Savanna Hoffman
International students who wish to pursue a part-time master's degree in the UK may be able to do so, but it depends on their specific circumstances and the university they plan to attend. While some universities in the UK offer part-time postgraduate programmes to international students, not all universities provide visa sponsorship for this route. Obtaining a student visa is crucial for international students planning to study in the UK, and the requirements and restrictions can vary based on factors such as the student's country of origin, attendance requirements, and course structure. It is important for prospective international students to carefully review the visa options, eligibility criteria, and any relevant updates to immigration rules before making a decision about part-time master's studies in the UK.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students study part-time in the UK? | Generally, international students can't study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions, such as a new pilot scheme for postgraduate courses and part-time research Masters. |
| Visa requirements for part-time study | Tier 4 (replaced in 2020) or a points-based student visa is required. The University of Cambridge will only sponsor a student visa for part-time MPhil or MRes if due to a disability or if there is no full-time equivalent. |
| Work restrictions on a student visa | Student visas for part-time courses do not allow any work, paid or unpaid. Full-time students can work part-time but cannot rely on these earnings for support. |
| Visa application timeline | Applications can be made six months before the start of the course from outside the UK and three months before from inside the UK. |
| Visa fees | £524 to apply for a visa extension or switch. £776 per year for the immigration health surcharge to access the NHS. |
| Financial requirements | Students must prove they can support themselves financially during their studies and cover course fees and living expenses. |
| English language requirements | Students must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English to an acceptable level. |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time master's visa requirements
The visa requirements for international students looking to pursue a part-time master's degree in the UK have changed in recent years. Here is a detailed overview of the key requirements and considerations:
Student Visa Requirements:
The UK introduced a new points-based student visa system in 2020, which replaced the Tier 4 student visa. This new system allows international students to study part-time in the UK, but there are several conditions that must be met:
- Students must be able to prove their identity with valid travel documents.
- Students need to demonstrate English language proficiency, as border control may investigate those who appear unable to communicate in English.
- Students must show that they can financially support themselves during their studies. They cannot rely on public funds and must prove they have sufficient funds or funding to cover their expenses. This includes course fees and living costs for at least the first nine months. The required amount varies depending on location, with London requiring at least £1,483 per month, and other UK areas requiring at least £1,136 per month.
- Students may need to apply for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if their master's degree involves certain sensitive subjects.
- The visa application fee is £524, and students should allow for processing times of up to eight weeks, although decisions are usually made within three weeks.
- A student visa is typically valid for the duration of the master's degree plus an additional four months. During this extra time, students can look for work or apply for further studies, but they will likely need a new visa for these purposes.
Part-Time Student Visa Considerations:
While the new student visa system allows for part-time study, there are important restrictions to consider:
- Part-time students cannot bring dependents (partners and children) to the UK.
- Part-time students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for the full duration of their programme to access the UK's National Health Service (NHS). This surcharge is £776 per year.
- Part-time students are not permitted to undertake any work in the UK during their studies. This restriction also applies to full-time students studying at the postgraduate level.
- Some universities, such as UCL, have decided not to offer sponsorship for the Student part-time study visa due to its restrictive nature.
Alternative Options:
There are alternative visa options for international students who wish to study part-time in the UK without the restrictions of the part-time student visa:
- Overseas students studying research courses part-time may not require a Student Visa. However, they may still need to apply for a Visitor Visa and are expected to attend the university for the equivalent of one week per academic year.
- The Tier 4 study visa, while typically used for full-time students, allows for some paid work in the UK, which can help fund expenses.
- A specialised visa is available for postgraduate degrees lasting 13 months or less, offering a simplified application process and a longer stay in the UK.
In summary, while the UK has introduced a part-time student visa option, it comes with significant restrictions on work and dependents. International students pursuing a part-time master's degree should carefully consider their visa options and ensure they meet all the necessary requirements.
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Student visa work restrictions
International students on a student visa in the UK have certain work restrictions that they must adhere to. These restrictions vary depending on the type of visa and the level of study.
