Lori Meadows
International students can study part-time masters programs in the UK, but their options are limited. Part-time programs are available at some universities, but not all. Additionally, international students must navigate the UK's visa requirements, which can be complex. For example, a Student Visa may not be an option for part-time students, and other visas may not allow them to work or bring dependents to the UK. International students should carefully research the requirements and restrictions of different visas before applying to part-time master's programs in the UK to ensure they can comply with all necessary regulations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students study masters part-time in the UK? | Yes, but it depends on the course structure, attendance requirements, and whether the student has a visa that permits part-time study. |
| Visa requirements for part-time study | International students may need a Tier 4 student visa or a new points-based student visa introduced in 2020. Part-time study may be supported under the visitor immigration route if the majority of the time is spent outside the UK and only short periods of attendance are required. |
| Financial requirements | International students must prove they can independently support themselves during their masters and cannot rely on public funds or earnings from part-time work. |
| Work permissions | Part-time work is permitted for international postgraduates studying full-time, but work permissions do not apply to those on part-time student visas. |
| English language proficiency | International students may be required to prove their English language skills by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge Assessment English tests. |
| Other considerations | International students may need to apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate for certain master's degrees. They will also need to pay an immigration health surcharge to access the National Health Service (NHS). |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time course availability
The availability of part-time courses for international students in the UK depends on several factors, including the type of degree, the university, and the student's visa status.
International students on a Tier 4 student visa are restricted to full-time courses and are not permitted to study part-time. However, this varies depending on the degree and university. For example, at Cambridge, students on part-time courses longer than six months who are primarily based outside the UK and only need to attend short teaching sessions in Cambridge can be supported under the visitor immigration route. This includes part-time degrees at the Institute of Continuing Education, Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, and some courses at Cambridge Judge Business School. Examples of eligible programmes include the Cambridge Executive MBA, Master of Accounting (MAcc), and Master of Studies (MSt).
Additionally, Cambridge offers part-time student visa sponsorship for most MEd routes in the Faculty of Education, enabling students to reside in the UK during their studies. The University may also sponsor a student visa for a part-time MPhil or MRes if studying part-time is due to a disability or if there is no full-time equivalent programme. In such cases, the student is expected to be based in Cambridge for most of the course.
It is important to note that part-time courses may have different entry requirements and restrictions compared to full-time courses. International students should carefully review the requirements and visa options before applying to ensure they meet the necessary criteria for their desired programme.
Visa Requirements for Part-Time Study
International students planning to study part-time in the UK must ensure they have the correct visa and meet all the necessary requirements. Students already in the UK with a valid immigration status that permits study can provide evidence of this during the admissions process.
For those applying for a visa, it is essential to start the process early. Students applying from outside the UK can initiate their visa application up to six months before their Master's programme commences. The processing time is typically three weeks, but leaving additional time is advisable in case of unexpected delays or further requirements.
To obtain a student visa, international students must demonstrate that they can financially support themselves during their studies without relying on public funds. They must provide proof of sufficient funding to cover their course fees and living expenses for at least the first nine months of their course. The required amount varies depending on the student's location, with London students needing access to at least £1,483 per month and those elsewhere in the UK requiring at least £1,136 per month.
It is worth noting that student visas for Master's degrees are typically valid for the duration of the course plus an additional four months. This extra time can be utilised to seek employment or pursue further studies, but a new visa may be required for these purposes.
In summary, the availability of part-time courses for international students in the UK varies across universities and degree types. While certain visas restrict part-time study, there are alternative visa routes and exceptions that may apply. Students should thoroughly research the specific requirements of their chosen university and degree programme to make an informed decision.
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Student visa requirements
International students intending to study in the UK must obtain a student visa. The type of visa required depends on the student's age and level of study. Here are the student visa requirements for international students planning to pursue a master's degree in the UK:
- International students aged 16 or above, pursuing a degree-level course, can obtain a Student Visa. Those under 18 may be eligible for a Child Student Visa.
- The Student Visa application fee is £524 per applicant. Additional fees are applicable for priority or super-priority services.
- Students must apply for the visa from their home country and cannot travel to the UK before the visa start date.
- Applicants must provide proof of identity and may be required to apply for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate for certain master's degrees.
- The earliest one can apply is 6 months before the course start date, and applications should be submitted no later than 3 months before the course commences.
- The duration of stay in the UK depends on the course length and prior study in the UK. For degree-level courses, students aged 18 or above can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years.
- Students must have their application accepted before arriving in the UK and will need to provide a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) from their chosen university.
- A Student Visa may allow part-time work, but the number of hours permitted depends on the course and term time. Working may impact the eligibility for a refund on the Immigration Health Surcharge payment.
- A Student Visa may allow dependants (partner and children) to accompany the student to the UK, but this should be checked beforehand.
- Students must pay the healthcare surcharge as part of their visa application, and the visa fee for each dependant.
