months) to cover the cost of unlimited
prescriptions. There are no prescription charges in
Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Other treatmentYou can use your NHS card to register with a dentist.
If you’re eligible for NHS treatment, you’ll receive
treatment at a reduced rate, but check that the
dentist accepts NHS patients. Some dentists only
take private patients, who pay full rates. The costs
of eye tests and glasses are not covered by the NHS.
Health tips
You can buy remedies for minor illnesses, such as
headaches and colds, in supermarkets, chemists
and local shops without a prescription from a
doctor. If you’re not sure about what to take,
you can always get free advice from a qualified
pharmacist at any chemist. There is also lots of
advice about symptoms, treatments and staying
healthy on the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk
Medical emergencies
If there is an accident or some other medicalemergency, call 999. It’s free, and you can call
on any telephone. An operator will ask you which
emergency service you require (fire, police or
ambulance). Ask for the ambulance service and
be prepared to tell them exactly where you are.
Keeping fit
Many council-run facilities, such as swimming
pools and leisure centres, offer discounts to
students, so check whether there are any specialoffers in your area. Most universities have gyms
that you can use for a small fee per visit or join
by paying a monthly subscription.
you should purchase health insurance before you
travel to the UK, or treatment could be costly.
If you are receiving medical treatment in your
own country, or are disabled, bring your current
prescriptions and a doctor’s report with you
(make sure these are translated into English).
Some medicines that you can get over the counter
in your home country may only be available
on prescription in the UK. However, getting a
prescription is straightforward once you have
registered with a doctor (see below).
When you arrive in the UK, you may need to
produce health certificates to prove you are
immunised against illnesses such as measles,
mumps, rubella, meningitis C, polio, diphtheria and
tetanus. If you’re from a country where there is a
high risk of tuberculosis (TB), you may also need
a chest x-ray report.
Ask the British embassy or high commission in
your home country which inoculations you need to
enter the UK. It is also a good idea to bring medical
information, such as your blood type and medical
history, with you to give to your doctor in the UK.
Register with a doctor
It makes sense to register with a doctor, commonlyknown as a GP (general practitioner), within the first
two weeks of arriving in the UK, as this will make it
easier to see the doctor when you need to. You will
need your passport, proof that you are a student
(enrolment letter or student card) and proof of
your address. Your university or college may have
a doctor’s surgery or health centre on campus, or
you can find one using NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk
Once you have registered, you will receive anNHS medical card. It’s free to see a doctor but in
England you’ll have to pay a nominal charge for
each medicine you are prescribed (in April 2011,
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UK universities and colleges
are well equipped to offer
practical advice and guidance
on any challenges you may face.
Student welfare services are on
hand to offer help with finding
accommodation, extending your
stay, providing emotional support –
whatever you need to make the mostof your stay.
On arrival
Student services at your university or
college will help you with areas such
as accommodation, student visas and
legal requirements, even before you
reach the UK.
On arrival, your institution may senda representative to meet you at the
nearest airport or railway station.
Alternatively, it may provide you with
travel information to enable you to
make your own arrangements well
in advance.
Settling in
When you arrive on campus, you
can take part in an orientation
programme. This will familiarise you
with your institution, the local areaand life in the UK. Typically, it will
include a tour of the campus, an
explanation of the institution and its
rules, and social events where you’ll
meet staff and other students.
During your studies
Many UK institutions have specialist
international advisers to support you
throughout the year and they willusually be your first point of contact.
Local religious or cultural groups may
also offer support.
Many UK institutionshave specialistinternationaladvisers to supportyou throughoutthe year
Here to support youLooking after your welfare
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representing students andÔ
campaigning
arranging entertainmentÔprogrammes and social activities
running restaurants, bars andÔ
shops
providing information on studentÔ
travel, sport and leisure facilities
offering advice on welfare issuesÔ
and part-time work, as well as
listing jobs.
International students can stand forelected students’ union posts, which
include the post of international
officer, while in the UK.
Student welfare officers
All UK institutions will have a range
of welfare services providing advice
and support. The welfare officers will
help you with any problems you have
regarding, for example, your finances,
child care or personal issues. Many
institutions also have professional
health-care staff on site.
Support from older students
Having someone close to your own
age to talk to, who has gone through
everything a year or two earlier, can
make life easier for international
students. Many colleges and
universities appoint older students to
help new arrivals settle in and offer
ongoing support. They may also place
older students in halls of residence
corridors otherwise occupied only by
first-year students.
Students’ unions and the NUS
The National Union of Students
(NUS) represents the interests of all
students in the UK. All universities
and most larger colleges have a
students’ union, which is effectivelya local branch of the NUS. You can
pick up your union card from your
local students’ union when you arrive.
The card entitles you to a range of
privileges and discounts such as
cheaper cinema tickets; money off
in shops, pubs and restaurants; and
various other offers that you can find
at www.nus.org.uk/nus-extra
Students’ union services and
activities vary from one institution to
another, but may include:
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WEB LINKSÔ
Education UK
www.educationuk.org
Citizens Advice Bureau
www.citizensadvice.org.uk
HOST
A network of UK residents
who welcome adult
international students into
their homes for short visits
www.hostuk.org
National Union of Students
(NUS)
www.nus.org.uk
UKCISA – UK Council for
International Student Affairswww.ukcisa.org.uk
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