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Applying to study in the UK. An introduction to UCAS. Why choose the UK for your studies?. The UK has a long history of welcoming international students Every year 110,000 people from outside the UK apply through UCAS UK Qualifications are recognised and respected throughout the world
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Applying to study in the UK An introduction to UCAS
Why choose the UK for your studies? • The UK has a long history of welcoming international students • Every year 110,000 people from outside the UK apply through UCAS • UK Qualifications are recognised and respected throughout the world • A UK degree will ensure you are well-placed to secure global employment • British universities and colleges provide a multicultural, diverse, creative and inviting environment
Higher education in the UK • Iconic Culture • Creative Industries • Multicultural society • Teaching Excellence • Essential Skills • English Language • Number of institutions • Number of courses • Number of students accepted in 2012 • Over 12% of these were international students 300+ 35,000 464,910 57,519
What is UCAS? • UCAS is the organisation responsible for connecting people to UK higher education • You can apply for up to five different courses on one UCAS application Applications are made online at www.ucas.com
The UCAS Website • Research courses • Find out about universities and colleges • Read blogs from international students • See entry requirements • Make and track your application Plus... Video guides UCAS Tariff Guidance Statistics Parents Advice
Research – Additional sources • UCAS Publications • Open Days/Taster Courses • British Council events • Unistats – unistats.direct.gov.uk • Meeting uni/college reps in your own country Or find us online at: • www.facebook.com/ucasonline • www.twitter.com/ucas_online • www.youtube.com/ucasonline www.ucasconnect.com/blogs
Making a UCAS application Every applicant has to complete: • Personal details • Student finance (UK and EU only) • Choices • Education • Employment • Personal statement • A reference References can be done by your school or college, or by someone who knows you well.
Personal Statement • Gives you the chance to tell universities and colleges why they should want you as a student • Every personal statement should be unique. Just keep in mind that it’s your chance to sell yourself • What you might include: • Why you want to study in the UK • Evidence to show you can complete a higher education course taught in English • Examples of leadership, communication skills or other relevant experience • Any preparation you have done for the course
Decision - making by institutions Institutions may also request an interview, ask to see your portfolio or ask you to take admissions tests An admissions tutor may make one of three decisions: • Unconditional offer • Conditional offer • Unsuccessful Or they may offer a place on an alternative course
Track You can see what’s happening with your application, like whether you’ve received any offers and the replies you’ve made. • Enables you to follow the progress of your application (24/7, access via password) • Quickest way to find out about new offers • Shows choices, offers, personal information • You can reply to offers online Track is our online system that allows you to follow the progress of your application
Applicant replies to offers • Once the final decision has been received from your chosen institutions, a maximum of two offers may be held. • Applicants have a choice of three reply options: • Firm acceptance – Your first choice • Insurance acceptance – Optional. Acts as a back-up • Decline the offer If all decisions and replies are made and you are not holding a place, you may be able to use UCAS Extra or Clearing to find available places. See www.ucas.com for details.
English language requirements • The university or college you choose will tell you what standard of English you need • Most will require you to demonstrate proficiency in English or take an English language test • Look at their website or contact their admissions or international office to find out which tests are acceptable Available tests include ESOL, IELTS and TOEFL
Other things to consider • Finance – Course fees, travel and living costs • Immigration/visas – visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk • Travel – to and from your country, and within the UK • Accommodation – Uni halls or private residences? Living away from home... ...are you ready to ‘go it alone’?
For more information Ask us a question online: www.ucas.com Or call our Customer Contact Centre on: +44 871 468 0468 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 – 18:00 (UK time) • Or find us on: