Study UK

Guide for students

Sponsor with:

Contents· Why study in the UK?

· Finding a study option that’s right for you· How to apply· Student visas· Apply to stay and work in the UK after graduating· Money, budgeting and scholarships· Living in the UK· Further information

Why study in the UK?
Why study in the UK?

The UK is the perfect place to become the most confident, mostpromising version of yourself.

You will discover so much about yourself, here in the home of the English
language. We’re one of the world’s most popular study destinations; witha welcoming, inclusive way of life, outstanding academic standards andrich traditions that will inspire you to think independently, be creative andtruly grow as an individual. It’s why our graduates are progressing further
and being promoted quicker than peers educated elsewhere.
And with new friends, new experiences and some of the world’s greatest
cultural events waiting for you, you’ll make memories that last a lifetime.

A world-class education

The UK has inspired some of the finest minds in human history. Now let
it inspire you with a university degree that’s packed full of exciting
possibilities. Through a UK education, you’ll discover fresh ideas. You’lllearn to see things differently. And thanks to the creative, inspiring andtransformative style of teaching, you’ll take your education to a whole
new level.

The UK has been a leader in academia for centuries. It’s home to four of
the world’s top 10 universities (with a further 22 ranked among the global
top 200) and has one of the most diverse subject offerings in the world.
Thanks to rich traditions of critical thinking and academic rigour, morethan one in three undergraduate students who study in the UK obtain afirst-class degree.
Guide for students1Celebrated figures in science, politics, art and literature have all
benefitted from this exceptional academic approach. One in threeNobel Laureates have been shaped by their studies in the UK and more
world leaders than any other nation have been educated in the UK. Just
like these great minds, you’ll be inspired to push your learning in new andexciting directions. And you’ll be encouraged to express your opinions,
your ideas and to develop your own interests and intellectual capabilities.
You’ll gain fresh perspectives in the UK, too. UK degrees are designed tothe most rigorous academic standards, so you’ll find yourself venturing
beyond the library or lecture theatre. Field trips, visits and excursions will
all accelerate your learning by applying it to real world situations. By
problem solving with your peers, you will learn to challenge each other’sideas, enjoy constructive debate and gain an unbeatable understandingof how academic learning can be translated into innovative working
practice.
You’ll do all of this in the home of the English language the global
language of science, diplomacy and international business.

This critical, experiential and intellectual approach to education will give
you so much more than an internationally prestigious degree. It will give
you an impressive competitive edge among your peers and allow you to
truly grow as a creative and talented individual.

A great student experience

You will never forget your time studying here, with great experiences andfriendships that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s your first time in our welcoming, beautiful country or simply
your first time away from home, this is your chance to fall in love with the
UK’s ancient traditions, modern attitudes and our world-beating culturalscene.
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Guide for students

There are so many things to discover here as you study. Everywhere yougo, from the breathtaking scenery of our national parks to the dazzlingnightlife of our cities, you and your new friends will get to experience thevery best in music, art, theatre, film and literature.
The UK has given the world superstars from Hamlet to Harry Potter, The
Beatles and The Rolling Stones to Adele and Ed Sheeran. We’re a world
leader in fashion, too - with Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwoodand Stella McCartney all learning their trades in UK universities.

And as we’re the nation that invented football, tennis, rugby, golf, cricket
and so many other games – don’t forget that the UK is also home tosome of the greatest experiences that sport can offer. So, whether it’scheering on Manchester City or Liverpool in the English Premier League,
or watching a singles final with your friends at Wimbledon, you’ll findopportunities and experiences here like nowhere else on earth.

Guide for students

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Succeed in your career

With a global reputation for research and academic excellence, the UK isthe perfect place to discover your talents. And by studying here, you’ll
feel confident and ready to make great leaps forward in your life andchosen career.
The UK is one of the world’s most innovative countries and has
consistently been at the forefront of science, culture, finance, politics andmore. We are the birthplace of many world changing events, from theIndustrial Revolution to the invention of the World Wide Web – and oursmall country continues to exert enormous global influence.

This impressive culture of innovation and invention will inspire you to get
the very best out of your own studies. And as our teachers are among thebrightest in the world, studying here is an opportunity to draw from awealth of experience and learn from the very best.
This education will enable you to transform your life and career, giving
you experience and insights that are in high global demand. And as ourintensive postgraduate programmes maintain this exceptional standardof education, while often being shorter than those in other countries,
choosing to study for a postgraduate degree in the UK can quickly
transform their prospects in an effective and affordable way.

