Savanna Hoffman
The UK is a popular destination for international students due to its high academic standards and diverse attractions. International students contribute significantly to the country's vibrant educational landscape. When it comes to part-time courses, the visa requirements and options vary for international students in the UK. While some universities offer sponsorship for part-time student visas, others do not, and international students are generally advised to enrol in full-time programmes to obtain a student visa. Additionally, certain conditions, such as having a disability or the absence of a full-time equivalent programme, may influence an international student's eligibility for a part-time student visa. It is important for prospective international students to carefully research the specific requirements of their desired universities and visa options before applying for part-time courses in the UK.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students apply for part-time courses in the UK? | Yes, international students can apply for part-time courses in the UK. |
| Visa requirements for part-time courses | International students may need a Student Visa or a Visitor Visa to study part-time in the UK. The visa requirements depend on the student's country of origin, course type, and duration of stay in the UK. |
| Work restrictions on part-time student visas | Part-time students on certain visas may not be permitted to work in the UK. |
| Dependants on part-time student visas | Part-time students on certain visas may not be allowed to bring dependants to the UK. |
| Health surcharge on part-time student visas | Part-time students on certain visas must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for the duration of their programme. |
| English language proficiency requirements | International students may be required to prove their English language skills by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT) if they require a student visa. |
| Course fees for international students | The average cost of tuition fees for international students is £11,000 per year, with living expenses ranging from £8,000 to £11,000 per year. Some course fees are around £30,000 per year. |
| University support for international students | Many UK universities have international offices, student societies, counsellors, and advisers dedicated to supporting international students. |
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What You'll Learn
Student visa requirements for part-time courses
International students can apply for part-time courses in the UK, but the visa requirements can vary depending on the course and individual circumstances. Here are the key student visa requirements for part-time courses in the UK:
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Student Visa, you must be 16 years old or above and intend to study on a further or higher education course in the UK. If you are below 18 years of age and want to study at an independent school, you may be eligible for a Child Student Visa.
Course Requirements
The part-time course must lead to a qualification above the degree level (RQF level 7 or above). Additionally, if you are pursuing a master's degree or higher, you may need to apply for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
Sponsorship
For certain part-time courses, universities may sponsor your student visa application. For example, the University of Cambridge will sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD or MPhil/MRes if the reason for studying part-time is due to a disability or if there is no full-time equivalent course available.
Evidence of Immigration Status
If you already have UK immigration status that permits you to undertake your part-time course, you must provide evidence of this during the admissions process. If your existing immigration permission does not cover the length of your course, you may need to consider other options.
Application Process
To initiate the visa application process, you must first obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your educational institution. This is a reference number that confirms an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor. With this, you can apply for your student visa up to six months before your course starts.
Fees and Charges
There is an application fee of £524 for students, and you must have a current passport. Additionally, if you plan to stay in the UK for more than six months, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The amount varies depending on the length of your stay.
Work Restrictions
It is important to note that part-time student visas may not permit any work, and they typically do not allow dependent family members to live in the UK. However, this may differ depending on the specific visa and course.
In summary, while international students can pursue part-time courses in the UK, the visa requirements can be complex and depend on various factors. It is essential to carefully review the requirements and restrictions of the specific part-time course and visa category before initiating the application process.
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Part-time work for international students
International students in the UK are allowed to work part-time, but there are certain rules and restrictions that must be followed. These rules depend on the type of visa and course the student holds.
Part-time work rules for international students in the UK
International students in the UK on a Student Visa are allowed to work part-time, but there are restrictions on the number of hours they can work. Students can work a maximum of 20 hours per week during university term time and full-time during vacations. During the term, language centre students are restricted to 10 hours per week. It is important to note that these rules are for paid or unpaid work.
International students on a Tier 4 (General) UK student visa are advised to work a maximum of 15 hours per week to maintain a study-life balance.
Types of part-time work for international students
There are three main types of part-time work for international students in the UK: on-campus, off-campus, and internships or placements. On-campus jobs include positions such as library assistants, teaching assistants, lab assistants, and campus guides. These jobs may not pay well but provide good experience. Off-campus work is also an option, with many students finding casual work in hospitality, retail, or events.
Part-time work rules for international students on a part-time course
It is important to note that students on a part-time course in the UK are not allowed to work any additional part-time or full-time job. International students on a part-time course must have a work permit (Tier 2 visa) to work full-time or permanently.
Visa requirements for part-time work
International students in the UK on a Student Visa must ensure their visa is valid and issued for a full-time course. Work placements that are an assessed and integral part of the course are allowed, but they must not exceed 50% of the course's length.
Universities' role in part-time work for international students
Universities in the UK often offer a range of on-campus job opportunities for their students, which can be a good starting point for international students seeking part-time work. The university's employability or careers team can connect students with relevant opportunities and help them navigate the UK job market.
Other considerations for part-time work
While part-time work can help international students earn extra money and cover living expenses, it is important to prioritise studies and maintain a healthy study-life balance. International students should also be aware of the visa rules and any restrictions on the type of work they can do, as non-compliance can result in deportation.
