Point-Based Visa System

UK has adopted best visa system to give the prospective student a peace of mind in the opting UK as a study destination. Overall 40 Points are required for entry clearance or visa approval. 30 Points are awarded for having a valid CAS issued by a licensed sponsor. In addition, 10 points are given for fulfilling the Maintenance (Funds) requirement. Points can be obtained by providing all relevant and accurate information along with visa complete visa application.

Top destination for international students

The UK is fast emerging as one of the most popular study destinations for education in the world. There are numerous factors, which prompt international students to pursue their education in the UK. UK education equips students with unparalleled academic and professional skills and augments their personal development with an unforgettable cultural experience.

World-class qualification

The education system provides facilities such as international students societies, planned social activities, academic support, and academic counselors. The UK has one of the lowest ‘ drops out rates. UK qualifications are recognized and respected throughout the world. Quality standards for UK institutions are among the best in the world. Universities, colleges, and schools continually have to prove that their courses meet strict criteria. Many other countries are now trying to follow the example of the UK.

Duration

Save time studying quality education. UK’s undergraduate degrees can take three years and postgraduate master’s courses only one year ‘ compared with four years and two years in most other countries. This means you will save a great deal on both tuition fees and living costs ‘ and you will be able to start working and earning money sooner. UK degree courses are shorter because they are more intensive, and therefore more efficient in terms of your time and money.

Healthcare

Health care is often free for international students. You are likely to be able to take advantage of National Health Service (NHS) treatment, as well as reduced-cost medicines, dental treatment, and eye tests.

English

Communication is the key and where better can you learn more of this language?. You will only become better at it during your stay. Effective networking is a superadded benefit because of the English language which must help you in the future

Courses

Name a course at any level and the UK has it on offer, with quality. Most UK courses are very industry focused, thus justifying your investment. Students could specialise in anything from marketing, finance, logistics, computer games programming, ocean engineering, satellite positioning technology or sound engineering to multi- media design, anthropology, cross-cultural psychology, hotel management or dance. Have you heard about art history or genetic counseling? Or have you ‘witnessed’ anyone studying ‘pottery’?

Safety

The UK is probably one of the safest places to study in. You will find one odd relative living in the UK somehow. But even if you do not, Institutions are always there to help. Did you know that even healthcare is free for international students on a course of more than 6 months duration?

Get a warm welcome

The UK has been welcoming international students for generations. We have many years of experience of looking after your needs, and will give you special support from the moment you apply and throughout your time in the UK. Many institutions arrange for you to be collected from the airport and offer guaranteed accommodation for your first year. They will provide a dedicated international office, international student societies, planned social activities, academic support, counselors and advisers. The system works: the UK has one of the lowest ‘drop-out’ rates (the number of students who leave before the end of their course) in the world.

Academic Life in UK

With a cheerful cosmopolitan society, UK offers an outstanding learning environment that is widely renowned all over the world. International students come to UK typically to pursue their undergraduate or post-graduation courses. Many universities and colleges in UK welcome new students through organizing various events before commencing the academic course, so that students can make new friends regardless to their nations. Besides, various social and cultural activities are often run for international students throughout the year. UK universities facilitate several clubs and societies that are accessible for all the students to get involved.

Living in UK – International Students

For international students it is quite easy to develop a varied and interesting lifestyle in Britain. With an extensive student discounts and so many of the cities most appealing attractions being free, you’ll always find ways to make your money go further. Living in UK will increase the value of your studies.

Every university in UK has their student union that organizes several extra curricular activities like, theatre performances, movies nights and quiz nights. Besides, there are various clubs and sports in every university that varies from football, volleyball to painting, movies and etc, which are mostly run through university unions. It is a great way to meet other students and get involved in campus life.

Students Accommodation

UK universities facilitate on-campus accommodation for all the international students for the first year. There will be an accommodation officer in every university who accommodates you in a way that better suits your requirements and budget. As the demand for UK higher education is steadily increasing, students have to apply early for the on-campus accommodation. Else students can live in off-campus accommodation. Usually universities provide accommodation in residence halls, privately owned flats and houses or home stay with a UK family. Living on-campus is a good source to meet with other students and build amity with them. Deciding where you live have a great impact on how much you enjoy your studies in UK. Therefore choose your home vigilantly.

