Brexit has affected the popularity of British universities among students from the EU, including Croatian students. After Brexit, EU students no longer have the right to domestic student status and no longer have access to student loans in the United Kingdom.
They pay higher, international tuition fees, which makes education in the UK more expensive for students from the EU. Despite Brexit, British universities still have a strong global reputation for high-quality education and scientific research. Top institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and the London School of Economics have largely retained their popularity because of their global prestige. These universities continue to attract a significant number of international students, including those from the EU. The UK government and universities are adjusting policies to mitigate the impact of Brexit by introducing more flexible visa policies and targeted scholarships for EU students.
Applying to a university in the United Kingdom involves several steps. To avoid becoming discouraged by the process, here is a detailed guide to help you through it:
1. Research universities and choose a program
1.1 Find a program
Find the program you want to attend and research the universities that offer it. Check university websites for detailed program descriptions, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
1.2. Review tuition costs
Tuition fees for undergraduate and graduate studies in the UK can vary significantly depending on the university you choose and the specific program you apply for.
1.2.1. Undergraduate study programs – For international students (including EU students after Brexit) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, undergraduate tuition usually ranges from £11,400 – £38,000 per year. The average cost is around £22,200 per year. Undergraduate programs in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland usually last three years, while in Scotland they last four years.
Tuition fees for international students vary greatly depending on the university and program. Programs involving clinical practice and laboratory work are usually more expensive. Humanities and social sciences are at the lower end (£10,000-£20,000), while medicine and engineering are at the higher end (£20,000-£38,000).
In Scotland, you can expect tuition fees from £10,000 to £32,000 per year. As in other parts of the UK, fees vary depending on the institution and field of study.
Here are a few examples of tuition fees by university (international students):
University of Oxford: £27,840 to £39,010 per year, depending on the program.
University of Cambridge: £24,507 to £63,990 per year, depending on the program (clinical programs such as medicine are at the higher end of the range).
Imperial College London: £35,100 to £46,650 per year for most programs, with some programs costing more.
University College London (UCL): £19,720 to £34,660 per year, depending on the program. University of Edinburgh: £22,000 to £32,100 per year, depending on the program.
Always check the latest information on official university websites and explore available financial aid options in order to plan your education budget effectively.
1.2.2. Postgraduate studies – Postgraduate studies include master’s degrees (e.g. Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), etc.), postgraduate diplomas, and doctorates (PhD). Tuition fees for postgraduate studies range from £9,000 to £30,000. The average cost is estimated at around £17,109 per year.
University of Oxford: Arts and humanities: £11,938 – £27,460 per year. Medical sciences: £23,287 – £46,840 per year. MBA: £65,520 per year.
University of Cambridge: Arts and humanities: £12,459 – £29,220 per year. Science and engineering: £29,220 – £36,012 per year. MBA: £61,000 per year.
Imperial College London: Engineering: £16,800 – £35,100 per year. Business School: £34,300 – £57,200 per year. Medicine: £14,000 – £45,350 per year.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE): Social sciences and humanities: £23,520 – £32,208 per year. MBA: £56,960 per year.
University College London (UCL): Arts and humanities: £18,000 – £29,000 per year. Science and engineering: £23,100 – £34,100 per year. MBA: £45,000 per year.
University of Edinburgh: Arts and humanities: £22,200 – £28,400 per year. Science and engineering: £25,100 – £33,700 per year. MBA: £33,700 per year.
University of Manchester: Humanities: £20,500 – £24,000 per year. Sciences: £24,000 – £37,000 per year. MBA: £46,000 per year.
University of Birmingham: Arts and Law: £18,450 – £22,950 per year. Medical and Dental Sciences: £24,570 – £39,960 per year. MBA: £31,500 per year.
University of Warwick: Humanities: £19,000 – £24,000 per year. Science and engineering: £22,000 – £31,000 per year. MBA: £45,950 per year.
Many postgraduate programs in the United Kingdom last one academic year. This has a financial advantage and allows you to complete them relatively quickly. A one-year master’s degree usually has lower total costs. It also enables a faster entry or return to the labor market compared to a traditional two-year master’s program.
1.3. Research living costs
Living costs during undergraduate studies in the UK can vary significantly depending on location, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. Annual living costs in London are approximately £13,000 – £15,000 per year, and in other cities £9,000 – £13,000 per year.
Average monthly living costs include:
Accommodation: London: £600 – £1,200 per month, other cities: £400 – £800 per month. Shared accommodation or student halls are usually cheaper than private rentals.
Food: groceries: £100 – £200 per month, Eating out: £20 – £50 per week, depending on frequency and type of dining.
Transport: London: £50 – £150 per month (Oyster card, student discounts on travel cards), other cities: £20 – £60 per month (local bus/train tickets).
