 They call it the cradle of education. That is the United Kingdom for you. With a rich cultural heritage and a most triumphant history to boast of, the UK remains unparalleled in the sheer quality of education.
Located near Western Europe, islands including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of France. The climate is temperate; moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current; more than one-half of the days are overcast. Lies near vital North Atlantic sea lanes; only 35 km from France and now linked by tunnel under the English Channel; because of heavily indented coastline, no location is more than 125 km from tidal waters.
Population of UK is 59,778,002 (July 2002 est.) with Ethic groups including English 81.5%, Scottish 9.6%, Irish 2.4%, Welsh 1.9%, Ulster 1.8%, West Indian, Indian, Pakistani, and other 2.8%. Religion followed is Anglican and Roman Catholic 40 million, Muslim 1.5 million, Presbyterian 800,000, Methodist 760,000, Sikh 500,000, Hindu 500,000, Jewish 350,000. Languages commonly used English, Welsh (about 26% of the population of Wales), Scottish form of Gaelic (about 60,000 in Scotland). London is the Capital city.
UK qualifications are recognised and respected throughout the world. Your UK qualification will be a solid foundation for building your future, boosting your career and prospects for a higher salary. UK universities, colleges and schools will provide a vibrant, creative and challenging environment in which to develop your potential. Quality standards for UK institutions are among the best in the world. Universities, colleges and schools continually have to prove that their courses meet strict criteria. Many other countries are now trying to follow the example of the UK.
In an increasingly globalised world economy, people need special skills and qualities to succeed. Employers want employees who can think effectively, creatively and for themselves. This is an essential part of the UK learning experience. Institutions use a variety of teaching and assessment methods to encourage independence, as well as mastery of the subject.
The entry profiles include: description of courses and schools, contact details, application procedures, admission requirements, cost of studies, scholarships, grants, degrees/qualifications awarded and other practical information.
Why study in the UK?
UK universities provide internationally - recognised qualifications of the highest standard. They also offer more opportunities than ever before: there are currently over 50,000 postgraduate taught courses and research opportunities to choose from.
The UK higher education system combines the best elements of tradition and modernity. Some UK universities are among the oldest in the world; others are among the newest. Many provide degrees with a strong vocational foundation and enjoy good links with businesses and professional organisations.
Academic excellence
The quality and standard of UK higher education are guaranteed through the work of various official bodies. The quality of a university's teaching and its general facilities are assessed by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). Research standards are examined by the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), which publishes its findings every five years. The results of all these assessments are freely available on the internet. Information on quality assurance and assessments is also available from the Higher Education Funding Councils.
Value for money
The quality of UK degrees is one reason why so many people come to the UK to study. Another is value for money. Unlike the equivalent programmes in the United States or Australia, most UK Masters programmes can be completed in one year.
An international tradition
The UK has always welcomed students from all over the world. In 2003/2004, there were 96,845 students from the European Union (EU) and 203,210 students from outside of it in the UK at undergraduate and postgraduate level. UK universities are used to looking after the welfare of non-UK students and have well-developed support services and social networks on campus. At postgraduate level, students from outside the UK form over 30% of the entire student body.
The language of business
A major advantage of studying in the UK is the opportunity to perfect your knowledge of the English language – one of the most important skills in the international business world. If you are from outside the EU, especially if you are studying a commercial subject, you may well appreciate the opportunity to observe at first hand the operation of the European market. The UK is a member of the EU, and living and studying here can provide a useful insight into how this major trading bloc functions.
The UK has grown to become one of the top destinations to study around the world. With traditions of excellence dating back hundreds of years, high class institutions at every corner and much more flexibility than many other countries, the United Kingdom has much to offer international students that other English-speaking countries cannot offer.
But what makes the United Kingdom stand out? Why should you come to the UK as a destination to further your international education?
Growing Destination
International students have always been an important presence in the UK, and the numbers have been growing steadily. With over 330,000 international students during the 2005/2006 school year, the UK is the second most popular destination for international
students, behind the US. The UK has worked hard to capitalize on the growing demand for English-language instruction and the post-9/11 visa hurdles in the US. The top ten countries sending students to the UK are:
- China 50,755
- India 19,205
- Greece 17,675
- Republic of Ireland 16,790
- USA 14,755
- Germany 13,265
- France 12,455
- Malaysia 11,450
- Nigeria 9,605
- Hong Kong 9,445
For more demographic and statistical information about international students in the UK, visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
Worldwide Recognition
The degrees and qualifications from UK higher education institutions are known around the world as high quality and world class. The standard of excellence is set by some of the older universities with recognizable names, like Oxford and Cambridge, but the tradition carries through to many of the universities and colleges throughout the UK. When looking for work in the future, this can be a great selling point in your favour!