- For some part-time master's degrees, universities may sponsor a student visa, but this is subject to attendance requirements and the student's base location.
- Students with existing UK immigration status permitting their course of study must provide evidence during the admissions process.
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Financial requirements
To study in the UK as an international student, you must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your master's programme. This means proving that you have sufficient money or funding to cover your course fees and living expenses without relying on public funds and benefits. The amount of maintenance funding you need will depend on where you plan to live and study in the UK. For instance, students in London must have access to at least £1,483 per month, totalling £13,347 over nine months. On the other hand, students elsewhere in the UK must have at least £1,136 per month, totalling £10,224 over nine months.
There are different types of visas available for international students, such as the Tier 4 student visa, which was replaced in 2020 by a new points-based student visa system. Under the new system, there is no limit to the time spent studying postgraduate qualifications in the UK. Additionally, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are now considered 'low-risk' and are exempt from proving they meet the financial requirements.
If you are applying from outside the UK, you can begin your visa application six months before your master's programme starts. The processing time is typically three weeks, but it is recommended to allow extra time for any unforeseen requirements. The visa application fee is £524, and you will also need to pay an immigration health surcharge of £776 per year to access the UK's National Health Service (NHS).
It is important to note that part-time student visas have certain restrictions. You are not permitted to work during your degree or bring dependants, such as family members, partners, or children, with you to the UK. However, there may be exceptions for specific universities and programmes, so it is advisable to check with your chosen university for detailed information on visa support for part-time postgraduate degrees.
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English language proficiency
International students who want to study a master's degree in the UK must meet certain English language proficiency requirements. These requirements vary depending on the university and course, and students may be expected to achieve a certain score in a recognised English language test.
Universities in the UK commonly accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as proof of English proficiency. The required IELTS score is typically an overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each section. However, some universities may require a higher score, such as an overall score of 7 with a minimum of 6.0 in each section. Other recognised tests include the Duolingo English Test, TOEFL iBT, Trinity College London Integrated Skills ISE, Cambridge Advanced (CAE/C1 Advanced), and Cambridge Proficiency (CPE/C2 Proficiency). It is important to note that IELTS and TOEFL scores are only valid for two years after the test date.
Some universities, such as the University of Sussex, have their own English language requirements. Sussex offers three main levels of English: standard, high, and advanced. The standard level requires an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component. The high level requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. The advanced level requires an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in each component.
In addition to meeting the English language requirements set by the university, international students must also meet the minimum English language requirements set by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to be granted a Student Route visa. This includes demonstrating a minimum level of English language proficiency, commonly the Common European Framework (CEFR) B2 level. Students may be exempt from submitting further evidence of English language proficiency if they are a national of a majority English-speaking country or have a bachelor's degree or higher from one of these countries.
It is important for international students to check the specific English language requirements for their chosen university and course, as well as the visa requirements, to ensure they meet the necessary proficiency standards.
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Academic qualifications
To study a master's degree in the UK, international students must meet certain academic qualifications. These qualifications vary depending on the specific programme and university, but there are some general requirements that apply to most cases.
Firstly, international students typically need to have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject. This is usually the minimum requirement for entry into a postgraduate programme. The undergraduate degree should be comparable to a UK degree, normally a 2.1 standard or above. Additionally, relevant work or career experience may also be considered in place of a degree, depending on the course requirements.
Secondly, international students may need to demonstrate their enthusiasm, skill, and knowledge in their chosen discipline. This can be done through interviews, personal statements, or other supporting documents. Some universities may also require entrance tests, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for MBA programmes.
International students whose first language is not English may also need to provide proof of their English language proficiency. This can be done by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as the IELTS, Trinity's ISE, Pearson Test of English (PTE), TOEFL, or Cambridge Assessment English C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency tests. These tests are widely accepted by UK higher education providers and are often required for student visa applications.
It is important to note that each university and course may have specific entry requirements, so international students should refer to the specific programme's website or contact the university directly for detailed information on academic qualifications. Additionally, students should also be aware of the visa requirements and ensure they have the necessary immigration permission to study in the UK. While part-time courses are available for international students, visa restrictions may apply, and full-time study is often a requirement for obtaining a student visa.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can study a master's degree part-time in the UK, but they will need to check what visa support can be provided for their particular programme as this can vary depending on the attendance requirements and structure. The Tier 4 student visa does not allow for part-time study.
To obtain a student visa, international students must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial support for the duration of their studies and cannot rely on public funds or benefits. They must also pay an immigration health surcharge to access the UK's National Health Service (NHS). Additionally, students might be required to prove their English language skills by taking a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
Yes, there may be restrictions based on the specific programme and university. For example, international students admitted to an MPhil or MRes degree are expected to study full-time, and part-time study is only sponsored by the university if it is due to a disability or if there is no full-time equivalent programme. Additionally, some master's programmes may require specific entry qualifications, such as a relevant undergraduate degree or work experience.
