Lana Oconnell
UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, is a centralized online platform that manages all undergraduate applications to UK universities and colleges. International students can apply through UCAS, and the process is the same as for UK students. International students may need to prove their English skills and may need a visa to study in the UK, and UCAS provides a useful tool to find all the information needed to apply for a visa or to get an English language test.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application process | International students can apply to multiple universities and courses through a single centralised UCAS application form. |
| Application deadline | 15th January. Applications are accepted until 30th June. |
| Application requirements | Reference letter, qualification details, personal details, funding and sponsorship options, residential status, special needs and criminal convictions. |
| Additional requirements | Visa, basic knowledge of immigration and English language skills. |
| Application status | Can be tracked through the UCAS account. |
| Offers | Conditional and unconditional. |
| Clearing | Available for international students. |
| Fees | £9,250 (~US$13,050) per year for UK and EU students. |
| Support | Available for refugees, asylum seekers and those with limited leave to remain in the UK. |
| Work | Part-time jobs are available for international students. |
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What You'll Learn
International student entry requirements
International students applying to UK universities through UCAS have a lot to consider. The application process can be challenging, but UCAS provides many resources to help international students succeed.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements are the formal criteria that applicants must meet to be considered for a university course. Universities and colleges set their own entry requirements to ensure applicants have the right skills and knowledge to complete the course. While UCAS Tariff points are used for some UK undergraduate entry requirements, international students do not need to worry about these.
Skills and Interests
Some UK undergraduate courses may include course descriptions that mention skills, interests, or experience. Applications can be competitive, so it is important to look out for these details.
Admissions Tests
Some undergraduate courses may require applicants to complete an admissions test. This is less common, but it is important to check the course requirements. Some tests are held the year before the course start date.
Interviews
Some undergraduate courses require applicants to interview with the university. For undergraduate applications, applicants will be notified in the UCAS hub or by the university if they are invited to an interview.
English Language Skills
International students will need to demonstrate their English language skills. The required level of English varies from university to university and even from course to course within the same university. If a student visa is required, an English language test approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will likely be necessary.
Student Visa
Every international application requires a student visa and a basic knowledge of immigration. The university or college will help with the visa process.
Additional Requirements
There may be additional health, financial, or Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) checks, which check if the applicant has a criminal record. This information will be provided in the course details, and UCAS provides tips and guides to help with these requirements.
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for postgraduate courses may be more detailed and specific than those for undergraduate courses. Some requirements are applicable for all postgraduate qualifications, such as a minimum degree classification of 2:2 or relevant experience. PhD programmes often require a master's degree and a research proposal.
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Student visas
International students can apply through UCAS and will need a student visa to study in the UK. The visa will allow students to live and study in the UK for the duration of their course. The visa costs £524 per applicant, and the earliest students can apply is six months before the start of their course. The application process can take up to eight weeks, and students will need to prove their identity.
There are different types of student visas, including the Student Visa and the Child Student Visa. The type of visa depends on the student's age and the level of study. Students over 16 who want to study at a higher education level will need a Student Visa. Those under 18 who want to study at an independent school may be eligible for a Child Student Visa.
Students may be able to work while on a student visa, but the number of hours they can work will depend on their visa type and their university's rules. Students should check their visa conditions carefully before taking up any employment. Students may also be able to bring their partners and children (known as 'dependants') with them to the UK, but this will depend on their specific circumstances.
Students should be aware that breaking the conditions of their visa may result in them being unable to enter the UK again. It is important to carefully review and understand the visa requirements and restrictions before applying. Additionally, from January 2025, students will need to register with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and apply for an eVisa to verify their immigration status.
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English language skills
International students applying to UK universities through UCAS will need to demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency. The required level of English will vary from university to university and even from course to course within the same university. Therefore, it is important to check the specific requirements of your chosen course and university. University websites usually provide detailed information about the required English language proficiency level, especially on course pages within the entry requirements sections.
To prove their English language skills, international students can take English language tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Other accepted tests include the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). These tests typically assess reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with the format and structure of the test beforehand and to practice with mock test papers. Additionally, universities may also accept other methods of demonstrating English proficiency, such as previous school courses studied in English.