Education Costs are Lower
The cost of education for an international student in the UK can be lower compared to the USA and other countries. Some courses in the USA can be $25,000 plus a year in tuition alone. Tution for the majority of UK higher education institutions is in the region of £6,000 to £7,000 a year - considerably less!
You can also save a lot of money because your degree will generally take less time to complete in the UK than in other countries. Although four-year programs are increasing in popularity, most degree programs in the UK require a three-year course and a masters program is typically between one and two years. When you consider the shorter timeframe, the cost will be much lower if you only have to plan for three years instead of four or even five as in many other countries.
Although international students can manage their affairs so that their UK education is affordable, UK policymakers are taking note of an alarming trend in the cost of education for non-EU students. With exchange rates climbing, life in the UK can be quite expensive generally. In addition, unlike in many other EU countries, non-EU students are charged higher rates in the UK than students from EU countries. One recent study from the Higher Education Policy Institute warned that the UK must act to contain and reduce tuition and costs to stay competitive in the hunt for international students. At InternationalStudent.com, we are always cheered when policy-makers take note of the increasing costs of international education. As global competition for international students heats up, we’ll be watching for the UK to act aggressively to keep the UK a primary destination for international students.
Work Opportunities
An international student in the UK is typically allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during school term, and up to full-time when school is out of term. Of course, you should always check with your international advisor at your school before starting any work - you do not want to be in violation of your visa, and rules change all the time. Also, it is not always easy to find a job, so relying on work income to fund your education is not a good idea. Unless you have employment set up through your school before you arrive, you should plan to fund the entire first year of your studies without any employment income. Please visit our Visa and Immigration pages for more details on working in the UK as an international student.
Scholarships/ Loans
Financing an international education is always difficult. The best approach includes lots of preparation, careful analysis of your budget, and hard work in researching and applying for scholarships. There are a variety of scholarships and loans available to students who wish to study in the UK. Please visit our Financing/ Scholarships section for more detailed information, and also check out the following resources:
• UK Scholarship Search
• UK Loans for US Citizens
• Education UK Scholarship Database
Gateway to Europe
With the addition of the Channel Tunnel and low cost airlines such as EasyJet and Ryan Air, Europe is easier to access from the UK than ever. You can reach most areas of Europe from the UK within a few hours by train or direct flight. For example, if you are studying in London or Manchester and you want a weekend away in Italy, you can fly Ryan Air direct to Rome, Milan, Pisa, Genoa, Venice or several other cities in Italy. The direct flight would take around two hours and cost anywhere from 30 to 100 pounds, depending on when you travel and when you book. Visit our Getting Around section for more UK travel information.
Multicultural Nation
The UK is known for having a multicultural society with all religions and faiths represented in some way. With a racial, ethnic and religious jumble, the UK is very open to new traditions and cultures - something that is a great thing for students from other countries! You can also be sure that a place of worship will be easily accessible for most major religions - and for more information on this please see our Religion section or visit the following sites:
• Catholic Church in England
• Church of England (Protestant)
• Hindu Council UK
• Buddhist Society UK
• Islamic Society UK
• Judaism UK
Studying in the UK will provide you with an academic qualification respected and valued throughout the world. It gives students the experience of living in the UK, providing them with a vibrant, energetic educational experience, whilst enabling them to enjoy charismatic surroundings and a traditional British culture.
The UK Higher Education system explained
Standards of quality for UK institutions are amongst the highest in the world. Universities, colleges and schools are continually assessed to make sure they meet strict criteria.
The British Higher Education system is based on a system of lectures, seminars, tutorials and self-directed study. When students apply for a Bachelor's degree in most of the UK, they apply to a specific course of study rather than an institution. Each university has designated admissions staff for each academic department.
The British academic year is divided into three terms (autumn, winter and spring). Each term is approximately 10 to 12 weeks with 3 week breaks in between.
Undergraduate degrees usually take three years to complete in England. At some universities, particular subjects require a foundation course to be undertaken first. A foundation course consists of a class or a number of classes that bring the student up to university level of understanding in the subject before commencing the degree.
Degrees can be awarded for study of a single academic subject (single honours), a combination of two subjects (joint honours) or a modular degree course which consists of three or more subjects (combined honours).
Depending on the subject or subjects that you study, successful students will be awarded one of the following degrees; BA (Bachelor of Arts), BSc (Bachelor of Science), BEd (Bachelor of Education), BEng (Bachelor of Engineering), LLB (Bachelor of Law). UK degrees are graded and successful students may be awarded either a First class degree 1st (Excellent), Upper Second 2i (very good), Lower Second 2ii (good) or Third class 3rd (satisfactory). For further explanation of these terms and other words relating to the British education system, visit our glossary of terms.