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Finding a study option that’s right for you
Finding a study option that’s right for you

Whether you are looking for undergraduate, postgraduate, English courses
or other study options, we can help you find the right course for you.

Courses in the UK are tailor made to support you in getting the most fromyour studies as quickly as possible. There are thousands of courses for you
to choose from – no matter what you’re passionate about, the UK is afantastic place to pursue your interests.
In the UK, flexibility is built into the majority of our courses. Many
universities allow you to choose from different subject ‘modules’, so you
can build a course programme that suits you, specialising as you go fora perfectly tailored experience.

Postgraduate courses in the UK maintain our exceptional academic
standards, and while some are shorter than those in the US and Australia,
many of our prestigious MBA degrees take just one year to complete.
This allows you to get excellent value for money in your studies andmeans you can begin applying your education to the real world a lot
sooner.

Guide for students

5Choosing a course to study in the UK
No offer isreceived

Language schools:

1. Choose one of the British Council
accredited language schools - scan
the QR code for more information
2. Attend an English course in preparation
for next step

Choose your subject:
Consider your interests and strengths,
qualifications and academic backgrounds,
work experiences, career aspiration, thesubject’s career prospects anddevelopment potentials.

Shortlist institutions and programmes:
Use the course search engine on study-uk.
britishcouncil.org to see which institutions
offer your interested subjects.

Private language schools:
with more personalised care,
individually purposed programme
and a variety of choices
Language centres within
universities/colleges: with excellent
facilities, access to shared resourcesat the university/college, and uponcompletion flexible assessments
leading to mainstream courses

Boarding schools and pre-university education:
1. Go to Independent Schools Council (ISC) website (www.isc.co.uk)
for individual schools’profiles, inspection reports, and their
GCSEs and A-levels grades.
2. For foundation courses, be clear about they are recognised bywhich universities.
3. Check each institution’s entry requirements for eligibility.
Undergraduate and postgraduate courses:
1. Check quality assurance agencies’ inspection reports andranking of individual institution’s subject expertise and researchcapability - use the section of “Useful UK education websites ”
as a starting point
2. Check each institution’s entry requirements for eligibility.
3. Decide affordability of the tuition fees and living costs.

Apply for institutions:
1 . Be clear about the entry requirements and follow the application procedures.
2. Use website of Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) to apply for undergraduate courses and some university
foundation programmes - see more on www.ucas.com.
When receiving more than one
unconditional/conditional offers,

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Decide on your final choice of institution and courseby considering:
1. Academic factors, including course design, assessments, subject
and research inspection results, scholarship opportunities, and so on.
2. Non-academic factors, including location, climate and weather,lifestyle options, well-being of and support for international students,
tuition fee and living cost and so on.

1. When receiving only one conditional offer,accept
the offer, and meet the conditions before thedeadline as required by the institution in orderto receive the Confirmation of Acceptance forStudies (CAS) and other necessary documents.
2. When receiving only one unconditional offer,accept the offer and receive the Confirmationof Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and othernecessary documents.

1. Choose one conditional offer: accept the offer, and meet theconditions before the deadline as required by the institution in orderto receive the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) andother necessary documents.
2. Choose one unconditional offer: accept the offer and receive theConfirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and other necessary
documents.

Start applying for the UK visa threemonths prior to the start of your course,
and prepare yourself for the exciting
journey and experience of studying in
the UK. All the best!

Guide for students

Undergraduate studies

For international undergraduates looking to kick-start their career, theUK offers far more than just a world-class education. With a wide rangeof learning experiences around every corner, you will graduate with theconfidence, skills and knowledge to shape your future.
UK undergraduate course types include:• Bachelor’s or undergraduate degree: BA (Bachelor of Arts),
BSc (Bachelor of Science), BEd (Bachelor of Education) and
BEng (Bachelor of Engineering).
• A full-time bachelor’s degree normally takes three years to complete(four in some cases). Part-time options are also available at someuniversities and colleges.
• Shorter courses: Foundation Degree, Diploma of Higher Education,
Higher National Diploma, and Certificate of Higher Education.

