STANDARD REQUIREMENTS:
- English Language Qualifications (IELTS 5.5 to above)
- All academic Transcripts and Certificates
(Front & Back in English)
- Copy of your Passport (All pages)
- Personal Statements
- Curriculum Vitae
- References
- Immigration History (Inc. Any Visa Refusals, Foreign Travels etc.)
For the above Five Universities:
- IELTS Required: 6 to 6.5
- Tuition Fees: £ 14,000 to £ 16,000 (per annum)
(Half the Tuition Fees need to be paid)
- There is a SCHOLARSHIP of £ 3,500
WHY STUDY IN THE UK?
After USA, UK is the World’s SECOND most popular international students destination. Oxford University became number one in the World Ranking in 2024 (It will always remain number one), where University of Cambridge stood at number three. Imperial College London, number eight where University College London and London School of Economics in the top fifteen to twenty in ranking.
Most of the Bachelor’s degree programmes are for 3 years, where few are four or more. Master’s degree programmes are for one year and doctorate /PhD for 3 to 5 years. Number of Higher Educational Institutes are 163 with a total population of 65,382,556 (2016 Census).
Many UK shops, businesses, restaurants, Bus and Train Tickets offer substantial Student Discounts to make life affordable. All students are allowed part-time jobs (Normally 20 hours per week, although all students do more hours to supplement fees and board).
The Higher Education System in the United Kingdom
In particular, UK higher education is valued worldwide for its renowned standards and quality. Its higher education’s prestige also emanates from its graduates’ work afterward. Many eminent people in many different areas whose work reached global recognition came from British universities.
Some universities and other higher education providers are ranked top among universities worldwide. The UK capital city, London, not by accident, is considered to be the world’s capital city of higher education. With its four universities ranked in the world’s top ten, London has the highest number of worldwide-ranked universities per city.
By definition, UK higher education is the level of education that follows secondary school at the hierarchy of the educational system in the UK. When high school is over, Britons have to sit in a standard examination, making them eligible not to continue their education at a higher level.
What is the Difference Between Colleges and Universities?
In the UK education system, in contrast to the US higher education, there is a difference between college and university. While in the US, there is no distinction between college and university, with most people referring to a higher education provider as a college, in the UK, this is not the case.
In the UK, a college is a further education institution that prepares students to earn a degree. At the same time, a university is a licensed HE institution that awards students with a degree at the end of their studies.
Studying in the UK as an International Student
If you’re an international student, you must know that not all higher education providers in the UK are referred to as a university. This issue is regulated by law.
As this official regulation states, a higher education institution can be labeled as a university under these circumstances:
- If it gets approved by the Privy Council under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992.
- If it gets approval under the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.
International students from countries other than the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland must apply for a student visa to study in the UK.
If you are 16 and are a resident of one of the countries mentioned above, you can apply for a Tier 4 visa (General student) —the official student visa in the UK. Before applying for a student visa, ensure you have sufficient money to finance your stay there during your studies. When applying for a visa, the embassy/consulate will most likely ask for proof of enough funds to cover your tuition fees and other expenses.
The UK Higher Education Degree Levels and Programs
Based on the actual education regulations in the UK education system, Higher Education comprises the following levels of courses.
1. Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate courses in the UK include a wide range of first degrees which are listed below.
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Honors and Ordinary Degrees
- Qualified Teacher Status
- Enhanced First Degrees
- Intercalated Degrees (medical schools or other specific study fields allow students to take a year off between the second and third years to study a different area which can be a BA, BSc, or master’s degree program).
Here are other undergraduate courses:
- Foundation degrees
- SVQ
- NVQ
- Higher National Diploma HND (or equivalent)
- NHC (or equivalent), etc.
An undergraduate course usually takes three years; however, Scotland is an exception, where undergraduate courses take four years to complete. The higher education system in the UK has many universities that offer 4-year undergraduate courses, also known as “sandwich courses.” This program includes a one-year work experience —usually carried out in the third year.
Keep in mind: Some British universities offer fast-track programs where you can obtain a Master’s degree at the undergraduate level. Unlike traditional undergraduate courses, fast-track programs allow students to attend an additional year of studying instead of taking a Bachelor’s degree which leads to a Master’s program.
Besides, it costs much less than the typical 3-year undergraduate courses; however, it usually is much more intense with shortened holiday breaks and a heavy schedule.
