Study in UK

Home
Study in UK

Studying in the UK and obtaining a UK student visa will be examined thoroughly and expertly in this article. The UK is a highly sought-after destination for student migration due to its robust education system and strong academic reputation. This attracts many applicants interested in studying in the UK. Common questions for prospective students include: What are the differences between A-Level and Foundation courses? What are the requirements for studying at a UK school with a student visa? Is it possible to secure admission and a visa from top British universities to pursue studies in the UK? This article aims to answer these questions and address other relevant topics. For those seeking further guidance on studying in the UK, you can reach out to Talav Company through their contact methods to receive free professional advice.

Topics covered in this article:

– Requirements for Studying in UK
– Key Courses Offered in UK
– Age Criteria for Studying in UK
– School-Level Education in England
– Studying in UK with a Diploma
– Postgraduate Studies in England
– PhD Studies in UK
– Scholarships Available in UK
– Living & Study Costs in UK
– Student Employment in UK
– Applying Dependent Visa for Students in UK
– Top Universities in UK
– Necessary Documents for UK Student Visa
– Post-Study Work Permits in UK
– Post-Graduation Residency & Citizenship in UK
– Commonly Asked Questions
– Last words about Studying in UK

Requirements for Studying in UK

Studying in the UK first requires an understanding of the country and the general conditions for studying there. The United Kingdom is situated on the British Peninsula and is the most prominent country in that region. Its capital is London, with other significant cities including Liverpool, Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds. The UK shares land and water borders with Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and France. The population of the UK is 66,040,229, and it covers an area of 242,495 square kilometers. The currency used is the pound sterling, and the official language is English, spoken with a British accent. We will now discuss the general conditions for studying in the UK.

UK Student Visas

UK student visas are referred to as Tier 4 student visas and are divided into two categories. For children aged 4 to 17 who intend to study in UK schools, a Child Tier 4 visa is issued, while those over 17 years old receive a General Tier 4 visa. Applicants can apply for a visa three months before the start of their studies in the UK. The application fee for a UK student visa in both categories is £328 per person. The same fee applies to dependent visas (spouse, partner, and children under 18). Each visa applicant must also pay a healthcare surcharge of £150 per year. This fee is also £150 per year per dependent and must be paid upfront for the entire duration of the study. Proof of payment must be included with the visa application documents.

Applicants must demonstrate that they can financially support themselves for tuition and living expenses. Funds must be deposited in an account under the applicant’s or their parents’ (guardian’s) name. The required amount varies depending on individual circumstances and must be in the account for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the visa application. This amount includes education and living costs. Tuition fees cover one year of study or the total cost if the course is less than a year. Fees vary depending on the degree, university or school, and field of study.

Living costs depend on the city where the student will live. The cost is £1,265 per month for those studying in London and £1,015 per month for other cities, which must be available in the applicant’s bank account for nine months. For instance, a student admitted to a university in Manchester must have £9,135 in their bank account, plus the cost of one year of study. For those applying for a general visa, the required amounts are £845 per month for London and £680 per month for other cities. For a Child Tier 4 visa, the bank account can be under the child’s name or a parent’s name. However, for a General Tier 4 visa using a parent’s financial resources, the applicant must provide one of the following documents:

Identity card and identification documents
Adoption certificate
Court document stating the names of the guardians
Letter of consent from the parents (guardian) to use the funds

If tuition fees or part of them have been paid, this amount is deducted from the required funds in the bank account. Additionally, if the applicant stays in a dormitory and pays a maximum of £1,265 for accommodation, this amount is deducted from the living costs required in the account. For example, if £1,265 is paid for dormitory accommodation, the required amount is reduced to £7,870.

For children under 12 years old, parents can apply for a Parent of a Tier 4 (Child) visa. They must:

Have sufficient financial means
Show that their main work and life are outside the UK
Demonstrate they will leave the UK at the end of the visa period
Be able to pay exit fees

Their child must be under 12, studying or about to start school in the UK, and have a Child Tier 4 visa. The Parent of a Tier 4 (Child) visa is initially issued for 6 to 12 months and can be extended by 12 months until the child reaches 12 years old.

