Savanna Hoffman
International students are generally not permitted to study part-time in the UK due to visa restrictions. To study part-time in the UK, international students must apply for a Visitor Visa, which comes with several limitations. These include not being able to work in the UK, remotely for an overseas company, or bring family members as visa dependents. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, at the University of Cambridge, students who are enrolled in part-time PhD programs can visit Cambridge for short periods of time under the visitor immigration route, as long as they are based overseas for the majority of their studies. Additionally, a pilot scheme has been introduced, offering a simplified application process for international students wishing to study part-time postgraduate courses in the UK. In the US, international students can enter as full-time students with an F-1 Visa or as vocational students with an M-1 Visa.
Can international students apply for part-time degrees?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students studying part-time in the UK | Generally, international students can't study part-time in the UK. However, there is a pilot scheme for some international students who want to take a postgraduate course on a part-time basis. |
| International students studying part-time in the US | International students can study part-time in the US with an F-1 or M-1 visa. |
| Student visa requirements for part-time study in the UK | The requirements are the same as for full-time students, but the visa is more restrictive. Students cannot work in the UK or bring family members as visa dependents. |
| Part-time degree options at the University of Cambridge | Part-time degrees are available at the Institute of Continuing Education, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, and some courses at Cambridge Judge Business School. These courses are not eligible for student visa sponsorship. |
| Part-time degree options at Aberystwyth University | International students can study research courses part-time without a Student Visa, but they must attend the University for the equivalent of one week each academic year. |
| Part-time degree options at the University of Cambridge for students with disabilities | The University will sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD if the student is studying part-time due to a disability. |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time degree visa requirements
The visa requirements for part-time degrees vary depending on the country and the specific program. Here are the general guidelines and considerations for international students seeking to pursue a part-time degree:
United Kingdom
In the UK, part-time postgraduate degree students at certain universities, such as Cambridge, need to ascertain the visa support provided for their specific program. This is because visa requirements differ based on attendance demands and the course structure. For instance, students on part-time courses longer than six months, where most of the time is spent outside the UK with only short teaching sessions requiring attendance in Cambridge, can be supported under the visitor immigration route. This includes certain part-time degrees at the Institute of Continuing Education and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. These courses are not eligible for student visa sponsorship.
On the other hand, the University of Cambridge can sponsor a student visa for a part-time degree if the student will be based in Cambridge for the majority of their studies and the reason for studying part-time is due to a disability. Additionally, the University can sponsor a part-time student visa for most MEd routes in the Faculty of Education, enabling students to reside in the UK during their studies.
It is important to note that the part-time student visa in the UK does not permit any work or allow dependent family members to accompany the student to the UK.
United States
In the US, international students can obtain either an F-1 or M-1 visa to study part-time. The F-1 visa is for those enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program at a college, university, or other academic institution. The M-1 visa is for students in vocational or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. To obtain an F-1 visa, the student must be enrolled in a program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate, and the school must be authorized by the US government to accept foreign students.
F-1 students are not permitted to work off-campus during their first academic year but may accept on-campus employment with certain restrictions. After the first year, they may engage in specific off-campus employment opportunities, such as the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training Extension (OPT). To work part-time during their studies, students should discuss opportunities with their Designated School Official (DSO) and ensure they follow all rules and regulations.
In summary, the visa requirements for part-time degrees vary by country and specific program details. It is important for international students to carefully review the visa options, restrictions, and application processes for their intended country of study.
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Part-time degree costs
International students' eligibility to study part-time in the UK depends on their visa status. Generally, international students cannot study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions. For example, at Aberystwyth University, international students can study research courses part-time without requiring a Student Visa as long as they attend the university for the equivalent of one week per academic year.
At the University of Cambridge, some part-time degrees are not eligible for student visa sponsorship due to their structure and attendance arrangements. These include part-time degrees at the Institute of Continuing Education, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, and some courses at Cambridge Judge Business School. Part-time PhD students at Cambridge can visit the UK for short periods of attendance under the visitor immigration route, but they must be based overseas for the majority of their studies.
At the University of Cambridge, the university will only sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD if the student is studying part-time due to a disability. In this case, the student must be based in Cambridge for the majority of their course and cannot work or bring dependent family members to the UK.
In some cases, international students may be eligible for a specialised visa if they are studying a postgraduate degree lasting 13 months or less. This visa allows students to stay in the UK for an additional 6 months after their course to look for work and apply for a Tier 2 work visa.
Regarding the costs of part-time degrees, tuition fees vary depending on the university and program. For example, at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), part-time undergraduate students pay an annual miscellaneous fee of S$20.00, which covers items such as CLASS copyright licensing fees, computer fees, and student cards. There may also be additional costs for textbooks, re-sit examination fees, and other items not covered by tuition fees. SUSS offers a tuition fee subsidy for Singapore Citizens (SC) aged 40 and above who are pursuing MOE-subsidized part-time undergraduate programs. SUSS also provides a 30% course fee concession for alumni who enroll in a Graduate Diploma or Master's program after completing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree at the university.
