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How to study in England as an international student?
Find here all the necessary information on how to study in England as a foreigner, step by step, tips and recommendations.
The UK is a top choice for international students thanks to its world-class education, outstanding academic system, and prestigious institutions offering a wide range of programs. If you want to study in England and want to know how the process works for international applicants, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make it happen.
In this post, we’ll give you an overview of the UK education system, explore the different levels of study, and look at the options available for international students. We’ll also walk you through the key steps you’ll need to follow to apply to an academic institution in England.
How does the education system work in England?
In case you’re wondering, England’s education system is globally respected for its structured approach and strong focus on academic excellence. It’s organized into different levels, allowing students to move forward step by step in their educational journey:
Main educational levels in England
Primary and secondary education:
- Education is compulsory until the age of 16.
- Students attend primary education (from 5 to 11 years old) and secondary education (from 11 to 16 years old).
- At the end of secondary education, students take GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations.
Post-secondary education or “Sixth Form” (16 to 18 years old):
- Students can opt for A-Levels, which are essential for university entrance, or vocational courses.
Higher education:
- University education is divided into undergraduate and postgraduate.
- Undergraduate degrees: Usually last between 3 and 4 years, depending on the program and the university.
- Postgraduate degrees: Include master’s degrees (1 to 2 years) and doctoral degrees (3 to 5 years).
Languages of instruction in the British academic system
English is the main language of instruction, though some universities do offer programs in other languages—especially at the postgraduate level. If English isn’t your first language, you’ll likely need to prove your proficiency with a standardized test like the IELTS or TOEFL.
Requirements to study in England for international students
If you’re planning to study in England, it’s important to know the basic requirements you’ll need to meet. Here’s a rundown of the essential documents you should get ready before starting your application:
- Student visa: Whether you need a student visa depends on how long your course lasts. If it’s under 6 months, you can usually study on a tourist visa. For courses lasting between 6 and 11 months, there’s the Short-Term Study Visa. But if you’re enrolling in a longer program like an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, you’ll need to apply for a Student Visa.
- Letter of acceptance from the educational institution: This must be issued by an accredited university, college or school in the UK.
- Valid passport: It is essential to have a passport valid for the duration of your studies.
- Proof of payment of tuition fees or initial deposit: Some institutions ask for a partial payment—usually around 50% of the total tuition—before they confirm your admission.
- Proof of English language proficiency: A test such as IELTS or TOEFL is usually required to prove English proficiency, at minimum levels of B1 or B2.
- Proof of sufficient funds: The British government requires international students to prove that they can afford to stay in the country.
- Medical insurance: Depending on how long you’ll be staying, you may need to pay the healthcare surcharge to access England’s National Health Service (NHS).
Steps to study abroad in England
Find out the key steps to study in England as an international student—from choosing the right program to getting settled in your new academic home.
1. Evaluate universities and courses in England
It’s important to explore the study options available in your field of interest so you can choose the one that best fits your goals, preferences, and personal circumstances. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cost of studies: Tuition fees at universities can range anywhere from $11,200 to $42,700 per year, depending on the program. That’s quite a wide range, so it’s important to find an option that fits your budget.
- Duration of courses: A bachelor’s degree in England usually lasts three to four years, while master’s degrees last one to two years.
- Language of instruction: Most programs are taught in English, so you’ll need to have a good command of the language—and be ready to prove it with standardized tests like IELTS, Oxford, or TOEFL.
- Ranking and prestige of the institution: This will really depend on the university you choose. Some, like Cambridge or Oxford, are world-renowned thanks to their long-standing prestige. But there are also excellent public universities such as University College London or the University of Manchester, which offer a wide range of programs and high-quality education.
2. Review financing options for studying in England
To pay for studies in England, evaluate the financing options available to international students:
- Scholarships: Some universities, like the University of London, offer both full and partial scholarships for international students. There are also well-known programs available, such as the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.
- Sponsorships and government programs: Some governments provide financial support to help their citizens study abroad. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your country’s Ministry of Education platforms for updates and opportunities.
3. Applying to a study program in England
The next step is to formalize the application to the chosen university or institution. For this, as a general rule, you will need:
- Completed application form
- Copy of your passport
- Cover letter or personal essay
- Academic transcripts
- English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
It may be necessary to legalize your diplomas or transcripts, so please check with the institution where you will be studying.
4. Applying for a visa to study in England
It’s crucial to start the process early, as processing times can differ. Make sure you apply for the type of visa that matches the length of your course and meets the requirements of the institution you plan to attend.
5. Moving to England
Finally, once you have obtained your visa and confirmed your admission, it is time to plan your move:
- Find accommodation: You can choose from student residences, renting a room, or sharing an apartment. It’s a good idea to explore a few different options so you can compare and pick what suits you best.