Search for your course

UCAS lists more than 50,000 undergraduate courses with over 380
providers in the UK, which you can search for here:
https://digital.ucas.com/search

Their subject guides also give you an insight into the courses you could
study at undergraduate level, what they involve, and how to enroll:www.ucas.com/explore

You can also use the university finder on the Study UK website to search
for a course:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/choosing-university-college

Guide for students7MBA courses

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is an internationallyrecognised qualification which gives you the skills you need for a successful
management career.

PhDs or doctorates

A Doctor of Philosophy, or doctorate (PhD/DPhil), is the highest academic
level a student can achieve. These degrees are very demanding and often
lead to careers in academia (as a lecturer or researcher). Most students willcomplete a master’s degree before they do a PhD.

Postgraduate diplomas and qualifications‘Postgrad’ certificates and diplomas allow students to study something
new or build on the skills and knowledge already gained during theirundergraduate degree.
Postgraduate diplomas are usually shorter than a master’s and do not
involve a thesis or dissertation.

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Professional and vocational qualifications

These qualifications help you improve or gain skills for specific jobs. Most
awards involve practical training. This gives you the opportunity toexperience a job first-hand.

Search for your course

Visit the Prospects website, which has details of postgraduate study
options www.prospects.ac.uk/postgraduate-courses

Other options for you

As well as undergraduate and postgraduate study, the UK offers manyother opportunities to international students:

Further education: This refers to education after secondary school thatis not an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. Further education
institutions in the UK provide technical and professional education andtraining to people over the age of 16. Qualifications and training
include A-Levels, apprenticeships, traineeships, vocational qualifications
and entry level training.

Foundation pathway courses: These are designed for international
students to improve their English skills and develop the confidence tostart undergraduate or postgraduate study. They provide the opportunity
to adjust to the UK’s culture and get used to university teaching.
English language courses: As the home of the English language and witha reputation for academic excellence, the UK is the perfect destination tolearn English.

Guide for students

9Postgraduate studies

With our exceptional academic standards, progressive teaching techniquesand globally respected research practices, it’s easy to see why so many
international postgraduates choose to study in the UK.
UK postgraduate course types include:
Master’s degrees• MA (Master of Arts)• MSc (Master of Science)• MEng (Master of Engineering)• MFA (Master of Fine Arts)• LLM (Master of Laws)• MArch (Master of Architecture)• MPhil (Master of Philosophy)
Subject specific qualifications are research-led and usually designed forstudents to progress to a PhD.
A full-time master’s degree normally takes one year (taught master’s) or
two years (research master’s) to complete. Part-time options are alsoavailable at some universities.

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Boarding schools: A boarding school is a residential school where pupils
live and study during the school year. There are approximately 500
boarding schools across the UK.

Studying for a UK degree outside the UK

Did you know you can gain a UK higher education qualification in yourown country? If you have commitments that prevent you from relocating
to the UK itself, or are looking for excellent value for money, you could stilltransform your life and career prospects with a Transnational (TNE) degree.
Provided in English by 142 UK universities, and in 226 countries andterritories worldwide, these degrees are your opportunity to benefit fromthe same rich academic traditions as your peers in the United Kingdom.
You’ll learn from exactly the same cutting-edge teaching practices, andreceive the same encouragement to think independently, be creative
and truly grow as an individual.
To get more information and to find out about the courses that areavailable, please visit https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/ways-learning/degree-outside-uk

Guide for students

11How to apply
How to apply
Undergraduate studies

Most undergraduate applications are made through the Universities andColleges Admissions Service (UCAS). To apply through UCAS, you need to
go to www.ucas.com and register your details in their application system.
You can apply for up to five courses through UCAS and you will becontacted by them with any offers from your chosen universities orcolleges.

Application deadlines
15 OctoberFor courses at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and for mostcourses in medicine, veterinary medicine, science and dentistry.

25 January

For most undergraduate courses

30 JuneLate deadline for most undergraduate courses. Applications received
after this deadline will automatically go into ‘Clearing’, so you will not be
guaranteed your first choice.
While you will be able to apply after the January deadline right up until
30 June, it is better to apply early.
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Application procedure for UK
undergraduate course through UCAS
ApplicantApplicant fills in the application form for up
to five institutions on www.ucas.com

Universities and Colleges
Admissions Service (UCAS)

Individual institution decides on the received
application and informs UCAS on the decision.

UCAS sends confirmation
to the applicant.

UCAS sends copies of applications
to all applicable institutions.

UCAS
Unsuccessful applications
are declined.

