Studying at Oxford University
Academic excellence and international reputation
Other notable figures include Stephen Hawking, Albert Einstein, Oscar Wilde and J.R.R. Tolkien, dozens of Nobel Prize winners who came to study or teach at Oxford, and a Rhodes Scholar who went on to become very famous.
President William J. Clinton. With such a storied past, the Oxford campus has no shortage of stories to tell: whether it’s the two fauns decorating the door of the office where C.S. Lewis (author of The World of Narnia) worked, the lawns accessible only to PhD holders, the impressive Radcliffe Camera, a spherical-shaped library, the Bridge of Sighs, reminiscent of its Venetian namesake, or the nearby Turf Tavern, Oxford is never short of illustrious places to discover!
The University of Oxford has been awarded first place in the Times Higher Education international ranking of universities. Founded in 1096, or even earlier, Oxford is certainly one of the oldest universities in the world, as well as one of the most prestigious and selective.
Located less than two hours from London, the historic city of Oxford, nicknamed “The City of Dreaming Spires”, is home to 24,000 students, half of whom are undergraduates. Oxford University is often associated with its historic rival, Cambridge University, to the extent that the two institutions are referred to as “Oxbridge”.
Oxford’s most famous graduates include no fewer than 27 British Prime Ministers, including Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair and Theresa May.
Schooling
At Oxford, semesters are actually 3 blocks of 8 weeks, shorter than at most universities, which explains why work is particularly intensive during term time.
Students spend most of their time on academic work and, more often than not, are required to hand in one essay or solve a series of problems per week.
In addition to courses, Oxford University offers an original method, unique to Oxford and Cambridge. This is called “tutoring”, and consists of small teaching groups (generally between 1 and 5 people) led by a tutor, usually a world-renowned expert in the field being studied.
To consult the complete list of courses offered, click here
Student life
But students don’t devote all their time to work! The college organization encourages friendships between students of different nationalities and backgrounds, as well as the study of a variety of subjects.
The school offers a wide range of activities, from traditional debates and lectures by leading figures (politicians, academics, civil society and business personalities) to team sports. In this field, the best elements have the opportunity to wear Oxford’s colors in inter-university tournaments. Rowing is particularly popular at the college and university levels.
The city of Oxford also offers visitors many quaint old buildings and libraries, a wide range of restaurants, cafés and bars, large green spaces and several great museums, such as the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, the Natural History Museum and the Pitt Rivers Museum of Anthropology.
With a city of this size and a university of this nature, it’s impossible to get bored! At the same time, Oxford remains a city on a human scale, home to an authentic, close-knit community.
How can I apply?
Oxford, one of the most selective universities in the world, demands excellent academic results and rigorous preparation. Applications to Oxford are almost entirely concerned with the academic aspects of the student’s profile.
Please note that it is forbidden to apply for an undergraduate degree at Oxforden at the same time as at Cambridge. You will therefore first have to choose between applying to Oxford University or Cambridge. It’s important to note that some programs are only offered at one of the two universities (“Philosophy, Politics and Economics” [PPE]at Oxford or “Human, Social and Political Sciences” at Cambridge, for example).
How do I apply?
They can be broken down into several stages:
- Application on UCAS
- Written test
- Selection interview
- Conditional offer of admission
- Admission
Details of these steps are given below.
The application process in detail
What is the student profile at oxford university?
Because the university is highly selective, we recommend that you apply to this university only if you can justify excellent academic results and are sure of obtaining a “Très Bien” mention in your Baccalauréat.
What’s more, as the selection process involves interviews, you’ll also need to demonstrate an excellent command of the English language. Some Oxford University programs, such as “PPE” (“Philosophy, Politics and Economics”), “Economie et Management” or “English literature” receive a particularly high number of applications, so the selection process is even tougher for them.
When should you start preparing?
Students are strongly advised to start preparing their application as early as the end of Seconde or the beginning of Première. If possible, start reading and thinking about your >personal statement as early as possible. Some applicants, particularly those with weaker English skills, may need to start preparing even earlier. Click on the following link for information for foreign applicants.
Students are advised to focus on the aspects of their chosen course that really interest them and to think actively about why they want to study the subject further – after all, they aspire to study it full-time for at least three years.