- Cost of living: London is one of the priciest cities to live in, while places like Manchester or Birmingham tend to be more budget-friendly.
Connectivity in England
Staying connected as soon as you land in England is key to making your arrival smoother—whether it’s getting in touch with someone who’s picking you up or sorting out transport to your new home. This article breaks down the best ways to stay online in London.
One of the easiest ways to make sure you’re connected from the moment you land is with Holafly Plans. This eSIM service lets you get online quickly and hassle-free, with activation done entirely online.
Advantages of Holafly Plans
- Immediate connection: Activate your data plan from the app and start surfing when you land in England.
- Coverage in more than 170 destinations: If you travel outside the country, you will remain connected at no additional cost.
- Multi-device compatibility: You can connect your mobile, tablet and laptop at the same time.
- Flexible plans with no long contracts: They renew automatically and you can cancel them whenever you want.
Subscriptions of Holafly Plans
- 10 GB Plan: Ideal for maintaining your connection for essentials such as messages, emails or browsing. It has a monthly cost of 39.90 euros or $40.93.
- 25 GB plan: Perfect for you if you make video calls, download files or use collaborative platforms. Its monthly cost is 49.90 euros or $51.19.
- Unlimited Plan: The best option for those who require constant connection on multiple devices. It has a monthly cost of 64.90 euros or $67.90.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
When and how to homologate degrees and courses in England?
If you’re planning to continue your studies in England with a degree earned abroad, you may need to get it officially recognized or go through an academic validation process.
When is it necessary to homologate a degree?
- To study an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in British universities.
- To access specific courses that require academic equivalencies.
- To practice certain professions that require officially recognized qualifications.
How do I get a degree recognized in England?
- Verify if you need accreditation through the university or educational institution you wish to enroll in.
- Request a comparability report from UK ENIC (formerly NARIC), the official degree recognition agency in the UK.
- Pay the service fee, which varies according to the type of procedure (approximately between $55-160).
- Wait for the evaluation, which usually takes between 10 and 30 working days.
How much does it cost to study abroad in England?
The cost of living and studying in England can vary quite a bit depending on the city you choose and the type of institution you attend. Your personal lifestyle and how you manage your monthly budget will also play a big role. That said, here’s a general breakdown of the main expenses you should plan for:
| Concept | Estimated monthly cost |
| University tuition | 11,200 – 42,700 dollars (annual) |
| Short course or certification | From 1,125 dollars |
| Accommodation in London | 900 – 1,690 dollars |
| Accommodation in other cities | 560 – 1,125 dollars |
| Public transportation | 90 – 225 dollars |
| Food | 280 – 450 dollars |
| Internet and cell phone | 33 – 70 dollars |
| Leisure and other expenses | 115 – 340 dollars |
Study online in England as a foreigner
While most international students choose to study on campus in England, there are also online programs offered by British universities and institutions that let you earn a degree from anywhere in the world.
Is it possible to study online at a university in England as a foreigner?
Yes, many universities in England offer remote learning programs across various fields. This gives students around the world the chance to earn a British degree without having to relocate or live in the UK.
Advantages and disadvantages of studying online in England
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| No need to relocate or apply for a student visa | Less face-to-face networking opportunities |
| Lower costs for accommodation and transportation | May require more discipline and autonomy |
| Flexibility to fit in with other activities | Limited access to university resources |
| Possibility of studying at a prestigious university without leaving your home country | Some degrees may require occasional face-to-face sessions |
Is the documentation for online study the same as for face-to-face study?
Overall, the admission requirements for online studies are quite similar to those for in-person programs. The key difference is that you won’t need to apply for a visa or go through any immigration procedures.
The documents that are usually requested include:
- High school or university degree depending on the level of the course.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, Oxford).
- Cover letter or personal essay.
- Updated CV (for graduate programs).
What online study options are available in England?
There are several British institutions that offer online education for foreign students. Here are some of the most popular options:
Universities with distance learning programs:
- University of London Online
- The Open University
- University of Liverpool Online
- University of Oxford (short online courses)
Course and certification platforms:
- FutureLearn (online course platform of UK universities).
- Coursera and edX (collaborations with UK universities).
You can access these options directly on the web pages of each university or platform, following the enrollment steps indicated.
Frequently asked questions about studying in England as a foreigner
It depends on the duration of the course. For programs of less than 6 months you can study with a tourist visa. For longer courses a Student Visa is required.
Tuition fees differ depending on the university and the program, but on average, international students can expect to pay between $11,200 and $42,700 per year for an undergraduate degree.
Yes, with a Student Visa you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during vacations.
There are several ways to help fund your studies, including scholarships, student loans, and university financial aid programs. You can also look into part-time jobs to help cover living expenses.
Yes, as long as the program is offered by an accredited university, online degrees from UK institutions are just as valid as those earned on campus.
