Do I need a visa to study in the UK?

Yes, you will need a visa if you are from outside of the European Union/ European Economic Area. If you are unsure whether you are required to apply for a visa, you can complete a quick questionnaire on the Home Office website www.gov.uk

When should I apply for my visa?

You should apply for your visa once you have been issued with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen University. You should do so earlier rather than later and no more than 3 months before the start date of your programme. You do not need to worry, as we will assign an Advisor to assist you with your visa application.

What kind of visa do I need?

To study in the UK and in the University of your choice, you will require a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. You should visit www.gov.uk

When will I receive my CAS?

You will need to meet the following conditions to receive your CAS: 

Finally, if you will be applying for your visa in the UK, you must bring all your supporting documents to our Office at a date and time specified by the Advisor dealing with your case. If the documents meet the requirements of the University and the Home Office, you will be issued with a CAS letter.

What will I need to apply for a Tier 4(General) Student Visa?

Full information regarding what you will need to apply for a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa can be found on the government website www.gov.uk

Do I have to be there in person to submit my visa application?

Yes you have to be there in person to submit when applying for a student visa.  If not, your application will not be collected at the visa submission centre.

The requirement for Tier 4 (general) student visa maintenance

When you apply for a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you will be asked to provide evidence that you (or your parent/guardian) have enough money to pay for your course and your living expenses. If you or your family are funding your studies, this page will help you work out what documents you need to submit to UKVI with your visa application and answer the following questions:

How much money do I need?

Firstly, you will need to show that you have sufficient ‘maintenance’ funds for your stay in the UK to cover living expenses whilst you are studying.

If you are studying in Greater London, you must have at least £1,265 per month of your course. If you are studying outside of London, you will have to show £1,015 per month of your course.

You will only have to show a maximum of 9 months of funds, even if your course is longer.

What else do I need to show?

As well as your maintenance funds, you need to show you have enough money to pay the full tuition fees for your course. If you are studying a course, which is more than one year long, you will only need to provide evidence that you can pay for your first year's fees.

Any tuition fees that you have already paid to the university of your choice will be considered. This means that if you have paid £5,000 towards your tuition fees, the amount that you need to have available will be reduced by £5,000.

What if my funds are held in a different currency?

UKVI will accept funds held in any currency. If the account is not in British Pounds (GBP), they will convert your available funds into GBP. To calculate this, UKVI will check the exchange rate using the Oanda Currency Converter.

They will always use the exchange rate from the day that you submit your visa application to UKVI, so when depositing money, you must be aware that the exchange rate can fluctuate. After converting to GBP, you may have less money available on your visa application date than you had originally expected.

What documents can I use to prove that I have the required funds?

The funds can be held in your bank account or your parent/legal guardian’s bank account. If you are using a parent/guardian’s account, you must provide additional documentation as proof of your relationship and to show that you have permission to use their account to fund your studies.

It is not possible to use a bank account held by any other member of your family or a company. Not all banks and financial institutions around the world will be accepted by UKVI. The Home Office keeps a list of institutions that can or cannot be accepted here. You will need to make sure that the bank account used is from an acceptable bank.

The UKVI requirements will be different depending on the type of documents used. What the documents must show are as follows:

If using a bank statement in the student’s name, the statement must:

If using a bank statement in parents’ name(s), the statement must:

If using a bank letter, the letter must:

The above information is FK Global Educational Ventures’ interpretation of the UKVI guidance and is correct to the best of our knowledge. This information is for reference purposes only. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure they meet all requirements before submitting a visa application. UKVI’s full guidance on maintenance requirements can be found on the official UK government website.

What should I do once I receive my visa?

As soon as you have received your visa, you should inform us through our offices or by forwarding a scanned copy of your visa via e-mail contact@fkglobeduventures.com

If you are in your home country, you seek advice from our office on how to make arrangements for your travel to the UK. Please ensure that you arrive in the UK with plenty of time to attend registration. 

Can I be refused a visa or is the visa automatic?

If you follow our advice on the visa application, the probability of you getting a visa refusal is almost zero. In the rare event where the application is unduly rejected, FKGEV will assist you through the administrative review.  We have experts, and at times we use the services of immigration law firms for visa applications, FKGEV also organises Visa counselling seminars to assist the students especially with credibility interviews, guide them and keep them informed with the latest news.

Thinking of studying abroad?