Key Courses Offered in UK

Studying in the UK at any level requires specific prerequisite courses, which will be discussed in this section.

GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education)

The GCSE program at Bellerbys and Brighton colleges allows 13-year-olds to start preparing for college early. Talav Company has adopted innovative & professional training methods to develop life skills for the global workplace. Our expert counselors and lawyers provide academic support along with encouragement, guidance, and care, ensuring you can focus on your studies and achieve your desired results. GCSE, the General Certificate of Secondary Education, is a well-known course for students continuing their secondary education in the UK, recognized and accepted internationally. Students must be between 13 and 16 years old to start the GCSE course, which begins in September and January. In the GCSE program, students choose specific subjects based on their interests from various disciplines like sciences and mathematics, usually selecting four subjects for exams.

Students who entering UK must have completed the third year of middle school (ninth grade), equating to the first year of GCSE 1. Those who completed the first year of high school (tenth grade) in Kurdistan may skip the GCSE course if their academic level is suitable for A-Levels. Otherwise, they must complete a one-year GCSE 2 course. After the GCSE course, students take written and oral exams, with classroom activities significantly impacting their evaluations. The grading system ranges from A+ (highest) to G (lowest). GCSE courses also include structured remedial programs as part of the daily routine, featuring clubs, trips, lectures, and workshops for deeper subject understanding and skill development.

For students over 15 years old who have completed middle school, a one-year GCSE program is available. At age 13, students begin to explore their interests and career aspirations. The GCSE program helps develop life skills and study habits for future college applications, incorporating real-life subject experiences and comprehensive education.

English Course Preparation (EPP)

The EPP program offers intensive English instruction, combining three hours of morning English lessons with varied science programs in the afternoons. Students also have access to the booster program and sports activities. After completing the one-year GCSE program, students can enter A-Levels and proceed to university studies.

A-Level

A-Levels are crucial for entering the best universities in the UK and worldwide. Talav Company representing Bellerbys College, helps students gain admission to sought-after and competitive disciplines, including medicine. Bellerbys A-Level students achieve remarkable results, with many admitted to top UK universities. In 2014, 54% of A-Level students entered leading UK universities, thanks to a professional approach combining superior education and diverse remedial activities.

A-Level is the main course for UK students aiming to enter postgraduate courses, lasting two years with a minimum entry age of 16. Students typically choose 4-5 subjects in the first year and 3-4 in the second year, taking exams at the end of two years for university admission. Students interested in medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy must pass the UKCAT or BMAT exams and meet specific university requirements.

students with a second-year high school diploma and good academic levels can enter the A-Levels course at 16 years old. Those with a diploma or pre-university degree intending to study medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy must complete a two-year A-Levels course and pass national exams. Students over 17 need an IELTS 5.5 certificate. Achieving excellent A-Level grades is essential for admission to top universities and successful careers.

The A-Level program provides thorough preparation for competitive disciplines, offering personal and specialized skills beneficial for university applications. Small class sizes ensure individual attention, maximizing academic potential. The enhancement program includes trips, lectures, and experiences related to college courses, enhancing studies and developing personal skills like communication, creativity, and independent thinking.

Specialized college reinforcement activities integrate real-world experiences into the curriculum, helping students understand subjects deeply. The application process is supported with counseling on university selection, personal statements, and interview preparation. Bellerbys A-Level students consistently achieve impressive results, gaining admission to top universities like Oxford and Cambridge.

Foundation Course

The Foundation course is a one-year program preparing students for over 70 UK universities, starting in September or January. The minimum age for entry is 17, requiring a high school diploma and an IELTS 5.0 language certificate. The course offers a customized curriculum for international students, combining seminars, training, English preparation, small classes, and modern technology for a supportive learning environment.