Utilities (if not included in rent): electricity, gas, water: £40 – £70 per month, Internet: £20 – £40 per month.
Books and study materials: £30 – £50 per month, although this can vary greatly depending on the program requirements.
Mobile phone: £10 – £30 per month.
Entertainment and social life: £50 – £100 per month, including going out, sports, and other activities.
Other necessities: £20 – £50 per month for personal items, clothing, etc.
Additional costs may include insurance and healthcare. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) applies to international students and is around £470 per year.
Many retailers, restaurants, and service providers offer student discounts. Websites such as UNiDAYS and TOTUM can help you find and use these discounts. Many students work part-time to supplement their income.
The UK government allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
1.4. Consider additional aspects such as university rankings, detailed program content, location, campus facilities, and student support services.
2. Check admission requirements
Review the specific entry requirements for the programs you are interested in. These usually include:
2.1. Academic requirements (e.g. A-levels, International Baccalaureate): check whether your school certificates or undergraduate degree are equivalent to the required UK qualifications.
2.2. English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL): most British universities require proof of English proficiency. Commonly accepted tests are standardized English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English exams. Check the specific requirements on the university website.
2.3. Additional tests or interviews: several British universities require interviews as part of the admission process, especially for highly competitive or specialized programs. Here are some notable universities and programs for which interviews are commonly required:
University of Oxford (almost all undergraduate programs)
University of Cambridge (most undergraduate programs)
Imperial College London (Engineering, Medicine)
University College London (UCL) (Medicine: Medicine and some other health-related programs, Architecture: portfolio review and interview)
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (Law)
University of Edinburgh (Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, some art and design programs may require an interview or portfolio review)
University of Manchester (Medicine, Dentistry)
King’s College London (Medicine and Dentistry, Midwifery)
University of Bristol (Medicine and Dentistry: interviews required, Veterinary Science: interviews are part of the admission process)
University of Warwick (Warwick Business School, Medicine)
University of Glasgow (Medicine and Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine)
University of St Andrews (Medicine)
University of Durham (certain arts and humanities programs)
University of Leeds (Medicine and Dentistry, Health Studies)
University of Exeter (Medicine)
University of Birmingham (Medicine and Dentistry, Physiotherapy)
Always check the most up-to-date information on official university websites to make sure you meet all required admission criteria.
3. Prepare your application documents
3.1. Gather transcripts and certificates/diplomas. This means collecting and preparing all official documents that provide proof of your academic achievements and qualifications. These documents are crucial for the application process because they allow the university to verify whether you meet the requirements for admission to the program you want.
A transcript is an official record of your academic performance. It includes a list of subjects/courses you have taken, the grades you received, and sometimes the number of hours for each subject/course. You can request a transcript from your school or educational institution, and make sure it is official, meaning it is stamped, signed, or sealed by the issuing institution.
Certificates/diplomas are official documents confirming that you have completed a school/program or earned a certain qualification. Examples include high school diplomas, A-level certificates, International Baccalaureate (IB) diplomas, and university degrees.
If your academic documents are in a language other than English, you will need to have them translated by a certified translator. Some universities may require certified copies of your transcripts and certificates in order to confirm their authenticity.
3.2. Obtain references or recommendation letters from teachers/professors or mentors. Written recommendations should be written by people who can confirm your academic abilities, character, and potential for success in higher education. This is an important part of the university application process. These letters offer another perspective on your academic and personal qualities and help admissions committees make informed decisions. Make sure you choose recommenders who know you well, provide them with all the necessary information, and give them enough time to write and submit their letters.
You must do this step on time. Request recommendations early enough to give your recommenders plenty of time to write a thoughtful letter.
3.3. Write a motivation letter/Personal Statement explaining your interest in the program, your academic background, and your future career aspirations. This is your opportunity to present yourself to the university selection committee and explain why you should be admitted to the program.
A motivation letter should reflect your interests, achievements, and ambitions, and explain them in a clear and engaging way. A carefully written motivation letter can effectively communicate your passion and readiness for university study and help you stand out in a competitive admissions process.
4. Apply for the program
4.1. Undergraduate studies – apply via the UCAS website
Most applications for undergraduate studies at British universities are submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). You will need to create an account on the UCAS website. When filling out the online application form, be sure to include your personal information, education, and the programs you are interested in (up to five programs).
After that, attach one motivation letter (it should include motivation for all programs, not be tailored to just one) and one recommendation. Finally, you will need to pay an application fee. The amount varies depending on the number of programs you choose. It is important to submit your application by the deadline (usually January 15 for most programs).
Here are the detailed steps for applying via the UCAS website:
- Create an account on the UCAS website.
- Fill out the online application form, including:
- Personal details
- Education
- Program choices (up to five)
- Attach your motivation letter/Personal Statement.
- Attach a recommendation from a teacher or mentor.
