A Guide to Applying to Study in the UK

Many students travel abroad to study at a UK university each year, with British universities having an excellent reputation across the globe. If you plan to study in the UK, you will need to follow a specific schedule, write a convincing personal statement and in some cases, apply for a student visa.

Applying to study in the UK through UCAS

Whether you wish to study in London, Liverpool, Sheffield or any other city in the United Kingdom, applications for university admissions must be lodged on the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) website.

Approximately 700,000 prospective students apply each year through UCAS⁽¹⁾. Take a look at the different steps to follow in order to make an online application.

1. Select the universities and courses that interest you

The UCAS website contains a search engine that helps you find the course that is right for you. There is plenty of choice: you can apply to study for a course at more than 380 universities and colleges. ⁽¹⁾ Before selecting a course, remember to make sure you meet all the requirements.

2. Prepare your application and apply online

To submit your application to universities, you must fill in the completion form correctly. This includes writing a personal statement, confirming previous qualifications, and filling in your personal details. There’s a one-off fee that you’ll need to pay before applying. Click here to find out more.

3. Wait for offers universities might make

Once the application has been submitted, the next step is waiting to see if you receive any offers. Foreign students from non-English speaking countries will often be expected to demonstrate their knowledge of English.

Be sure you pay attention to application deadlines! You can apply until a given date in January. However, some prestigious universities or selective programmes only receive applications until a specified date in October.

How do I apply for a student visa?

Many students will require a visa to study in the UK, but this depends on several different factors. Read more about whether you must obtain a visa to study here.

If you need a visa, you can request one online up to 6 months before the beginning of your study course if you’re from outside the UK. If you live in the United Kingdom already, you can only apply 3 months before your studies begin. You will have to meet the following criteria:

• are over 16 years old,

• have received a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) issued by a licensed student sponsor,

• prove you can read, write, speak, and comprehend English,

• have sufficient funds to support yourself and pay the tuition fees,

• Proof of consent from a parent or guardian in the instance you’re under 18.

You can arrive in the UK a week before the beginning of a course that’s shorter than 6 months and up to one month before the start of a study programme lasting over 6 months.

Once you have everything in place, it is time to start making friends and experience the local culture!

To find out more about studying in the UK

Visit the British Council website.

Go to gov.uk to get additional information about visas.