Brexit has impacted the popularity of UK universities among EU students, including Croatian students, but the overall picture is complex and varies by region, university, and course. Post-Brexit, EU students are no longer eligible for home fee status and student loans in the UK. They now pay the higher international fees, making UK education more expensive for many EU students.
The removal of financial support options has deterred some EU students from applying. The political and economic uncertainty surrounding Brexit initially caused some hesitancy among EU students. Despite Brexit, UK universities continue to have a strong global reputation for high-quality education and research. Top-tier institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the London School of Economics have largely maintained their popularity due to their global prestige.
These universities continue to attract a significant number of international students, including those from the EU. The UK government and universities have been adapting policies to mitigate the impact of Brexit. This includes more flexible visa policies and targeted scholarships for EU students. The long-term effects of Brexit will depend on how UK universities and policymakers continue to adapt to the post-Brexit landscape and address the concerns of prospective EU students.
Enrolling in a university in the United Kingdom involves several steps, including research, application, and meeting entry requirements. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:
1. Research and choose courses
1.1. Identify the course you want to study and research universities that offer that course. Check university websites for detailed course descriptions, entry requirements, and other relevant information.
1.2. Investigate tuition fees. Tuition fees for undergraduate and graduate studies in the UK can vary significantly depending on the university you choose, and the specific course you are enrolling in.
1.2.1. Undergraduate courses
For international students (Including EU Students Post-Brexit) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are usually at a cost of £11,400 – £38,000 per year. The average cost is estimated to be around £22,200 per year. Typically, undergraduate degree courses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland last for three years or four in Scotland.
Fees for international students vary widely based on the university and the course. Clinical and laboratory-based courses tend to be more expensive. Humanities and social sciences courses are on the lower end (£10,000-£20,000), while medical and engineering courses are on the higher end (£20,000-£38,000). In Scotland you can expect to pay from £10,000 to £32,000 per year. Similar to other parts of the UK, with variation depending on the course and institution.
Here are some examples of tuition fees by university (international students):
University of Oxford: £27,840 to £39,010 per year, depending on the course.
University of Cambridge: £24,507 to £63,990 per year, depending on the course (clinical courses like Medicine are at the higher end).
Imperial College London: £35,100 to £46,650 per year for most courses, with some courses being higher.
University College London (UCL): I £19,720 to £34,660 per year, depending on the course.
University of Edinburgh: £22,000 to £32,100 per year, depending on the course.
Always check the latest information on the university’s official website and explore available financial aid options to plan your education budget effectively.
1.2.2. Postgraduate courses
Postgraduate courses include master’s degrees (e.g., Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), etc.), postgraduate diplomas, postgraduate certificates, and doctoral degrees (PhD). Postgraduate tuition fees vary from £9,000 – £30,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £17,109 per year.
Here are some examples from different universities and courses:
University of Oxford: Humanities and Social Sciences: £11,938 – £27,460 per year, Medical Sciences: £23,287 – £46,840 per year. MBA: £65,520 per year.
University of Cambridge: Arts and Humanities: £12,459 – £29,220 per year. Sciences and Engineering: £29,220 – £36,012 per year. MBA: £61,000 per year.
Imperial College London: Engineering: £16,800 – £35,100 per year. Business School: £34,300 -£57,200 per year. Medicine: £14,000 – £45,350 per year.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE): Social Sciences and Humanities: £23,520 – £32,208 per year.MBA: £56,960 per year.
University College London (UCL): Arts and Humanities: £18,000 – £29,000 per year. Sciences and Engineering: £23,100 – £34,100 per year. MBA: £45,000 per year.
University of Edinburgh: Arts and Humanities: £22,200 – £28,400 per year. Sciences and Engineering: £25,100 – £33,700 per year. MBA: £33,700 per year.
University of Manchester: Humanities: £20,500 – £24,000 per year. Sciences: £24,000 – £37,000 per year. MBA: £46,000 per year.
University of Birmingham: Arts and Law: £18,450 – £22,950 per year. Medical and Dental Sciences: £24,570 – £39,960 per year. MBA: £31,500 per year.
King’s College London: Arts and Humanities: £20,940 – £27,360 per year. Health Sciences: £27,360 – £45,000 per year. MBA: £47,720 per year.
University of Warwick: Humanities: £19,000 – £24,000 per year. Science and Engineering: £22,000 – £31,000 per year. MBA: £45,950 per year.
Many postgraduate degree courses in the UK can be completed in one year of full-time study. This has financial and career benefits. A one-year master’s programme usually has fewer and lower associated costs. It offers the option of faster entry or re-entry into employment than a traditional two-year master’s programme.
