Douglas Olsen
International students in England face tuition fees that are substantially higher than those paid by domestic students. While there are no international student loans available from the UK government, there are other options for financial aid. These include scholarships, grants, and private loans. Students can also seek funding from their home country, either from local government or companies based there. Many international students are self-funded, with family members being the biggest source of income. Additionally, some universities in England offer limited financial aid or student loan schemes for talented students from low-income backgrounds.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Source of Funding | Home country, local government, companies based in the home country, family, student loans, scholarships, bursaries, fee waivers, private grants, student finance |
| Student Visa | Requires upfront payment, bank statements or financial guarantee letters to show proof of funds |
| Tuition Fees | Significantly higher than home students, capped at £9,250 for domestic students, no cap for international students |
| Average Cost | Undergraduate: £22,000 per year (can vary from £11,400 - £38,000), Postgraduate: £17,109 per year (can vary from £11,400 - £38,000) |
| Student Loans | Unlikely for non-EU international students to get a UK government student loan, some universities offer their own loan schemes |
| Scholarships | Competitive, stringent eligibility criteria, mostly for postgraduate degrees, undergraduate scholarships are rarer |
| Work | Part-time jobs are an option to top up income |
| Exchange Programs | A more affordable way to study in the UK, enroll in a university in the home country and study in the UK for a semester or year |
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What You'll Learn
Scholarships for international students in England
International students in England typically self-fund their education, with nearly 65% of them relying on their family and relatives as their primary source of funding. However, scholarships are available for international students to help alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships are highly competitive and often aimed at postgraduate students, with undergraduate scholarships being rarer. Here are some options for scholarships and other sources of funding for international students in England:
Scholarships from UK Universities and Colleges:
Many UK universities and colleges offer scholarships specifically for international undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. Some scholarships are also subject-specific, designed for students pursuing specific fields or industries. Undergraduate scholarships are less common but are offered by some universities. It is recommended to research individual universities to identify their scholarship offerings.
UK Government Scholarships:
The UK government offers hundreds of scholarships, bursaries, and additional financial support to international students from various countries. Some popular government-funded scholarships include the GREAT Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships. The British Council's StudyUK website provides information on scholarships available for students of certain nationalities.
Funding from Home Country:
Your home country can be a significant source of funding. Contact your local government office to inquire about funding opportunities. Additionally, consider reaching out to large companies in your home country to explore potential funding options. However, funding from your home country may come with the requirement to return and work there after completing your studies.
Exchange or Study Abroad Programmes:
Enrolling in an exchange or study abroad programme through your home country's university can be a more affordable way to study in England as an international student. This option may involve spending a semester or year studying at a university in England while enrolled at your home university.
Part-time Employment:
International students in England may consider part-time employment alongside their studies to supplement their income. Working part-time can provide additional funds while also enhancing the overall experience of living and studying in England.
It is important to note that scholarships for international students in England are highly competitive, and eligibility criteria can vary. It is recommended to thoroughly research the requirements and application processes for each scholarship opportunity. Additionally, international students may need to obtain a student visa, which requires proof of sufficient funds to cover living costs during their stay in England.
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Postgraduate studentships
International students looking to apply for student aid in England have several options to explore. Postgraduate studentships, which typically refer to funded places on postgraduate programs, are one such option. These studentships can be a great opportunity, as they offer financial support for tuition or living costs. However, it's important to note that studentships are highly competitive and often come with specific conditions and requirements, such as teaching commitments.
When it comes to postgraduate studentships in England, there are various sources of funding to consider:
University Funding
Scholarships
Scholarships are another avenue for funding postgraduate studies in England. While full scholarships that cover all expenses are rare, partial scholarships that contribute a percentage of the total cost of study are more common. Scholarships are often highly competitive, with stringent eligibility criteria, and are usually aimed at postgraduate students. It is worth exploring scholarship opportunities through university websites, specialist websites like Postgraduate Studentships and Prospects, and resources like THE Student's list of scholarships for international students.
Government Funding
The UK government also offers scholarships for international students, such as the GREAT Scholarships listed on the British Council's StudyUK website. Additionally, the governments of the student's home country may provide funding opportunities or scholarships. International students can contact their local government offices and explore websites to identify potential funding sources. However, funding from a home country may come with the requirement to return home after completing their studies.
External Funding
Various organisations, such as the Fulbright Commission, provide financial aid to international students studying in England. Additionally, some UK companies may offer financial support to international students in exchange for the opportunity to work for them after graduation. It is worth exploring these options by contacting international student offices and researching companies in your home country that may provide assistance.
Personal Finances and Loans
For many international students, personal finances play a significant role in funding their studies in England. Family support, savings, and income from part-time jobs contribute to covering the costs of tuition and living expenses. Student loans are also an option, particularly for US citizens studying in the UK. However, it is important to note that there are typically no international student loans available in the UK.
While exploring postgraduate studentships in England, it is essential to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and any conditions associated with the funding. Additionally, creating a comprehensive budget that considers both costs and income sources is crucial for financial planning during your studies.
