FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
First you need to register to apply using our online application service. Once you’ve registered, we will be in touch within 48 hours to arrange your initial consultation.
Entry requirements vary between universities and colleges. If you are unsure you meet a university/college’s criteria, it is best to contact our team for further guidance. More information can be found under University Courses pages.
UCAS provides application services across a range of subject areas and modes of study for UK higher education providers. We are an Accredited Registered Centre and we have access to all applicants’ details when they apply. We can check applications, attach references, and submit to in UCAS on behalf of the applicant. We can also track the progress of applications, view decisions, and support applicants.
We don’t arrange student finance. Advice on funding can be found on the international student finance section of the universities website.
We have a comprehensive guide which you may find useful, just email us and we will be more than happy to send it to you.
References letter are sometimes also referred to as letters of recommendation. In general, they are written by professors with whom you have worked closely, so they can offer detailed insight into you and your work. We can also send you full guidance on how to get a good reference letter, just contact us.
We’ll process it and send you a welcome email confirming the application has been sent to your university choices. This email will also contain your Personal ID, which will enable you to track and check the progress of your application.
You will receive your CAS once you have met all of your offer conditions and your offer of admission is confirmed. Your CAS will be sent to you electronically.
The documentation you are required to submit to the Home Office in support of your visa application varies depending on your personal circumstances. All applicants have to submit their passport and, depending on your nationality and chosen course, you may also be required to submit financial evidence to prove that you can cover your course fees and living costs, ATAS certificate, TB certificate and police registration certificate. Contact us for more information on this.
If you are starting in Michaelmas Term, we advise you to select collection of your BRP from the University when completing your visa application. To do this, you will need to use the relevant ACL code in the relevant part of your visa application. Once you arrive in the UK, the collection location will depend on when you are starting your studies
The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) requires all students who will be studying for a postgraduate qualification in certain sensitive subject areas on a time-limited visa, which includes a student visa, to apply for a clearance certificate. The relevant subject areas are based on whether knowledge gained could be used in programmes to develop weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery.
ATAS applications are administered by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). It is a free online application. The standard ATAS processing time is 20 working days although this can increase to 6 weeks during the peak period July – September.
Students applying for a student visa to study at UK Universities for 6 months or longer will pay an immigration health surcharge as part of their visa application. This will entitle them to access the National Health Service (NHS).
All the major UK banks have branches in most parts of UK. Different banks offer different benefits and services to international students so it is advisable to check your options before making a choice. Most students open a current account which provides a visa debit card, which can be used to make payment in shops and online as well as take money from cash points (ATMs) up to a daily maximum limit, and is usually combined with an online banking service. The banks advise students to visit one of their branches to discuss opening an account. You may need to book an appointment to make your application depending on how busy the bank is at the time you visit. This is particularly likely at the beginning of the academic year.
To open an account you will need to take your passport, UK visa (if applicable) and a letter from your College.
An International Foundation programme is designed to help when you don’t meet the requirements for direct entry to an undergraduate degree programme. You’ll also adapt to the education system at a British university and improve your English language skills.
International Year One (sometimes called an International Diploma) is equivalent to the first year of a UK undergraduate degree (or second year at Scottish universities). It will prepare you for second year-entry to your chosen university degree programme (third year if you are studying at a Scottish university). You’ll develop your study skills, English language, and subject knowledge, ready for university study. You’ll also receive support from our friendly staff to complete your UCAS application to your chosen degree programme.
A Graduate Diploma in the UK is a pre-master’s course. It will prepare you for a master’s degree in the UK. You’ll learn about postgraduate study, covering areas such as research skills, English language skills, group work and effective time management. You’ll also benefit from guidance on personal and academic development.
We offer several academic English courses in the UK: Academic English (AE), General English and Pre-sessional English courses. With Academic English, you’ll learn about the language and gain the study skills needed for successful academic study at university. Pre-sessional English will help you if you hold an offer from a university for an undergraduate or postgraduate course and are academically qualified, but want to improve your English. It focuses on academic English and general study skills
Normally, it will take you three years to complete a standard undergraduate degree (four years in Scotland). A master’s degree normally takes a year, and a PhD takes three years.