Complete Guide To Studying In The UK For Nepalese Students
England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are parts of the United Kingdom, which is home to 68,193,314 inhabitants, making it the world’s sixth largest country by population. The UK population is approximately 0.87% of the total world population.
England’s major cities are Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester and Belfast, while Scotland’s major cities are Edinburgh, Glasgow and Swansea, and Wales’ major cities are Swansea and Cardiff. London is the capital of the UK.
The UK Education system is mainly divided into four major stages: primary, secondary, Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE).
Primary Education
UK primary education focuses primarily on literacy and numeracy at the age of 5 and continues until age 11. It also aims to establish foundations in science, mathematics, and other subjects.
Secondary Education
Generally, secondary education for students consists of anywhere between 9 and 12 subjects, where some subjects are compulsory and others are chosen according to a student’s preference and interest. GCSE results and subjects chosen are very crucial for the students’ admission to university and further education.
Higher Education
Higher education in England is mainly offered by universities and colleges, while international students typically enter direct into the system. International students should complete their education equivalent to UK further education in their home country. With over 100 universities offering a variety of courses, the UK offers endless higher education opportunities for students worldwide.
Further Education
There are many options for further education after the compulsory education is completed. For students planning to go to college or university, further education is a requirement. These courses are usually offered at Further Education Colleges, different learning institutions in the community, or even work-based learning.
UK offers endless study options but, following are the major degrees categorized in the higher education:
Foundation and Diploma Courses
Universities and colleges in the UK also offer foundation and diploma courses for students which usually take one year for the completion which can help students get into an undergraduate degree easily.
Undergraduate Degree
An Undergraduate degree or Bachelor’s degree usually takes three years to complete. Students can choose from the wide range of undergraduate courses offered at the universities in the UK.
Graduate Degree
A graduate degree or Master’s degree is comparatively shorter in length that is pursued after the completion of an undergraduate degree. A full- time student can easily complete their graduate studies in a year. However, some professional degrees like law or medicine could take longer.
PHD/ Doctoral/ Research Degree
The UK also offers higher education which includes doctoral degrees or research programs where the course duration varies depending upon the course choice and includes intensive tuition and full-time research.
Students require considering a lot of factors when choosing a right course and university and it could be a really difficult task because you are at a crucial stage of laying your foundations for your future career ahead.
How do I choose a right University?
You should consider various factors when choosing a university. Location, tuition fees, scholarships offered, university rakings, admission requirements for international students are some of the major factors to consider. Other factors could include the student services available for international students, class size or even the teaching faculty.
How do I choose a right Course?
Think of what you want to study and you can easily look for study options available in the wide range of universities in the UK. However, while choosing a course you should consider the entry requirements for the course, your course fees, syllabus of the course, course duration and even the future career prospects of the course.
Once you know what university and course you want to apply to, considering the application procedures of the university is the next step. You can simply check in the university website to learn about the requirements and deadlines and here are few tips to help you through your admission process.
How do I start an application process?
You can simply provide us with the required documents for admission and we can immediately begin your application process.
How do I get an Admission to University?
Once you provide us with your required documents, we do everything necessary for your admission to the university. The major documents required are your academic documents, your English language proficiency test, your SOP and CV. However, we will notify you in case of any additional documents required. The application time usually depends on the university but, upon meeting the university requirements, it usually doesn’t take long to get your offer letter.
What about the Course Fees?
The tuition fee varies depending upon the choice of your university and field of study however on average, the course fee ranges for £10000 to £20000 per year.
Are there any Scholarships in the UK?
The UK government offers various scholarships for international students if you are eligible for the scholarship. Universities and colleges also offer financial assistance for which you can simply check your university’s website.
Entry Requirements in the UK
Different levels of education in the UK have different entry requirements for admission depending on what program you choose.
A common entry requirement is your English language Proficiency Test. The academic requirement for admissions in the UK universities could vary however; on averagemost of the universities require a minimum of 60% or equivalent in your previous education.
Are there any English Language Requirements in the UK?
English language Proficiency Test is a common entry requirement and you can either submit your IELTS, TOEFL or PTE scores.
IELTS requirement for Bachelor’s Degree:
Overall 6.0 not less than 5.5 in each band
IELTS requirement for Master’s Degree:
Overall 6.5 not less than 6.0 in each band
Universities in the UK usually require you to pay the tuition fees for one year plus nine months living expenses.
The tuition fees varies depending upon your course and university however, the living cost is approximately as follows:
Living Cost inside London:
£1265 * 9 months = £11,385
Living Cost outside London:
£1015 * 9 months= £9,135
Getting an admission in the university of your choice is not just the end of it. As an international student, it is very important to learn about the immigration system and visa procedures. It includes learning about how student visas are granted, the grounds on which you are evaluated and the documents and funds you will require.
What is a Tier 4 Points Based System?
