Ibrahim Gardner
International students can enrol in university courses in many countries, including the UK and the US. In the UK, international students can apply for postgraduate courses, conservatoires, and even part-time jobs. However, they must meet specific English language requirements and obtain a student visa. Similarly, in the US, international students can pursue university courses, but they need to obtain an F-1 or M-1 visa and ensure that the university is Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified. Online courses are also an option for international students, providing flexibility and convenience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students in the UK | Need a student visa and basic knowledge of immigration |
| Need to prove English language proficiency | |
| Can seek financial support | |
| Can work part-time | |
| International students in the US | Need a student visa |
| Need an international student insurance plan | |
| Need to start preparing months in advance | |
| Can consider community college for the first two years | |
| Can study at both public and private schools | |
| Need a Form I-20, valid passport, and I-901 SEVIS fee payment receipt | |
| International students in Canada | Need a study permit |
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What You'll Learn
Student visa requirements
International students looking to study in the UK or US will need to apply for a student visa. Here are the requirements for both countries:
UK Student Visa Requirements
Every international application to study in the UK requires a student visa and a basic knowledge of immigration procedures. You will need to prove that you have the necessary level of English language proficiency, which varies from university to university and even from course to course within the same university.
US Student Visa Requirements
The US student visa process is more complex and competitive. Students should start preparing months in advance and stay organized and informed throughout. There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for international students: F-1 and M-1 visas. F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while M-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies.
To obtain an F-1 visa, you must:
- Be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program.
- Enroll in a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency.
- Have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study.
- Maintain a residence abroad with no intention of giving up.
To obtain an M-1 visa, you must:
- Be enrolled in vocational or other non-academic programs, excluding language training.
- Enroll in a school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
In addition to the above requirements, students applying for either visa must:
- Have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their period of stay in the US (unless exempt by country-specific agreements).
- Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, if applicable.
- Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160, and upload a photo in the required format.
- Obtain the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1 or M-1) Student Status (Form I-20) from your school.
- Register in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS) and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
- Schedule and attend a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate, presenting your Form I-20 to the consular officer.
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English language skills
International students who wish to attend a university in an English-speaking country often need to demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency. This can be done through standardised tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which assesses one's ability to listen, speak, read and write in English. Universities often specify the minimum IELTS score required for admission.
English Language Courses for International Students
Many universities offer English language courses specifically designed for international students to help them meet the English language requirements for university entrance. These courses can vary in length and intensity, ranging from pre-sessional or in-sessional courses to full-time academic English programmes.
Pre-sessional Courses
Pre-sessional courses are designed for students who have an offer to study at a university but need to improve their English language skills to meet the entry requirements. For example, the University of Manchester offers pre-sessional courses exclusively for students accepted into one of their degree programmes who need to meet the English language requirements. Similarly, the University of Sussex provides pre-sessional English courses for students applying to Sussex.
In-sessional Courses
In-sessional courses are offered to currently enrolled students who need additional support with their English language skills. These courses often include workshops, one-on-one support, and academic writing tutorials to help international students improve their English proficiency while studying at the university. The University of Manchester's University Centre for Academic English is one example, providing various in-sessional support services for students whose first language is not English.
Full-time Academic English Programmes
Some universities offer more comprehensive English language programmes for international students, such as the University of Auckland's English Language Academy (ELA). ELA provides several English programmes, including the Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes (FCertEAP), a 20-week direct entry university pathway. This programme prepares students for academic studies by developing their note-taking, academic writing, exam preparation, presentation, and communication skills. Similarly, the University of Sussex offers Intensive English courses for students wishing to study in the UK, allowing them to study English as a foreign language over a term or more.
Elective Classes
In addition to the core English language curriculum, some universities offer elective classes that allow students to tailor their learning experience. For instance, the University of Auckland's General English course includes electives that enable students to focus on specific subjects or skills. These elective classes are designed to meet the diverse learning goals and needs of international students.
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Financial options
International students often have to rely on personal and external financial resources to cover their tuition and expenses, as they don't qualify for federal or state aid. However, there are still several financial options available to international students who want to pursue university courses.
Scholarships and Grants
Some universities offer grants and scholarships specifically for international students. These can be merit-based or need-based. For example, Howard University in Washington, D.C., offers Freshman Scholarships for first-time-in-college international students. There are also international scholarships available, such as the Fulbright Commission, which grant aid to students worldwide. Scholarship databases can be a useful tool for finding opportunities that match your profile. Some databases are free, while others charge a fee.
Student Loans
International student loans can provide funding for the entire cost of your education, minus any other aid received. These loans can be used for tuition, books, room and board, travel, and living expenses. A co-signer may be required.
Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs allow students to work part-time, on-campus jobs while earning their degree. International students with F-1 status are allowed to work on campus for fewer than 20 hours per week. However, these jobs typically don't pay enough to finance a university education, so they should be considered a supplementary source of income.
On-Campus Employment
After your first year of study, you may be able to find on-campus employment opportunities, such as serving as a resident assistant (RA).
