Student Guide to the United Kingdom (UK) - Study in UK
Considered to be the educational hub of the world, The United Kingdom is actively working upon perfecting their education systems since decades, making it one of the top countries for education. Universities in the United Kingdom conduct a broad range of programs however the most established include Business, Arts, Engineering and Science related degrees. The UK is noted as being one of the best destinations for scientific research and for experiencing international living. The UK is not only a great education destination but several universities in the UK are also considered top class in the world..
As a student studying abroad, you must always look into the following points for an excellent study abroad experience - weather, expenses, benefits, future prospects, and education quality. The United Kingdom is indeed a great option since it offers all that and much more!
About the country
Climate
The UK has unsteady climate-changing every day making it hard to foresee the weather. When all is said in done, the summers see enough warmth and winters are equally chilling with occasional snowfall. Its comparatively colder place than India.
Britain- in the UK, England is sunnier and hotter than the rest of it with occasional strong winds. The downpours are flighty and unpredictable throughout the year. London, Manchester, Birmingham are a portion of the well-known urban areas. In summers the average temperature is around 25°C and in winters its around 5°C.
Scotland - The climate of Scotland is calm and with unpredictable rains. Precipitation isn't uniform across Scotland yet it attracts a significant amount of tourists in search of good climate. Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen are a few major cities around. The normal temperature in summers is around 19°C; in winters it is around 4°C.
Wales- In Wales, the greater part of the downpour starts by October and ends around January. Days in winters are shorter and the district encounters day off. Summers are hotter than different pieces of UK. Cardiff, Newport, Swansea are a portion of the famous urban communities here. The normal temperature in summers is around 20°C; in winters it is around 6°C.
Northern Ireland – Northern Ireland is cloudier than England and gets less daylight making the climate moderate and on the cooler side of the rest of the UK. Belfast, Lisburn, Newry are dew well known urban cities. The normal temperature in summers is around 17°C; in winters it is around 6°C.
Why choose higher education in the UK?
Going to study in the UK is a great way to expand your knowledge, meet new people, experience a new culture, and enjoy new experiences. You’ll get plenty of support at university, and a chance to experience an extra ordinary way of international student lifestyle. Whatever your interests, there's a huge range of clubs and societies, as well as a diverse social life on offer.
Things to know about the UK as an educational destination are:
- One of the worlds leading destinations for international students, second only to the USA. UK universities are among the best in the world, and consistently perform well in world rankings. They also have a reputation for world-class research.
- UK higher education degrees and qualifications are recognized by employers and academics worldwide.
- UK has more than 395 Universities that offers about 50,000 courses, in more than 25 subject areas.
- Students get the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, critical thinking, and connections to drive forward their careers.
- UK courses are generally shorter than other countries, helping to reduce overall tuition fees and accommodation costs.
- UK government is supportive of immigrants and international students, It can be possible to work while you study too.
- UK higher education applications are made through UCAS.
- There are different deadlines for applying for different courses.
- You may be able to get financial help with your tuition fees, or a scholarship. (link with scholarships)
- The amount of money you will need to cover living costs will vary based on where you study. London and other large cities tend to be more expensive.
- Indian international students need to apply for a tier 4 Student visa to study in the UK, and there are work permit restrictions.
- Most course providers will ask you to demonstrate proficiency in English, or to take an approved English language test (IELTS, TOEFL) if you’re from India.
Life of Indian students in this country
The renowned way of student life in London is world-famous. The university or college you are enrolled in will make necessary arrangements for a good life-study balance. After your admission to any college in the UK, your college will produce a letter for you during the registration or induction session. Every single international student in the UK will require a letter from the college to open a bank account. Necessary medical assistance and insurance are also taken care of during enrollment. You will have full access to a wide range of college events and activities, where you can become part of college clubs and societies and additional college groups or get-togethers throughout your study period. Be a part of regular get-away with your fellow college students and try ice skating, pin bowling and discover local attractions.
Indians are the UKs third-largest group of international students and the largest immigrants ethnic minority group with nearly 1.6 million Indian immigrants living in the United Kingdom in 2008. London, Manchester, and Birmingham are three major cities with the most percentage of Indians residing. The rest of the Indian immigrants live in major metropolitan areas like Cardiff, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Belfast.
College activities
Orientation week is obligatory for international students, to guarantee that you have arrived before the classes begin. This is where you will be acquainted with the college and its administrations, and get registered in your classes. It is fundamental that you read your manual or student guide, which is given by the university, this will help you clarify all your doubts.
