Study Abroad | Dummies guide about studying in the UK

The UK's education system has been widely renowned for its high quality and rigorous standards, which have been established through its long history. Public universities account for over 90% of UK universities, and the government regularly monitors the teaching quality of each institution. Therefore, qualifications awarded in the UK are highly recognized worldwide, providing a guarantee of confidence. There are four mainstream pathways to study in the UK, namely the Advanced Level Examination (A-Level), Foundation Programme, Diploma and direct entry to UK universities through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), and applicants can choose according to their own situations. Students who do not have satisfactory results in the HKDSE or do not wish to sit the public examinations are best suited to the Foundation Programme, which is also a path to university.

The average tuition fees for post-secondary institutions in the UK range from £10,000 to £25,000 per annum, with higher tuition fees for professional subjects and prestigious universities. You should also set aside a sum of money to cover your daily expenses such as entertainment and recreation. With an exchange rate of HK$9.5 to £1, the basic expenditure is around HK$300,000 to HK$400,000 per year. With a clear understanding of the cost in the UK, It is important for well prepared before visiting the UK.

Students who stay in the UK for more than six months are required to apply for a Tier 4 student visa. The student visa can be applied at the official UK Government website (Gov.UK) or at a visa centre. Students are also required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee to access the National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of their stay. In general, what you need to submit: a valid passport or other travel document, financial statement, a CAS reference number and documents, a colour passport photograph, proof of English language proficiency and a TB test. A warm remind that TB test is only carried out at a clinic approved by the UKVI.

In the 2022 intake, students will be admitted to a top UK university with a basic 443 in HKDSE, depending on their choice of university or subject. For English language requirements, undergraduate programmes generally require a 4 in HKDSE or 6.0 to 6.5 in IELTS, while some specialist subjects require 7.0 in IELTS. The most popular subjects in the UK include occupational therapy, physiotherapy, radiotherapy, law, engineering and architecture, and computer science, and most of these degrees are recognised worldwide for their professional qualifications, which provide a good foundation for your future careers.

A common misconception about the weather in the UK is that it is always gloomy and rainy. However, according to the data from the Hong Kong and UK observatories, Hong Kong actually receives more rainfall on average than the UK. The UK's reputation for rainfall may stem from the fact that it experiences longer periods of rainfall compared to other regions. The quality of life in the UK is also very good, with excellent infrastructure, first-class medical services, a diverse culture, good security and a strong sporting culture, making it perfect for students who want to experience European life. According to QS Best Student Cities in the UK, 15 of the best cities for students excel in terms of quality of life, employment opportunities, living costs and student communities. The UK government also encourages international students to study here, offering scholarships, work visas and opportunities in a variety of areas to support students' future development.

In general, the semester of UK university starts in mid-September. For students interested in studying in the UK, it is advisable to plan early and attend education fairs and seminars to gain a better understanding of the options available. The students should consider the different factors, such as school and departmental rankings, budget, location, faculty and facilities, when choosing a university. Seeking the help of a professional education consultant can also help you to experience a smooth journey. Want to find out more? Contact us today!