Is it possible to visit the campus?
Oxford Open Days take place on July 3-4 and September 20. Registration is not required, but may be necessary for sessions that attract large numbers of students. For further information, click here.
Tuition fees
The deadline for applying to Bath en Bachelor is January 15 of your final year.
However, given the amount of preparatory work required for admission to Bath, we strongly advise you to start preparing your application as early as your 1ère year, to maximize your chances of admission.
| Students from the United Kingdom | EU and international students | |
| Licence tuition fees | £9,250 per year for all courses | £24,750 – £34,678 depending on course of study (see website for details)International fees for undergraduate medicine: £27,240 per annum for first 3 years (preclinical) £37,445 per annum for 5th and 6th years (clinical) |
| College fees | £0 | International students must also pay a “College fee” of £7,570. |
*Tuition fees are set to rise over the next few years in line with inflation.
When you consider the cost of any university, you must also consider the cost of living. On its website, Oxford University has produced an estimate of the cost of living for international students:
Oxford’s advice is to budget between £1,058 and £1,643 for each month of residence in Oxford (between 6 and 9 months, depending on where the student stays during the vacations). This represents an estimated annual cost of around £10,567, including accommodation, transport and personal expenses.
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Studying at Leeds University
A British school with a worldwide reputation, ideal for international studies.
The University of Leeds is recognized as one of the UK’s most prestigious universities. Positioned in the top 100 universities worldwide, The establishment was founded in 1904, and is one of the founding members of the Russell Group.
Every year, the University of Leeds welcomes many international students, who come to train or continue their studies at the heart of one of Europe’s best-known universities.
With its strong focus on scientific research, the university has established itself as one of the best in engineering, but also shines among business schools.
History and description of the university
Located in the Leeds region of the UK, the university, known across the Channel as the “University Of Leeds“, is home to over 10,000 students during their studies. It is renowned for its cutting-edge training, leading to rapid and successful integration into the world of work.
Highly appreciated by recruiters, the University of Leeds is a dynamic, international institution. It focuses on the employability of its students, as well as teaching the skills needed for the job market.
Academic excellence
The academic excellence of the University of Leeds is well established. It ranks among the top universities in the UK, Europe and the world.
The university ranks 75th in the world, and 30th. of Europe’s top universities. In England, the QS World University Rankings 2024 ranked the university 11th.
But if the university is famous, it’s also thanks to certain subjects in which it excels. The Shanghai Ranking ranks the University Of Leeds in pole position among the best universities for Business Administration.
Recognized as a business school, the University Of Leeds holds triple accreditation from the MBA Association, Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the European Quality Improvement System.
The different programs at the University of Leeds
The University of Leeds offers a wide range of degrees for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Whether you’re looking to start a bachelor’s degree or continue on to a master’s, the University Of Leeds offers a wide range of specializations within its faculties.
The university campus is divided into eight faculties:
The Faculty of Arts
Leeds Arts University offers no fewer than 19 bachelors and undergraduate degrees. It boasts one of the best specialist arts universities in the north of England. It offers bachelors and masters degrees in acting, creative writing, comics and concept art.
Business school
Leeds University Business School ranks among the top 1% of business schools worldwide, thanks to its triple crown, which enables it to award three types of accreditation.
Whether economics, finance, international business or management and marketing, Leeds University Business School offers a range of bachelors, masters and MBA programs that are highly appreciated by recruiters.
Faculty of Education, Law and Social Sciences
The Faculty of Law, Education and Social Sciences is divided into 4 schools:
- L’ecole de droit: offering degrees in finance law, social justice, criminology and more.
- The School of Education: to train teachers of all ages and the psychology of teaching.
- The School of Politics and International Studies: to train students in international relations, diplomacy and economic policy.
- The School of Sociology: offering a comprehensive education in culture, social research, inclusion and gender studies.
Faculty of Biological Sciences
The Department of Biological Sciences is recognized as one of the leading universities in the life sciences in terms of research and diversity.
