Some of the most common questions international students have about studying in the UK are focused on scholarships and English-language requirements
International students hoping to study in the UK should be aware of the English language requirements and the process for applying for a scholarship.
At the UK THE Student Festival, leading university representative AHZ Associates held a session addressing international student expectations in these two areas.
Universities in the UK offer a wide range of scholarships, bursaries and financial support, including everything from country and industry-specific scholarships to those awarded for sporting excellence. Some institutions offer additional financial benefits as students progress through their course.
“Some universities offer full scholarships; some universities offer part scholarships,” said Golam Mortuza, director at AHZ Associates. In the country you’re coming from there might be some government-sponsored scholarships as well, so you should look into that. You need to apply on time – this is very important. Before you apply for any scholarships, you need to have your offer letter, your qualification documents, your personal statement.”
Another common question from international students is what level of English language is required to study in the UK. Proving your English-language level may be a condition of an offer. Tests, run by companies such as IELTS and Pearson, assess a student’s writing, reading, speaking and listening, with a level equivalent to B2 or C1 typically needed for tertiary study.
While the Covid-19 pandemic has caused several testing centres to temporarily close, some educational consultants, including AHZ Associates, offer free tests to prospective students to help them prepare.
Shu-Han Chang, senior sales manager at Oxford International Education Group, said that while studying in the UK could be a significant investment for international students and their families, the reward was a well-respected degree and job-ready skills.
“You study a degree not only for your personal achievement but also for trying to make a nice living. If you have a UK degree and go back to your home country, you’re already at a different level for applying for roles. UK degrees are also well-recognised by the global job market,” Chang said. “It has a lot of persuasive power and the return on investment far outweighs the cost you’re putting in.”
Watch the session on demand above or on the THE Student YouTube channel.
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