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Student visa requirements
To study in England, international students will most likely need a student visa, which requires an upfront payment. The visa application costs £524. The earliest an applicant can apply for a visa is 6 months before the start of their course, and they will usually get a decision within 3 to 8 weeks. The earliest one can apply is 3 months before the course starts. The duration of the visa depends on the length of the course and what study the applicant has already completed in the UK. If the applicant is 18 or over and their course is at degree level, they can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years.
As part of the visa application, students may need to share bank statements or financial guarantee letters to show that they have enough funds to cover their living costs. If the course lasts less than nine months, students will need to have £1,023 per month (£1,334 if studying in London) for each month of their course (up to nine months). Students will also need to prove their identity as part of their application. This may include providing a blank page in their passport for their visa if they need to give their fingerprints and a photo (biometric information) at a visa application centre.
If students are under 18 and want to study at an independent school in the UK, they may be eligible for a Child Student visa. Students doing a master's degree or above may need to apply for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate. Students will also need proof of parental or other legal guardian consent if they are under 18, as well as proof of their relationship to their parent or guardian. They will also need written consent from both parents or legal guardians (or one parent if they have sole responsibility).
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Part-time jobs
International students in England are not eligible for government-funded student finance. However, international students can apply for scholarships, which are offered by many universities. These are typically highly competitive and aimed at postgraduate students, although undergraduate scholarships are available at some universities.
Part-time work is a great way for international students to enhance their experience of the UK and top up their income. Many universities offer on-campus job opportunities, which are normally part-time roles in shops, cafes, bars, events, or student support. There are also plenty of off-campus job options to explore, such as casual work in hospitality, retail, or events, as well as seasonal work during holiday periods.
International students can work up to full-time hours outside of term time, but it's important to not exceed the number of hours per week permitted by your visa. Before starting work, you will need to open a UK bank account and create a CV/resume to give to employers when applying for jobs. You can register with websites such as StudentJob UK to find part-time vacancies in your city, including online part-time jobs.
Your university's employability or careers team can help you find work and advise you on the right balance between work and study. They can also provide information on the UK national minimum wage and national living wage rates and tax.
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Student loans
University-Provided Student Loans:
Some universities in England create their own student loan schemes to support talented students from low-income backgrounds, including non-EU international students. These loans are usually available regardless of nationality and are a valuable option for those who cannot access government-backed loans. Contact the university of your choice to inquire about their specific loan programs and eligibility criteria.
Scholarships and Bursaries:
Scholarships and bursaries are widely available at universities and colleges across England. These are often highly competitive and primarily aimed at postgraduate students, but undergraduate scholarships, though rarer, are also offered by some institutions. Academic merit scholarships reward students with strong academic backgrounds, including extracurricular achievements and future ambitions. Subject-specific scholarships, funded by external organisations or dedicated to professors, focus on your interests, skills, and experience in a particular subject. Performance-based scholarships support students with exceptional abilities in sports, music, or performing arts, and they may be expected to contribute to relevant university activities.
Private Grants and Loans:
Private grants and loans from companies and non-governmental organisations are another option for international students. These loans often come with repayment time limits and interest rates, and some companies may require you to work for them after graduation. It is crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions before signing any loan agreement.
Funding from Your Home Country:
Your home country's government or companies based in your home country can be a significant source of funding. Contact your local government office to explore funding opportunities. Additionally, consider reaching out to prominent local companies to inquire about studying assistance or scholarships they may offer. However, be mindful that funding from your home country may come with the requirement to return home and work after completing your studies.
Part-Time Employment:
International students in England may take up part-time employment alongside their studies to supplement their income. This provides a practical way to enhance their experience in the country while also covering living expenses. Universities can provide valuable information about part-time job opportunities and guidance on understanding the UK's national minimum wage, national living wage rates, and tax regulations.
Student Visa Requirements:
To study in England, international students typically need a student visa, which involves upfront payment and proof of sufficient funds to cover living costs. Ensure you are aware of all visa-related costs and seek free immigration advice offered by universities.
While student loans from the UK government may not be accessible to international students, the range of options outlined above provides a pathway to securing the necessary financial support for your studies in England. Remember to thoroughly research the specific requirements and application processes for each funding opportunity.
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Frequently asked questions
International students are not eligible for student loans from the UK government. However, some universities in England offer their own student loan schemes for talented students from low-income backgrounds, including non-EU students.
There are many scholarships available for international students in the UK, including the Chevening Scholarship, the Commonwealth Scholarship, and the GREAT Scholarship. Undergraduate scholarships, bursaries, and fee waivers are less common but are offered by some universities. Postgraduate scholarships are more common and are often awarded based on academic merit or performance-based criteria.
Aside from scholarships and loans, international students can seek funding from their home country, either from the local government or companies based in their home country. International students can also work part-time while studying to supplement their income. Additionally, some UK companies may provide financial aid for students to work for them after graduation.
The cost of studying in England as an international student can vary depending on the university and course. At the undergraduate level, fees can range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, with an average of about £22,000. At the postgraduate level, fees can range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, with an average of about £17,109.
International students studying in the UK typically need a student visa, which requires an upfront payment and proof of sufficient funds in a bank account to cover living costs. The amount required depends on the length of the course and location, with London requiring higher funds.