Choosing to study abroad is an important decision and a serious commitment – it will involve travelling and living overseas, possibly in a climate and culture different from the one you are used to. You will need to make financial arrangements to enable you to study at your chosen institution as well as live nearby.

Our study shows that students who are well-prepared for studies abroad; i.e. who have enquired about their chosen academic subject, enquired about the area in which they will live and have carefully reflected on why they wish to undertake further study – are more able to engage with their education and more likely to succeed in their chosen studies and career path. We want you to succeed and benefit from your learning and thus encourage you to think carefully about the choices and commitments that are needed when studying abroad.

The checklist below provides questions for you to think about before deciding about travelling and living abroad to undertake a programme of study. Read through the questions carefully, consider the commitment that you will be making, research your chosen institution carefully and understand what will be required of you regarding expenses, fees, travel and study timetables. There will be restrictions on any paid work that you may undertake, and it is important for you to understand what these restrictions mean.

Perhaps this is the first time that you will travel away from your family and friends and you need to consider how you will keep in touch and how you will access emotional support. You may find it helpful to make notes to help you to map your plans and decisions.

We want you to make a fully informed decision and reflecting on the questions below should enable you to consider your options carefully and comprehensively before making your final choice.

A. Studying overseas

(1) Why have you chosen to study in the UK? You should visit: www.educationuk.org/global ||| www.gostudyuk.com to learn more about UK education.

What is the benefit of studying in UK?

There are many benefits of studying in the UK. The UK has a long tradition of quality and internationally recognized education. As a student, you also get to experience a multi-cultural and diverse study atmosphere as the UK is a study destination for students from around the world. The biggest benefit is the time. Qualifications in UK are finished earlier than in other countries. It takes just 1 year to complete your Postgraduate studies and 3 years for Undergraduate qualifications. You should visit: www.educationuk.org or www.gostudyuk.com to learn more about the benefits UK education.

Which university is best for studying?

Ranking universities for their quality of teaching in various. To know more about ranking of UK universities, the main UK national newspapers that publish annual league tables of UK educational institutions are The Times, The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, The Independent and The Guardian. By looking at them for the same subject, you will notice that they often come up with different results. Use them as a rough guide only.

In terms of research, reports are made every five or six years by the UK Higher Education Funding Councils. Their Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) provides a comprehensive peer review of departments’ research and grades each subject discipline (in one of the 67 units of assessment (UOA) in the RAE) in each university from Unclassified (the lowest) to 4* (the highest). More information can be found on  www.rae.ac.uk.

Teaching Quality Information (TQI) for institutions in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (plus some Scottish ones) is available on the www.unistats.co.uk. This gives a broader picture of what it is like to study at these institutions as the TQI data is made up of the National Student Survey (NSS), plus in-depth official UK government statistics concerning students at these institutions, including their career paths after graduation. 

You can also look at Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) www.qaa.ac.uk Institutional audits and also see whether an institution or course is professionally accredited as well. There are many pieces of information available to help you decide whether a course or institution is the one for you.

How are universities ranked?

Rankings are based on subjectively perceived "quality", or on some combination of empirical statistics, or on surveys of educators, scholars, students, prospective students or others.  There are several types of rankings so be careful that you are looking at the correct one for your needs. The BCIE offices can guide you on this.

What is the duration of studying in the UK?

A typical undergraduate degree in the UK is 3 years, while a master degree is 1 year and DBA/PhDs is from 3 years. However, we have universities that offer 2 – year fast track undergraduate degree programmes. There are also top-up undergraduate programmes lasting one year for students who may have previous professional qualifications, ordinary and national diplomas, or extensive relevant work experience.

I don’t have the grades I need to get onto the course I want. What can I do?

Many colleges have access courses validated by a university that allow you to prepare for a degree course. They last from six months to a year and teach you a variety of subjects, including the one you plan to study – English, study skills, research and more. They are sometimes called foundation, bridging or preparatory courses as well.

I don’t know whether a UK university will accept my qualifications. How can I find out?

There are two organisations that can help you find out: the British Council, which has offices all over the world, and UK NARIC, the UK National Recognition Information Centre. They may have slightly different standards, but it should give you an idea of what the universities are looking for.

My University has refused to give me a copy of my transcript. Do I give them the address of the University in the UK where I am applying to study so that they courier the transcript there?

You can give them the office address of the FKGEV branch where you application is being handled for them to scan a copy of the transcript to the University you are applying to. We work closely with our universities such that we can certify copies of your transcripts once we have sighted the originals.  This helps to speed up the whole process for you.