The Foundation course includes two semesters, with language and IT courses in the first semester and specialized courses in the second. Remedial activities like university visits, guest speakers, and practical experiences enhance learning. The Foundation course helps students choose suitable university courses and provides skills for academic and career success.

Students under 17 with a diploma can enroll in the Foundation course without an IELTS certificate, improving their English in the UK. Those over 17 need an IELTS 5.5 certificate. The Foundation course offers a wide selection of activities to develop knowledge and skills, helping students succeed in UK universities.

To study in the Foundation course, students need a diploma with good grades but do not require a pre-university course. The Foundation program provides the skills and study methods needed for success in UK universities, including effective classes, essay writing, research skills, and seminars. University visits and lectures further assist in choosing the right university.

Preparations for Oxford & Cambridge

For exceptional students aiming for Oxford or Cambridge, specialized training is available. This includes discussing current issues, continuous evaluation of assignments, interview preparation, and consultations with former Bellerbys students. Additional support is provided for aptitude tests required for specific courses.

Age Criteria for Studying in UK

The age requirements for studying in the UK differ based on the educational level. Applicants under the age of 18 are eligible to study at any level in UK schools, but the ideal age range for attending a UK school is between 12 and 18 years old. At this age, students are mature enough to live away from their families and are also capable of quickly integrating into the surrounding community, benefiting from a high learning speed.

There is no strict age limit for studying at UK universities, meaning admission can be gained at any age. However, age limits apply when obtaining a visa. If an applicant’s age does not align with the typical age for their desired degree level, their chances of securing a student visa decrease. The ideal age for undergraduate studies is up to 20 years old, and for postgraduate studies, it is up to 25 years old. Applicants older than these age ranges must provide a valid reason for any interruptions in their education; otherwise, their chances of obtaining a UK student visa diminish.

School-Level Education in England

School education in the UK can be pursued in two types of institutions: Boarding Schools and Grant Maintained Schools. This section discusses the study conditions in each type of school.

Boarding Schools

Education in the UK is compulsory for students between the ages of 5 and 16. The school year begins in September and ends in July, divided into three terms:

Autumn Term: Starts in early September and continues until mid-December.
Spring Term: Begins in early January and lasts until mid or late March.
Summer Term: Starts in early or mid-April and continues until mid-July.

In private boarding schools, tuition fees are covered by the students’ parents. Students live on campus, and since they are at school 24/7, various extracurricular activities are available, such as chess, music, sports (football, tennis), and even horseback riding, rock climbing, and swimming. All private schools have a dedicated section called English as a Foreign Language (EFL), tailored to foreign students’ English language learning needs during their first term.

Tuition at private boarding schools, known as Boarding Fees, covers both education and accommodation in school dormitories. These fees must be paid in full before the start of each term and include accommodation, three meals a day, and tuition, ranging from £20,000 to £30,000 per year, depending on the school.

Grant Maintained Schools

Public schools in the UK are free and funded by the government, available only to British and European Economic Area students. These schools are managed by local authorities, referred to as Grant Maintained Schools. Thus, education in public schools is free for eligible students.

It should be noted that a Guardian or Dependent visa is not currently issued at the school level, meaning parents cannot accompany their child during their studies in the UK.

Upon completing their studies in these boarding schools, students can continue their education in the UK, gaining entry into prestigious universities. After completing their university education, securing a job, and paying taxes, they can apply for permanent residency in the UK.