2. Postgraduate Courses
The postgraduate degree programs are only obtainable if you have a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university (not necessarily one in England).
The postgraduate level includes the following degrees:
- Master’s Degree (Taught or Research). Master’s degrees usually last one year or longer if they are research-based.
- The typical doctoral degree takes three years to complete.
- Postgraduate Diplomas.
- Postgraduate Certificates of Education (PGCE).
- Professional Degrees.
Note: To enter this level, it is usually required to have a first degree (Bachelor’s).
The Higher Education Curriculum and Admission Process
In the UK’s education system, most syllabi are set by the universities offering them and are not controlled by the government or certain British educational institutions. The only exception to this is teacher education programs, which the government has a lot of say over.
The British government has established the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted) to maintain those standards. Most countries have specific regulations for their teachers, so this isn’t any different than studying teaching in your home country. Because of its strict rules and high standards for teacher education programs, the UK is considered to have some of the best teacher education programs in the world.
Even though universities set the syllabi, the Office for Fair Access (OFFA) in the British school system has a lot of say in the admission procedures of each university. This office was created so everyone who wishes to attend university in the UK can do so. They also promote fair access to higher education, even for those attending university as international students. Appropriate access also includes those of different cultures, different races, different nationalities, and those who have disabilities.
UK Tuition Fees and Costs
The reputation of British higher education goes hand in hand with its costs. Tuition fees may vary from university to university, as well as from one location to another.
So it’s always advisable to check the university’s website before making further study plans. Indeed, to attend a British university, you need a lot of money packed in —whether you’re a native or not— but since there are many scholarship schemes, you can always apply for one.
The tuition fees of UK universities also vary depending on the degree level and study program. The average tuition fees for international students range from ~£17,109 (USD 20,876) to ~£22,200 (USD 27,000).
- Undergraduate tuition fees: International students pay around £11,400 – £38,000 (USD 13,900 – USD 46,355).
- Postgraduate tuition fees: International students pay around £9,000 – £30,000 (USD 10,980 – USD 36,570)
International students are a substantial part of the student population in British universities. The UK is the second most popular study destination for international students, following the US at the top. If you decide to be one of more than a million international students in the US, you’re one step away from a guaranteed brighter future.
Academics and employers value the UK education system and its higher education degrees worldwide. The UK has a rich history of quality higher education, and each university has excellent options for any student.
Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students
Studying in the UK comes at a very high price. Some students may dream to get a British degree, but still, seek to get the very best deal in terms of money. In the UK there’s a countless number of Universities each with different tuition fees and other expenses, and to a certain degree, everyone seeking an affordable option will likely find one. And what’s even better, this is not done at the cost of your degree.
Following a governmental decision that came into power in 2017, British universities are allowed to charge home students with tuition fees up to £9,250. At the same time, universities independently set their tuitions’ policy for international scholars.
Fairly, this is a high amount of money and for many may not be affordable. Knowing that the UK is one of the most expensive countries to live, imagine taking into consideration other expenses that come into play in your life as an international student. For most of us, this would turn the studying in the UK on an impossible mission.
There are universities in the UK, which charge the same minimum £9,250 for international students as for the home students.
Note: Universities are enlisted according to their undergraduate’s course tuition fees
List of the Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students:
University of Stirling, Stirling – £13,650
Founded in 1967 the University of Stirling has built its reputation upon excellence and innovation. For its prospective students, it offers a high-quality education and a wide spectrum of study programs. Despite being a highly reputed, the University of Stirling is definitely one of the cheapest universities in the UK. Undergraduate students at this university will be charged £12,140 in a Classroom-based course and £14,460 for a Laboratory-based course. Tuition fees at the postgraduate level are divided into bands (A, B, C*, D) and vary between £13,650 and £18,970.
Queen Margaret University, Musselburgh, East Lothian – £13,000
The campus of the Queen Margaret University is located just six minutes by train far from the wonderful city of Edinburgh, in the seaside town of Musselburgh. For those who love the sun, this city is a place to be, because it is the sunniest area in Scotland. At this university, you’ll find a wide range of study programs. The tuition it carries is fairly low in comparison to the British standard. For the upcoming academic year, 2018/19 international students at the undergraduate level will be charged with tuition fees between £12,500 and £13,500, while those at the postgraduate level will be charged much less.