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Part-time degree application process
The application process for part-time degrees varies depending on the institution and the country. Here is a general overview of the steps you can expect when applying for a part-time degree as an international student:
Check Eligibility and Requirements
Before starting your application, carefully review the eligibility criteria and requirements for the specific part-time degree programme. Different institutions may have varying requirements, such as academic qualifications, language proficiency, and relevant work experience. International students may also need to meet additional criteria, such as proof of financial support and visa eligibility.
Gather Required Documents
You will need to prepare and gather all the necessary documents for your application. This may include academic transcripts, certificates, proof of language proficiency, passport, visa (if applicable), and any other supporting documents specified by the institution.
For example, Temasek Polytechnic in Singapore requires the following documents for part-time degree applications:
- GCE 'O' level certificate/transcript/result slip
- Nitec and/or Higher Nitec certificate(s) and transcript(s)
- Other relevant certificates and transcripts (e.g., GCE 'N' level, GCE 'A' level, Diploma, Degree, etc.)
- For holders of foreign qualifications, English translations of certificates and transcripts may be required
Complete the Application Form
Most institutions will have an online application system or portal where you can create an account and submit your application. Carefully fill out all the required fields, providing accurate and up-to-date information. You may also be asked to submit additional documents or supporting materials, such as a statement of purpose, resume, or letters of recommendation.
Some institutions, like Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), charge a non-refundable application fee for each e-application, which is payable online.
Submit the Application
Submit your completed application by the specified deadline. Make sure to keep a copy of your application for your records. You will usually receive an acknowledgement notification and receipt via email confirming the successful submission of your application.
Await Admission Decision
After submitting your application, the institution will review your credentials and make an admission decision. The time taken to process applications can vary, and you may receive an offer of admission or an update on your application status via email.
Accept Offer and Enrol
If your application is successful, you will receive enrolment information along with your offer notification. To secure your place, you will need to accept the offer and complete the enrolment process by the stipulated deadline. This may include paying the course fees and submitting any additional required documents.
Visa Application (if applicable)
As an international student, you may need to apply for a student visa to study part-time in a foreign country. The visa requirements and application process can vary depending on the country and your specific circumstances.
For instance, in the UK, international students generally cannot study part-time on a Tier 4 Study Visa. However, there may be exceptions or specialised visa schemes available, especially for postgraduate courses. Additionally, some universities will only sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD if the reason for studying part-time is due to a disability.
It is important to carefully review the visa requirements and consult official government sources or immigration advisers for up-to-date and accurate information.
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Part-time degree restrictions
International students are generally not permitted to study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions and alternative options available.
Student Visa Restrictions
Student visas for part-time degrees are more restrictive than those for full-time degrees. For example, a part-time student visa does not allow the visa holder to undertake any work in the UK, including paid or unpaid work, placements, internships, or work experience. Additionally, part-time student visas do not allow visa holders to bring family members to the UK as dependents.
The eligibility criteria for part-time degrees for international students vary depending on the university and the specific program. Some universities may only offer part-time degrees to international students under certain circumstances, such as in the case of a disability that prevents full-time study.
Alternative Options
International students interested in studying part-time may consider a visitor visa or a specialized visa for postgraduate courses lasting 13 months or less. Additionally, some universities offer part-time degrees that can be completed entirely online or with short periods of attendance, which may be suitable for international students who cannot relocate to the UK.
Full-time Study Benefits
While part-time study may not be widely available to international students, full-time study offers benefits such as the opportunity to work and gain practical experience in the UK. Full-time study can also provide a more intensive learning experience, allowing students to complete their degrees in a shorter period.
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Part-time degree benefits
Generally, international students cannot study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, at the University of Cambridge, students on part-time courses longer than six months who spend the majority of their time outside the UK and are only required to attend short teaching sessions in Cambridge can be supported under the visitor immigration route. Similarly, at Aberystwyth University, international students can study research courses part-time without a student visa, as long as they attend the university for the equivalent of one week per academic year.
In Canada, the government offers funding to part-time students in the form of grants and loans. The University of British Columbia defines a part-time undergraduate student as one enrolled in less than 80% of the standard 30-credit-hour course load.
Part-time degrees offer a range of benefits, including:
- Flexibility: Part-time degrees allow students to balance their learning with work, family, and other personal commitments. Classes are often held outside of office hours, making it convenient for those with regular employment.
- Career advancement: Part-time degrees can help individuals upskill and acquire new knowledge and skills relevant to the current market demands. This can lead to career advancement, a career change, or improved job security.
- Networking opportunities: While full-time degrees offer excellent networking opportunities, part-time degrees also enable students to build a professional network with individuals who have similar aspirations and goals.
- Practical learning: Part-time degrees allow individuals to practice what they learn in real-time, especially for those seeking to learn and grow within an organization by taking on more responsibilities.
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Frequently asked questions
Generally, international students cannot study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions, and it is best to seek advice from an immigration solicitor or the university's international student adviser.
The requirements for a part-time student visa are the same as for a full-time student visa, but the visa is more restrictive. Students cannot work in the UK, including paid or unpaid work, placements, internships, or work experience. Family members cannot come to the UK as visa dependents.
No, the part-time student visa does not permit any work, nor does it allow dependent family members to live in the UK.
In some cases, international students on a visitor visa may be able to study part-time in the UK, but this is dependent on the length of their course and the amount of time spent in the UK.
Yes, students on a tier 4 study visa can undertake most paid work in the UK, which can help with expenses.