Applicant contacts institutions
directly to apply using
attachments (mid-March toend of June) or during Clearing(after 30 June).

Applicant sends
additional documents.

1

Institutions

1) If requirements are not met,
application is declined.
2) If requirements are met,
Confirmation of Acceptancefor Studies (CAS) and othernecessary documents aresend to the applicant.

1) Conditional offers is issued if
documents are insufficient or
requirements are not fully met.

2) Confirmation of Acceptance forStudies (CAS) and other necessary
documents are send to theapplicant.

2

ApplicantInstitutions with unfilled vacancies
If requirements are met, Confirmationof Acceptance for Studies (CAS) andother necessary documents are send
to the applicant.

Guide for students

13What is Clearing?

Clearing is how universities and colleges in the UK fill any places they still
have on their courses.
From 5 July to 20 October, you can apply for a course using Clearing if
you’re not already holding an offer from a university or college, and thecourse still has places.
You can use Clearing if:• you’re applying after 30 June.
• you didn’t receive any offers (or none you wanted to accept).
• you didn’t meet the conditions of their offers.
• you’ve declined your firm place using the ‘decline my place’ button
in Track.
Useful tips for applying through Clearing:• Ask for advice.
• See what courses are available by using the search tool on UCAS andcheck entry requirements.
• Consider different subjects.
• Talk to the universities you are interested in.
• Attend a virtual open day.
For more information about clearing, visit the UCAS website www.ucas.
com/undergraduate/resultsconfirmation-and-clearing/what-clearing

For more information about applying for undergraduate courses in theUK, visit https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/ways-learning/undergraduate
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Guide for students

Postgraduate studies

Many UK universities handle their own postgraduate applications and you
can often apply directly through their websites.
Many postgraduate courses do not have a fixed application deadline.
However, it is always best to apply early to make sure you have the best
chance of being accepted – from six months to a year before your course
begins.
For more information about applying for postgraduate courses in the UK,
visit https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/ways-learning/
postgraduate and www.prospects.ac.uk

What you will need when applying to a UK university
or college• Your qualifications• Personal statement• Additional documents and information

Your qualifications

You can check the equivalence of your country’s qualifications with thosein the UK by contacting the National Recognition Information Centre –www.naric.org.uk

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Application procedure for schools,
language providers and master programmes
UK institution
ApplicantApplicant fills in the application form and submits
the documents required by the institution.

UK institution

UK institution answers inquiries of the applicant
and sets entry requirements.

ApplicantApplicant gathers course information on institution’s
website, and makes inquiries about application byemail/phone/etc.

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If enquiry requirements are met,
Institution issues Confirmationof Acceptance for Studies (CAS)and other necessary documents.

ApplicantApplicant prepares documentsfor UK visa application.

UK Visa
Application Centre
If documents are insufficient or
requirements not fully met,
Institution issues an conditional
offer.

ApplicantApplicant sends additional
documents as required by theinstitution.

Guide for students

Personal statement

You will be required to provide a personal statement as part of yourapplication to study at a UK university. This document is your opportunity
to explain why you would like to study your chosen subject, and to outline
the skills and experience that make you well suited to this field.
Here are some tips to help you.

• The course description on the university website will explain the qualities,
skills and experience it requires. Be sure to explain how you match eachof these requirements as you write your statement.
• State why you are applying for the course. Be specific about whichaspects interest you most, and how you believe the course will help you
in your future ambitions.
• As well as explaining why you are academically suited to the course, also
describe any work experience you may have – or any extra-curricular
activities you take part in.
For more advice on writing a personal statement, you can visit
www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-to-university

You can also find out more information on the Study UK website
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/apply

Guide for students

17Additional documents and information

While UCAS can send results (including the International Baccalaureate)
for most international qualifications, you may need to send proof of thoseresults yourself.
You should check with your chosen university, to understand what theirpolicy is on this issue. You may be required to provide proof in the form ofcertificates or transcripts.

Student visas
Student visas

Most international students need a visa to study in the UK. Finding out
whether you need a visa to study is easy – simply check the UK
government’s website here: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

Student visa (previously Tier 4 visa)

It is likely you will need to apply for a student visa to study in the UK, and you
should check with your country’s governmental information to confirm this.
It costs £363 GBP to apply for this visa outside of the UK.