Health Care and Wellness Living

International students have to get prepared for the extremely new conditions. It may be difficult to get personalized in the first few days. Students can avail premium health care facility accessible at affordable costs. As an international student you can acquire this facility and it is also valid for the dependants of the students from abroad. International students are entitled to get free medical treatments from National Heath Service (not valid for below 6 months study program).

Exiting, multicultural

UK people like to get together and enjoy themselves. Theatres, concerts and art galleries can be found in all large towns and cities; big sports events take place every weekend; pubs and restaurants are everywhere. Multicultural highlights include:

1. China Town: Discover authentic Chinese culture and taste an array of exotic foods in China Town’s many restaurants and supermarkets.

2. Brixton Market: Buy some of the best Afro-Caribbean food at this energetic market. Hidden away in the side streets you’ll find art galleries exhibiting the works of up-and-coming artists.

3. Shri Swaminarayan Temple: Visit the largest Hindu temple outside India and enjoy hours of peace and discovery in this masterpiece of exotic architecture.

4. Kingsland Road: Try the delights of Vietnamese cafés or dine and dance to Latin music in this culturally diverse area.

5. Green Lanes: Kurdish, Greek and Turkish restaurants are just some of the flavours you’ll find here – taste the real Mediterranean.

6. Brick Lane: Famous for its curries, you can experience authentic Bangladeshi cafés or queue with Londoners night and day at one of the best bagel bakeries in the country.

The most prominent feature is the merger of several civilizations and cultures within UK and that too with no racial discrimination.

 

The UK is made up of 4 different countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The education system in Scotland differs at school and undergraduate level to the other countries who follow a similar system. Education in the UK is compulsory for everyone between the ages of five and sixteen and is provided by two kinds of schools: independent (fee-charging) schools and state-funded schools. Education System in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Primary School

Children normally start school at the age of 5 and move to secondary school at the age of 11. Pre-school programs are also available to students at the age of 3 or 4.

Secondary School and Post-Sixteen Education

All UK universities teach students to at least the age of 16 to prepare them for GSCEs or equivalent qualifications. Following this, students can stay on to study for AS levels (one additional year), A levels (2 additional years) or equivalent vocational qualifications. These qualifications can be done in a school, sixth-form college or college of further education.

Post Eighteen Education

Students normally commence higher education at the age of 18 and study at university or colleges of further and higher education. A Bachelor degree program normally lasts for 3-4 years, a Masters degree program for 1 year and a Doctoral degree program for 3-4 years. The UK government is currently aiming for 50% of students to continue in education after the age of 18.

Education System in Scotland

The education system in Scotland is slightly different than the rest of the UK and the main differences are as follows:
Students can enter university at the age of 17 rather than 18 as university courses in Scotland are normally one year longer than in England. Students sit Standard Grades rather than GCSEs. Students sit Higher and Advanced Higher rather than AS levels and A levels. Between the ages of 16-18 years, students in Scotland often study a broader curriculum than in other parts of the UK and often do not specialize in the sciences, arts, humanities until they enter university.

Types of Institutes :

1. University
2. Open University
3. College and Institution of Higher Education
4. Open College
5. College of Technology
6. Teacher Training College

Types of taught courses

1. Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas (PGCert; PGDip)
2. Master (MA; MSc)
3. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Types of Research degrees

1. Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
2. Master of Research (MRes)
3. Professional / Taught Doctorates (DEng, DMus, DEd, DBA, DClinPsych)
4. New Route Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
5. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D. or DPhil)
6. Bachelor Degrees
7. Foundation Degrees
8. Higher National Diplomas
9. Higher National Certificates
10. Diplomas of Higher Education
11. Foundation courses, Foundation years or Access/Bridging courses

Post Study Work Program

From September 2008, International students can stay back and work for

TWO YEARS, after completion of UK’s recognized bachelor or postgraduate degree,

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or a Higher National Diploma (HND) from a Scottish institution under Post Study Work Scheme.