Do universities provide work placement?

Yes some universities do provide work placement, especially in fields related to IT and technology. However, you have to apply for it to be considered for this option. The placements are usually paid work periods with companies. Some universities also charge a placement fee if you are interested in this option.

What are the application turnaround times?

This differs from school to school. Your application will be forwarded the day you complete all requirements. The turnaround time could range from 24 hours to 4 weeks.

Will you help me get my student visa to enable me to study?

We will guide you through the entire visa application process, and should you follow our advice to the letter, you will have a more than 96% chance of securing the visa. Our members of staff are not only well trained, but have vast experience in advising students on visa applications.

Why use FK Global Educational Ventures services?

FKGEV offers you a comprehensive package of services that will take you from deciding what and where to study, to finally arriving at your carefully selected university. We will assist you with deciding on what and where to study, help with putting in the application, provide you with information on tuition fees and living expenses as well as on financial aid available, on accommodation and importantly provide visa counselling. We will also provide you with a pre-departure briefing. We will ensure that the process is as seamless as possible for you, as we do all the worrying and chasing up for you. Remember – we have direct links with all of our network universities.

» Here are some main advantages of using FKGEV:

» The best chances of getting your dream study place

» 96% visa success rate

» 100% free support – at every step and every level

» Your application documents checked by trained experts

» Personalised service detailing advice on accommodation, applications, visas, pre-departure, English tests, scholarships etc

» We organise University visits to the FKGEV offices tin Africa to give you the opportunity to meet directly with the university representatives.

» Up to date advice on the availability of scholarships and student loans.

Do the Universities accept any other type of English test other than the IELTS?

Yes, some of the universities do organise internal English exams for their students who do not meet the UKBA English requirements. These tests are also accepted by the UKBA. Kindly contact us to get more detail on these Universities.

What is the minimum IELTS score required to get into a UK institution?

Different Universities have different requirements on this. Some for that matter do not require any IELTS or SELT. Contact our offices for the most up to date information on the University you are interested in.

Why write an English test when I come from an English speaking country?

This is a little tricky because in most cases it could be a course requirement or the High Commission’s requirement. This is not applicable in all cases so our counsellors will advise you if you need it in your case.

How much does a postgraduate course cost in the UK?

For each academic year, you can expect to pay £5,000 to £13,000 for classroom-based courses, £9,000 to £16,000 for laboratory or workshop-based courses and £11,000 to over £26,000 for clinical courses. These are estimates only and can vary with institution and location. International students will pay ‘overseas’ fee rates that are higher than ‘home’ fees for UK residents, which are subsidised by the UK government. You may qualify for these lower fees if you are classed as a UK resident or you come from an EU member country. Your institution will have the final say on whether you qualify.

Is it expensive to study in the UK?

Making the decision to study is an investment with life-long consequences, and in so far as the returns on the initial investment will be much higher, with much better job prospects and a worldwide network of contacts, then we cannot say that it is expensive!  Given the changes in exchanges rates and the very competitive nature of British Universities, it is no longer expensive to study in the UK.

How much will it cost to support myself during a postgraduate course?

For one academic year of nine months, the current estimate is about £11,500 for London and £9,500 for elsewhere (£1,265 a month in London and £1,015 a month elsewhere). This should cover the cost of accommodation, heating, lighting, food, clothing, books and daily travel. These are estimates only and can vary with institution and location.

Do I have to pay all the fees before getting the visa or travelling?

No. You do not have to pay all before travelling to the school. Most Universities have instalment plans, but it goes with deadlines so we will have to ensure you pay within the dates given. Most Universities will, however, give a discount for early payment, if full fees are paid before the beginning of the first semester or a given date. Contact our offices so they can discuss your individual cases with you. Note also that each University will have its own ‘Deposit’ policy and you will usually have to pay the required deposit before you can apply for a visa.

Will I be allowed to work while I am studying?

If your course lasts six months or more, you will be allowed to work part time for up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during the holidays, subject to certain restrictions. The sort of job that would allow you to only work this amount and still fit it around your studies would probably be working in a bar, pub or restaurant, although there may be some available in a factory or warehouse as well. Remember, though, that you cannot rely on this to fund your studies and also your institution may not be happy about you doing this if it puts pressure on the time available for your studies.

What kind of financial help or funding is available to international students?