1.3. Check living costs.
The living costs for an undergraduate student in the UK can vary significantly depending on the location, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. Estimated Annual Living Costs for London is £13,000 – £15,000 per year, while for other cities it is £9,000 – £12,000 per year.
Average Monthly Living Costs include:
–accommodation: London: £600 – £1,200 per month, Other cities: £400 – £800 per month). Obviously, shared housing or university halls can be cheaper than private rentals.
–food: groceries: £100 – £200 per month, Eating out: £20 – £50 per week, depending on frequency and type of dining)
–transport: London: £50 – £150 per month (Oyster card, student travel card discounts, Other cities: £20 – £60 per month (local bus/train passes)
–utilities (if not included in rent): electricity, gas, water: £40 – £70 per month, Internet: £20 – £40 per month
–books and course materials: £30 – £50 per month, though this can vary widely depending on the course requirements.
–mobile phone: £10 – £30 per month (SIM-only deals are generally cheaper)
–entertainment and socializing: £50 – £100 per month, including going out, sports, and other activities.
–miscellaneous: £20 – £50 per month for personal care items, clothing, etc.
-additional costs might be insurance and healthcare. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) applies for international students, typically around £470 per year.
Many retailers, restaurants, and service providers offer student discounts. Websites like UNiDAYS and TOTUM can help you find and access these discounts. Many students work part-time to supplement their income. The UK government allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
1.4. Consider additional factors such as university rankings, course content, location, campus facilities, and student support services.
2. Check entry requirements
Review the specific entry requirements for the courses you are interested in. These typically include:
2.1. Academic qualifications (e.g., A-levels, International Baccalaureate): ensure your Croatian qualifications are equivalent to UK A-levels or other required qualifications.
2.2. English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL): most UK universities require proof of English language proficiency. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English exams. Check the specific score requirements on the university’s website.
2.3. Additional tests or interviews: several UK universities require interviews as part of their admissions process, particularly for certain competitive courses or specific departments. Here are some notable universities and the courses they typically require interviews for:
University of Oxford (nearly all undergraduate courses), University of Cambridge (most of its undergraduate courses), Imperial College London (Engineering, Medicine), University College London (UCL) (Medicine: Medicine and some other health related courses), Architecture: Portfolio review and interview, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (Law): University of Edinburgh (Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, some art and design courses may require an interview or portfolio review), University of Manchester (Medicine, Dentistry), King’s College London (Medicine and Dentistry, Nursing and Midwifery), University of Bristol (Medicine and Dentistry: Interviews are required, Veterinary Science: Interviews are part of the admissions process), University of Warwick (Warwick Business School, Medicine), University of Glasgow (Medicine and Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine), University of St Andrews (Medicine), Durham University (Primary Education,certain Arts and Humanities courses), University of Leeds (Medicine and Dentistry, Healthcare Courses), University of Exeter (Medicine), University of Birmingham (Medicine and Dentistry, Physiotherapy).
3. Prepare application documentation
3.1. Gather your academic transcripts and certificates. It refers to collecting and preparing all the official documents that provide proof of your academic achievements and qualifications. These documents are essential for the admissions process as they allow the university to verify that you meet the entry requirements for your chosen course.
Academic Transcript is an official record of your academic performance. It includes a list of courses you have taken, the grades you received, and sometimes the credit hours for each course. Make sure you request a copy from your school or educational institution and ensure the transcript is official, which often means it is stamped, signed, or sealed by the issuing institution.
Academic certificates are official documents that confirm you have completed a course of study or achieved a particular qualification. Examples include high school diplomas, A-level certificates, International Baccalaureate (IB) diplomas, and degree certificates.
If your academic documents are in a language other than English, you will need to have them translated by a certified translator. Ensure that the translations are accurate and that you include both the original documents and the translated versions when submitting them to the university. Some universities may require notarized copies of your transcripts and certificates to confirm their authenticity.
3.2. Obtain references or recommendation letters from teachers or mentors. This involves securing written endorsements from individuals who can vouch for your academic abilities, character, and potential for success in higher education.This is a vital part of the university application process. These letters offer a third-party perspective on your academic and personal qualities, helping admissions committees make informed decisions. Ensure you choose recommenders who know you well, provide them with all necessary information, and allow ample time for them to write and submit their letters.
Make sure you do this step timely. You will need to ssk well in advance, giving your recommenders plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter.
3.3. Write a personal statement explaining your interest in the course, your academic background, and your career aspirations. It is your opportunity to present yourself to the university admissions committee and to make a case for why you should be accepted into the program. It should be a reflection of your interests, achievements, and aspirations, written in a clear and engaging manner. By carefully crafting your personal statement, you can effectively convey your passion and readiness for university study, helping you stand out in a competitive application process.