PSW program is only designed to be a bridge to highly skilled or skilled work, much like the previous International Graduates Scheme or Fresh Talent Scheme in Scotland. Those with student visas in the UK under Post-Study Work are expected to switch into another part of the points system such as Tier 1 (General) or Tier 2 (Skilled Workers with an offer of Employment ) as soon as they are able to do so. This scheme is likely to be closed from April 2012.

It is good for a non-renewable two-year period after which you are expected to transfer to another immigration category. The English language requirement is waived for Post-Study Work applicants because it is assumed English language proficiency was required to obtain the eligible qualification but funds Maintenance criteria are required to be fulfilled as in Tier 1 General.

Tier 2 Work Permit

The general Tier 2 UK Work Permit is designed to allow UK visas to be granted to highly skilled workers who are citizens of countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA). Applicants under this scheme must be in possession of a job offer, as well as fill a number of skill requirements. Tier 2 immigration, like Tier 1, is a UK visa offers the long-term possibility of permanent residency in the UK. It allows large, multinational organizations to transfer the skills of new and existing staff members to the UK.

Tier 2 work permit visas can last between one day and five years, depending on the time frame specified by the sponsoring company. Although the tier 2 permit is not in itself a permanent residency visa, candidates living and working in the UK for the minimum residency requirement of five years may be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK (ILR). Beyond this, a candidate may choose to undergo British Naturalisation as a UK citizen.

Under the tier 2 immigration structure, employers are responsible for ensuring that candidates are eligible and suitable to fill the positions being offered and as an organization, they may be subjected to immigration compliance checks with or without prior notice. Employers will be awarded either an A or B level sponsorship license according to the UK Border Agency’s risk assessment.

In most cases, successful candidates will be awarded an A rating, however, where employers do not sufficiently fulfill their responsibilities they may be downgraded to a B rating or have their license revoked altogether. When issuing a certificate of sponsorship, employers must be able to show that the position is a genuine vacancy with remuneration equal to that which a UK national would receive were they to be employed in the same position.

The role must also be at or above the National Vocation Qualification (NVQ) level 3. For shortage occupations, positions do not have to be advertised in the UK before a sponsor can employ a non-EEA national, however where positions do not appear on the list of shortage occupations, employers must show that they have attempted to fill the role within the UK.

Eligibility

Candidates will be assessed against a points test, with a minimum pass mark for Tier 2 visa applicants based on earnings, English language skills, and available funds. All applicants will be required to meet this threshold in order to qualify. Under the Points Based System, candidates will be assessed on their prospective earnings and the level of demand for their skills. The importance of these factors is ranked in the following way:

Prospective Earnings

Points are awarded according to the amount the applicant will be paid by the sponsoring employer. Find out how many points your salary entitles you to by taking the free assessment above.

Level of demand

Non-shortage positions are inherently worth fewer points, while shortage positions will automatically receive maximum points. Candidates applying for an Intra Company Transfer (ICT) will also receive maximum points.

English Language

Skills English language proficiency is vital to a successful Tier 2 Work Permit application. Applicants may be required to pass a test assessing their English skills, depending on their country of origin. Find out your testing requirements with the free assessment above.

Funds

Applicants must show evidence that they have the funds to support their stay in the UK. Evidence may include a bank statement or other official financial institution documentation. Click on the free assessment to find out if you have the funds to qualify.

Eligibility: employers

The Points Based System places greater emphasis on the accountability and responsibility of sponsors in selecting the non-EEA nationals they bring via immigration to the UK.

Spouse and dependent immigration

As outlined above, a tier 2 immigration visa for the UK may lead to permanent settlement in the UK if the candidate continues living and working in the UK for five years. Since visas of this kind may lead to indefinite leave to remain, tier 2 makes provision for the spouse, common law, civil or unmarried partner of the applicant and any dependent children to move to the UK at the same time.

Any such dependents would be granted the same period of leave as the main tier 2 visa applicant. As dependents they will be able to seek employment in the UK.

The two most important requirements for admission into an educational institution in the UK are:

1. A strong academic background
2. Good command of the English Language

Note that universities in the UK operate with a large degree of autonomy, that they set their own academic entry requirements & have got the freedom to take their own decisions on individual cases.