Studying in UK with a Diploma

Studying in the UK at the undergraduate level requires submitting a diploma and a pre-university degree to the relevant university, along with meeting other conditions. The duration of an undergraduate program is typically between 3 to 4 years, and the required language proficiency is an IELTS score of 6 to 6.5. Some of the most important courses available at this level include:

Anthropology and archeology	Social sciences (sociology, psychology, etc.)
History	English (Literature, etc.)
Business	Computer Science (Economics, Management)
Medical and pre-medical	Law
Music and art	Engineering
Philosophy	Natural Sciences (Geology, Biology, Chemistry)
Mathematics	Religious Sciences

Postgraduate Studies in England

Pursuing a master’s degree in the UK requires a valid, UK-recognized bachelor’s degree along with an IELTS score of at least 6.5 and other necessary qualifications. Studying at the postgraduate level in the UK can be done both online and offline. The duration of a continuous course is 3 years, whereas a discontinuous course lasts 1 year. Degrees awarded in this program include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Arts (MA). The most popular courses at this level include:

History	philosophy
Anthropology	Religious Sciences
Medical Sciences (All Trends)	Art (Film, Music, Fine Arts)
English (Literature, Linguistics, etc.)	Natural Sciences (Biology, Astronomy, etc.)
Social Science	Law (Sociology, Psychology)

PhD Studies in UK

Embarking on a doctoral journey in the UK demands a solid academic foundation, a high-caliber language qualification, and a research supervisor. After corresponding with a potential supervisor and gaining their approval, you can secure admission to the university. PhD studies in the UK can be undertaken through both theoretical and research-oriented programs, typically lasting for 3 years. The necessary language certificate for this level is an IELTS score of 7 or higher.

Scholarships Available in UK

Securing scholarships is a major objective for students striving for academic and professional advancement. Identifying the right type of scholarship, acting promptly, and understanding the specific requirements can significantly enhance the chances of obtaining a scholarship. The prerequisites often include an appropriate age, excellent academic performance, and a high language proficiency, along with published international articles or books. Scholarships in the UK can offer up to £50,000 or more to selected students. This information is provided by Talav Company & unauthorized copying without citation is prohibited by law.

Scholarships in the UK are categorized into two main types: government and non-government, which will be elaborated upon below:

Government Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Description
Chevening Scholarship	For all Darya International Talented students admitted to UK universities
Scholarships for the Commonwealth of Independent States	For students of the Commonwealth of Independent States for a technical, humanities, scientific and applied discipline

Private Scholarship

Scholarship from Gates Cambridge	Scholarship from Rhodes
Scholarship from the International University of Edinburgh	Scholarship from the British Council
Scholarship from Dennis Holland	Scholarship from the University of Brittany

Living & Study Costs in UK

The United Kingdom, known for its high level of development and top-ranking status globally, attracts numerous individuals who wish to pursue their studies there each year. Understanding the costs associated with studying and living in the UK is essential, as these expenses vary significantly across different educational levels. Employees or students residing in the UK have the advantage of free education for their children. It’s noteworthy that European Union students are required to pay tuition fees similar to local British students, and these fees differ at each educational level. This section will explore the expenses related to studying and living in the UK.

Cost of tuition in the UK fluctuates based on the university type and the student’s field of study. For British students, tuition fees exceed £9,250 annually. International students from outside the EU are required to pay between £10,000 and £38,000 per year.

average cost of food	Per pound
Bread (500 g)	1.09
water (1.5 liters)	0.94
Milk (1 liter)	0.92
Eggs (12 pieces)	2.12
Local cheese (1 kg) Local cheese	6.31
Meat (1 kg)	8.64
cleaned chicken meat (1 kg)	6.85
Tomatoes (1 kg)	2.30
Potatoes (1 kg)	1.21
Onion (1 kg)	1.20
rice (1 kg)	1.63
Apples (1 kg)	2.01
Portugal (1 kg)	2.03
Bananas (1 kg)	1.07

Student Employment in UK

The UK Home Office allows students with a student visa to work during their studies, adhering to specific regulations. The primary purpose of a student visa is to facilitate education in the UK, but students are permitted to work to support themselves financially. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, with the possibility of extending hours during university holidays. Applicants must be over 16 years old and obtain permission from both the Immigration Office and their educational institution. Approved student jobs in the UK include roles such as student support, sales assistant, pharmaceutical delivery driver, pizza delivery courier, veterinary care assistant, and personal assistant.