It is divided into three schools:
- School of Biology
- School of Biomedical Sciences
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Engineering is one of the three areas in which the University Of Leeds stands out. With its focus on academic and scientific research, the university offers a wide range of degrees: bachelors and masters in chemical, civil and mechanical engineering, masters in astrophysics, physics, chemistry, mathematics…
The Faculty of the Environment
To meet society’s major challenges, the Environment Department at the University Of Leeds is made up of a community of researchers focused on innovation and constant research. Their aim? To discover new ways of thinking about the future.
The Faculty of the Environment is divided into four schools:
- School of Earth and Environment
- School of Food and Nutrition Sciences
- School of Geology
- Institute for Transport Studies
The Faculty of Medicine and Health
Finally, the Department of Medicine offers courses in a dynamic and innovative environment. Committed to equality and inclusiveness, the medical school is also renowned for its welcoming environment.
Students can choose between :
School of Psychology
School of Dentistry
The School of Health
The School of Medicine
Admission criteria
The University of Leeds emphasizes quality of work, the upward trend in grades and student determination.
Admissions criteria vary from one course to another, so we recommend that you check the university’s website to find out the criteria for the course you wish to apply for.
As a general rule, French applicants must :
English language skills
Obtain a mark of at least 14 in the French baccalaureate if they wish to enter undergraduate studies;
To obtain a Master’s degree, you must have obtained a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with honors.
The 1st cycle application process
If you’re starting your first year of undergraduate study, then your application must be submitted via the UCAS platform, which lists the UK’s leading universities.
Step 1: Choose your course
Once on the UCAS platform, select your university and the course you wish to take.
Step 2: Write a cover letter
The cover letter, or “personal statement”, is a crucial step in the selection process. You’ll need to support your application with a letter that is clear, original and persuasive, and you can draw on the recommendations of your teachers to help you write a good cover letter. Your Dream School can also help you with this process, so that you have every chance on your side.
Step 3: Provide the requested documents
Depending on your level and the course you wish to follow, the University of Leeds may ask you for further information.
As a general rule, you will need to provide a digital or scanned version of the following:
- Two letters of recommendation (depending on course chosen)
- Your diplomas and/or transcripts
- A copy of your study permit or visa
- A letter of motivation
- An up-to-date CV
- Proof of proficiency in English
- A portfolio
- A translation test
- Two letters of recommendation (depending on course chosen)
The graduate school application process
The application process for the second cycle (master’s) is almost identical to that for the first cycle (undergraduate). It varies slightly, mainly in terms of where to send your application, which is no longer the UCAS platform but the University of Leeds itself.
Step 1: Find your master’s program
The first step is to find your Master’s program, among the courses offered. Note that you are not obliged to take a master’s degree in the same field as your bachelor’s degree. You can also choose to go off-campus to broaden your knowledge and develop a multidisciplinary profile.
If you’re not sure which Masters program to choose at the University of Leeds, Your Dream School is on hand to help you take the best route to a successful career.
Step 2: Check the eligibility criteria for your course of study
Each program has its own prerequisites. In the second cycle, you obviously need to :
- An undergraduate degree in a specific field
- A good level of English
In some cases, admission tests and competitive examinations are required to gain access to a particular course.
Step 3: Put together your application and submit it on time
The third and final step is to complete your application. To do this, you need to provide all the documents requested, either in digital format or translated and scanned.
Here is the list of documents you will need to apply for a Master’s degree:
- Your transcripts and diplomas
- A letter of motivation
- One or more letters of recommendation
- Your admission test results
- Your CV
Bear in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and that the documents required also depend on each university, as well as on the program you choose. All these documents must be translated into English by a sworn translator. Check application deadlines and start your application early to avoid unforeseen circumstances.
A university open to international students
The University of Leeds appeals, and it knows it! Like many other British universities, it attracts many international students to its walls. On average, 33% of Leeds students are from abroad.
To support these people as they travel and settle into a new country, the university has set up an international student support program.
The program includes language assistance, cultural programs to help you adapt, and advice on visas.
Leeds ensures that its students have a great experience within its walls. Its reputation is second to none, both academically and in terms of the quality of its teaching.the university’s goal of being an incubator for success, in a warm, healthy environment.