Reasons to study here
The quality of education
British Universities are subject to rigorous quality assurance audits to standardise the quality of education across all institutions in the UK, and standards are closely assessed by the government. The quality of UK education is recognised across the world by employers, universities and governments, which makes it an attractive destination for international students. Studying for a degree in the UK also gives students the opportunity to develop important transferable skills. Students are encouraged to ask questions, to discuss their own ideas and to analyse them which are all skills that are useful in future careers. For more information on quality assurance please visit the Quality Assurance Agency website.
The experience of living in the UK
The UK is a multi-cultural and multi-faith country. It offers both strong tradition and a diverse culture to any international student choosing to study here. It's a cosmopolitan society, and is home to over a quarter of a million international students at any one time. There is plenty to get involved in once you are here, from weekends away in Stratford upon Avon or London, to attending football matches and going to the theatre or cinema with friends. For more ideas on what the UK has to offer, see the Visit Britain website.
Improve your English skills
Studying in the UK will give you the opportunity to improve or perfect your English language skills. English is the International Language of business, science and technology, and by studying in the UK you will be able to immerse yourself in the language, giving you the English skills you need for any future career.
Financial benefits
Undergraduate degrees in England are generally three years in length, and taught masters programmes one year in length, compared to four and two years respectively in most other countries, so you should be able to save on both tuition fees and living costs by studying here. During your studies in the UK, you can take advantage of having permission to work here too. A visa means that you have Leave to Enter/Remain as a student in the UK, granted for longer than 6 months. During University term-times you can work up to 20 hours per week and during the vacation periods you can work full-time. Many international students use this opportunity to gain valuable work experience and to improve their English language skills.
The UK also has a subsidised health service called the National Health Service (NHS). The NHS provides free and subsidised treatment for UK residents. As a student, you, your spouse and any children who accompany you to the UK as your dependants are entitled to free NHS treatment as long as you are enrolled at the University of Warwick for more than 6 months. You will also be entitled to free and subsidised treatment if you are a national or resident of an EEA country.
Why the UK is the best place to pursue your education?
The United Kingdom harbors most of the best educational institutions in the world. Add to this the soothing climate of the UK and the most efficient studying environment you can ever find.
Modern Environment
In this era of intense globalization, people need special skills and qualities to succeed. Employers want employees who can think effectively, creatively and independently. These qualities are essentially integrated by the students through the UK learning experience. Institutions use a variety of teaching and assessment methods to encourage independent thinking and thus enhance leadership qualities.
Culture
The United Kingdom is a diverse and multi-ethnic society, where students of all backgrounds are welcomed and their involvement in local communities is valued.
All major world religions are represented - Mosques, Sikh Temples, Synagogues and Buddhist and Hindu places of worship can also be seen.
Many languages are represented as well. The most widely spoken South Asian language in the UK is Punjabi, followed by Urdu, Bengali and Gujarati.
Working in the UK
Due to recent changes, it is now easier than ever for international students to earn extra money while staying in the UK. New rules have been introduced to make it easier for you to work while you study. Opportunities are available for you, including part-time or vacation work, as well as course-related work placements. You will have permission to stay for the duration of your course plus a few extra months. However your visa should enclose the words 'Work and any changes must be authorized'. This will give you the permission to work as a student, up to 20 hours per week during the term-time and for unlimited number of hours during University vacation periods. You can even apply to stay in the UK at the end of your course
Traveling within the UK
The UK consists of three countries and a province. Those are England, Scotland, Wales; and the province of Northern Ireland. Each portion has its unique history with a diverse culture. As these countries are all within easy reach of one another, they're easy to explore. The UK is well connected through national air, rail, coach and bus networks, which enables one to get almost anywhere in the UK. Discounts or special rates are generally available for students on most forms of transport.
Affordable
UK degrees can take only three years for undergraduates and only one year for postgraduate master courses, compared with four years and two years in most other countries. This means you will save a great deal on both tuition fees and living costs, and you will be able to start working and earning money sooner. UK degree courses are shorter because they are more intensive, and therefore more efficient in terms of your time and money. Health care is often free for international students. You are likely to be able to take advantage of National Health Service (NHS) treatment, as well as reduced-cost medicines, dental treatment and eye tests.
The Students' Union
At all UK universities and most of the larger colleges, students are automatically considered as members of the National Union of Students (NUS). This will give you access to clubs and societies, representing a vast range of hobbies, sports and interests. Most branches of the Students - Union hold a 'Fresher Week'- at the beginning of the autumn term, during which you will be able to join these clubs and societies. The Students' Union also organizes a wide range of social activities.