For more information on the student route visa, and your options, visit
www.gov.uk/student-visa
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What you will need to apply

You will need to make an appointment at a Visa Application Centre inyour home country, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
The following documents are also usually required when applying for the
student route visa, although this will vary depending on where you live.

• A confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number, which
is provided your UK university or college.
• Evidence that you can pay for your course and living costs in the UK.
• Original certificates, showing your educational qualifications.

How to apply• You must apply online for a student route visa, at
www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply• You’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa
application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of yourapplication.
• You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit within 10 days ofwhen you said you’d arrive in the UK (even if you actually arrive at alater date).
If you are applying from within the UK, you can look at extending an
existing student visa or switching from a different type.
For more information on applying for a student visa, go to
www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply

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Apply to stay and work in the UK after
you graduate
Graduate RouteThe UK’s Graduate Route welcomes international students to apply tostay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. International
students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s
degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies.
PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years.
Here is more information:• The Graduate Route is available to international students who have avalid student route visa (Tier 4 visa) at the time of application and havesuccessfully completed a degree at undergraduate level or above at a
Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
• Successful applicants on this route will be able to stay and work, or lookfor work, in the UK at any skill level for a maximum period of two years ifthey have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree.
PhD graduates will be able to stay for three years. Graduates will be able
to switch into skilled work once they have found a suitable job.
• The Graduate Route will require a new visa application.
• It will include the payment of a visa fee and the Immigration Health
Surcharge. The exact fee will be set out in due course.
For more information, see here
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/after-your-studies/graduate-route

You can find out more information about working after your studies on
the UKCISA website here: www.ukcisa.org.uk
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Guide for students

Money, budgeting and scholarships
Course fees

Fees for UK courses vary depending on your study level and where in the
UK you are studying (as there are different rules for England, Scotland,
Northern Ireland and Wales).

International students can expect to pay between £10,000 and £26,000
annually, and typically an undergraduate degree course will last for three
years. Medical degrees may cost more and many UK master’s degrees
can be completed in one year, meaning lower living costs and faster entry
into employment.
Always be sure to check the cost of course fees with the university orcollege you are applying to. Most often, this information will be listed on
their website.

Guide for students

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Living costs

No matter which country you’re from, the UK is an affordable study
destination. Knowing what kinds of costs you can expect will help you toplan your finances.

The cost of living varies, according to where in the UK you decide to study.
London and other big cities are more expensive than other areas, forexample. But depending on where you study, you should expect tobudget from between £800 and £1,300 a month to cover your rent, bills,
entertainment and other living costs. The institution where you choose to
study will be able to advise you on more detailed local costs of living andwhere to shop locally.
The National Union of Students card and the International Student
Identity Card offer great student discounts in many shops, restaurants
and businesses. You can find out more about these cards at
www.totum.com and www.isic.org/get-your-car

Scholarships and financial support

There are hundreds of scholarships, bursaries and grant schemes on offer
for students who need extra support to pay for their UK course. Many
institutions offer their own scholarships and bursaries – check theuniversity’s website for more information.

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Guide for students

GREAT Scholarships

GREAT Scholarships are for international students who want to study at a
UK university for a one-year postgraduate course. Each scholarship offersa minimum of £10,000 towards tuition fees.
The scholarships are jointly funded by the British Council, the GREAT
Britain Campaign, and participating UK higher education institutions.
Find out more here:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships

Global scholarships

You can apply for any of the following scholarships, provided they areappropriate for your course.

• Chevening Scholarships: Postgraduate scholarships from the UK
government aimed at students with potential as future leaders:www.chevening.org• Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowship Plan: Postgraduate
scholarships for nationals of Commonwealth countries, funded by
the UK government and intended to support individuals who willsubsequently make a contribution to the development of their homecountry: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply/Country-specific scholarships and funding

There are many different scholarships available, some of which depend
on where you are from.
For more information, please visit
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding
Guide for students

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Living in the UK
Accommodation

Most universities and colleges have their own accommodation office,and this should be the first place you go to ask about accommodation.
Most institutions provide accommodation for international students ina hall of residence (either full-board or self-catering) or a self-catering
shared house or flat. Space is usually limited, so applications for suchaccommodation should be made as soon as you have been acceptedon your course and certainly before the required deadline.

