UK
The United Kingdom is an island country in northwestern Europe that is made up of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The UK’s only land border is with the Republic of Ireland. It has sea borders with Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, France, Germany, Denmark, Norway, the North Sea, the English Channel, the Irish Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, the Celtic Sea, and the Irish Sea.The capital cities of the United Kingdom are London (England), Edinburgh (Scotland), Cardiff (Wales), and Belfast (Northern Ireland). The United Kingdom is a diverse nation renowned for its illustrious cultural heritage and long history. The government system in the UK is a constitutional monarchy and a Commonwealth realm; the queen serves as head of state, while the prime minister serves as head of government.
Education System of UK
The education system in the United Kingdom varies somewhat at the primary and secondary levels throughout each zone of government. England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland share responsibility for education in the United Kingdom. Each of these locations has its own educational system, credentialing requirements, and set of rules and regulations. General and secondary education are very different, resulting in each region having its own academic structures and certifications. Education in England is overseen by the Department for Education in the United Kingdom. On a local level, local government authorities are responsible for implementing public education and state-funded school policy. The education department is responsible for children’s services and education in England, including higher and further education policies, apprenticeships, and broader skills. The Department for Education and Skills (DfES) in Wales is responsible for overseeing all educational activities. It grades schools according to their performance using its National School Categorization System. The Scottish government, via its executive body, Education Scotland, is responsible for all aspects of learning. It classifies public schools as local (mainstream), special (SEN), or denominational (religious) schools. As a result, Scottish universities normally offer degrees that are one year longer (typically four years) than their equivalents elsewhere in the UK. However, it is sometimes feasible for students to take more advanced specialized examinations and enter the courses in the second year. The Department of Education-Northern Ireland (DENI) is responsible for school administration in Northern Ireland. It is responsible for education policy in Northern Ireland, with the exception of higher and further education, which is within the Department for the Economy’s jurisdiction. The Department of Education is in charge of pre-school, primary, secondary, post-secondary, and special education, as well as youth service, community interactions inside and outside schools, and teacher education and pay. Education in England and Wales between the ages of 5 and 18 is governed by the National Curriculum (NC), which was created in 1988. Private schools, academies, free schools, and home educators all have their own unique curriculum, despite the fact that the National Curriculum is required for all students. In order to maintain their accreditation, schools are subject to audits on a semi-regular basis. In Scotland, the Curriculum for Excellence program is the closest analogue, while in Northern Ireland, the common curriculum is in place.
The main framework of the UK education system comprises nursery school (early years), primary school (primary and lower secondary school), secondary (high school) and higher education. Eleven to twelve years are spent in elementary school. Children between the ages of 5 and 16 in the United Kingdom are obligated to attend school, which enables them to complete their primary and secondary education. Children born on or after September 1, 1997, in England are now required to attend school until they are 18 years old. Education at state schools is open to everyone, and it is also free of charge. State schools, independent schools, and homeschooling are all viable alternatives for completing elementary education. Despite the fact that pupils are required to attend school for 12 years till the age of 16, most students go on to complete further education for an additional two years, which are either A-levels or IB, before applying to universities. All pupils in the UK education system learn English, mathematics, science, a humanities subject, and a modern language. Apart from these subjects, each school provides a list of electives (Art, Music, Drama, Latin, Sports Science, Design Technology, and Computer Science), from which students may choose a few that interest them. Students study for the GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations throughout the last two years of secondary school, referred to as Year 10 and Year 11, beginning at the age of 14. Secondary school students take tests in nine subjects, with mathematics, English, and science being the essential core topics for all students to achieve the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) at the completion of their compulsory education. In England and Wales, this is in Year 11; in Northern Ireland, it is in Year 12. And in Scotland, the equivalent is the National 5 examinations.