- Pay the application fee. The amount varies depending on the number of programs you selected.
- Submit your application by the deadline (usually January 15 for most programs).
Always check the most up-to-date information and deadlines on the UCAS website to ensure everything is completed successfully and on time.
4.2. Postgraduate studies
For postgraduate studies, you usually apply directly to universities or through their respective online application systems. Each university may have its own application process for postgraduate courses, so it is important to check the specific requirements and procedures on the website of the university you want to apply to.
- Take the required tests
If necessary, register for and take the required standardized tests (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, BMAT, LNAT) to prove your English language proficiency. To choose which standardized test is best for you, for example IELTS or TOEFL, consider the requirements of your target universities (which score you need for admission to your chosen program), how familiar you are with the format and content of each test, an assessment of how strong you are in different English language skills, and the availability of the tests.
Study the format and structure of each test to determine which best matches your strengths and preferences. Some people prefer a computer-based test, while others prefer a paper-based exam. The general trend is that all tests are becoming digital and paper versions are increasingly disappearing. For example, if you feel more comfortable speaking with a native speaker, you may prefer IELTS over TOEFL. If you are undecided between IELTS and TOEFL, you can read more on our blog.
By carefully evaluating these factors and seeking advice when needed, you can make an informed decision that will improve your chances of success in the admissions process. If you want an assessment of your current language skill level and a recommendation for appropriate preparation, you can contact us for a diagnostic test.
Once you have taken the chosen test, it is important to submit your standardized test results to the universities you are applying to on time.
6. Attend interviews
Some programs, especially medicine and law, may require an interview. If your chosen program requires one, prepare thoroughly by researching common interview questions, understanding the program content, and practicing mock interviews. For programs such as architecture or art and design, be prepared to present and discuss your portfolio.
7. Respond to offers you receive from universities
After universities review your application, they may send you an offer. Offers may be unconditional or conditional (based on achieving specific grades or test scores).
7.1. An unconditional offer from a British university means that the university is offering you a place on the program without any conditions. This means you have already met all admission requirements, including academic qualifications and language level, and the university is ready to admit you as soon as you accept the offer. Some universities may ask you to commit to their program if you accept an unconditional offer. In some cases, accepting an unconditional offer may mean that you must decline all other offers and applications.
Think carefully before accepting an unconditional offer, especially if you are still waiting for other offers or if there are other universities you prefer. Some students may relax about their final exams/matura, but maintaining a good academic standard is important for your future and personal development. Consider your options carefully and choose the best path for yourself.
7.2. A conditional offer from a British university means that the university is offering you a place on the program, provided that you meet certain conditions stated in the offer. These conditions usually relate to your academic performance in upcoming exams or the completion of your current education/program.
Here is a detailed overview of what a conditional offer may involve:
7.2.1. Academic conditions
These are usually the grades you must achieve in your current studies, such as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB), or equivalent grades from your home country. For example, a conditional offer may state that you need to achieve a high grade in a specific subject or an IB score of 34 points.
7.2.2. Language proficiency
If English is not your first language, the offer may require you to achieve a specific score on a standardized English test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or a Cambridge English exam. For example, the offer may require an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with no individual skill lower than 6.0.
7.2.3. Other conditions
Some programs may have additional requirements, such as passing an entrance test (e.g. UCAT for medicine), attending an interview, or submitting a portfolio of work.
After receiving offers, choose your firm and insurance choice. Decline all other offers you do not wish to accept.
8. Secure your finances
Apply for scholarships, grants, or student loans if necessary. Universities and foundations offer various scholarships and financial support. Country-specific scholarships may be available through government or private organizations.
9. Apply for a student visa
As a Croatian citizen, you will need a student visa (formerly Tier 4 visa) to study in the United Kingdom. Your chosen university must issue you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which you will include with your visa application. After completing the visa application form, you will need to pay the application fee. You will need to provide documents such as your passport, proof of finances, and proof of English language proficiency.
By following these steps, you can successfully enroll at a university in the United Kingdom and begin your academic journey. The complexity of the process may vary depending on your individual circumstances and factors such as your chosen program, application deadlines, and your level of preparedness. With careful planning, organization, and attention to detail, the application process does not have to be stressful and frustrating, but rather an exciting and inspiring step toward the studies of your dreams.
IZVORI:
- ttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/studying-in-the-uk-guidance-for-eu-students, pristupano 1. svibnja 2024.
- https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/eu-student-advice, pristupano 13. ožujka 2024.
- https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/moving-uk/cost-studying, pristupano 21. ožujka 2024
- https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/international-and-eu-students/applying-university-international-student/applying-study-uk-europe, pristupano 17. svibnja 2024.
- https://www.ukstudy.com/uk-placement/eu-student-requirements, pristupano 1. svibnja 2024.