The student point- based system requires you to meet a specific set of requirements for which you will score points in order to satisfy the immigration rules. It requires you score points against three sets to achieve an overall pass of 70 points.
The 70 points are categorised as follows:
50 points- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
10 points- Financial requirements
10 points- English language proficiency
Do I need a student visa (entry clearance) in order to study in the UK?
There are five tiers and student visas are Tier 4. For students whose course duration is six months or longer and is intending to apply for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees, you should apply for a TIER 4 (General) student visa.
Which supporting documents do I need to gather?
Apart from the application form for admissions, you will need to submit your academic documents that include your official transcripts, certificate of English Proficiency Test, Personal Statement, recommendation letter and your passport in order to gain admissions in the university.
For your visa application you will need your appointment letter along with your online application form, ATAS Certificate (if applicable), CAS, Tuberculosis screening certificate, academic certificates and transcripts, passport, English Language proficiency test, reference letters, financial proof to fund your studies, affidavit of support or letter of consent from sponsors, birth certificate, relationship verification certificate etc.
How much money will I need available?
The tuition fee for an undergraduate and graduate degree usually ranges from £10000 to
£20000 per year on average. Doctoral degrees could range from £15000 to £24000 per year. You will also need an additional living cost for a minimum of nine months.
Can my family members come with me?
Your spouse and children may apply for a dependent visa if you are a full time student on a postgraduate level course (Master’s degree or above) and you will need evidences of your relationship and finances.
What happens if my visa is refused?
In case of visa refusal, you will be provided with reasons from the UK immigration. You can then request for refund and do the required as requested in order to easily get your refund.
Students when granted with their visas to study in the UK will need to consider a lot of things before travelling. Here is what you need to know about what to pack and carry along with you so that you can make your journey without any hassle.
As an international student seeking to study in the UK, you need to make sure you have packed some essentials which include warm clothes, some useful kitchen and household supplies, your electronic devices, toiletries and your personal items.
The important documents to carry along with you to the UK include your CAS, foreign exchange for living expenses approximately £1000 as traveller cheque or cash. You will also need to carry your passport, your ticket, important telephone numbers and any other medical documents.
Travelling to a new country can be an entirely new and terrifying experience for a lot of students. Students can usually expect the following when they land at the airport and below are also some advices on what you can do in case you face any problem at the airport.
What will happen at immigration control?
A border officer will check your visa/entry clearance in the passport. It is advised that you carry your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter and details of your accommodation in your hand bag in paper form and it is better to not rely on any electronic forms. Once the border officer is satisfied, they will put a date stamp on your passport. You can then proceed to collect your luggage once you get through the immigration.
What if there is a problem?
In order to avoid any problems at the immigration, it is advised that you carry your necessary documents. In case of any issues related to your admissions, you can request to directly contact the international admission office at your university.
What if my luggage is delayed?
In case of luggage delay or lost luggage, please find the representative of the airlines that you have travelled with and fill in the lost luggage form provided.
How do I get to the University?
The university will give you beforehand detailed information on how you can get to your university from the airport. During the major intake in the UK universities, September intake, the universities also arrange for representatives to welcome international students. Getting to your university could require you to take a bus or train. The easiest way to get to your university would be finding a taxi however; the taxis in the UK are not cheap.
It is with a lot of hard work and admission and visa procedures when you finally get to start your student career in the UK. As an international student, there might be a lot of things you need to know to begin your student life!
The university admission office usually advices beforehand on the things you need to do when you get to the university. Here is what you can expect when you get to the university.
When am I officially registered?
Your university will advise you in advance of where you should report to once you get to your university which is usually the reception point. You can then do the needful as requested and easily register yourself.
When will my studies begin?
The course start date will be mentioned in your CAS. You can travel one month prior to your class start date but make sure to get your classes on the mentioned class start date.
How do I obtain my Student Smartcard?
Student Smartcard usually contains a photograph and brief details including your name and student number which allows you to access a wide range of student services at the university which includes tracking your attendance, gaining access to library to borrow books, access computer labs or, even receive discounts on purchases at some high street stores.
In order to obtain your Student Smartcard, you can use your login credentials provided to you in your registration email to gain access to the university app or online student portal where you can upload your photograph and fill in the necessary details. Upon verification, you can simply collect your student smartcard from the advised location inside your university.
One of the best parts about studying in the UK is the endless student support available to the students. Some students can have a really difficult time in a new country and an entirely new environment, counselors and wellbeing advisors will help you to adjust and belong to the university community. Apart from just the mental health, students also get support for their academic learning development.
Student Support and Wellbeing Advisers
International Office
Disability and Dyslexia Advisers
Counsellors and Mental Health Advisers
Academic Learning Development
Being in the UK as an international student also will require you to learn about the basic things to make your stay easy. Learning about opening up a bank account, your driving license, registering with the GP, working as a student are some of the essential topics to learn about.
