Undergraduate degree in the UK

Bachelor's degree in the UK

A diploma from a British university is the cherished dream of applicants from all over the world. It opens up excellent prospects for employment and career growth in the largest international companies. British higher education is considered to be one of the best in the world. A bachelor's or undergraduate degree is the first stage of higher education at all UK universities.

Features of undergraduate programmes

Admission and requirements for applicants

For admission to undergraduate studies in the UK, a candidate will need to have a high school diploma from home country and to demonstrate English proficiency at higher level (IELTS 6.0). The systems of secondary education in Great Britain and many countries worldwide are very different from each other, therefore international applicants may be required by universities to complete a 1-year Foundation course to bridge the gap.

Application documents are submitted through the UCAS online portal and include: a high school transcript or diploma, a personal statement, a reference from the school and a list of five selected universities. Universities make their offers based on the submitted documents. Entrance exams are part of the selection process only for admission to some medical, legal and engineering courses, as well as to all courses at Oxford and Cambridge.

Undergraduate courses and specialisation

Bachelor's degree in England for most courses lasts 3 years, in some cases (for technical and engineering specialties) - 4 years. When applying students choose either one specialisation or a combination of subjects to study at undergraduate level. For example, economics and history, physics and philosophy, or economics and computer science.

Four-year programmes offer students an opportunity to spend the 3rd year of study working in their field and following that write a thesis in the 4th year, relying on a large stock of practical knowledge. These types of extended undergraduate programmes are popular among international students, as they allow to gain valuable work experience in multinational companies.

Tuition fees and living costs

The cost of education depends on the ranking of the university and the chosen specialisation. For international students, tuition at undergraduate level in 2023 will cost between £15,000 and £25,000 per year. Unlike the United States, UK universities do not offer scholarships for bachelor's degrees. Students pay all tuition fees and living costs from their own funds.

The total cost of accommodation, food and everyday expenses will be about £15,000 per year. Living in London can be significantly more expensive, which is why many students rent in shared accommodation. A student visa allows employment in the UK and most students take advantage of this opportunity to earn extra income to cover their living costs.

Student life

Students in British universities prefer to live on campus with easy access to academic buildings, libraries, gyms, tennis courts, swimming pools and student cafes. Student accommodation on campus can vary within the same university: from ancient buildings with fireplaces and wood-panelled dining halls to modern students residencies.

When studying in UK universities students not only receive outstanding academic education with excellent career prospects but can also significantly expand their horizons. They have the opportunity to take part in a large number of university events, become members of sports clubs or other student associations along with young people from all over the world.

Medical degree in UK universities

The number of places on medical courses for international students at UK universities is limited. For admission to medical school international applicants must complete the 1-year Foundation programme with in-depth study of maths, biology, chemistry and demonstrate a high level of English (IELTS 6.5-7.0). The cost of medical programmes in the UK varies from £46,000 to £55, 000 per year. The average duration of studies is 5-6 years.

Bachelor's degree in Creative Arts and Architecture

Courses in Art & Design and Architecture are among the most popular in the UK, due to the high level of undergraduate programmes and practical focus. For admission, students must compile and submit a creative portfolio to the admissions committee. Almost all applicants entering universities such as Central Saint Martins and UCL take a full-time portfolio preparation course lasting between 9 and 12 months.

Undergraduate studies at Oxford and Cambridge

Oxford and Cambridge are the most famous English universities in the world. They do not accept Foundation courses for admission to undergraduate programmes. International students wishing to compete for a place at the two most prestigious universities in England must successfully complete either the A-Levels or International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes, pass entrance examinations and attend an academic interview.

Undergraduate Degrees in the UK Universities