Introduction
Every year close to 500,000 students from 200 nations come to the UK to study at a school, college or university and 600,000 more come to do an English language course. In addition, over 500,000 international students each year take a UK qualification overseas – for example, online or at a UK overseas campus. The UK has a long history of welcoming international students from around the globe. And with a reputation for academic excellence, it’s easy to see why so many international students choose a UK education. Many UK schools, colleges and universities have an international society to help international students settle in and make friends. International societies tend to offer:
- Social activities such as parties, meals and meet-ups
- Trips to visit local tourist attractions
- Support, friendship and advice.
UK education is all about giving you inspiration to develop your knowledge and skills, freedom to be creative, and support to help you achieve your best.
UK schools, colleges and universities offer you a world-class education – the chance to follow your passion for learning and gain qualifications that are respected by employers and academics worldwide. On a UK course you’ll benefit from excellent teaching and facilities. In order to accept students, UK education centres must meet strict quality standards set by the UK government and education bodies.
UK courses give you the skills, qualifications and connections you need to succeed in your chosen career. Plus, UK degrees have a global reputation for quality and employers worldwide recognise a UK degree as a sign of high academic standards. Studying in the UK is a chance to discover its unique culture, cities and countryside. Across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, there’s so much to discover. Luckily, it is easy to travel around the UK, and to explore Europe from the UK.
There are a number of different levels of course you can study at most UK universities and it can be confusing at first deciding which one is right for you. Here is a bullet point guide to what type of course you should choose if you want to study at university:
Foundation course: Foundation courses are usually just one year long and are usually designed to prepare you for a full undergraduate degree. To get on to them you only generally need a lower level of education than for undergraduate degrees. The equivalent of UK GCSEs (exams taken at the age of 16) are usually fine.
Undergraduate degree: If you have finished school and you have qualifications at the same level as International Baccalaureates (or UK A-Levels), and you want to continue your education, then an undergraduate degree is probably the right level for you.
Postgraduate Masters: Postgraduate Masters courses are only for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree (or the equivalent) either in the UK or your home country.
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Every UK higher education course sets its own entry requirements. These entry requirements are there to ensure that you have the right skills and knowledge to successfully complete the course.
You can see the entry requirements for each undergraduate and postgraduate course on the university or college’s website.
For undergraduate courses you usually need to have achieved further education qualifications (such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers, or equivalent qualifications from your country) in related subjects. Find out more at UCAS or ask your chosen university or college.
For postgraduate courses you usually need to have achieved a relevant undergraduate qualification.
In some cases, work experience may count towards entry to a course.
If English isn’t your first language, the university or college may ask you to take an English language test or show your English language qualifications before you can enrol. This may also be necessary for your visa application.
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