Tuition fees and living costs at Leeds University
According to our estimates, an academic year 2024-2025 at the University of Leeds will cost between £20,000 and £30,000 .
And that’s not counting the additional costs of accommodation, food, travel and much more.
Here’s an estimate of your costs as a student per month:
| Expenditure area | Estimated average amount |
| Accommodation in Leeds University halls of residence | £600 |
| Food | £150 |
| Telephone packages | £20 |
| Transport | £40 |
| restaurants, bars, etc. | £100 |
| Leisure (cinema, activities, etc.) | £20 à £100 |
| Sports hall | £15 |
In short, you’ll need an average of £1100 a month, or the equivalent of €1300, to live in England.
Scholarships available to study in Leeds
Do these costs seem high? Don’t worry, the University of Leeds offers a range of grants to help international students study in the UK.
Leeds offers a wide range of scholarships for students from the UK and abroad.
These include :
- And other scholarships, provided by the English government or by the University of Leeds itself.
- The Leeds Master’s Scholarship is equivalent to £500, tuition-free for international Master’s students.
- Bourses d’excellence La Dean’s Excellence Business School Undergraduate International Scholarshipswhich reduces tuition fees by 50% for business and economics students.
- And other scholarships, provided by the English government or by the University of Leeds itself.
Student life in Leeds
When you know how much the University of Leeds cares about the well-being of its students on campus, it’s easy to imagine that the school puts student life at the heart of its concerns.
Infrastructure for students
The facilities and infrastructure at the University of Leeds are internationally recognized.
The university has several modern laboratories, ideal for students and research.
The Edge sports center, in the heart of Leeds University, offers a fitness center and swimming pool, as well as a climbing wall, tennis courts and various classes.
The university also has a large library, the Brotherton Library, and a media library for students’ research needs.
Activities at Leeds University
The University of Leeds has one of the largest student unions in the country, with over 300 activity clubs and societies.
Run by the LUU (Leeds University Union), you can join a wide range of groups, from classic sports clubs to k-pop dance and canoe clubs.
Famous people who studied at Leeds
Given its reputation, it’s no surprise that many famous personalities, from sportsmen and women to actors and politicians, have trained in Leeds.
- Matthias Maurer, astronaut
- Wole Soyinka, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986
- George Porter, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1967
- Nambaryn Enkhbayar, President of Mongolia
- Emma Macke, Franco-British actress
- Matthias Maurer, astronaut
Increase your chances of studying at the famous University Of Leeds with Your Deam School
Dreaming of going to Leeds? Your Dream School can help you every step of the way, to make your university year a success!
Studying at LSE
The benchmark university for the social sciences
The London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE) is a university located in the heart of the Holborn district, close to the City of London. Founded in 1895, the LSE is recognized as one of the world’s leading universities in the field of social and political sciences.
In fact, it was ranked as the world’s 2nd leading university in the social sciences in the QS World University Ranking in 2018.
The London School of Economics (LSE) in a nutshell
The LSE is renowned for training many leaders in business and politics, as well as in law, history, economics, philosophy and the media. 19 of its alumni and professors have been awarded the Nobel Prize (including 13 in Economics, 3 Nobel Peace Prizes and 2 in Literature), and 52 have become heads of state.
The university also boasts the world’s largest library of economic and social sciences.
It is also part of the “Golden Triangle” of English universities, along with Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial College et King’s College, la LSE.
Similar in many respects to Sciences Po Paris, it offers the opportunity to study a wide range of disciplines related to social and political sciences, law, economics, finance, management, international relations, history and philosophy.
Student life
This highly prestigious university therefore caters for students with a strong interest in social and political sciences, as well as brilliant academic results.
What is the selection process at the London School of Economics (LSE)?
The LSE selection process is divided into several stages, which we describe below:
APPLICATION FORM ON UCAS
First of all, you’ll need to submit your application on the UCAS platform, the equivalent of Parcoursup in the UK. This includes a personal statement and a letter of recommendation from one of your teachers.
A STANDARDIZED ENGLISH EXAM
You’ll also be required to demonstrate an excellent command of the English language, so you’ll usually need to pass a standardized English exam such as IELTS.