In the UK, education beyond these years is referred to as “further education” and normally lasts until the student reaches the age of 18. The end of Year 13 in England and Wales, or Year 14 in Northern Ireland, is when students often complete their advanced (A-Level) exams to graduate. Highers and Advanced Highers are used in Scotland. Once a student reaches the age of 16, he or she can begin a two-year pre-university education in the United Kingdom.Pre-university education in the United Kingdom is a two-year senior secondary programme that leads to a new round of examinations, the Advanced Level (also known as GCE A-levels), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC).
Higher education in the United Kingdom is the level of education that follows secondary school in the country’s educational hierarchy. Higher education is the study beyond A levels or BTECs (and their equivalents) that takes place at universities and non-university institutions (colleges, institutes, schools, and academies) and offers both research-oriented and higher professional education to most full-time students. British higher education is highly regarded around the world for its intellectual rigor and excellence. In the United Kingdom, bachelor’s degree programs in the United Kingdom take three years to complete, except for Scotland, which takes four, and most are conferred at an honors level. Master’s degrees may be earned by coursework or research in 1 year or 18 months, while a Doctor of Philosophy is a research-based degree that typically takes three years or more to complete. Additionally, some institutes provide short programs such as foundations, diplomas, and occupational and vocational degrees that relieve students from the first and, on occasion, second year of a bachelor’s degree. The first year of university may be completed in a year at these institutes. Certain colleges admit diploma holders to their second years. Some state universities provide two-year vocational degrees that exempt students from the first and second years of a degree program. Numerous private tutoring organizations offer diploma programs that are comparable to the first year of college. Some universities accept students who have completed a one-year degree into their second year of study.
Admission for UK
Visit the UK admission details page for more information about admission to universities, tuition costs, and more. (https://studyoverseashub.com/bachelors-degree/great-britain/)
Daiy Living in UK
Students considering studying in the United Kingdom should also examine the cost of accommodation and daily living. You may get further information regarding the cost of living here. Students have a variety of accommodation alternatives, ranging from on-campus housing options such as university-owned and run halls of residence, to off-campus housing options such as private halls of residence, homestays, hostels, and rental flats. Students do not need to worry about housing during their first year since international students are often assured housing in halls of residence for first-year applicants. When making your selection, you may want to focus your search on factors such as accommodation availability, price, international student diversity, or even the local culture. Additionally, you should also think about things like security, housing deposits, roommates, the location, the lease agreement, and the facilities. For additional information about housing, please visit “Choosing Accommodation.”
Practical Information about UK
Transportation
Adapting to a new mode of commute is a challenge in any country. Fortunately, Study Overseas Hub is here to assist. The United Kingdom is connected through trains, buses, bicycles, trams, cars, ferries, taxis, and ride hailing services. Students will often choose the least expensive and most convenient choice. Each city in the United Kingdom has at least one or two viable modes of transport. Buses will be the most prevalent means of travel for students in the suburbs. Buses are available in the majority of towns and cities, with larger cities having a greater number of buses. You may travel cheaply by bus locally or further afield. However, bear in mind that, owing to traffic, bus travel may be slower than other modes of transportation. Buses may be halted at bus stops, and bus routes are often displayed at bus stops; alternatively, you can check routes using websites such as https://nextbuses.mobi/, Google Maps, City Mapper, and TfL’s journey planner. The price and method of payment vary by location; in certain cities, you can pay using a travel card, an oyster card, a contactless card, or cash. So, if you intend to travel by bus regularly, you may save money by purchasing a weekly, monthly, or yearly pass. Numerous cities, including Sheffield, Manchester, Nottingham, and Edinburgh, have tram networks that connect important urban areas. As with buses, payment methods vary by city. If you live in a major metropolitan region such as London, Newcastle, Glasgow, Liverpool, Tyne and Wear, or Manchester, the most cost-effective mode of transit is the underground or subway system. In London, the underground (often referred to as the “Tube”) is the most popular mode of transport, with a massive network of lines connecting all areas of the city and trains arriving every two minutes. You need an oyster card in advance, and they often operate all day and conclude at 12 a.m. It is a convenient and quick mode of transport, and some tube lines operate 24 hours a day.