Along with sports, colleges offer extra-curricular activities that provide students with a wide range of experiences. Music, drama, science and literary societies in colleges offer opportunities for outdoor education and other leisure activities. Visits to theaters, concerts, and places relevant to the courses of study such as art galleries and museums, religious centers or historical sites, scientific companies and projects are all part of college life.
Cost of living
Most definitely, living costs will differ incredibly relying upon your way of life, ways of managing money and spending plan. These expenses are allowed constantly. You can ascertain your assessed costs based on the time extent you will be in UK.
Here is a list of average cost per particular:
Particulars Monthly Cost
Rent - euro 450
Food - euro 200
Gas and Electricity -euro 60
Internet - euro 40
Mobile recharge - euro 30
Laundry - euro 25
Stationary and text books - euro 40
Clothing - euro 75
Bus Fares - euro 45
Miscellaneous - euro 25
Total - euro 990
Recommended sum by UK Visa and Immigration
Accommodation
Right off the bat, you have two choices when it comes to accommodation in the UK. You have to choose whether you need a university-managed settlement or a private apartment. You can decide if you need food service or a self-cooked alternative. The provided food settlement offers the advantages of your dinners being prepared for you and a level of assurance under budget.
On the off chance that you have a thought regarding what you like, the settlement office at your university will have the options to mention to you what type of accommodations they have available. If you are considering renting from a private landowner or if your picked college can't offer you anything in its own premises, the convenience office ought to have the option to give you a rundown and provide a list of private properties and apartments in the territory.
Stay at UK
In most cases, you will be asked to enter into a tenancy agreement, which you should read thoroughly before you sign. Make sure you understand the contract and rules of the place no matter where you choose to live.
The kind of accommodation options available would be -
- On-Campus - Living can be a great option to minimize travel. Most universities have comfortable and furnished apartment-style living on campus or close by.
- Short-term accommodation - Hostels and hotels. Temporary housing which may be offered through your institution while you get settled. Talk to your institution's international support staff or check their website for details.
- Rental - You can rent or 'lease' a property by yourself or with friends. This can be done through a real estate agent or privately.
- Homestay - This option allows you to live with a family in their home.
Education System
Specifically, the UK higher education is valued everywhere throughout the world for its eminent standards and quality. Its higher education's distinction is additionally displays from its alumni's work afterward. Numerous famous individuals in various areas whose work reached worldwide acknowledgment came out form British universities. A portion of these colleges and other higher education providers are positioned at the top amongst all the universities of the world. In the UK education system as opposed to the US higher education, there is a distinction among universities and college.
As an international student originating from nations other than the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you'll require a student visa to study in the UK. In case you're 16 years old and you're an inhabitant of one of these nations you can apply for a Tier 4 visa (General student), the official student visa in the UK. Before this, you need to make sure you'll have funds to back your stay there during your study period.
Types of degrees provided:
- Postgraduate courses that lead to a Doctorate (Ph.D.), or a Master's degree.
- Undergraduate courses which incorporate a wide range of bachelors degrees.
- National Diploma and other equivalent degrees
Admission process
Requirements for admission change between study projects and levels. For each course, Indian understudies should meet a base English language prerequisite. Alongside that a base scholarly record of 65% or more for humanities stream in class XII, and 70 - 80% or more for Science/Commerce stream in class XII will likewise be required. Establishments and Diploma programs are accessible for understudies who have verified 60% in their XII. The student should be at least 18 years old before joining a degree program in the UK.
Note: these numbers are only for reference, actual numbers may contrast from college to college.
Documents required:
- Attested duplicates of imprint sheets of class X, XII, and the Bachelor's qualification (if required).
- If you have work experience then two letters of suggestion from the business/supervisor with a remark on your expert capacities.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume
- Photocopied score reports of GMAT/IELTS/TOEFL
- Portfolio (if there should be an occurrence of student applying for craftsmanship and configuration courses and design programs)
- Others (declarations/accomplishments at the state and national level and extracurricular exercises)
- Proof of assets
- Start researching and select 8-12 universities that you will apply to. Visit university websites and note application requirements, deadlines etc.
- Learn about options to fund your studies.
- Make custom application strategies for different universities.
- this is the time when you shift from the preparation mode to creating the application. Think hard about what makes you unique as an applicant and sketch out your strengths and self-assessment.