4. Apply for a course
4. Apply for a course4.1. Postgraduate course- Apply via UCAS website
Most undergraduate applications to UK universities are submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). You will need to create an account on the UCAS website. When completing the online application form, make sure you include your personal details, educational history, and course choices (up to five courses). After that,, you will need to upload your personal statement and reference. Finally, you will need to pay the application fee and submit your application by the deadline (usually January 15th for most courses).The amount varies depending on the number of choices you make.
4.2. Postgraduate course
For postgraduate studies, you usually apply directly to the universities or through their respective online application systems. Each university may have its own application process for postgraduate courses, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements and procedures on the university’s website where you wish to apply.
5. Take Required Tests
If required, register for and take any necessary standardized tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, BMAT, LNAT). Choosing the right standardized English test involves considering the requirements of your target universities, understanding the formats and content of each exam, assessing your strengths and preferences, and ensuring accessibility and availability.
Review the format and structure of each test to determine which one aligns best with your strengths and preferences. Some people may prefer the computer-based format, while others may find the paper-based format more comfortable. Consider the content of each test and whether it matches your academic and personal interests. For example, if you are more comfortable with academic English, you may prefer a test like TOEFL or IELTS Academic.
By carefully evaluating these factors and seeking advice when needed, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your chances of success in the admissions process.
Ensure that you timely submit your scores to the universities you are applying to.
6. Attend Interviews (if applicable)
Some courses, particularly in fields like medicine and law, may require an interview.
If your course requires an interview, prepare thoroughly by researching common interview questions, understanding the course content, and practicing with mock interviews.
For courses like architecture or art and design, be prepared to present and discuss your portfolio.
7. Receive and Respond to Offers
7. Receive and Respond to OffersUniversities will review your application and may make you an offer. Offers can be unconditional or conditional (based on achieving certain grades or test scores).
7.1. An unconditional offer from a UK university means that the university is offering you a place on the course without any conditions attached. This means that you have already met all the entry requirements, including academic qualifications and, if applicable, language proficiency, and the university is ready to admit you as soon as you accept the offer. Some universities may request that you commit to their institution if you accept an unconditional offer. In some cases, accepting an unconditional offer might mean you are required to decline all other offers and applications. Think carefully before accepting an unconditional offer, especially if you are still waiting for other offers or if there are other universities you prefer. Some students might be tempted to relax their efforts in final exams, but maintaining good academic performance is important for your own future and personal development. Receiving an unconditional offer can be a significant and exciting milestone in your academic journey. Make sure to carefully consider your options and choose the best path for your educational and personal goals.
7.2. A conditional offer from a UK university means that the university is willing to offer you a place on a course, provided you meet certain conditions specified in the offer. These conditions typically relate to your academic performance in upcoming exams or the completion of specific qualifications.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what a conditional offer entails:
7.2.1. Academic Conditions
These are usually the grades you need to achieve in your current studies, such as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB), or equivalent qualifications from your home country. For example, a conditional offer might state that you need to achieve at least three A-levels with grades ABB or an IB score of 34 points.
7.2.2. Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, the offer may require you to achieve a certain score in an English language proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English exams. For instance, the offer might specify that you need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0.
7.2.3. Other Requirements
Some courses may have additional requirements, such as passing an admissions test (e.g., the UCAT for medicine), attending an interview, or submitting a portfolio of work.
Once you receive offers, choose your firm (first choice) and insurance (backup) choices. Reject any other offers you do not wish to accept.
8. Arrange Funding
Apply for scholarships, grants, or student loans if needed. Various scholarships and bursaries are available from universities and external organizations. Country-specific scholarships might be available through government or private entities.
9. Apply for a Student Visa
As a Croatian citizen, you will need a Student visa (formerly Tier 4 visa) to study in the UK. You will need to obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen university. Once you complete the visa application form, you will need to pay the application fee, and attend a biometric appointment. You will be asked to provide required documents, such as your passport, financial evidence, and proof of English proficiency.
By following these steps, you can successfully enroll in a university in the United Kingdom and begin your academic journey. The complexity of the process can vary depending on individual circumstances and factors such as the course, application deadlines, and student status. With careful planning, organization, and attention to detail, navigating the application process can be manageable and rewarding, leading to an exciting educational journey in the UK.
SOURCES:
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/studying-in-the-uk-guidance-for-eu-students, accessed 1st May 2024
- https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/eu-student-advice, accessed 13th March 2024
- https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/cost-studying, accessed 21st March 2024
- https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/international-and-eu-students/applying-university-international-student/applying-study-uk-europe, accessed 17th May 2024
- https://www.ukstudy.com/uk-placement/eu-student-requirements, accessed 1st May 2024