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Universities sponsoring student visas
International students can apply for part-time courses in the UK, but they will likely need a student visa. The UK Student Visa application process is points-based and requires various supporting documents, as well as confirmation of acceptance onto a course at a UK school, college, or university. The educational institution must be on the UK's list of registered student sponsors.
The University of Cambridge will only sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD or MPhil/MRes if the student is studying part-time due to a disability. Students on most MEd routes in the Faculty of Education can also be sponsored by the University for a part-time student visa. Aberystwyth University allows international students to study research courses part-time without a student visa, but they will need to attend the university for the equivalent of one week every academic year and may still need to apply for a Visitor Visa.
The Graduate Route allows international students to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. To apply for a Student Visa, you must be 16 or over and studying at the higher education level in the UK for longer than six months. The visa costs £524 per applicant and requires proof of identity. You will need to apply for this visa before arriving in the UK and may need to prove your knowledge of the English language.
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English language requirements
International students applying to UK universities are often required to demonstrate their English language proficiency to ensure they can complete their course. This is usually done through an English language test, though other methods may be used by the university. The specific requirements vary depending on the course and programme offered by the university.
The University of Manchester, for instance, accepts a range of tests for students joining a degree-level course or above. These include IELTS Academic, IELTS UKVI, Trinity College London Integrated Skills ISE II, ISE III, or ISE IV (UK only), Cambridge Advanced (CAE/C1 Advanced), Cambridge Proficiency (CPE/C2 Proficiency), and TOEFL iBT (excluding the Special Home Edition). The university also accepts some English language qualifications from other countries, depending on their assessment of its academic suitability.
The University of Portsmouth, on the other hand, requires international students to take the Academic IELTS test for entry to university programmes. The university does not accept IELTS Academic Online or IELTS General Training. For most of their Master's degrees, a minimum IELTS band of 6.5–7.0 is required, with no component below 6.0.
Additionally, students applying for a Student Visa to study a part-time course in the UK are required to take an English language course at level B2 or above in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
It is important to note that English language test scores are only valid for a certain period. For instance, IELTS, Pearson, TOEFL, and ISE scores are valid for two years after the test date.
Students can improve their English language skills by engaging in various activities beyond memorizing textbooks. Watching movies or shows with English subtitles can help with listening skills, and reading about topics of interest can strengthen reading comprehension. Additionally, there are IELTS centres and language schools worldwide that offer preparation courses for English language tests.
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Application process for international students
International students can apply for part-time courses in the UK. However, the application process can be complex, and there are several factors to consider. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process as an international student applying for a part-time course in the UK:
Step 1: Research and Choose a Course
Before applying, it is essential to thoroughly research the various courses, colleges, and universities available in the UK. Compare different institutions and select the one that best aligns with your academic goals and interests. Each university has its own entry requirements, so ensure you meet the formal criteria for your chosen course.
Step 2: Understand Visa Requirements
As an international student, you will likely need a visa to study in the UK. The type of visa required depends on several factors, including the nature of your course (part-time or full-time), its level (degree, masters, or PhD), and your country of origin.
Step 3: Check University Sponsorship
Some universities may sponsor student visas for specific part-time courses. For example, universities may sponsor visas for part-time PhD or MEd courses if studying part-time is due to a disability. In such cases, ensure you understand the requirements and restrictions of the visa, including any expectations regarding your physical presence in the UK during your studies.
Step 4: Prepare Documentation
Gather all the necessary documents for your visa application. You will typically need to provide proof of identity, exam results or transcripts, and evidence of your English language proficiency. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from your chosen university, which confirms your place on the course.
Step 5: Apply for a Visa
Submit your visa application, ensuring it is accompanied by all the required documentation. The processing time for visa applications can vary, so it is advisable to apply as early as possible. Additionally, be prepared to demonstrate that your existing immigration permission covers the duration of your intended course.
Step 6: Explore Funding Options
International students may be eligible for scholarships or other financial support to fund their studies. Research and apply for relevant scholarships to help offset the cost of your part-time course.
Step 7: Attend Interviews or Entrance Exams
Some courses may require you to attend an interview or submit work samples as part of the admissions process. Ensure you are prepared for any additional requirements and check the course information for specific details.
Remember, the application process can vary slightly depending on the university and your individual circumstances. Always refer to the official websites of your chosen university and the UK government for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can study part-time courses in the UK. However, the type of visa and the requirements and restrictions attached to it will vary depending on the course and the university.
To study a part-time course in the UK, international students will likely need a Student Visa. This visa has several restrictions, including not permitting any work and not allowing dependent family members to live in the UK. Additionally, students may be required to prove their English language skills by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
At the University of Cambridge, the university will only sponsor a student visa for a part-time PhD or MPhil/MRes if the reason for studying part-time is due to a disability or if there is no full-time equivalent. At University College London (UCL), they have decided not to offer the Student Part-time Study Visa, so international students can only receive sponsorship for full-time programmes.
In some cases, international students studying part-time may not need a Student Visa. For example, at Aberystwyth University, overseas students studying research courses part-time are expected to attend for one week per academic year and may only need a Visitor Visa. Additionally, if international students already have a UK immigration status that permits them to study, they may not need a Student Visa, but they must provide evidence during the admissions process.
