UK
Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) is made up of four nation-states – England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, all of whom have come together to form one sovereign congregation led by England.
The UK’s reputation as the best study abroad destination. Home to the world’s most prolific universities such as Cambridge, Imperial College, and Oxford, the UK’s status as the best study abroad destination, rivaled only by the United States, is a must-see for those seeking only the best education from the world’s top universities. Discover what awaits you as a student in the United Kingdom by reading our guide!
Why study in UK
– Gain a world-class education
– Top-notch facilities and resources
– A chance to be taught by leading academics and experts
– Develop your English-speaking skills
As one of the oldest and most established countries in Europe, the UK’s influential reach has set many standards across the world – from architectural designs to artistic expression, to even administrative and regulation conduct still practiced today in some Commonwealth countries.
With such a long and intertwined historical relationship with the rest of the world, the UK itself has become a melting pot for the globe’s societies and cultures to gather and thrive. Famous cities like Manchester and England’s capital city London hold records for being among some of the most diverse cities in the world and continue to receive many accolades and host huge international events. English may be the official language of the nation, but with so many other dialects and mother tongues around, it is a great chance to make new friends and learn even more new languages!
Tuition Fees?
How much does it cost to live as a student in the UK? Studying and living abroad in the most prestigious world-renowned institutions can cost quite a pretty penny, so we’re here to help break it down for you.
Each course will be differently priced by universities due to the varying, specialized facilities you will need for each field (like medicine students need access to hospital facilities, engineering students need workspaces, etc). Courses from more concentrated places – like London and Scotland, are usually on the pricier level compared to lesser places such as Wales and Northern Ireland.
The following table is for international students (average tuition fees per year as of 2019).
| Study level | GBP |
| FouFoundation / Pre-U | £6,000 – £9,250 |
| Diploma | £7,000 – £13,000 |
| Bachelor’s degree | £10,000 – £38,000 |
| Masters degree | £11,000 – £32,000 |
| PhD | £13,000 – £30,000 |
Language requirement
It goes without saying that proficiency in both academic and spoken English is a must. The UK’s reputation as the original standard of education syllabi all over the world has set a high bar for admission into its higher education institutions. If you are strongly considering applying to study in the UK, here are some things you must be aware of.
TOEFL and TOEIC test results can only be used as part of visa applications if the tests have been taken outside of the UK region.
Some universities will specify what subject passes are required before you commence their programs through their International and/or Admissions Office channels.
The unique reference number from your Secure English Language Test (SELT) will also be required for the visa application form.
Some courses may require a higher score (e.g. Medicine, Law). While prior excellent grades can potentially save you time, UK universities often offer short English language courses to help strengthen your academic command.
To apply to study at any UK institution or university beginning with undergraduate programs, future students must submit applications and documents to the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
Typical acceptance
SPM is equivalent to GCSE Ordinary (O-Level) and the Scottish Certificate of Education (SCE) Standard Grade.
STPM results are equivalent to UK’s GCE Advanced (A-Level), a school leaving qualification; an International Baccalaureate (IB); and the Scottish Certificate of Education (SCE) Higher Grade.
*Usually, SPM results are only applicable when entering a UK institution at Foundation or A-Level certification. For undergraduate applications, STPM and SPM submissions must be accompanied by further evidence of English Language proficiency.
Previous education in the UK system may not be necessary, but contact the university you are applying to for clarification on the credentials you will need to provide.
Tip: A personal statement to the UCAS will help the process of your application to a UK institution. Make sure you detail why you want to study in the UK, all the English Language tests you’ve taken, and why you want to study internationally instead of in your own country.
When to apply to UK
Recognized bodies offer a standard pathway for higher education, with a Bachelor’s Degree spanning three years, and often awarded with honours. Bachelor’s degrees without honours are known as ‘ordinary’ or ‘pass’ degrees.
In some cases, a bachelor’s degree can span four years, known as a ‘sandwich course for including one extra year of practical work experience or an overseas exchange.
Masters’ programs can vary from one year continuing on from the degree program into a specialized mode, to a span of four full years for a course as a postgraduate degree.
Doctorates, the final and highest academic degree in the UK, can be taken if your bachelor’s degree results satisfy the qualifications, or is more commonly taken after completing a Masters. They usually span from three to four years.
Student visa
As a future undergraduate student of a university in the UK, you must apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa three months before your course commences. A fee of £348 will be charged per application from outside the UK, and may be subject to more additional charges for a health insurance fee.
You must possess:
An offer letter to the UK institution you have been accepted to that is a licensed Tier 4 sponsor
Proof of substantial finance for tuition fees and living for the duration of your stay
A confirmation of acceptance for studies reference number (CAS) from your education provider.
Application for your visa must be done in no longer than 6 months upon receiving your CAS
As a Malaysian student applicant, you will need to undergo and provide test results of the tuberculosis examination to stay in the UK for more than 6 months at approved test clinics. If you are interested in any one of these, be sure to check out the Visa and Immigration page for more information.