Private accommodation

The accommodation office at your institution may be able to help with
this, too. The office may keep lists of private accommodation available
in the area, and some offices may even help you arrange a booking.
The most usual type of private accommodation is a room in a housewith shared facilities. Renting a furnished house or a flat is likely to be
expensive, especially in city centres, and quite difficult to find. A good
way of making this affordable is to share with other students. If you do
this, make sure you agree beforehand on how you will share costs.

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Guide for students

Food

Food is near the top of the list of things you might miss when away fromhome. But food can be one of the best parts of living in the UK. University
offers you a great opportunity to build a positive relationship with foodand cooking, to create some interesting, delicious meals and to reallyenjoy yourself.
The average weekly food shop for one costs around £20-30. Although
you will always find a selection of supermarkets with plenty of choice forstudents on different budgets.

An increasing number of UK supermarkets offer international foodproducts, so you will always be able to get together with friends and cook
the food you love. And by living among people from all backgrounds andcultures, you can also try out many new and different cuisines.
Living in catered halls at university usually means that breakfast anddinner are provided for you from Monday to Friday, which can make life
a lot easier.

Guide for students

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Leisure time

On campus, the students’ union usually organises all kinds of social
functions and there will be many clubs and societies that you can join.

If you are interested in arts and culture, you will find the UK packed withmuseums, theatres and other cultural attractions just waiting to bediscovered.

The restaurant scene in the UK is thriving, and increasingly diverse. Pubs
are also popular social destinations for many university and college
students in the UK. You don’t have to drink alcohol to go to a pub – youwill find lots of non-alcoholic drinks on offer, and many pubs also havefood and entertainment such as karaoke, football match screenings, or
pub quizzes (weekly events where you compete as a team).

Some of the world’s largest music venues and events are in the UK, suchas the O2 Arena in London and the world-famous Glastonbury Festival,
but many world-renowned artists and bands also play at UK universities
and colleges, and small bars and cafés often host live music and dancing.

Almost every town will have a cinema with films from around the world.
Hollywood releases will be easy to find, but major cities also have cinemas
specialising in foreign and independent films, and universities often havea student cinema that shows films on campus at student-friendly prices.
If you love sport, the UK offers a range of ways to explore your passion.
We’re fanatical about every kind of sport here, and many of our athletes
and clubs lead the world. Whether it’s global team sports, like football, or
individual sports like athletics, you will find ways to compete in andcelebrate the sports you care most about alongside your studies.

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Guide for students

UK weather and clothing

Although UK weather is unpredictable, it is rarely extreme. Wear several
layers so that you can put them on or take them off as the weatherchanges, and always carry an umbrella.
In summer, the average temperature ranges from 9–18 degrees Celsius(48–64 degrees Fahrenheit), although on occasion, it can reach above
30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in a heatwave.

In winter the average is between 2 and 7 degrees Celsius (36–45 degrees
Fahrenheit), but temperatures can drop below 0 degrees Celsius (36degrees Fahrenheit). Most houses, buildings, trains and buses have goodheating systems. In general, there is little difference between the regionsof the UK, but you will experience more snow, rain and wind in northernand mountainous areas.
Most UK towns and cities have a large range of shops selling clothes tosuit all styles and budgets. You will see all kinds of fashion at UK schools,
colleges and universities, and almost anything goes. Students usually
dress casually during the day – jeans and t-shirts are fine – and more
smartly if you’re going out in the evening. Very few student bars andpubs have a dress code.

Some courses require you to wear specialist clothing for health and safety.
For example, if you are in a science laboratory, you may need to wear
protective glasses and a white lab coat. Some universities will provide
these, while others may require you to purchase your own.
The UK is a multi-cultural place and it is common for people to wear
clothing associated with their culture and religion, for example a headscarf, kippah, turban, sari or long skirt. In major towns and cities, you willfind specialist shops selling clothing from around the world, particularly
Asian and Middle Eastern clothing.
Guide for students

27Four seasons in UK

There are many ways to query the weather in Britain. First of all, your mobile phone has its own weather query tool around the world. Two moreauthoritative UK weather forecast networks are recommended here. One is the weather forecast of Met Office and the other is BBC Weather.

SUMMERSPRINGMarch to May

June to August

Spring in Britain starts on the firstday of March and ends on the last
day of May in the meteorologicalcalendar. But from an astronomical
point of view, spring usually begins
at the vernal equinox, around March
20 in the northern hemisphere.