Taxis are also another type of transit. However, they are perhaps the most costly mode of transport in the UK. Avoid them at all costs, particularly if you are not riding with any buddies. Taxis and ride hailing services such as Uber can be quite costly, but they can also be highly convenient. Each town and city will have a variety of taxi and Uber options, so you can hail one on the street, ask for one in certain places like train stations and airports, or use the app on your phone.
Getting around town in the UK on two wheels is a great way to save money, stay healthy, and get some exercise. Cycling is an inexpensive and efficient mode of transportation in the United Kingdom. Many campuses have bicycle clubs or buddy programs that provide lessons on bicycle safety and maintenance. Many cities, including London, Liverpool, and Belfast, have bicycle rental schemes that will let you rent one for a small fee and return it within 24 hours to a docking station elsewhere. You should adhere to all traffic laws and regulations, as well as road signs and signals. Cycle theft is prevalent in the UK, so invest in a good lock and store your bike at night in a well-lit public space.Ensure that your bicycle is registered with the Bike Register database. So, if your bicycle is stolen, the authorities will be able to recover it.
Furthermore, as a student studying in the United Kingdom, you also have the option of driving. Since driving laws in the UK may vary from those in your own country, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with British driving laws to ensure your safety and security. While the flexibility of driving is enticing, the price of operating a vehicle and the high insurance rates for young people in the United Kingdom discourage many students from purchasing a car during their time at university. As a result, renting a vehicle may be the best alternative, which may be done at specific rental places or online. Additionally, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license, valid road tax, valid motor insurance (at a minimum, ‘Third Party’), vehicle registration, paperwork, and a current certificate of road worthiness (MOT) if the vehicle is more than three years old.
If you’re up for a lengthy journey to see friends or have some fun, the coaches, trains, and airlines are all available. Coaches are a good choice for students, especially if they need to travel for a long time to many UK towns, cities, and airports. While coaches are slower than most trains, they are often substantially less expensive than most other types of transit. National Express (England-UK), Translink (Northern Ireland), and CityLink (Scotland) are the main providers. If you want to go farther afield, Eurolines is an inexpensive and convenient option to travel across continental Europe. All provide students with discounted services, comfortable seats, and complimentary Wi-Fi. However, despite their low cost, bus journeys are lengthy, particularly when traveling overseas. Therefore, remember to have lots of entertainment for the ride and to reserve early to guarantee a seat and get discounted tickets. Flights are also an alternative. The UK has 24 commercial airports, making it convenient and easier to fly short distances within the country, and with the significant development of low-cost airlines in recent years, prices can be cheaper and trip times can be much shorter than by train. A train journey from London to Edinburgh takes almost five hours, whereas flights to more than ten European destinations take just over an hour. Traveling throughout the UK and much of Europe has never been easier. EasyJet, RyanAir, TUI, BMI Baby, and Jet 2 are the leading low-cost carriers.
And then, for trains. The U.K. has an excellent rail network that facilitates long-distance travel within the country and to Europe; on a national level, trains connect practically everywhere. Most towns in the United Kingdom have a railway station; a complete list of stations can be seen on the Trainline website. Train service across the United Kingdom is rapidly improving, with fewer delays and more affordable fares. There are several types of train tickets available in the United Kingdom, but the cheapest are those purchased in advance, which guarantee you a seat on a certain train on a specific day or time. If you want further flexibility, consider purchasing an “open return” or an “open single”. You could plan your journey through Trainline, National Rail, or Translink (Ireland), and if you are interested in traveling to Europe by train, the Channel Tunnel makes it incredibly easy to travel directly to Paris, Brussels, and other major European cities every day of the week and in a matter of hours. For further information on rail travel to Europe, see http://www.eurostar.com/.
Tips
- Check with your institution before using public transportation. Inquire about your institution’s transportation system; most universities provide a free shuttle service connecting students to campus and the city center.
- If you are a student in London, you can obtain an 18+ student Oyster card, which provides a 30% discount on public transportation.