Some universities, such as University College London (UCL), specify their English language requirements. For example, UCL accepts the International Baccalaureate English Language subjects taken as part of the IB Diploma, with specific grade requirements for each level. They also accept the Cambridge English: C2 Proficiency (CPE) exam, with minimum overall scores and subtest scores outlined for each level.
It is worth noting that some universities offer 'pre-sessional' English language programmes for students who need to improve their English skills before starting their chosen course. Additionally, there are IELTS centres and language schools worldwide that offer preparation courses to help students meet the required entry standards. These preparation courses can be beneficial in improving English language proficiency and test-taking skills.
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Application process
International students can apply to UK universities through UCAS. In fact, for some universities, applying through UCAS is the only way to apply.
The first step in the application process is to register an account with UCAS and add your personal details, including funding and sponsorship options, residential status, any special needs, and any criminal convictions. You will need to verify this information by email. You can also give a parent, guardian, or adviser nominated access if you would like them to speak on your behalf during the UCAS process.
Next, you will need to choose your course. This is a key part of the process. You will need to commit to what you want to study, ensuring it is a subject you are passionate about, have the right qualifications for, and could support your future career plans. The qualifications required by UCAS are often stated in UK terms, such as A-levels. However, the UCAS website provides information about how international school qualifications apply to the courses you are interested in.
You will also need to prove that you have the necessary level of English. The level you need will vary between universities and courses. Work experience may be relevant when applying, particularly for postgraduate courses or courses such as medicine. You can add up to five jobs to your application.
Every international application requires a student visa and a basic knowledge of immigration.
UCAS has a wide range of information, resources, and services to support international students, including advice and guidance on the UK higher education admissions journey. They also have over 3,000 expert international registered centres located in over 150 countries and territories, offering support, resources, and training to help guide students through the process.
Before applying, it is recommended that international students attend a UK event or one of the British Council events around the world to get advice and ask any questions.
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Course search tools
UCAS provides international students with a range of course search tools to help them find the right course and university in the UK.
The UCAS Course Search Tool
The UCAS course search tool is a great resource for international students looking for a simple way to search for courses in the UK. It provides summary information about different courses, including entry requirements, application processes, and fees. This can help streamline the process of finding a course, especially considering the large number of courses available in the UK, which can sometimes be overwhelming.
The UCAS Hub
International students can create their own UCAS Hub, which helps them discover the opportunities available in the UK and explore all their options. This is especially useful for those seeking to study a postgraduate course, as it provides information on the application process, course types, and financial options.
University Websites
Once international students have narrowed down their choices, it is recommended that they visit the course page on the university website. University websites often provide more detailed information about the course, including specific entry requirements and fees. Additionally, they can offer insights into campus life and the student experience.
Open Days and Virtual Tours
UCAS suggests that international students attend open days or take virtual tours of the universities they are considering. This allows students to explore the campus, get a feel for the university environment, and ask questions of staff and students. This can be a valuable way to gather information and make a more informed decision about the right course and university.
Other Resources
In addition to the course search tools, UCAS offers a wealth of other resources for international students, including information on visas, English language requirements, student finance, and support services. There are also specific resources for refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain in the UK, ensuring that all international students can access the support they need during the application process and their time studying in the UK.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, UCAS is used for both UK nationals and international students.
The first step is to register an account with UCAS and add your personal details, including funding and sponsorship options, residential status, any special needs and any criminal convictions. You will need a reference letter from a teacher, adviser or professional. Once you have submitted your application, you can monitor its status through your UCAS account.
For Oxbridge, medicine, dentistry or veterinary science courses, the application deadline is 15 October. For all other courses, the deadline is 15 January. Many universities will still accept applications from international students until 30 June.
All undergraduate applications are managed through UCAS, which acts as an intermediary between the applicant and the universities. International students may need to prove their English skills and will need a student visa. The level of English proficiency required varies from university to university and course to course.
UCAS provides guidance on visas, English language skills and qualifications. Universities are also known for their international student support, with events and open days to help students find the right course and university.