For students on a Tier 4 visa or a Student visa, there is a maximum limit of 20 hours of work per week during term-time. This includes paid or unpaid work and applies to work for one or more organisations. The 20 hours cannot be averaged over a longer period. Additionally, students cannot work as a professional sportsperson, including as a sports coach, or be self-employed. Self-employment includes activities such as freelance writing, private tutoring, or selling goods or services directly to customers. A student visa also does not permit business activity, which includes setting up a trading business or working for a company where you hold a significant financial interest or a statutory role.
For students on a part-time visa for an MPhil or MRes degree at Cambridge University, the visa does not permit any work or allow dependent family members to live in the UK. However, if the reason for studying part-time is due to a disability, and the student is based in Cambridge for the majority of the course, there may be exceptions to these restrictions.
Some Masters courses may include internships or placements as part of the course, which are permitted on a student visa. However, the details of these internships must be provided to the Home Office in advance, and the restrictions on the type of work still apply. Volunteering is also allowed on a student visa, but it is distinct from voluntary work according to the Home Office.
Students on part-time courses longer than six months, where the majority of time is spent outside the UK and only short teaching sessions are required in Cambridge, may be supported under the visitor immigration route. However, these courses are not eligible for student visa sponsorship, and students should be aware of the restrictions associated with this immigration status.
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English language requirements
International students seeking to pursue a part-time master's degree in the UK must meet specific English language requirements as outlined by their chosen university and the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Student Route Visa. These requirements ensure that students possess the necessary proficiency to succeed in a postgraduate academic environment.
Universities in the UK typically assess English language proficiency through standardised tests, with the most commonly accepted being the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The IELTS exam evaluates an individual's ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend English, with scores ranging from 1 to 9. Different universities have varying IELTS requirements, with some setting a minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, while others may require a higher score of 7.0. It is important to note that each component of the IELTS test, such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking, may also have specific minimum score requirements. For example, the University of Sussex requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component for their high-level English requirement.
In addition to the IELTS, other standardised tests recognised by universities in the UK include the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic), LanguageCert International ESOL, Trinity College London Integrated Skills ISE, Duolingo English Test, and TOEFL iBT®. Each university will specify which tests they accept and the required scores for their programmes.
Some universities, such as the University of Manchester, offer integrated courses with a joint CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) that include a foundation year or pre-sessional English course as part of the bachelor's degree. These programmes can assist international students in meeting the necessary English language requirements for their master's studies. Additionally, universities like the University of Portsmouth offer in-sessional English support for international students during their postgraduate studies.
It is worth noting that nationals of certain countries, as defined by the UKVI, may be exempt from submitting additional evidence of English language proficiency. This exemption applies if the student is a national of or has obtained a bachelor's degree or higher from one of these countries. However, qualifications obtained through distance learning or awarded outside of these countries may not be accepted for English language proficiency purposes.
For international students requiring a student visa, it is essential to refer to the specific visa requirements and ensure that the chosen university can provide the necessary visa support for part-time study.
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Funding and living costs
Funding a master's degree in the UK as an international student can be challenging due to the higher fees and limited access to loans and scholarships. Here are some key points to consider regarding funding and living costs:
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for international students in the UK can be significantly higher than those for domestic students. The cost varies depending on the university, the programme, and the location within the UK. On average, international undergraduate fees range from £11,400 to £38,000. Master's programmes will have different fees, so it is essential to check with the specific university. Public universities generally have lower fees than private institutions.
Scholarships and Grants
International students may not be eligible for UK student loans, but there are alternative funding options available:
- Commonwealth Scholarships: If you are from one of the 53 Commonwealth countries, you may be eligible for funding through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC). This scheme supports talented students from developing Commonwealth nations, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Chevening Scholarships: This UK government-funded scheme provides full tuition coverage, living expenses, and travel costs for international students.
- Fulbright Scholarships: These scholarships support cultural and scholarly exchange between the USA and the UK, providing funding for international students.
- Marshall Scholarships: These scholarships are specifically for American students studying in the UK, typically covering two years of graduate (master's-level) study.
- University Scholarships: Many UK universities offer their own scholarships for international students. Contact the university directly or check their website for more information.
