Questions to ask...

All the UK universities will hold Open Days and Drop-In Sessions when students and parent can visit the institutions and be given a guided tour.

Some students get an instant reaction the moment they set foot on the campus, the either decide that this is the place for them or somewhere to avoid! As an international student you may not be able to visit the universities that you have shortlisted prior to accepting your offer. If this is the case, it is paramount for you to do as much research as possible beforehand so that you can make a wise and informed choice. There is so much information on the web that you should be able to find out almost everything you need to know.

That’s where I can help! I’ve outlined some questions for you to ask when searching the web.

Location
Where is the university?What is the nearest town/city?Is this a split site campus? What is public transport like? What is the local area like? Which is the nearest airport?Will the location add to my student costs?

Statistics/Academic Information
How many students are there?
What is the size of the undergraduate/postgraduate cohort?
What is the proportion of the overseas student population?
How many countries are represented in the student population?
How is the university rated in the university guides?
How was the department rated in the Research Assessment Exercise 2008?

Practical Information
Does the university have terms or semesters?
What are the term dates?
When are the holidays?
How long is the degree programme?
How is my course structured, ie will modules run throughout the year, by the term?
How long is my degree? Are there any options for extending it if appropriate?

Admissions
How do I apply for the course?

Tip: Undergraduates have to apply through UCAS, a central admissions system www.ucas.ac.uk Applying through UCAS should simplify your application as one application goes to a number of institutions. If you are not sure which institution to apply to or even what you want to study you can find a lot of help via the UCAS website.

How many places are there on my degree?
How many applications are there for each place?
What is the usual A level/IB point tariff for entry?
Can I apply and be accepted and then defer or have a gap year?
Will there be places available through clearing?
What opportunities are available for going abroad for a term/semester or year?

Tip: If you intend to go on a gap year you can apply the previous year and accept a place which means you don’t have to go through the rigmarole of applying when you are away.

Fees and Funding
What are the costs of a typical undergraduate degree?
What are the overseas course fees ?
How do I pay my fees?
Can I pay fees in instalments?
What are the living costs like?
Are there any scholarships/bursaries that I can apply for?
How are the scholarships/bursaries awarded?
Are there any opportunities to have a part-time job nearby?

Tip: Many institutions will offer subject related or regional scholarships. Find out what’s available and when to apply from the University’s International Office.

Accommodation
What kind of accommodation is available on campus?
What kind of accommodation is available off campus?
How near is the accommodation to my academic buildings?
Will I be able to choose my accommodation beforehand?
Will I have to share a bathroom and kitchen?
Is there a range of accommodation to suit my budget?
Can I pay my accommodation in instalments?
If I have to pay a deposit to secure my accommodation –is this refundable and until when?


Pastoral Needs, Guidance and Support
What help is available if I get into difficulties?
Will I have a personal tutor?
Is there a dedicated student medical centre?
Are there places of worship on campus?
How many catering outlets and restaurants are there?
Will I be able to get halal/kosher food?
Are there opportunities to travel around the UK?

The Academic Department
What books will I need for my course?
Will I be able to buy or loan the required books?
Will I be taught via lectures, seminars, tutorials or laboratory work or a combination?
How many hours a week will I be expected to study?
Is there a reading list I can obtain in advance?
How are students assessed, exam, written assessment or both?
Does the Department offer any extra seminars or classes at specific times?
What are the employment opportunities like?
Am I able to get in contact with current students or alumni?

English Language
What are the English Language entry requirements?
Do I have to take the IELTS or TOEFL or is there an acceptable alternative?
I have studied in the UK before, do I still have to take an English test?

Social Activities
Where is the Students’ Union and what does it provide?
What sporting opportunities are there?
How far from the Academic buildings are the Sports Facilities?
How can I learn a language, a musical instrument, act in a play, join the debating society?
What about the University news paper, radio or tv?

International Students
How do I get some extra English support?
How do I get information about extending my visa?
Is there a Welcome Programme for new international students?
Is there a local University contact in my country to assist me before I apply?
Is there a Freshers’ Fair?