Applying Dependent Visa for Students in UK

A significant aspect of studying in the UK involves the UK Dependent visa. This visa applies to companions, defined internationally as a spouse and children under 18 years old. It is typically issued for courses lasting over 9 months, preferably more than 1 year. Dependents can join the student in the UK a few months after the student arrives and are allowed to work full-time under certain conditions. Required documents for obtaining a UK dependent visa include:

Property documents outside the UK
Proof of financial capability to cover living expenses for spouse and children
Travel history to the UK
Flight ticket reservation copy
Sufficient financial resources to cover travel expenses

Top Universities in UK

When considering studying in the UK, it is crucial to recognize the reputation and accreditation of the university to ensure it benefits the student’s future career. Many UK universities have globally recognized degrees, alleviating concerns about validity. The following table lists some top UK universities & their global rankings:

Name of the University	Times	Guardian	GCU
University of Cambridge	1	1	1
University of Oxford	2	2	2
University of St. Andrew	3	3	5
Imperial College London	4	7	4
Lafborough University	5	4	7
Lancaster University	6	9	8
Durham University	7	5	6
University College London	8	11	10

Necessary Documents for UK Student Visa

The qualifications needed to study in the UK are categorized into two sections: requirements for studying in schools and requirements for university-level studies.

Tier 4 (Child) Visa

School Admission Letter
Sufficient Financial Means: To cover living and educational expenses
Nationality Requirement: Must be a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area or Switzerland

Tier 4 (General) Student Visa

University Admission Letter
English Language Proficiency: Mastery of the four language skills
Sufficient Financial Means: To cover living and educational expenses (varies based on individual circumstances)
Nationality Requirement: Must be a citizen of a country outside the European Economic Area or Switzerland

Post-Study Work Permits in UK

Upon completing their studies in the UK, students have the chance to extend their stay. To do this, they must submit a request to the Home Office for an extension to find employment, allowing them to obtain a 12-month work permit. Although the UK has stringent rules for international job seekers, graduates from UK universities find it relatively easier to navigate these conditions. Unemployment Rate in UK:

Post-Graduation Residency & Citizenship in UK

It’s important to note that merely studying in the UK or another country does not grant citizenship. To achieve this, you must pursue pathways such as employment, investment, or marriage in the UK to extend your stay. For instance, working in the UK post-graduation could eventually lead to obtaining a UK passport after 5 years of permanent residency, followed by an additional 5 years, provided you regularly pay your taxes.

Commonly Asked Questions

✅ Is studying in the UK free?
No, you must pay tuition to study at a UK university unless you have received a scholarship.

✅ Is it possible to study in UK without a language degree?
To reduce chances of getting visa rejection, it is recommended that you provide proof of language proficiency.

✅ Can I get a scholarship from a UK university?
Scholarships are usually awarded at the doctoral level, and you must submit a strong resume, including a high-quality language degree, articles published in international scientific journals, a high GPA, and so on.

✅ Can I work in UK after graduation?
After graduation, you will be given the opportunity to look for work in the UK. If you are hired in a suitable job, you can change your residence status to a work visa.

Last words about Studying in UK

This article explored studying in the UK, obtaining UK student visas, and the overall experience of studying in the UK. Over the past 12 years, numerous students have gained admission to more than 50 universities, including Cambridge, the London School of Economics, and the Royal College of London. Talav Company assists in preparing students to live and study in the UK, ensuring they begin their education confidently with a promising future ahead. For more information or advice, Contact Our Company for a free telephone consultation. You can also ask questions about studying in the UK in the comments section for answers from our experienced experts.

for immigration & Travel

Useful Links

Warning! The information provided on this website is based on research conducted by non-legal professionals, and Talav Company does not assume legal responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of this content.

We highly recommend that you independently verify this information and consult with a qualified local attorney to ensure it is applicable to your specific situation.

Go To Top