Studying in the UK in 2026: UCAS, deadlines, budget, visa

Key points for 2025

• The UCAS platform for almost all undergraduate degrees (up to 5 choices).
• Deadlines: mid-October for Oxford/Cambridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science; late January for most courses.
• English: IELTS/TOEFL is usually required (target score 6.0–7.0 depending on the programme); alternatives may be accepted (Duolingo, pre-sessional courses).
• Budget: international fees are often £20k–£38k a year (excluding Medicine), plus living costs of £900–£1,600 a month depending on the city.
• Student Route visa: a CAS from your university, the IHS and proof of funds. You can work up to 20 hours a week during term time.

Why the UK?

Highly specialised degrees from the 1^st year, strong employability, a wealth of clubs and societies, and renowned academic support. London, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh, Durham… each city has its own culture and cost of living.

Before you start, read the overview: Studying in the UK.

Further reading: Admission to the University of the West of England (UWE) 2026: Fees, Application.

Applying through UCAS: steps and timeline

The 5 building blocks of your application

1. Pick your 5 choices (courses + universities), checking the entry requirements for the French Baccalauréat.
2. Personal Statement: 4,000 characters/47 lines max, focused on your academic motivation (reading, projects, competitions…).
3. Reference from a teacher or deputy head (with predicted grades if needed).
4. English: IELTS/TOEFL (or an alternative accepted by the university).
5. Tests/portfolios/interviews depending on the subject (e.g. MAT/TSA for Oxbridge, auditions for the Arts, a portfolio for Design).

Key dates (2025 cycle)

For the technical details (Tariff points, Personal Statement format, choice strategy), see: UCAS application.

On the same topic, read our article: Brighton and Sussex: Admission & Scholarships.

Applying to Oxford/Cambridge

Oxbridge requires a highly academic application: well-focused reading, practice for the admissions tests (TSA, MAT, ENGAA depending on the year and the subject) and interview preparation. The deadline is mid-October.

Find out more: Studying at Oxford and Studying at Cambridge.

Entry requirements & proof of English

French Baccalauréat

Universities publish equivalency tables for the Bac. Selective programmes often require high marks in the relevant specialist subjects. Some courses offer a Foundation Year if your academic profile or your English is not yet at the expected level.

Further reading: Admission to Royal Holloway, University of London 2026: Fees, Application.

English tests

• IELTS Academic: often 6.0–6.5 (up to 7.0+ for demanding courses), with minimum scores for each component.
• TOEFL iBT: thresholds similar to IELTS, depending on the programme.
• Alternatives: Duolingo, Cambridge, or a pre-sessional course on campus where accepted.

Budget: fees and cost of living

Tuition fees (indicative international rates)

• Undergraduate degrees: usually £20,000 to £38,000 a year depending on the subject and the institution (much more for Medicine).
• Taught Master’s degrees: a similar or higher range depending on the specialism and length.

Monthly cost of living

• Outside London: ~£900–£1,200 (accommodation, food, transport, extras).
• London: ~£1,200–£1,600 depending on the area and type of accommodation.

Tip: target cities where university accommodation (halls) and commuting work well. Also compare each university’s in-house scholarship packages.

Top universities to explore: The top 10 universities in the UK.

On the same topic, read our article: Sheffield: Admission & Scholarships.

Student Route visa: the essentials

1. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), issued by the university once you have been accepted and paid your deposit.
2. Fees: visa + IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge).
3. Finances: proof that you can pay your 1^st-year fees plus a monthly amount for living costs (amounts published by the Home Office, higher in London).
4. Work: up to 20 hours a week during term time, full-time during holidays (depending on your visa and university).

Suggested roadmap

• Feb–Apr: choose your subject, shortlist universities, write first drafts of your Personal Statement.
• May–Jul: take English tests, strengthen your academic activities, finalise your 5 choices.
• Aug–Sep: finalise your PS and reference; submit for Oxbridge/Medicine if applicable.
• Oct–Jan: submit your UCAS application, track the portals, prepare for any interviews and written tests.
• Spring–Summer: university decisions, accommodation, visa.

Need support?

Our UK coaches help you with your UCAS strategy, Personal Statement, interviews and timeline. Start here: UCAS coaching.

To find out more, read our guide: Manchester Alliance Business School.

FAQ

How many UCAS choices can I make?

Up to 5 choices in most cases. Specific rules apply to Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science.

How long can the Personal Statement be?

Up to 4,000 characters or 47 lines. The content should stay academic (reading, projects, competitions, relevant work experience).

What are the deadlines for Oxbridge or Medicine?

Mid-October. Plan ahead for any tests or interviews and for the high grade requirements.

What level of English should you aim for?

Many programmes require IELTS 6.0-6.5 (up to 7.0+ for the most selective). Check the minimum score required for each component. Pre-sessional courses may be available.

What budget should you plan for?

International fees are often £20k-£38k a year (excluding Medicine). Living costs are around £900-£1,600 a month, depending on the city.

Can I work while I study?

The Student visa generally allows you to work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during the holidays, subject to conditions.

Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes: universities offer their own scholarships, and there is targeted funding based on subject or academic excellence. Always compare the Scholarships pages of each university.

Which universities are best for my subject?

Start with this overview: Top 10 UK universities, then narrow your choice based on entry requirements, modules and career prospects.