The British summer calendar includes threemonths in June, July and August, or according
to the astronomical calendar, from the day ofthe summer solstice, it is generally around June
21. The summer solstice is the time when the sunreaches the highest point in the sky, which isalso the longest day of the year.

As the Atlantic loses heat in autumn
and winter, the humidity and heatin the atmosphere are reduced, so
the weather in Britain is slightly dry
in spring.

ScotlandNorth Sea

1
Atlantic
Ocean

Northern
Ireland

Ireland

Irish Sea

EnglandWales

AUTUMN

September to November

According to the weather calendar, autumn
begins in September and ends in November.
In astronomy, autumn begins around theautumnal equinox on September 22. Similar
to the vernal equinox, during the autumnal
equinox, the sun shines directly on the equator,
day and night are almost equal, each for 12hours. But the spring equinox represents theend of severe winter, while the autumn
equinox marks the gradual beginning of
winter.
In Britain, autumn often brings unstable
weather, and you can still feel the obvious
coolness sooner or later. In the second halfof this season, due to the depression of theAtlantic Ocean, Britain will also have rain and
wind.

28

EnglishChannelWINTER

December to February

The meteorological calendar divides winter into theperiod from December to February. In astronomy,
winter begins at the winter solstice, that is, aroundDecember 22 in the northern hemisphere. The wintersolstice is the shortest day of the year. When the sun isfarthest from the south of the earth's equator, theearth's northern hemisphere will tilt, causing the
reduction of solar heat. After the winter solstice, thedays begin to lengthen.

Guide for students

Explore the UK

From bustling cities to snow-capped mountains, rolling green hills tohighlands and islands, the UK is beautiful, and exploring is a must. Its
relatively small size and good transport links mean that you can see
a lot while you are here. Some highlights include London with its
fascinating history, iconic buildings, cutting-edge fashion, theatre andfood; northern cities like Manchester and Liverpool, which are wellknown for their famous football clubs and great nightlife; Scotland’s
stunning mix of wild beauty and buzzing cities; the stunning landscapesof Wales’ national parks; and the spectacular coastline of Northern
Ireland.
For more information about exploring the UK visit www.visitbritain.com

Health and safety

With one of the best healthcare systems in the world, globally respected
policing and low crime rates, studying in the UK is exceptionally safe andsecure.
The UK’s NHS (National Health Service) is one of the world’s mostadvanced healthcare systems, offering safe and modern treatment.

To gain access to the NHS, you will be required to pay an immigration
health surcharge as part of your visa application fee.

The UK is a safe country, with low crime rates and a trustworthy police
force. In addition, many institutions have their own security services whopatrol campuses. Your institution will usually provide you with information
on staying safe on campus.

Guide for students

29Religion in the UK

As an open, inclusive and multi-faith society, students of all religions can
expect to feel welcome in the UK, along with plenty of places to practise
their faith. With a history of multi-culturalism dating back hundreds ofyears, we have well-established communities representing all majorreligions, and a deep commitment to supporting students’ religious
needs on campus.

We are proud to be a very inclusive society in every way, and it is against
the law to discriminate against anyone because of their race, nationality
or religion.

30

Guide for students

Further information
Useful links

If you would like to read more about studying in the UK, and what
opportunities you will find here, here are some websites and links that
can help you.

Moving to the UK

For the latest information on moving to the UK to study, please visit
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk

Student visas

For information and guidance:
www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration

For Visa Application Centre (VAC) information:www.vfsglobal.co.uk/en

Study UK website:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/student-visas

Guide for students

31General information

Study UK website:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/

Choosing a university:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/choosing-university-college

What subjects can I study?:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/plan-studies/choosing-course/subjects
Find out about scholarships:
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding

Social media

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/StudyUK.BritishCouncil

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/StudyUK_BritishCouncil/
Twitter
https://twitter.com/StudyUKBritish

LinkedIn
www.linkedin.com/showcase/study-uk-british-council/
YouTubewww.youtube.com/user/StudyInTheUK

TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@studyuk_britishcouncil
32

Guide for students

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/user/fuz79snssaf2ilfqtqbapdent

Universities and Colleges
Admissions Service (UCAS):
www.ucas.com

Unistats: The official website for comparing UK higher education
course data:
www.unistats.ac.uk
Association of Colleges
www.aoc.co.uk

Prospects: Postgraduate course search:
www.prospects.ac.uk/postgraduate-study

Guide for students

33

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Study UK©British Council 2022.