- Students may receive a 16–25 discount card that saves them 30% on train tickets across the UK.
- Always have a peek around to see what’s available. Many companies provide student discounts, and other companies provide very low-cost long-distance trips, especially to nations beyond the United Kingdom.
- An annual £12 Young Persons Coachcard will save you a third on all National Express travels, while an NUS card will save you 10% on Megabus tickets (NUS Extra card holders save an additional 10 percent. To obtain the greatest bargains, book ahead of time and compare costs, just as with trains.
- The Eurail Youth Pass offers up to a 25% savings on adult pricing and allows you to travel to up to 33 destinations throughout Europe.
- Use the National Express Stop Finder Tool to discover your closest coach stop or use the Coach Tracker app to monitor your coach in real time.
- You should also aim to reserve trains as soon as possible, since tickets purchased in advance are generally much cheaper.
Entertainment
The United Kingdom is brimming with limitless activities and experiences; wherever you study, you’ll never be short of activities or entertainment. After a term of study or after graduation, you may like to cool off, and we’ve got you covered. Apart from a plethora of clubs and societies on campus and in surrounding towns, most UK cities have classic museums, modern art galleries, and museums. Additionally, the nation has a thriving theatrical and performing arts legacy, preserving both old plays and musicals while supporting new and experimental performances. Most theatres and music venues offer student tickets at a significantly reduced price compared to the usual entrance fee. Depending on your preferences, you may be interested in traveling, tours, cuisines, and experiences. The United Kingdom is packed with activities and places to visit, including nightclubs; art tours; comedy shows; concerts; green parks; hiking; historical sites; festivals; carnivals; cinemas; museums; and amusement parks. There are several free museums in the United Kingdom, and some offer student discounts. Many people in the UK enjoy attending sporting events. Because the British are enthusiastic about sports, you may have the opportunity to enjoy football, rugby, or tennis. Football is a very popular sport in the United Kingdom; you can visit one of the stadiums on matchday to witness the electrifying tempo. Castle tours are also popular with students. The United Kingdom is home to several castles. They are located all around the country; they may be found in the major cities and along the coasts.
All the activities listed above are accessible within your city, but if that isn’t enough, you may also travel. You can visit London; crossing London off your bucket list is essential. Even if you are not studying at a university in the capital of the United Kingdom, you should absolutely visit London at least once during your stay in the country. The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, The London Eye, Horse Guards Parade, and Buckingham Palace are all must-see attractions.This gigantic city, brimming with wonderful historical monuments, world-class museums, fantastic galleries, delectable restaurants, scenic walks, excellent shopping, and attractions, really has it all. Bath is arguably best renowned for its magnificent baths—the well-preserved Roman Baths, dating from about 70 AD, allow tourists to journey through time. Edinburgh is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the nation, as well as one of the most culturally engaged. Thousands of people flock to the city each August for the legendary annual Fringe Festival, the world’s biggest arts festival. Visit Brighton, the beach, and the seafront; the Brighton Event, the country’s largest interdisciplinary arts festival; ride along the undercliff trail; and tour the Brighton palace tier. Every May, for three weeks, a feast of music, dance, theatre, cinema, art, circus, and family activities takes place around the city, at both established and out-of-the-ordinary pop-up venues. Additionally, the mountains of Scotland and Wales, the rolling hills of England and Northern Ireland, the Lake District, and Yorkshire moors, as well as the coastlines of all parts of the UK.
The Lake District and Peak District in England, the Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland, the Wye Valley in Wales, the Scottish Highlands, and the Hebrides (a group of islands off Scotland) are all renowned for their natural beauty. However, these are just a sampling — there are many more!
Don’t miss out on the beautiful sights and fun activities that await you in the UK! Here are sites to find events and activities: Meetup (https://www.meetup.com/) , All Events in City( mobile app) , Save the student have a list of some activates to do https://www.savethestudent.org/save-money/cheap-activities-for-students-under-20-pound.html ,Eventbrite(https://www.eventbrite.com/ ) ,Skiddle (https://www.skiddle.com): For music enthusiasts, Skiddle is a fantastic resource for finding and purchasing tickets to clubs, performances, and festivals.