Academic Requirements for most common courses:

Degree courses

Students normally enter degree courses at the age of 18 but they can be younger and many are older. For admission to a degree course, you will need two years of a university degree from Pakistan, completion of foundation degree or three A-levels. The grades you need will depend on which subject you choose and which institution you want to study at.

Postgraduate programs

For entry to taught postgraduate courses (master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and postgraduate certificates), you will need a four-year undergraduate degree from Pakistan or two-year master degree on the basis of two-year bachelor degree or equivalent qualification. For example, to study chemistry at master’s level, you would need to have a master degree in chemistry from Pakistan.

However, ‘conversion’ courses are designed to provide an intensive introduction to a subject. For these programs, any British undergraduate degree is sufficient, even one in an unrelated area. For example, you might have studied history for your first degree, but could use a conversion course to prepare for a Master of Science (MSc) degree in information technology.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Such courses usually require a British undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification same as for other postgraduate programmes of UK. However, most MBA courses may also require two or three years work experience. GMAT may also be required.

For a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

You will need a UK master’s degree or equivalent normally like MPhil from Pakistan. If you don’t have a master’s degree, you may be able to register initially for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Master of Research (MRes) course and then transfer to the Ph.D. program later if your progress has been good.

English Language Requirements

If your first language is not English, you will need to provide evidence that you have a good standard of English language skills. This is because, during your stay in the UK, you need to attend lectures, & seminars, study academic printed resources, produce some written works – everything in English.

Academic IELTS or equivalent requirement for Master and Bachelor degree is 6.5 and 6.0 respectively with not less than 5.5 Band in any module. For foundation degree courses 5.5 can be acceptable.

IELTS requirement can be waived at a UK University for gifted (exceptional) students but for this the Academic Registrar at the Higher Education Institution will need to personally authorise the issue of the CAS for the Tier 4 (General) student, which must confirm that the Academic Registrar has approved the waiving of the language requirement.

From 21 April any Tier4 (General) student enrolling on courses below NQF level 6 and its equivalents, including those coming to the UK to follow English language courses, but excluding those on Foundation degrees and HNDs in Scotland, his/her Tier 4 sponsor must ensure that he/she is competent in English language at a minimum of CEFR level B1 (IELTS score of 4.0 or above in all modules) and for all course above NQF level 6 and equivalent minimum of CEFR level B2 (IELTS score 5.5 or above in all modules) is compulsory.

Studying in the UK can cost less than you think. The course fees you pay include all the benefits that UK study brings – better English, work experience, developing career-relevant skills, living in a culturally diverse society, and making new friends and contacts. A UK education is a unique experience that you can’t put a price on.’

International student course fees vary depending on what you are going to study in the UK and for how long. We’ve put together some information on the average cost for each type of UK course. Please note these are indicative costs only – you should check with institutions directly for their exact fees.

UK undergraduate and postgraduate course fees

You’ll get great value for money from a UK education no matter where you choose to study. The figures below show approximately what you can expect to pay, but course fees vary considerably between UK institutions.

Average undergraduate UK University course fees per year:

1. Foundation courses: £7,000 to £12,000
2. Arts courses: £8,000 to £13,000
3. Science courses: £8,500 to £14,000
4. Clinical courses: £10,000 to £16,000

Average postgraduate UK University course fees per year:​

1. Arts and humanities courses: £8,000 to £12,000
2. Science courses: £8,500 to £25,000
3. Clinical courses: £10,000 to £24,000
4. MBA: £9,000 to more than £18,000

Your UK course fees don’t just cover lectures, seminars, and practicals. You’ll also have access to:

1. college libraries and data archives
2. extensive research resources
3. modern computer facilities
4. science and practical laboratories
5. workshops equipped with state-of-the-art equipment
6. fantastic sports facilities
7. personal tutors and experienced, professional support services
8. leading thinkers, practitioners, academics and researchers
9. music rooms, film and drama studios, animation suites and other creative facilities

As an international student in the UK, you’ll also benefit from a modern, independent and multicultural learning environment.

English language course fees for international students 

The fees you pay for an accredited English language course vary considerably. It depends on the type of course you study and the English language school you study at.

