Are you thinking about studying in the UK? Good idea! With fantastic campus activities and world-renowned nightlife, there’s never a dull moment at British universities – and having some of the world’s best academics doesn’t hurt either. To get you started, here are six things you need to know about the university system and student life in the UK.
1. YOU MUST APPLY THROUGH UCAS
For overseas students, the application process for undergraduate study in the UK is not particularly different to that for domestic students. You must apply through UCAS, which manages applications for all UK students. UCAS calculates your score based on the grades achieved in your home country, and the university you are applying to also takes into account a personal statement that you have to write.
The UCAS application deadline for the winter semester is January of the same year. However, if you want to apply for Oxofrd or Cambridge, your evaluation must be sent out in October. Based on your grades and other factors, places will then be allocated between spring and early summer. If your Abitur exams are not due until the same spring or summer, you should definitely note that a possible acceptance letter will initially be issued provisionally. If you already have all your grades at the time of application, you will receive a firm acceptance or rejection. Are you worried about your shot? In late summer, additional study places are allocated as part of the so-called “clearing” system, which means that even those who were previously rejected have the chance of a study place for the coming winter semester.
The UCAS website, www.ucas.com, explains the process in more detail. She even has a few useful videos that explain the application process in a simple manner.
2. DON’T WORRY, YOU WILL BE HELPED
Don’t panic, even if everything seems a bit scary or you don’t meet all the requirements, especially when it comes to your English skills. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree, a master’s degree, or a doctorate, there are organizations that can help you find and apply to your dream university. This can be either a university or a language school that offers programs to raise your English level to exactly the level your dream university expects of you. You should know that studying in the UK requires certain English skills, which you usually have to prove in the form of a TOEFL test.
3. CHOOSE CONSCIOUSLY TO CHOOSE A UNIVERSITY
There are hundreds of universities in the UK and the experience you will gain will depend on the region or city in which your university is located. Would you like to keep your living costs low but accept slightly colder temperatures? Then off to the north. Do you want a beach feeling, but that comes with both higher prices and higher student numbers? Look around the south of England. Do you fancy big city life and are you willing to pay a little more for it? London is definitely the best choice for you. Are you interested in the look and cozy atmosphere of an old university town? Oxford or Cambridge are perfect for you.
Once you have applied, been accepted and moved to the UK to start your new life at “university” (as the British call it), the next step is:
4. GET FAMILIAR WITH THE SYSTEM
Teaching methods and styles may differ from those in your home country. Universities in the UK tend to place a strong emphasis on independent learning and personal responsibility in relation to studies. You enjoy more freedom when choosing your specific courses. The grading and exams also differ slightly. The grades range from “First” (top grade, similar to an A in the United States) to a “2:1” or a “2:2” to a “Third,” which means you only complete the test you barely passed. Essays, final exams, and your degree itself will all be graded this way.
5. BE OPEN TO THE CULTURE…
You’ll soon be fluent in English! Living and studying in the United Kingdom means being able to immerse yourself deeply in the language and British culture. Not only will you hear the English language every day, but you’ll probably also be speaking English all day long with your new international circle of friends! The London School of Economics, for example, boasts students from over 140 countries, which means you’re guaranteed to meet people from all over the world.
6. …AND THE VARIETY OF STUDENT DISCOUNTS!
In the UK, students tend to be big spenders on everything from books to gadgets, which is why big-name manufacturers love them so much. How do these companies show their love? Of course with free offers! Student-specific vouchers give you incredible discounts on everything from clothing and travel to furniture and electronics. Most universities even organize introductory days for their new students at the beginning of a semester, during which a lot of freebies are given out. Although it is relatively difficult to get discounted books, there is always the option of buying second-hand books, sharing them with fellow students, or selling new books as soon as you no longer need them in order to save some of the purchase price (but remember not to leave any notes in the book so that you can offer it as “as new” when the time comes)! To save money, you should also pay regular visits to the university library. You can borrow many textbooks there and don’t even have to buy them.