Banking
Will you be studying in the United Kingdom for an extended period of time, and will you need a bank account? All of these are valid questions to ponder. Opening a bank account in a country where you are studying can be incredibly beneficial since it gives you a secure location to save money, receive paychecks, and cover daily expenses. To open an account, you must visit the bank. Some banks allow you to begin the process online; nonetheless, you must complete the final stages at the bank. Additionally, you will need to visit the bank with the following documents:
- Your passport or photo identification card
- Your home bank’s three-month bank statement
- Proof of address in the UK and overseas
- A student ID or a letter of admission from your university
After your credentials are validated and the account is established, you will get a letter with your telephone security number and information on how to enroll in mobile and internet banking.
Bank of America, HSBC USA, U.S. Bank, and TD Bank are just a few of the leading banks for foreign students in the United Kingdom.
HSBC Basic Account 2021, Barclays Student Addictions Account (International) 2021, NatWest International Student Account, Santander Bank Student Account, and TSB Cash Account are just a few of the top international student accounts available in the UK.
Tips
Avoid banks that demand excessive fees.
Ascertain if the bank’s address is convenient for you.
Internet and mobile banking features
Why UK?
- Institutions in the United Kingdom are frequently ranked among the world’s best, with 17 UK universities ranking among the world’s top 100 universities in the QS world ranking 2022. The United Kingdom takes pride in its world-class education system. A degree earned at a British university is globally recognized and highly valued in the international job market.
- The United Kingdom is recognized for its world-class research, science and innovation, with state-of-the-art campuses and facilities. The UK is ranked second in the world for science and research, with 54% of the output being world-leading. Oxford and Cambridge are big names worldwide, with both universities established over 800 years ago and renowned for their research excellence. You may conduct your own research in a cutting-edge setting while interacting with some of the world’s brightest minds.
- The United Kingdom offers a diverse range of degrees (programs), and you can be assured that whatever you decide to study, you will find it or something better. Additionally, you have the option of combining degrees to meet your specific requirements and interests, either via a joint degree or a major and minor option. You can also choose a degree that includes a work placement, which enables you to work for a company for up to a year prior to returning for your final year of study. This helps you improve academic skills as well as obtain real-world experience. Thus, using both your academic and professional experience will give you an edge after graduation.
- The United Kingdom is well-known for its career opportunities. While studying in the United Kingdom, you will have access to internship and employment opportunities both during and after your studies; you are permitted to work 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks and vacations. Students can also apply for “The Graduate Route,” to stay in the UK for two years (undergraduate and master’s) or three years (PhD) after graduation in search of jobs.
- The UK is a multicultural country, a melting pot of culture and ethnicity. You’ll find people from practically every country on Earth. Walking through the streets of any of the UK countries is an eye-opening experience, with a diverse combination of dialects, languages, races, cuisines, nationalities, and faiths. This same diversity can be seen on university campuses, which are places of inclusiveness and friendliness. You’ll get to mingle and meet folks throughout the world, learning more about ethnic background in a location of differences and culture, and your experience will be much fuller because of being able to interact with so many distinct types of people.
- During your time in the UK, you will have numerous opportunities to travel and explore, both inside the nation and across the continent, thanks to the English Channel Tunnel and frequent budget airlines, making Europe more accessible than ever. The majority of Europe may be accessed in a few hours or less from the United Kingdom via train or direct flight.
- If you wish to enhance your English language skills, the UK is the ideal location to learn and practice the language. What other location do you believe will be superior to the English language’s birthplace?
F.A.Q. for UK
How do I apply?
Ans: To get started, please contact us by live chat or email, and be sure to have all the required documents available.
How soon should I apply?
Ans: We advise all students to start the application procedure (enquiry) as soon as they receive their high school diploma and passport.