Living Costs
In addition to tuition fees, you should budget for living expenses such as accommodation, bills, groceries, and transportation. The cost of living varies depending on your location in the UK. On average, international students in London can expect to spend around £1300-£1400 per month, while those outside London may spend around £900-£1300.
Visa Costs
As an international student, you will likely need a visa to study in the UK. The standard Tier 4 student visa costs £524, but there may be additional fees if you require priority processing. If you plan to stay in the UK for more than six months, you will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £1,035 per year.
Part-Time Work
International students on a Tier 4 visa are usually allowed to work part-time in the UK, which can help supplement your income. However, this may impact your eligibility for certain visa requirements or refunds, so check the regulations carefully.
Accommodation Support
Most universities and colleges in the UK have dedicated accommodation teams that can assist you in finding suitable and affordable housing. Student discounts are also widely available and can help reduce living costs.
In summary, funding a part-time master's degree in the UK as an international student requires careful planning and consideration of various funding sources and living costs. Scholarships, grants, and part-time work can help offset the higher tuition fees and cost of living in the UK.
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Visa application process
International students intending to pursue a part-time master's degree in the UK must navigate specific visa requirements. While part-time study options are generally limited for international students, certain circumstances, such as specialised pilot schemes, disability accommodations, or specific course structures, may allow for part-time enrolment. Here is a step-by-step guide to the visa application process for international students seeking to undertake a part-time master's programme in the UK:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before initiating the visa application process, international students must confirm their eligibility for a part-time master's programme. This involves ensuring that the intended course of study is offered on a part-time basis to international students. Additionally, students must meet the academic and language requirements, as well as demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support their studies and living expenses.
Step 2: Obtain Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
The first official step in the visa application process is to obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the educational institution. Students must apply for and gain acceptance onto an eligible part-time master's course. Once the university offers an unconditional place, students can request a CAS statement by submitting official confirmation of their academic qualifications, including transcripts and degree results. The CAS is a crucial reference number that confirms the university's sponsorship of the student's visa application.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
In addition to the CAS, students must gather and prepare various supporting documents for their visa application. These typically include proof of identity, such as a passport, and financial evidence demonstrating the ability to support oneself during the studies. For students from certain countries, proof of English language proficiency may also be required. It is essential to consult the official UK government sources for an exhaustive list of required documents.
Step 4: Submit the Visa Application
With the CAS and supporting documents in hand, students can proceed to submit their visa application. This typically involves completing an online application form and paying the associated visa application fee. The application process may vary depending on the student's country of origin and specific circumstances. It is important to carefully review and adhere to the guidelines provided by the UK government and the chosen educational institution.
Step 5: Await Processing and Decision
After submitting the visa application, students typically need to wait for a specified period to receive a decision. The standard processing time is up to 8 weeks, but faster decisions may be available for an additional fee. During this period, the application is assessed, and the provided information is verified. Students may be contacted for additional information or clarification if needed.
Step 6: Receive Visa Decision and Plan Travel
Upon completion of the processing and review process, students will be informed of the visa decision. If the application is successful, the student will receive an eVisa, which serves as an online record of their immigration status. At this stage, students can proceed to make concrete travel arrangements, keeping in mind the requirements and restrictions outlined in their visa. It is important to note that adherence to the visa conditions is crucial to maintaining one's immigration status and may impact future travel plans.
In summary, the visa application process for international students seeking to undertake a part-time master's degree in the UK involves confirming eligibility, obtaining the necessary documentation, submitting the application, and awaiting the decision. It is important to approach each step meticulously and ensure compliance with the requirements set forth by the UK government and the chosen educational institution.
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Frequently asked questions
Generally, international students can't study part-time in the UK. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you are studying at Cambridge, the University may sponsor a student visa for a part-time MPhil or MRes if you have a disability or if the programme does not have a full-time equivalent.
To study full-time in the UK, you will need a student visa. The requirements for this include having an unconditional place on a course with a licensed sponsor, being able to speak, read, write and understand English, having enough money to support yourself and your course fees, and being from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.
The Tier 4 study visa allows international students to undertake most paid work in the UK, with some minor restrictions.
A student visa will be valid for the duration of your Master's degree and for a further four months after you complete your course.
