Planning to move to a foreign land for studies can be daunting. From deciding to choose which course to pursue, to making the right choice about the city and cost of living—the entire process can be nerve wracking. This blog will highlight everything you need to know before embarking on your new journey in a country known for its student-friendly culture and recognised for some of the most prestigious universities in the world.

 

Profile Evaluation

Before you start making applications, it is important to evaluate your profile to choose which universities you would like to apply. Educational consultants can help you significantly to assess your educational background and match you with the right program and university, considering factors like budget, location, cultural-sensitivity, and more. A profile evaluation will simplify things for you and help you make the right choice based on your credentials.

 

Eligibility Requirements

One of the most difficult requirements which students struggle to meet is the standardized test scores that universities require. All universities in the UK require standardized tests depending on the program you plan to pursue, such as the IELTS, TOEFL, LNAT, UCAT, etc. Universities in the higher ranks in the Guardian Table require more stringent test scores than ones further below.[1] These tests can be heavy on the wallet, ranging between $300-$350. Test prep centres can help you prepare you for these tests well in advance with several practice tests and mock tests before you sit for the exam. These centres not only guide you for the exams, but also save time by easing the application process. RESET Learning offers preparation for various standardized tests based on university requirements, with both online and offline sessions available. It provides free trial class for students to decide the number of classes they need to reach their goals. Teachers are experienced with hands on experience in this field and classes are budget-friendly, keeping in mind students’ upcoming expenses when studying abroad.

 

Your Choice of University

Choosing which university to go to can also be quite confusing since there are so many to choose from! Factors you need to consider before making the right choice are, the reputation and rank of the university, the career prospects the university offers, the location, cultural aspects, and most importantly – the cost of living!

Student recruitment consultants can help you by simplifying the process of searching for courses, submitting applications and tracking the progress of your application.  These agencies are partnered with universities in the UK and can help you secure a position faster, with little to no hassle.

 

The Application Process

The application process can be very lengthy with many forms to fill and documents to prepare. All undergraduate students need to complete their application using the UCAS (The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) form. Student consultants can help you fill this form once you submit all your documents and reference details, for only a minimum fee. This not only saves time, but also reduces chances of rejection. Postgraduate students, however, have to make individual applications to each university and don’t have the luxury as undergraduate students to fill in one UCAS form for all universities. Educational Consultants assist with applications to various universities in the UK, helping you secure a place at the right university."

 

Applying for the Visa

Once you are offered a place on your desired course, your university will send you the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This document is essential before you apply for the visa. The visa application process is no less daunting than the university application and a major part of the decision-making process lies with the UK Visas and Immigration. However, statistics suggest that, submitting the required documents along with supporting evidence can help make your application stronger and significantly reduce the chances of your visa being refused. Student counsellors can guide you with this process. The team in RESET are well-equipped with this knowledge, being international students themselves in the past, and can help you prepare the right documents for your student visa application.

 

Accommodation

Whether you choose to live in University accommodations, or private shared houses, it is important to decide based on the area, living expenses and safety of the location. A shared house in London is comparatively cheaper than it is in Bristol or Cardiff in the west. Up north, some areas in Birmingham and Manchester are quite budget-friendly as well.  RESET can help you choose the right accommodation for you based on your budget and preference. London is ranked as one of the best student cities in the world because of its diverse and multi-cultural aspect. Birmingham, Bristol and Manchester are also great choices if you want to avoid the hustling crowd of the capital. These cities have plenty to offer students-- shops, restaurants, scenic beauty and buzzing night life. Students who prefer to work after study hours also have access to plenty of job opportunities with good pay. By law, international students in the UK can work up to 20hrs per week.

Lastly, from university shortlisting to pre-departure, working with an admissions consultant can greatly reduce your stress and increase your chances of gaining admission to a country that offers so much to international students! The UK remains a top destination for students worldwide, and at RESET Learning, we’re dedicated to helping you get into your ideal university. All of our services are completely FREE! Visit our University Admissions Services page to speak with our study abroad experts.

 

[1] https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2023/sep/09/the-guardian-university-guide-2024-the-rankings