How much will it cost for me to study in the UK?
Ans: Annual tuition ranges from £12,000 to £40,000. However, most university fees range from £12,000 to £20,000.
Will I get language support if I’m still working on improving my English?
Ans: Yes, most institutions provide resources and support services to aid in the improvement of written and spoken English.
Is it possible to study in the United Kingdom without taking the IELTS exam?
Ans: Yes, some universities admit students from specific countries depending on their English proficiency in the 12th grade or certificate. Students from English-speaking countries are likewise exempt from taking the tests.
Which English language tests are accepted by British institutions?
Ans: British institutions will accept the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and Cambridge Proficiency Level.
Which city in the United Kingdom offers the most affordable education?
Ans: Birmingham, Derry, Wolverhampton, Nottingham, Aberdeen, and Brighton are some of the most affordable cities in the United Kingdom.
What are the intakes offered by UK universities?
Ans: Most institutions accept students in September and October, although a handful also accept students in January and February. Some may also admit students in April and May.
Can I work while studying?
Ans: Yes, students are permitted to work 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks and vacations.
How can I apply for a visa?
Ans: International students who want to study in the UK might be required to get a student visa (Tier 4). The requirements differ by country. International students must have a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS), a passport, and proof of funds, among other documents. Visa experts at Study Overseas Hub will help you through the process of getting a visa, including the requirements, application process, appointment, and interview.
How much bank balance is required for a UK student visa?
Ans: The complete process might take up to 30–45 days from the moment you are interviewed until you obtain your official visa.
How much bank balance is required for a UK student visa?
Ans: Students must present a bank statement covering 9 months of living expenses as well as any outstanding tuition costs. Showing £1,334 per month in London and £1,023 per month as a living expense outside London.
Can I bring my spouse and children?
Ans: Yes, students are permitted to bring their spouse and children to the United Kingdom. For further information, please contact us through email or live chat.
UK Facts and Figures
- London is the largest city in the UK. Aside from being the largest city, it is also the most expensive city to live in.
- The population of the United Kingdom is around 68 million inhabitants.
- The United Kingdom has a total area of 244,110 sq km (94,251 sq mi), making it somewhat smaller than the state of Oregon (USA) and slightly larger than Ghana.
- The official language of the United Kingdom is British English, which has a range of accents around the nation. The accent varies so often that you may hear distinct accents within a few kilometers. Other languages spoken include Scots, Welsh, and Irish.
- The United Kingdom operates on a single standard time zone: summer (June–August) is UTC + 1, and winter (December–February) is UTC + 0.
- On average, summer temperatures in the United Kingdom range between 14 and 25 degrees Celsius, while winter temperatures range between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius.
7.The UK international dialing code is +44.
- Electricity is supplied at 230 by 50 Hz and wall socket plug type G is utilized.
- British passports are issued in the Queen’s name. Therefore, the Queen is not required to acquire one.
- The Queen’s official birthday is a public holiday.
- In 1896, England fought a 38-minute war with Zanzibar, the shortest war it had ever fought.
- The day of a royal wedding is observed as a public holiday in the United Kingdom.
- Great Britain is not the United Kingdom since it excludes Northern Ireland.
- On your 100th birthday, the Queen may wish you a happy birthday.
- English is a West Germanic language that was brought to Britain during the fifth and seventh centuries AD by Anglo-Saxon migrants from what is now northwest Germany, southern Denmark, and the Netherlands.
- Taxi drivers in London are subjected to a test before being employed to see how well they know the city’s streets.
- Chicken Tikka is a popular dish in the United Kingdom, and Indian restaurants are common.
- In the United Kingdom, it is against the law to kill a swan. If you kill one, you’ll be subject to a £5,000 fine or a 6-month prison term.
- The United Kingdom has nearly 100 universities.
- The World Wide Web was founded in the United Kingdom.
- You will never be more than 125 kilometers from the sea in the United Kingdom.
- Studying in the UK will expose you to the majority of the aforementioned fascinating facts.