What is the cost of living in the UK?
The living cost is approximately as follows:
Living Cost inside London:£1265 * 9 months = £11,385
Living Cost outside London:£1015 * 9 months= £9,135
How do I open a UK bank account?
In order to open up a bank account in the UK, you can simply visit a nearest bank which usually requires you to provide your current passport, valid visa, your student ID or acceptance letter from your university and proof of address in the UK (check with your bank). You could be requested for additional documents and information depending upon the bank.
How do I register with a Doctor (GP)?
International students are eligible for National Health Services (NHS) treatment in the UK as they pay a healthcare surcharge at the time of their visa application before their arrival in the UK.
You should immediately register with a local GP as soon as you get to your university so that you can gain access to the primary NHS services. Most of the universities will assist you through this or you can seek for information in the student services. You will require a letter from your university as a proof that you are a student; you will need your passport and immigration documents at the time of registration.
Must I pay Council Tax?
Majority of students who are in the UK on a full time course are exempt from paying the Council Tax. International students also do not have to pay UK tax on any foreign income or gains, as long as they use it for course fees or living costs that include food, rent, study materials etc.
Students’ working part time, the earnings below £12,500 is tax-free however; you have to pay 20% tax on earnings between £12,500 and £50,000. Most employers deduct tax from your wages through ‘Pay As You Earn’ (PAYE).
How do I see a Dentist?
You should register with your doctor if you are eligible for full NHS treatment. You can simply do this by giving your dentist your NHS medical number from your medical card. NHS treatment is cheaper than private treatment, but not free. In case there are no NHS dentists near you, you can see a private dentist by booking an appointment but it is comparatively expensive than NHS ones.
How do I obtain a National Insurance number in order to work?
National Insurance number can be applied for, if you live in the UK and have the right to work. You will usually need your passport and biometric residences permit (BRP) and simply apply through the official website.
Can I drive in the UK?
Once you have lived in the UK for 6 months, you can obtain a UK driver’s license as an international student whether or not you have a valid license from your country. Some legal requirements to consider are that you have to be over the age of 17, be able to read a licence plate from 20 metres away and show proof of residency for 6 months (185 days).
Must I register with the Police?
Students from several countries require registering with the police upon their arrival in the UK however; students from Nepal do not need to register with the police as mentioned in official UK government website (www.gov.uk).
Can I visit another country during my holidays?
You cannot travel to other countries outside the UK during your holidays without the necessary permit. You will also require a Schengen visa to visit other countries in Europe.
Can my family and friends visit me in the UK?
Your friends and family can visit you in the UK however; they are required to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa.
Working while studying
As an international student on a Tier 4 visa, you can work 20 hours per week during your term time and full time during your term breaks.
A lot of students wish to continue with their higher education after completing their degree that they applied for. You can simply extend your student visa to begin a new course.
How do I extend my Tier 4 student visa in future?
You may be able to extend your Tier 4 student visa in order to stay longer and continue your course or study a new course. In order to extend your Tier 4 visa, it is required that you are in the UK on a Tier 4 (General) student visa and you also have to show proof that your studies are at a higher level than your current course. It is important that you apply for extension before your current visa expires. You can apply online and the fee for each person is £475 to extend the visa.
UK also offers students with opportunities to settle in the UK. It provides students with Post Study Work opportunities and students can also apply for work permit when eligible. Students can easily apply and become a permanent resident in the UK after 5 years of stay.
How long can I Apply it?
International students can stay back in the UK and work for a period of 2 years after the completion of their graduate studies.
What is Post study work?
Post study work scheme allows graduates to stay back and work for a period of 2 years after completing their graduation. Students with valid student visa upon completion of their degree can apply online for a new visa application which is only possible from inside the UK.
Can I apply for work permit in the UK?
Upon the completion of your degree courses in the UK, you can also switch from Tier 4 visa to Tier 2 (General) work visa if you meet a number of criteria. The application to switch from Tier 4 to Tier 2 visa can be completed online and you can apply three months before your course ends. To apply, you will need to have an offer of employment from a licensed Tier 2 sponsor, who can request the issue of a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Will I be able to settle in the UK permanently?
Living in the UK permanently is also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’ in the UK. Indefinite leave to remain enables a person to live in the UK without any restrictions which is the first step towards full citizenship. It is important that you have spent at least five years in the UK without breaching the immigration laws during your stay. You are also required to pass the Life in the UK test based on British culture, history and traditions and prove that you meet the B1 level of English.
Can I apply for a permanent residence in the UK after 5 year?
Yes, you can apply for a permanent residence in the UK after 5 years of stay in the UK without any breaching of immigration laws or criminal records. Permanent residency also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain means you will no longer have any immigration restrictions on working or time limits on your stay. This right however can lapse if the individual spends more than 2 years continuously outside the country.