UK – Climate & Clothing
There are four seasons, namely autumn, winter, spring and summer but it rains all year round. During autumn and spring seasons, it tends to get chilly and you will need heavy warm clothes such as Jackets, pullovers, sweaters, vests, waterproof shoes or boots, jumpers, coats, hats, gloves and scarves.
What is equally important to clothing in the winter is to ensure that you have heated accommodation. When the temperatures rise in summer you will start wearing, T-shirts, open sandals, sundresses, sunhats and sunglasses.
For the reasons highlighted above, wet weather clothing should be packed together with jumpers and other warm clothing. An umbrella is also essential regardless of when you visit.
Accommodation
Most Universities and Colleges in the UK are well served with suitable student accommodation. Accommodation is of two types, on campus and off campus.
The on campus accommodation is called Halls of Residence. The off campus accommodation can be modern, multi-storied town houses, located close to the Universities. While the on campus Halls of Residence cost less, it is left to student's choice which type of accommodation is preferred.
Reservations for accommodation have to be made well in advance. The Universities will also offer full membership sports and recreation facilities and it is included within the rent payable for your accommodation.
Art
Art in the UK is flourishing and most of the UK's 2,000 museums and galleries are free. Art exhibitions are regular events throughout the UK and are highly popular.
There are many art galleries in the UK including the Tate Modern Gallery in London and BALTIC in Gateshead. One of the largest art spaces in Europe and the biggest arts event of all is the renowned annual Edinburgh Festival which is actually several festivals at once - a real feast of music, drama, comedy, dance, film, books and other arts.
Sports
Sport is popular throughout the UK. Football, cricket and rugby are the national games. UK colleges and universities have a range of sports teams and clubs. If you prefer to go along and watch, look out for football matches (thousands of games kick off at 3.00 p.m. every Saturday), cricket (at cricket grounds and village greens from May to September), international athletics events, golf tournaments, the Wimbledon tennis championships, the London Marathon, horse - racing (meetings all over the country), Cowes sailing week and the Oxford and Cambridge boat race.
Working - after your studies
On graduation, there may be opportunities to work with leading UK and international corporations in the UK, or to join national and international firms in Europe, the United States or, indeed, in any part around the globe.
At the end of your course, you may be able to stay and work in the UK through TWES.
To be eligible for this scheme, you will have to do one of the following:
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Undertake training leading to a recognized professional or specialist qualification (e.g. accountancy). |
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Follow a graduate training programme leading to international employment. |
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Join a work experience scheme where you can gain up to twelve months work experience with a UK employer. |
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Stay/Work in the UK after graduation. |
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Under new work permit regulations, international graduates with specific skills (in areas such as electronics, engineering, health and technology) will be able to stay and work in the UK for a limited period. |
You are welcomed to the UK.
The UK has been welcoming international students for generations. Many institutions arrange for you to be collected from the airport and offer guaranteed accommodation for your first year. They will provide a dedicated international office, international student societies, planned social activities, academic support, counselors and advisers.
Quality Education
The UK has two distinct education systems: one for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and one for Scotland. Each is compatible with the other. The Scottish Parliament has devolved responsibility for education in Scotland. Wherever you choose to study, you will be able to study relevant, world-class qualifications of exceptional quality.
Teaching Methods
Programmes are intensive and you should be prepared for a heavy workload. Postgraduate students attend classes and lectures, do a great deal of independent reading and/or experimental work between classes, complete regular written assignments, and write a substantial dissertation.
Leisure & Fun
Studying in the UK is not only a wonderful opportunity to benefit from a world-class education but also a chance to experience the country's vibrant culture.
Sightseeing
There are many places in the UK you won't want to miss, such as the sights of cities like London, Edinburgh, Oxford, Cambridge, Bath and York, and the landmarks of Stonehenge, the Giant's Causeway and the mountains of Snowdonia. You'll find that almost every city and major town in the UK has at least one intriguing historic building or feature.
Outdoor Adventure
The UK boasts a wide variety of landscapes and an equally wide choice of outdoor activities. Miles of rivers and sandy coastlines are ideal for rowing, sailing, white water rafting, canoeing and fishing. Tennis courts and swimming pools can be found in virtually every town. And thousands of acres of unspoiled countryside, many of them in national parks offer ideal terrain for walking, cycling and horse riding.
Healthcare in the UK
The costs of most healthcare in the UK are free to students. Students whose academic work is affected by ill health will need to supply evidence, in the form of a self-certificate, to their department.
The following NHS (National Health Service) treatment is free for anyone:
- Emergency treatments, eg: for a serious injury at an accident emergency (A&E) unit of a hospital (but not the follow-up treatment).
- Family Planning Services, eg: contraception.
- Treatment for some diseases of the type that you can catch from other people.
Compulsory psychiatric treatment.
- However, this insurance does not include dental, eye treatment and prescriptions.
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