Studying in the UnitedKingdom This page explains student visa scheme. If you have plans to work then you need to look at the working in the UK page of this website. If you choose to study in the UK you can be sure of high standards, modern facilities, cutting-edge departments, tailored support and value for money whichever of the many courses you decide to undertake. Not only will you enjoy a first-class education, but also by studying in the UK you will place yourself in a great position to experience the UK and the rest of Europe. A qualification from a UK institution is very prestigious, as standards are high at all levels. Universities and colleges are continually assessed by official bodies that grade the standard of their research and teaching. The qualifications students gain are recognised worldwide, and UK courses encourage independence, creativity and, importantly, self-reliance. All of these qualities are appreciated by employers worldwide. All students need a student entry clearance to enter the United Kingdom to study, except those on a course of study of six months or less who may qualify for entry under the new category of student visitor Student If you are go to the United Kingdom as a student, before you go there you will should have been accepted onto a course of study by an organisation that is on the register of education and training providers. The course should be at one of the following: A publicly funded institution of further or higher education (a university) with maintained records of enrolment and attendance which are readily available to us; A genuine private education institution; or An independent fee-paying school; and you need to be undertaking one of these: A recognised full-time degree course; A course run during the week that involves at least 15 hours of organised daytime study a week; or A full-time course of study at an independent fee paying school. You must also be registered with the United Kingdom awarding body if you are studying externally for a degree at a private education institution; and be able to pay for your course and support and accommodate yourself and any dependants without working and plan to leave the United Kingdom when you complete your studies Our advisors have visited and lived in London for several years and will give you extensive information including departure, arrival and living in the UK. 1. Check if you need to register Some foreign nationals are required to register with the police within seven days of landing in the UK (it should be clear from your passport stamp if you do). You'll need your passport, two passport pictures, and £34 in cash. 2. Buy a coat It's often said that the only predictable thing about British weather is its unpredictability. Most international societies recommend bringing a coat, sturdy shoes and warm clothing to the UK (although these will be reasonably cheap to buy when you arrive.) Another way to combat the chill is to burn any shorts or sunglasses you've brought and warm your hands over the resulting fire... 3. Open a bank account It's useful to have a UK bank account to enable you to pay bills and rent quickly and easily. Sadly, banks tend only to lavish free gifts and large overdraft facilities on those with UK passports. However, you can get a basic bank account which will not give you credit but will enable you to get money from cash machines and make payments. Compare what the different banks offer at www.bba.org.uk. 4. Join the international society Your university and student union will help if you're experiencing difficulties with your course or life in the UK. Your best resource, though, is your international society, which will have specific experience and understanding of your needs. Most run orienteering courses and social events, which are a great way to meet people. Find them via your institution's website or student union. 5. Learn more English If you're reading this, you either have a decent grasp of English already or are great at using those translation websites. However, the academic English you'll be required to use in assignments is quite advanced. Institutions offer a range of courses, from free lunchtime tutorials to residential pre-sessional courses that cost £200-£300 a week. Look at options on your institution’s website and www.englishuk.com. 6. Stay healthy If you get a snivel, you've probably been gripped by a favourite in Britain: the common cold. Get rest, fluids and vitamins. If symptoms get worse, consult your local doctor (see www.nhs.uk for the nearest); all treatment on the National Health Service is free if you're studying in the UK for six months or more. Information and advice is also available at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk. 7. Stay in touch If you're thinking of getting a mobile phone or landline with broadband, check out the different rates on offer at www.s-k-i-n-t.co.uk/skinttariffs. Post offices are open from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am-12.30pm on Saturdays. Airmail costs 48p/54p for Europe/the rest of the world (larger packages must be weighed and measured). Skype has revolutionised international communication, offering free internet calls where you can speak to and wave at friends and family; download it at www.skype.com. Did you get all that? 8. Don't be a victim Generally, the UK is a safe and welcoming place for international students. Students can be a target for thieves though, so keep doors and windows locked if you go out; when you do, try to stay in groups and don't leave valuables on display. You can call the emergency services on 999 free from any phone; for non-emergencies contact your nearest police station (see www.yell.com). Insurance is a good idea; Endsleigh, www.endsleigh.co.uk, specialise in student policies. 9. Get a job Working part-time is a great way to earn cash and meet people. If you're from outside the EEA but on a full-time course of study, you can work up to 20 hours a week in term time and full-time during holidays. 10. Move around Public transport in the UK is generally cheap and well-organised; student cards often get you a discount on buses. If you're in London, an Oyster card is essential (see www.tfl.gov.uk ). Black taxis can be hailed in the street; minicabs should be phoned to make sure they're legitimate. For travel around the UK, you can get a third of coach and train tickets with a student pass - see www.nationalexpress.com and www.youngpersons-railcard.co.uk. Studying in the UK needs several weeks and months of planning, at Dearson Winyard International we will ensure that your application meets UK student immigration requirements and approved without any disappointment that shatters your dream. All our advisors have several years of experience in preparing visa applications and have 100% success on business, family visits or tourist visa. Choosing Dearson Winyard will be a wisest choice and a stress-free process to get your application approved. Start my visa application Useful Information Apply direct to universities Check DFES register for genuine UK colleges The British Council The Council for International Education International Student Travel Confederation