- Register yourself and start preparing for required standardized tests like GMAT, GRE, UKCAT, TOEFL or IELTS - depending on the course and university.
- Begin by downloading admissions brochures from the university websites.
- Start working on the UCAS admission form and application.
- Search for and begin applying for external scholarships (if applicable).
- Take standardized tests like GMAT and TOEFL.
- Contact your professors and direct managers for at least two reference letters.
- Begin drafting your SOP and essays.
- Alongside your admission applications, plan for your expenses like applying for an education loan and get the money in your account 3 months before enrolment.
- Apply before the deadline!
- You may have to appear for a video interview in front of the admissions committee.
- You will get your rejection letter via e-mail by April-June (the months may vary). The acceptance letter helps you attain student visa.
- Gather paperwork for your student visa.
- Depending on the deadline, you will need to notify the universities of your decision, pay a non-refundable deposit, and apply for your student visa.
- Online using either a MasterCard or Visa card.
- Through demand draft at the visa application center and selected branches of Standard Chartered Bank.
- Through Cash at the visa application center and selected branches of Standard Chartered Bank
- Completed student visa application form
- Letter of acceptance on the course – A confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) letter by an approved education provider and a visa letter issued less than 6 months before you apply.
- Proof of funds – You need to show funds in your account that covers complete course fee of first year and living expenses of 9 months. The amount of money you need to show depends on the course and institutes’ location.
- Pay slips
- Original mark sheets/provisional certificates
- Scoresheet of exams like TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, etc
Timeline
Here is a timeline to follow to get admission steps completed in time:
A year before enrollment
10 months before enrolment
6 months before enrolment
Enrolments
Application fee: All colleges require that you pay an application fee while applying. The fee amount will differ depending upon the college and course being applied to, so check with individual colleges about their application fee.
SOP: A (SOP) statement of purpose is your introduction to the college and admission officers. It is always written in the first person and describes the reason for applying to a particular college. It needs to highlight why you are a perfect fit for the college and why the college should accept you. The style of writing could differ from formal to casual, but it is important to remember that it should reflect your personality as well.
Essay: Essays are also required to be submitted by a prospective student. Essays are an important part of the university admissions process. Students may be required to write one or two essays, along with a few optional essays too. Common topics include career aspirations, strengths and weaknesses, skills, experiences, and reasons for considering a particular school.
LOR: A Letter of recommendation (LOR) is a reference letter written by a third party describing the qualities, characteristics, and capabilities of the prospective student to recommend him to the college in terms of that individuals ability to perform a particular task or function. The third party could be a professor, direct manager etc.
UCAS: Applications to all undergraduate courses are filled through Universities and Colleges Admission System or UCAS - a central organization in the UK that is responsible for receiving undergraduate applications and forwarding them to the respective institutions. UCAS allows you to apply to five Universities through a common form. £13 is the fees for one course or £24 for multiple courses and applications. The services offered by UCAS are designed for the admission to the September/October intake in the UK and you normally apply directly to a university for courses starting in January or February.
Note - Students seeking admission to a postgraduate program will have to apply to individual universities using the application form of that particular university. Most universities offer the facility to apply online for a nominal fee. Once the application form is filled appropriate supporting documents would have to be sent to the university. Although universities do not have a deadline it is recommended that you apply early to enhance your chances of being made an offer.
Intake seasons
The main admission seasons are September/October and January/February in the UK. The services offered by UCAS are designed for the admission to the September or October intake in the UK. You have to apply directly to a university for courses starting in January
Intake seasons
The main admission seasons are September/October and January/February in the UK. The services offered by UCAS are designed for the admission to the September or October intake in the UK. You have to apply directly to a university for courses starting in January
Visa Description
Students can get Visa under two categories:
Tier 4 (General) Student Visa – Applicable for anyone pursuing higher education and is older than 16 years of age.
Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa – Applicable for children below 16 years of age coming to UK for education purpose. Students with this type can only be educated at independent fee-paying schools.
Students pursuing their bachelors degree or higher at a UK college listed on both official ‘UKBA Sponsors list’ and the list of ‘recognized bodies’, are allowed to work for up to 20 hours a week for Tier 4 city General Visa holders and can work full time during vacation and summer holidays.
Latest update: The UK government has announced the reinstatement of the two-year post-study work visa for international students. The new immigration rules will benefit those international students who are planning to pursue their higher studies in the UK starting from 2020-21. Currently, international students pursuing Bachelor's or Master's degree can stay back only for a period of four months. Only international students studying in 27 universities can stay back for six months which are part of the pilot scheme. Prospective Indian students are also going to benefit from this new rule.
