The United Kingdom is probably one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Europe, joining people from all over the world in one truly multicultural society. More than 400,000 international students visit the UK every year.British universities provide a broad range of internationally recognized study programmes, preparing students for future careers in major international companies. The United Kingdom is also home to some of the best research facilities in the world.The UK is home to some of the best-known internationally renowned universities in the world. Since 1903, UK universities have produced 88 Noble Prize winners.
International education
British education offers students the freedom to explore new ideas and creativity. Students are encouraged to pursue individual research work but are also expected to take part in group activities demanding peer interaction. Teachers often engage students in classroom discussions, debates and quizzes, creating an open study environment that builds student confidence and nurtures critical and creative thinking.
Study options
Courses are skill oriented and career focused, keeping up to date with current industry demand ranging from short courses, certificates, diplomas to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, British study programmes offer great flexibility. Students may also select career centred study programmes. Intensive academic programmes resulting in fewer years of study are also available. Some graduate degree programs are less than 1 year long. Students who plan to study and work may choose between remote study options, on campus classes or a mix of distance learning and on campus studies. UK teachers are known for developing effective language learning methods. There are plenty of options available for students who want to brush up on their language skills.
Preparation courses in the United Kingdom
Some international students may not be able to attend a degree in the UK because their previous studies do not match the academic system of the country. For the UK, this may mean students don’t have A-level education or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. To be allowed to take an undergraduate or graduate degree in the UK, they will need to enrol in a one-year pre-Bachelor or pre-Master offered by a local university.
Popular foundation degree studies in the UK include pre-law degrees, pre-MBA courses, pre-medicine, pre-nursing studies, or other types of international foundation programmes in engineering, economics, finance, social science, science and other types of university pathway programmes. Preparation courses in the UK include academic English language training to help international students meet university language requirements for future undergraduate or graduate studies.
Foundation degrees in early years in the UK are perfect for increasing you chances of getting accepted to a British university. Pre-university business schools, law schools or med schools make sure international students develop the skills they need to succeed in the British academic system. Pre-university education also includes cultural integration classes that help students feel more at home. Some pre-university programmes guarantee enrolment to the institution if students complete the preparation with high grades.
Student support
Student Unions help international students settle in. Trained professionals offer support and advice on issues such as health, finance, faith, accommodation, disability, language, career and more. Universities also provide social activities like meetings, parties or trips, and help students feel more comfortable and integrate into the new environment.
Universities offer a variety of scholarships and loans, including on campus work-study options to help students cover their tuition fees.
Credit system
Many universities now operate the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) credit system. All universities in Scotland use the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) enabling easier transfer between courses and institutions.