For a week’s English language course you could pay anything from under £200 to over £1,000. It depends on where the course is, what additional benefits it includes, and whether it is for general English or something more tailored. You can find fees for most English language courses in our course finder. (internal link to ELT course search)

Some non-accredited English language schools offer courses at very low prices. However, you will make more progress learning English in the UK on a high-quality accredited course. The British Council will only show you details of accredited English language courses.

UK independent school fees for international student’s

Independent school fees in the UK cover your course fees, accommodation, and some extra-curricular activities. You should check exactly what is included in the school. You may be asked to pay extra for English language tuition.

Fees vary from school to school and are at the discretion of the UK institution. You should expect to pay a minimum of £8,000 per year and fees can be as high as £28,000.

You can contact us to find details of UK independent school fees.

UK career-based and pre-university course fees 

As with any UK course, the fees you pay for career-based and pre-university courses vary considerably. The figures below show the average course fees per year:

1. AS and A-levels: £4,000 to £17,000
2. BTECs and other vocational: £4,000 to £6,000
3. HNC/HND: £5,000 to £10,000
4. Foundation Degrees: £7,000 to £12,000
5. International Foundation courses: £4,000 to £17,000

You can contact us to find fees for most UK career-based and pre-university courses.

The admission process for most institutes in UK is nearly the same. For higher studies you can either make an online application directly to the institute or to through the international recruitment partner of universities.

Intakes

The main intake offered by all Universities is September / October few universities offer Jan / Feb intake also. Very few universities have May Intake. Colleges may offer four intake in a Year.

Types of courses we promote

Masters, Postgraduate Diploma, Bachelor degrees, ACCA, CAT, CIMA, ESOL, IFA and Advance Diplomas.

Document required

1. Academic Transcripts & Certificates
2. Statement of purpose
3. Two Recommendation Letters (for few courses, and on Original letterheads preferably)
4. English Language Certificate – IELTS/TOEFL/Letter from University confirming medium of instruction
5. Three Passport size Photographs – (optional)
6. Work Experience Certificate or Appointment letter (preferably on the original letter heads)

Conditional offer letter

For Students applying with incomplete documents like TOEFL/ IELTS or students awaiting results. Students may also be asked to deposit some of his tuition fee and it 50% in most of the cases required by institutes.

Lead time for offer letter

One hour to four weeks depending on fulfilling requirements, like if no English proficiency document is submitted than Skype Interviews are conducted and it consume some extra time

Apply Online

For undergraduate admissions, applications can be made through us or through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) . UCAS is an online process. One UCAS application form enables you to apply for up to 5 universities in the UK.
For postgraduate study applications are made directly to universities or through us for better assistance for swift process and following documents are mostly provided.

The following documents you will require to apply in your desired studies abroad programme

1. All Academic documents
2. Academic reference letters from professors who have taught you most recently or employers.
3. Statement of Purpose
4. Curriculum Vitae / Resume (optional).
5. English proficiency test results
6. Portfolio (in case of Students applying for art and design courses & Architecture programs).
7. Others (Certificates / achievements at the State and National Level and extracurricular activities).
8. Passport copy
9. Photographs

Completing your application form 

Once you have completed and submitted your application form with your documents, your application is then considered by the Admissions Tutor for your particular degree scheme and their decision is sent to you . You will receive e-mail confirmation from institute/UCAS when the admissions tutor has made a decision on your application and you have to respond to the decision of unconditional offer by firm acceptance of declining the offer through UCAS.

For Postgraduate study you have to reply directly to the university or through us.

If you hold a conditional offer, you have to fulfill that condition. Condition may be passing some relevant exams and obtaining certain grades or/and making fee deposits. The payment options vary from institute to institute, usually one term or 50% of fee deposit is required to have a unconditional admission / Confirmation Of Acceptance for studies which is issued by UKBA.

Obtaining Valid CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) 

This will be a letter from your institution confirming that a place has been offered to you and that the course is full-time. The CAS letter should state how long the course will last. Where your course is more advanced and specialized, the CAS letter should also state what level of English is needed for the course (giving minimum test marks, if appropriate) and confirm that you satisfy this requirement.