Transferring Universities In The Uk As An International Student

International students in the UK may want to transfer universities for a variety of reasons, including dissatisfaction with their current course or university, high living and studying costs, or personal reasons such as family illness or the desire to be closer to home. While it is possible for international students to transfer universities in the UK, it is not a standard process, and there is no guarantee of acceptance. The process can be complex and differs from university to university, and course to course.

Application Process

International students can transfer universities in the UK, but it is not a standard process. The process can be lengthy and is not guaranteed.

Research and Informal Contact:

Firstly, research why you want to transfer. This could be due to personal reasons, such as moving closer to home, or because you are unhappy with your course. You should also research whether your grades meet the entry requirements of the new university.

Then, informally contact the university you wish to transfer to. This is to find out if they accept transfers for your desired course, as some universities and courses do not. For example, Oxbridge, LSE, Imperial and UCL typically do not accept transfers. You should also check whether there is space on the course, as it is likely to be full if you are applying after the UCAS deadline.

Formal Application:

If the university considers your informal application, you must then submit a formal application through UCAS. You will need to fill out a UCAS form and may be asked to submit additional documents, such as academic transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, a personal statement, and proof of English proficiency.

Repeat Year:

You may be asked to repeat the first year of your course at the new university, as courses may start at different times, and the curriculum may not align.

Additional Considerations:

You will also need to consider the impact of transferring on your student visa and student finance. You may need to re-apply for a new visa, and you should contact Student Finance England to update your details and discuss any changes to your financial support.

Transferring universities is a big decision, and it is important to carefully consider all the factors involved before applying.

Student Accommodation

As an international student in the UK, finding the right accommodation is essential for your comfort and success during your studies. University housing options are diverse, and you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and needs. Here are some common options for student accommodation:

University Halls of Residence

University halls of residence, often referred to simply as "halls," are owned and operated by the university itself. They are usually located on or near the university campus, making them a convenient option for students. Halls offer a variety of room types, including single rooms, shared rooms, and en-suite rooms with private bathrooms. Some halls also provide studio apartments or flats for students who prefer more privacy and independence.

Living in university halls is a great way to meet other students, both domestic and international. It offers a built-in community and provides an excellent opportunity for socialising and making friends. Many universities guarantee accommodation in their halls for first-year international students, making it a popular choice.

Private Halls or Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Private halls or PBSA are similar to university halls but are owned and managed by private companies. These accommodations are typically modern, purpose-built buildings designed specifically for students. Private halls offer a range of room types, from single rooms to apartments, and often include various amenities such as gyms, study rooms, and communal lounges.

Private halls are usually located near university campuses or in student-friendly areas of the city. They provide a secure and convenient option for students, with many offering all-inclusive rents that cover utilities and internet access.

Host Families

Some international students may prefer the option of staying with a host family during their studies. This arrangement can provide a more homely and culturally immersive experience. Host families typically offer a furnished room within their home, and students become part of the family during their stay. This option often includes meals and offers a more supportive environment, especially for those new to the country.

Private Rentals

For those seeking more independent living, private rentals are also an option. This allows students to live alone or share a house or flat with friends or other students. Private rentals offer flexibility and freedom but may require more responsibility in managing bills, council tax, and other administrative tasks. Students should be aware of the local rental market and any potential scams. Additionally, they may need to provide a UK-based guarantor or look for student-specific rental options that do not require one.

Student Visa

International students in the UK on a Student Visa are allowed to take up part-time jobs, work placements or internships alongside their studies. Usually, they are allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during term time. However, before taking up any work, students must check their visa, biometric residence permit, and their university's rules to ensure they are complying with any restrictions on the type of work and number of hours they can work.

If you are an international student in the UK on a Student Visa and are considering transferring to another university, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Visa validity: Check the expiry date of your current visa. If your new course finishes after your current visa expires, you will need to apply to the UK Home Office for permission to stay in the UK until your course is completed.
• Visa type: Depending on your situation, you may need to switch to another type of visa to continue your studies in the UK.
• Visa costs: You will likely need to pay another application fee for your new student visa. The standard fee is £490 per applicant, but priority or super-priority services are available at a higher cost. There is also a £25 fee for the Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) that you will need to obtain from your new university before beginning the visa application process.
• English language proficiency: As part of your new student visa application, you may need to prove your knowledge of the English language. Ensure that you are aware of the specific requirements of your new university and have the necessary documentation.
• Timing: You can apply for your new student visa up to six months before your new course starts. However, it is important to consider the timing of your transfer as it may impact your visa costs and eligibility for a refund on your Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment.

It is always a good idea to contact your university's international office for support and guidance throughout the visa application process. They can advise you on any specific requirements or considerations for your particular situation.

Student Finance

If you are an international student in the UK and are considering transferring universities, it is important to be aware of the financial implications and processes involved. Here is some detailed information about student finance to consider when transferring universities in the UK:

If you are transferring to a new university in the same academic year, Student Finance England (SFE) will typically carry forward your financial support without any changes. However, if you transfer to a new course during your second year, you may need to self-fund this additional year as SFE offers its services for the length of your course plus an extra year.

Notify Student Finance

It is crucial to notify student finance about any change in circumstances, such as transferring universities. This may involve starting a new finance application and resubmitting financial information and documents. If you apply to finish your degree at a different university without repeating or restarting a year, your financial eligibility should generally remain unaffected.

"Plus One" Rule

Mitigating Circumstances

There is some flexibility in the "Plus One" rule if you have to transfer universities due to personal circumstances. In such cases, you can appeal to Student Finance for additional support, citing mitigating circumstances.

Scholarships, Grants, and Bursaries

Scholarships, grants, and bursaries are also options for international students transferring universities in the UK. These are typically awarded based on academic merit, talent in a specific area, or personal circumstances. Scholarships may cover tuition fees in full or contribute to living costs. Grants and bursaries are usually one-off payments to help with costs, and international students may receive these if they have a prior relationship with the university.

Private Grants and Loans

Private grants and loans are another option for international students. Companies and non-governmental organisations offer these to help students complete their studies. However, it is essential to carefully read the terms and conditions of private loans, as they often come with repayment time limits and interest.

If you are considering dropping out of university altogether, be aware that you will need to stop your student finance, including loan payments and any grants or bursaries. You will likely need to repay a portion of your tuition fee loan for the year, depending on when you leave. For example, if you leave in the first term, you will repay 25% of the loan for that year.

In summary, transferring universities as an international student in the UK can have financial implications. It is important to notify and consult with Student Finance England about any changes to your circumstances, as they can guide you through the necessary processes and inform you of any potential financial adjustments. Additionally, scholarships, grants, and private funding options may be available to support your studies.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for transfer students in the UK is low, with only a handful of students accepted each year. Transfer admissions can be more competitive than first-year admissions, and it is not usually possible to transfer beyond the second year.

When considering transferring, it is important to research the eligibility criteria for the course and university. Students should also be aware that they may need to repeat the first year of the course at the new university, as courses may start at different times at different institutions.

To improve the chances of acceptance, students should maintain a high grade point average, as this is a significant factor in the admissions decision. It is also beneficial to provide a strong personal statement explaining the reasons for transferring and why the new university is a better fit.

All transfer applications are made through UCAS, although some universities, such as King's College London, accept direct applications for certain programmes. Applications should be made by the standard UCAS deadlines, and students will need to submit various documents, including academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

It is worth noting that transferring universities can have financial implications, and students may need to self-fund an additional year of study. Additionally, international students should consider the impact on their student visa and ensure they have permission to remain in the UK until the new course is completed.

Frequently asked questions