Cost of Visa
The fee for the Tier 4 General Visa is £348. The methods of payment are stated below.
The Tier 4 General Visa for students will cost you around euro 348 which is around INR 27,000.
To apply for Visa, you can choose from any of the below method:
Documents required for a Student Visa
Its far easier to get a tourist Visa than Student Visa, and thats because of the end amount of documents they ask you to produce during the process. For financial and academic records, students need the mandatory documents along with supporting documents.
Make sure you refer to this checklist before going to the consulate for the visa interview.
Here are few mandatory documents you should have before applying for a Visa:
Note: You must show that you have held the money for at least 28 days before applying for Visa. You must show the following amount of money to meet basic living costs (not including fees) for a period of up to nine months i.e. £11,385 for nine months if you are living in London and £9,135 for nine months if you are living outside London.
The visa fees payment confirmation receipt
How to Apply for a Student Visa
Once the completed application is lodged, it takes approximately three weeks for the UK student Visa to get processed.
Here is a step by step process to proceed with applying for a visa.
Strep 1 – First and foremost check if you qualify for the student visa or not
You need to produce:
A Confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) letter stating confirmed place at the school, university or college where you expect to study.
Proof of funds to cover your course fee and living cost.
Step 2 – Get all documents ready
Step 3 – Apply online
You will need to register and create an account on the official UK Visa website.
When you have completed your online application form, you will need to print and sign your completed form. You must use the online appointment calendar to book an appointment at the visa application center. When you have completed your online application, you will receive an email message containing your application number.
Step 4 – Payment / Application Fee
You can pay the fees through 4 modes as mentioned below:
Payment at Standard Chartered Bank - You can pay your fee at some branches of the Standard Chartered Bank. The bank will issue a demand draft in favor of the 'The British High Commission'.
Demand draft from a nationalized or foreign bank - You can pay your fee by getting a demand draft issued by a nationalized or a foreign bank. Bank charges for this service will vary. The demand draft must be in favor of the 'The British High Commission’.
Payment at the visa application center - You can pay the visa application fee at the visa application center when you submit your visa application.
Pay online - You can pay your visa application fee online using a Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card.
Step 5 – Get an appointment date from the visa application center by booking an appointment. During your visit they will ask you to produce all the documents, take your photograph and fingerprints to start visa process from there end.
UK Point-based Visa System
UK Visa is a point based visa system, i.e. the authentication of a candidate is measured as per the measuring system of the Visa authority. Students should be informed that it is essential for applicants to meet all requirement of immigration rules and must have at least 40 points in total.
For a good score student must be having:
A valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a fully licensed Tier 4 sponsor.
Enough money to cover course fees and monthly living costs (also known as maintenance or funds).
Dependents
Undergraduates cannot take dependents with them but it is applicable if you’re doing a Masters degree in the UK. The wife or children get a Dependent Visa for the same duration as the primary applicant.
Dependents must apply as ‘dependent on a points based System migrant’ if you have a student visa. Separate application form and fee payment is required for each dependent to apply for visa.
Note: you need to show an additional £845 (within London) and £680 (outside London) for each dependent for each month that you are applying for up to a maximum of 9 months' maintenance funds. If you already have a scholarship letter that states funds are intended for dependents as well, you can use scholarship to cover maintenance funds for your dependents.
Additional Information
If you want to work there after completing your studies, then you need to apply for a Tier 2 visa which is meant for Highly Skilled Workers. So along with your student visa, you don’t get a work permit. You need to apply for a work visa separately.
Your spouse may work in the UK if the grant of leave is for more than 12 months. If your visa was granted for a period of fewer than 12 months or you are participating in a course of study below degree level, your spouse will not be allowed to work in the UK.
Premium Visa Services
While a normal UK Student Visa could take at least 6 weeks to process, students can opt for the Priority Visa Service or the Super Priority Visa Service to shorten the visa processing time for an added fee. Under the Priority Visa Application, the UK Visas and Immigration aims to make a decision on your Priority Visa application and contact you to let you know that your passport is ready to be collected within 5 working days from when you submit your biometric information. Under the Super Priority Visa Application, the same work is completed within 24 Hrs. Candidates should note that the cost of this service is in addition to the visa application fee and is non-refundable if the visa application is refused, or in exceptional cases if it takes longer to process.