Applying to UK Universities!

Hundreds of thousands of international students study in the UK each year, making the UK only slightly behind the US as an international student top study destination. This popularity is unsurprising given the strong global reputation held by UK universities where an outstanding number of 71 UK universities get listed in QS World University Rankings 2015/16, with four currently ranked among the world's top 10.

Why choose the UK?

Whether you want to jump-start your career goals, gain world-renowned qualifications or have an adventure, here are some reasons why you should come to the UK as a destination to further your higher school education:

• World recognition – With specialized courses and degrees that meet strict academic standards, you can gain a world-class education in the UK!

• Education costs are lower than in USA - Undergraduate programs in the USA can be US $45,000 or more a year in tuition alone for international students (MIT and Harvard). Tuition for the majority of UK higher education institutions generally lies from UK£18,000 to £24,000 a year (up to US$35,000--University of Cambridge) - considerably less!

• Improved career prospects - studying in the UK will enhance your English language and practical skills to help you succeed in any career you choose.

• Work opportunities – get great value of money because international student is typically allowed to work during school term or out of school term.

• Get your degree faster– in UK, except Scotland, on average the undergraduate degrees take only three years to complete while in most other countries it may take up to four or five years to obtain. For postgraduate study, it takes one year only to complete (if you are in research it may take up to two years). Overall, you spend less time and less money.

• Integrated application process - One online application to UK universities and colleges through www.ucas.com. You can apply for up to five courses at once, making the application process much quicker.

How to apply?

You can submit your application through UCAS, an official online admissions service for UK universities and colleges that also provides you with central source of information and advice on higher education. This flowchart below will help you get better understanding about applying to UK universities and colleges through UCAS, so let's take a look!

1. Choosing Courses

   If you wish, you can choose to apply for up to five courses in your application to UK universities and colleges. You can apply for multiple courses at one university or college, but each course counts as one of the five choices. Don't forget to check entry requirements for each university or college you apply to as sometimes they may require supplemental materials outside the UCAS application form, such as admissions test, written work, or English language requirements (most universities require an IELTS score of 7.0-7.5)

2. Applying

   After you decide your courses, you can start your application by clicking www.ucas.com/apply. In the UCAS application form you can describe your interests, skills, and experiences you have that makes you suitable for study. Take your time to prepare a compelling personal statement essay and obtain great references from your teacher or advisor before applying!

3. Tracking & Responding

   Once you have submitted your application, you will have to wait for the course providers to consider all the applications they receive. When the decision dates come, UCAS will mail you their response. If you're accepted by an institution, you'll get an 'offer'. This can take the form of a 'conditional offer' which means the place is yours if you can fulfil the set admissions criteria, or an 'unconditional offer' which means you've already met their criteria. If you're unlucky, you'll receive either a 'withdrawn application' or 'unsuccessful' response. You might be able to apply for another course after you receive decisions from all five universities or colleges and get rejected, or if you decline the offers you receive.

4. Making Arrangements

   We know how exciting it is to get admitted to your dream school! But, do not forget you will still need to make certain arrangements: student visa (sometimes English language test is required), living costs, and financial support.

It's always beneficial for students to discuss their choices and options with parents, teachers, or advisors to hear different perspectives and advices. Experienced advisors at ALL-in Eduspace will be able to guide and support you throughout, from course selection to the actual application process so that you can earn admission to your dream school in the UK!