Transfer Credits
If you have taken International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) courses, you can have these credentials evaluated to see if you can receive transfer credits and reduce the time to graduation.
Country-Specific Options
Your home country may offer funding opportunities for students studying abroad. For example, Saudi Arabia provides full scholarships to Saudi students studying in the USA. However, there may be stipulations involved, such as requiring you to return to your home country after graduating.
Private Colleges
While public colleges may seem more affordable, private colleges can sometimes offer significant financial aid packages that make them a more cost-effective option.
Studying in the UK
The UK is known for having lower tuition rates than the US, which can help international students avoid or limit debt. There are also part-time job opportunities available for international students in the UK, providing a way to earn extra money and build professional skills.
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Support and adjustments
International students often face challenges when moving to a new country to study, such as language barriers, cultural differences, financial issues, and difficulties with visas. Most universities, particularly those with large numbers of international students, have well-developed support systems in place to help students settle into their new lives.
International student support services typically begin before students arrive on campus. Many universities invite international students to come a few days early to take part in orientation programs designed to help them get settled and provide practical information about the university and the local area. These programs also help students get to know each other and may include social events and activities, tours of the campus and local area, and introductory lectures. For example, the University of Warwick in the UK offers a four-day orientation program that includes a tour of the local area, social activities, and an introduction to support services and student clubs.
Once students have arrived, universities often have dedicated international student support staff who can help with any problems that arise, either directly or by directing students to the most relevant person or service. For example, the University of Otago in New Zealand has a team of international student advisers who are available by email, phone, or in person.
To help students with the transition to living in a new country, some universities offer language courses to help students navigate daily life and fully experience the local culture. For example, Incheon Global Campus in South Korea offers language support to students who are struggling with the local language.
Universities may also offer financial support to international students, who often face higher tuition fees and living costs. For example, the University of Texas at San Antonio offers scholarships to international students, and the University of Canberra in Australia provides grants and bursaries. Additionally, some universities have food banks and offer discounts on food and drinks to support students with the cost of living.
Other support services offered by universities include on-campus health clinics, which provide free or low-cost medical care and may also offer free essentials like menstrual products and condoms. For example, Cornell University in the US has a Student Health Plan that caps medical services at $10, and also provides free STI/HIV screening and treatment for LGBTQ+ students.
External support
In addition to the support provided by universities, international students can access support from external organisations. For example, UKCISA offers information on government guidelines and regulations, such as visa requirements, while the British Council's Study UK website provides practical information on studying in the UK and scholarship opportunities. Student Minds is another organisation that provides resources on student wellbeing and mental health, including links to helplines and charities.
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Course and institution research
When it comes to researching courses and institutions as an international student, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, let's look at the process for international students interested in studying in the UK:
UK Institutions:
- Visa Requirements: Every international application requires a student visa and a basic understanding of immigration processes. It is important to start the visa application process early and gather the necessary documentation.
- English Language Proficiency: International students applying to UK universities must demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency. The required level may vary depending on the university and the course.
- Financial Considerations: Studying in the UK can be financially challenging for international students. It is essential to explore financial options, such as scholarships and bursaries, to support your education.
- Support Services: Research the support services available for international students at the institutions you are considering. This includes assistance with practical matters, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
- Course Options: Explore the range of courses offered by different UK universities. Consider your academic interests and career goals when deciding on a specific course of study.
Now, let's shift our focus to the process for international students interested in studying in the United States:
US Institutions:
- Visa Requirements: To study in the US, international students typically need a student visa, such as the F-1 or M-1 visa. Ensure you understand the specific visa requirements and application process for the type of visa you need.
- Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Certification: US schools must have SEVP certification to enrol international students. Verify that the institutions you are considering have and maintain this certification.
- Course Options: Research the wide range of courses offered by US colleges and universities. Websites like internationalstudent.com provide valuable information on various fields of study, such as law, information technology, engineering, and business.
- Financial Considerations: The cost of studying in the US can vary significantly. Community colleges, for instance, offer a more affordable option for international students seeking a high-quality education.
- Cultural and Social Aspects: Studying in a new country involves adapting to a different culture and social environment. Research the cultural and social aspects of studying in the US and consider reaching out to current international students to gain insights into their experiences.
- Work Opportunities: If you plan to work while studying, investigate the rules and regulations regarding part-time employment for international students in the US.
Remember, thorough research is key to making an informed decision about your studies abroad. Both the UK and the US have unique processes and considerations for international students, so be sure to tailor your research accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
International students taking online courses in the US have special considerations, such as visa requirements and maintaining active student visa status. They may also need to comply with Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification.
Yes, international students can take on-campus courses in the US. However, they must obtain a student visa (F-1 or M-1) and ensure that the school is properly certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Financial pressures are one of the main challenges international students may face when studying in the UK. However, there is support available, including scholarships and bursaries. Adjusting to life in a new culture can also be challenging, but resources are available to help with this transition.