Southampton Solent University – £12,500
The Southampton Solent University study programs are sought after by numerous international scholars. Its student population consists of students coming from almost 100 nationalities. The followings are tuition fees for international students in the 2018/19 academic year
Full-time undergraduate fees:
Bachelor’s degree £12,500
Foundation Year/Certificate £11,000
Higher National Diplomas/Certificates (HND/HNC) £11,000 (additional registration fee may apply)
Full-time postgraduate fees:
MA: £12,500
MSc: £13,500
MBA: £15,000
Full-time postgraduate research: £12,500
University of West London – £12,000
The University of West London enjoys a worldwide reputation as an excellent university. As such qualitative university, in this year’s Guardian University Guide 2019 it is ranked 50th. Its outstanding education and research are carried out on its modern campus that consists of brilliant facilities where everyone can improve. However, with its fairly low tuition fees, the University of West London is one of the cheapest Universities in the UK. In most cases, the tuition fee for the 2018/19 academic year at this university is £12,000.
Leeds Becket University – £12,000
Based on the biggest financial district aside from London, and the vibrant city of Leeds, this university defines itself as a university with clear educational ambitions. Their goal is to equip scholars with an exceptional level of education and skills that will guide their way toward the future. The University runs a number of partnerships with different organizations and companies around to ensure its students get the best opportunities to find a good job after completing their studies. Currently, the university boasts over 28,000 students coming from almost 100 countries of the world. In addition, the Leeds Becket University has some of the lowest tuition fees among all British universities. At this university, you’ll have to pay as follows
Undergraduate (most courses) – £12,000
Postgraduate (most courses) – £11,500 – £12,500
Research – £12,000 (may change in 2019/20)
Teeside University – £11,825
The reputation of the Teeside University is both nationally and internationally recognized. Through its rich scheme of study programs and high-quality teaching and research, the university guarantees to offers its student an exceptional education. Its reasonable tuition fees make this university still more attractive to international students. The 2018/19 academic year for an international foundation program will cost £9,750. For a full-time undergraduate course, you will have to pay £11,825 per an academic year. At the postgraduate level, there is much diverse tuition fee scheme. It starts at £5,875 in a part-time distance learning research degree and it ranges up to £17,000 in the Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Wrexham Glyndwr University – £11,750
Established in 2008, the Wrexham Glyndwr University is one of the youngest universities in the whole UK. But, regardless of its very short history, this university is highly valued for its quality of education. Besides, it is a university easily affordable because it carries considerably low tuition fees for international students. The tuition fees for the 2018/19 academic year at the University of Glyndwr will be as follows:
Undergraduate – £11,750
Postgraduate – £12,500
University of Bedfordshire – £11,500
The University of Bedfordshire established in 2006, as a blending of the University of Luton and De Montfort’s University, two Bedford’s University campuses. The institution enjoys a global appealing, hosting more than 20,000 students coming from over 120 countries. Besides being this highly reputed and valued university, it carries affordable tuition fees for the international students. According to their actual tuition fee policy, international undergraduate students will have to pay £11,500 for a BA or BSc degree program, £12,000 for an MA/MSc degree program and £12,500 for an MBA degree program.
University of Cumbria – £10,500
The University of Cumbria opened its doors just ten years ago and today it counts 10,000 students. Their clear long-term aim is to prepare its students to be able to give their fullest potential and seek a successful career. Although it’s such a qualitative university, the Cumbria University is one of the cheapest in the UK. The tuition fees it charges for international students, changes depending on the type and the academic level of your course. At the undergraduate level, an international student will have to pay between £1,554 for a Presessional English (6 weeks) to £15,500 for BA (Hons) Social Work and Health Pre-registration Program. At the postgraduate level, the tuition fees may range from £3,500 (Young people Community and Society) up to £15,500 (Nuclear Security Management, Ecosystem Services Evaluation).
