British universities are recognised internationally
What type of undergraduate study is available in the UK?
In the UK after leaving school, most students going onto university or college study for an undergraduate degree. These are usually made up of modules (some compulsory and some optional) that add up to a full degree
Discover the types of undergraduate courses you can do
What subjects are available at undergraduate level in the UK?
UK degree courses tend to be very specialised, allowing you to focus on your chosen subject from day one. However, there are other courses that allow a little more flexibility in what you study. When you start searching for courses, make sure you read the course descriptions carefully, and click through to university websites for further information.
It’s important you choose a subject you enjoy and will help you reach your goals. Here are some things to help you choose the right subject for you:
- Think about what you enjoy day-to-day – maybe this could be part of a future job role?
- Explore different job sites and graduate career options to look for ideas on what you’d like to do once you've finished your studies. Check out UCAS career list for inspiration.
- Think about your career goals and the qualifications required as part of a person specification.
- Take a look at UCAS subject guides to get an idea of the types of subjects you could study, and the industries graduates go on to work in.
- Sign up to UCAS hub to get personalised recommendations based on the courses that interest you.
Brilliant work opportunities
Generally, an international student can work up to 20 hours a week during term-time, and 10 hours out of term-time.
Take on a part-time job or an internship
You can learn new skills and earn money while you study. Your university may even help you secure an internship as part of your course, which will give you a competitive edge when you graduate.
Work in the UK after you graduate
There's a few options for post-study visas in the UK. Your best option is the graduate visa which allows you to stay in the UK for an additional two years after successfully finishing your course in the UK.
Financial benefits
International students can enjoy some financial benefits when choosing the UK.
A degree in the UK takes less time to complete than in other countries
In many countries it takes four years, plus two or three extra years to complete a postgraduate degree. In the UK it takes three years for an undergraduate degree and then one extra to complete a postgraduate qualification (unless you are a medical or research student).
International students can get financial help
This includes scholarships, grants and bursaries – and living costs in the UK, especially when outside of cities like London, are reasonable. Research the area before applying to the university to better understand the prices, but generally, entertainment, food, and rent is cheaper than the US.
Unique culture
If you decide to study in the UK, there's always something to do, no matter what your interests are.
The UK has families with roots from around the world
This leaves the UK with a unique mix of different cultures, food, and interests. You will not just learn about British culture, but from people from other countries and cultures too.
Plus a mix of restaurants, nightlife, shops, and sporting activities
No matter what part of the UK you move to, you will find things to keep you interested – from art galleries and bars to concerts and open-air markets. You'll always find something to entertain yourself with outside of class hours.
Eight things to know about studying in the UK
- There are more than 395 universities and colleges, offering over 50,000 undergraduate-level higher education courses across the UK.
- UK higher education applications are made through UCAS.
- There are different deadlines for applying for different courses, and to different universities – take a look at the key dates and deadlines relevant to courses you’re interested in.
- You will need to pay tuition fees – these vary depending on the university or college, and the course you choose. You may be able to get financial help with your tuition fees, or a scholarship. However, EU students are not subject to tuition fees in Scotland.
- 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.
- Many international students need to apply for a visa to study in the UK, and there are work permit restrictions and some English language qualifications you may need.
- Universities advise all applicants what standard of English is required for their courses. Most course providers will ask you to demonstrate proficiency in English, or to take an approved English language test if English is not your first language.
- First-year students tend to live in university halls of residence (university accommodation) – but there are lots of other accommodation options.
Chat to current undergraduate students
If you would like to speak to current UK undergraduate students about their experiences, try Unibuddy – there are students to talk to across subjects, universities, and even nationalities.
Chat to students like Kevin on Unibuddy!
Speak to me about moving to the UK from the EU, what it has been like acclimatising to a new country and way of life, and anything else related to uni that you can think of!
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