It is almost impossible to make arrangements for financial aid and funding once you have left your home country. Start by contacting your own country’s ministry or department of education. How much you are eligible for and under what conditions will vary depending on each country. It may be a grant, but more countries are switching to loans instead, which you pay back once you have a job.

Scholarships are another option. There will be many different types available, as your own government and the UK government, plus many other organisations, bodies and institutions, will be interested in encouraging the best from your country to study abroad (see the scholarships section »  of our website for more information on scholarships). Competition for scholarships is fierce and you should make sure you apply early. For all scholarships, you must show academic merit and research potential.

What are the different accommodation options for international students?

There are two main choices - Halls of residence or private flats and houses. Halls of residence are University/College owned international student accommodation (full board or self catering).  Or a student can stay in a rented flat or house. Private accommodation - is typically a room in a house or a flat shared with other students. Below is a break down of the different types:

Halls of Residence

Most universities provide their own accommodation for students.  These are usually based on campus or very close by.  These can be en-suite rooms or a room with shared facilities.  Some universities can offer meals.  They are usually overseen by a resident member of the university to ensure the welfare and safety of the students. We recommend that at least for the first year you consider staying in this type of accommodation. It would have easy access to the university and allow you to settle into the country much better. It would also allow you to meet with a variety of other students and cultures.

House share

Many students resided in properties owned by private landlords. You will have your own room, but will be sharing the kitchen and, usually, bathroom. You will usually split all bills with the other students. You will be responsible for your own cooking. The universities usually have a list of approved properties and can help you find somewhere to live.

Homestay

Homestay allows you to rent a room from a local family near to where you are studying.  This helps you learn the local lifestyle and language.  You would normally live, eat and share the majority of your time with your host family. Usually all meals, bills and laundry are included. Your university will have a list of approved families.

Make sure you apply for your accommodation as soon as you have chosen your university.  Demand for accommodation is also very high and availability of on-campus accommodation (if available) cannot be guaranteed. We always recommend that international students live in halls as this gives them more support and it is easier to meet people socially. Most institutions guarantee international students a place in halls for their first year for this reason.

When should I organise somewhere to live?

It is strongly advise that you find somewhere to live before you leave your home country. Your university will send you information on your accommodation choices, whether renting from the university itself or from recommended private landlords. If you cannot, then at least book a few days in a hotel or hostel before you leave to give yourself a base while you look around for somewhere to stay. Again, your university should be able to recommend a suitable place for you.

Will I have to pay for medical treatment in the UK?

The UK has a National Health Service (NHS) that provides free and subsidised health care. International students pay the hearth surcharge during their visa application and this will cover you during your entire stay in the UK.

You might need to pay a healthcare surcharge (called the ‘immigration health surcharge’ or IHS) as part of your immigration application.

Whether you need to pay depends on the immigration status you’re applying for.

For more information on the immigration health surcharge:

www.gov.uk

What should I do in a medical emergency?

Stay calm and phone 999. The phone call is free, including from mobiles (cells). The operator will transfer you to ambulance dispatch, which will send an ambulance and can talk you through some first aid until the paramedics arrive. Alternatively, if the injury is not immediately life threatening, contact NHS Direct, which will give you health advice and information about what to do, or you could go to the local accident and emergency department. All treatment is free wherever you come from, but further treatment in the hospital outside of the department may cost you, unless the NHS health surcharge covers you.

Where do I find a local doctor?

If you are going to live on campus, the university will register you with their doctor or a general practitioner (GP). This GP may have a surgery on campus or nearby. Even if the doctor is not working at the university all the time, there is likely to be a nurse on duty during the day as well. If you are not going to live on campus, then you may still be able to register with the university doctor. If not or if you are living quite a long way from the university, you will be able to find a list of GPs and doctors’ surgeries and health centres in the local phone book or on the NHS Direct website. Many are very busy and may not be able to register you. If you have problems registering with a GP, contact your local primary care trust (England and Scotland), central services agency (Northern Ireland) or local health board (Wales), and it will be able to assign you to one.

I’m feeling depressed and homesick. What should I do?

Stress and homesickness are common feelings for students at university, and most institutions will have a trained counsellor on campus. The service is free and you should go whenever you feel like you are not coping. Don’t ignore your problems and hope that they will go away by themselves. Counsellors will happily listen to any worries or concerns you may have. If they think the situation is serious enough, they will refer you to the GP for medication, which you should not feel ashamed about. If things get this bad, always mention it to your lecturer as well, so that they are aware of any problems that may affect your work.