University of Chester – £9,250
The University of Chester opened its doors in the far year 1839. Throughout this long history, the university has created a unique identity of a quality higher education institution. Their aim is to prepare students to gain the necessary skills which later will help them build their academic career and help their local communities. A degree at this university comes at a very affordable price. Depending on the type and the level of the course of your choice, these are the tuition fees you’d expect at the University of Chester as an international student
International Foundation Program – £9,250
Bachelor’s degree including Foundation – £9,250 Year 1 – £11,950 Years 2-4
Undergraduate – £11,950
UG Pre-Reg Nursing Pathways – £9,250 + £3,000 placement
Postgraduate – £12,000
MBA – £12,250
Research Degrees – MRes/MPhil/PhD (Lab-based) – £16,228
Research Degrees – MRes/MPhil/PhD (Classroom-based) – £16,635ubsibe T
00+bout studying in the UK
Points required to obtain Tier 4 General Student Visa:
To successfully apply for a Tier 4 General visa, you must have to score 40 out of 40 points.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Letter – 30 Points.
- Maintenance (Funds) – 10 points
Funds to be shown:
- If you wish to study within London borough – First year tuition + £12,006
- Outside London borough – First year tuition + £9,207
Living Expenses: Estimated at £500 – £1000 (per month).
Acceptable Funds: Bank balance in Savings Account, FDR Account (listed Bank only).
Visa Application Fees
- Tier 4 (General) or Tier 4 (Child) – £348
Visa processing times for Bangladesh
- 7 Working Days (Premium) to 20 Working Days (Normal)
Documents
As with almost all universities worldwide, UK universities also require a list of documents to attach along with their application, either online or by mail (depending on the higher education institution).
Here are some of the most common documents that UK universities require:
- A copy of your valid passport or other forms of admissable ID.
- Two or more recent photographs (depending on the university’s requirements).
- Certificates or diplomas of previous academic studies.
- High school and/or other degree transcripts.
- Proof of English language proficiency (see the section above for details).
- Personal statement/Letter of motivation.
- Recommendation and reference letters.
- SAT/ACT scores (for certain degree programs).
- Proof of financial means to support your studies.
- Student visa.
- CV or portfolios (depending on the degree program).
Interviews
Some universities, not all, may sometimes interview their applicants as a final step of the application process. During an interview, the admission board may be interested to know more about the applicant’s goals and understand how their future plans match the course they applied for.
The interviews are usually necessary when there are many students for a limited number of available places, and the admission board has to rely on additional methods to select the best candidates. Interviews as part of the admissions process are mostly carried out in prestigious universities.
Note: Most universities hold interviews through online platforms such as Skype.
Additional Requirements
Under certain circumstances, the university is allowed to ask applicants for additional requirements. These additional documents mostly include motivation letters or personal statements. If the university decides, they may ask for health, financial, and criminal background checks.
Money you need
You must have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself in the UK.
How much money you need depends on your circumstances and what you’re applying for.
Course fee
You need enough money to pay for your course for 1 academic year (up to 9 months). The amount you need to pay will be on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
If you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, you do not need to prove you have this money for your visa application.
Money to support yourself (‘financial requirement’)
You’ll need to show you have enough money to support yourself – unless you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application.
How much money you need depends on where you will be studying. You’ll need either:
- £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
- £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London
If you’re boarding at a residential independent school, you’ll need to pay boarding fees instead. The amount you need to pay will be on your CAS.
London means the City of London and the 32 London boroughs.
You’ll need to prove you have extra money for each family member you bring with you.
You must have this money for at least 28 consecutive days. The end date of the 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you apply for your visa.
Example: If you submit your application on 1 January 2021, you’d have to show that the funds were in your bank account for at least the 28-day period ending on 1 December.
If you have a student loan or financial sponsorship, you’ll need to provide evidence of this from your loan or sponsorship company.
When you do not need to prove you have money to support yourself
You do not need to prove the financial requirement if:
you’ve had a UK visa for 12 months prior to the date of your Student visa application – you must currently be in the UK
you’re applying as a student union sabbatical officer
you’re applying as a postgraduate doctor or dentist on a recognised foundation programme.
- University of Huddersfield
- University of Hertfordshire
- Coventry University
- University of East London
- Keele University
- University of Bradford
- Kingston University
- Liverpool John Moores University
- University of West of Scotland
- University of South Wales
- Central Lancashire University
- University of Greenwich
- Northumbria University
- Ulster University
- University of Roehampton
- Middlesex University
- Solent University
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- University for Creative Arts
- Cardiff Metropolitan University
- University of Law
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- Newcastle University
- University of Exeter
- Portsmouth University
- London Southbank University
- Brunel University