CONDITIONAL OFFER OF ADMISSION
Finally, if your application is accepted at the end of the selection process, you will receive a “conditional” offer of admission. This means that you will only be definitively admitted if you achieve a minimum score on your Baccalauréat (usually a “Bien” on the French Baccalauréat) and a standardized English exam (usually between 6.5 and 7.5 on the IELTS).
When should you start preparing for the London School of Economics (LSE)?
The deadline for applying to the London School of Economics (LSE) is January 15 of your final year.
What is the profile of students at the London School of Economics (LSE)?
The LSE is a highly selective university. We recommend that you apply to this university if you can demonstrate excellent academic results and are confident of obtaining a “Bien” or “Très Bien” in your Baccalauréat.
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Study at King’s College London
A prestigious university right at the heart of London
Founded in 1829, King’s College London is one of the most prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, and part of the ‘Golden Triangle’ of research-intensive universities, along with Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and LSE.
King’s was ranked 42nd worldwide for reputation in the Times World Reputation Rankings 2018, and 7th in the UK by the QS University Ranking 2019, and 4th in the UK for employability after graduation according to the >Times Graduate Employability Rankings 2018. It has many illustrious alumni, including Desmond Tutu, Virginia Woolf, the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, as well as twelve Nobel Laureates, including Frederick Hopkins (the discoverer of vitamins), and numerous politicians.
King’s has five campuses: its historic campus on the Strand, which is situated on the banks of the river Thames, is located close to the iconic Trafalgar Square, many respected think tanks such as the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the Adam Smith Institute and the Royal United Services Institute, and is a short walk from the Houses of Parliament.
Student Life
King’s College London’s prime location in the heart of London makes it a fantastic (albeit rather expensive) place to be. Although there are five campuses, each maintains an inviting environment. Indeed, King’s is reputed to be a friendly university with a thriving student union, the KCLSU, and student ambassadors to help students if they have questions or concerns. There are also 2 student bars that host regular social events.
Within the University, there are frequent public lectures, including the King’s Think Tank, Europe’s largest student policy institute. There is a large selection of clubs and societies to join: from 3 gyms and over 60 competitive sports clubs, to student media (including photography, film, journalism), to volunteering opportunities.
If that’s not enough, King’s hosts many events to help students make the most of their time in London through initiatives such as the ‘Unlocking London’ programme, which organises group tours and visits to cultural venues and historic sites.
Academic matters
King’s College London has a wide variety of course options from sciences to management to nursing, to the flagship War Studies programme.
Students at King’s also have the opportunity to spend a semester or a year abroad at institutions across the world, whether in continental Europe, the United States, or Asia. This exciting opportunity is open to students of many subjects (click here for the list of programmes by department). Students who spend time abroad (except for those studying Modern Languages) must pass at least 60 credits for a semester or 120 credits for a year abroad.
To view the 2022 undergraduate prospectus, please click here.
How do I apply?
As with all British universities, applications are submitted online through the platform UCAS.
Undergraduate candidates apply via the British online platform UCAS, and upload a letter of motivation (Personal Statement), predicted grades for the Baccalaureate in each subject, and a letter of recommendation from one of their teachers. For help and advice on how to complete a successful UCAS application please see here.
Note that students send only 1 Personal Statement for all the universities they apply to (maximum of 5 choices).
The Personal Statement, maximum 4,000 characters, should explain why students want to study a chosen course, what aspects particularly interest them, what steps they have already taken to engage with the subject (reading, conferences, internships etc), and, if possible, what aspects they are looking forward to studying.
Different courses may request different grades. For those studying the International Baccalaureate (IB), the general required score is 34-35/45.
For French students: King’s webpage has a chart demonstrating the equivalent of A-Levels, which can be used to determine the grades needed on the French Baccalaureate (or other international equivalent) in order to meet the eligibility requirements. An A* is 16, A is 14, B is 13
For general advice and information on the application process for international students, please click here.
International students from non-English speaking backgrounds or countries will be required to provide proof of knowledge of the English language through a certificate of a recognised standardised English proficiency test. The score is dependent on the course but generally ranges between 6.0 and 7.0 on the IELTS.
King’s College London also runs pre-sessional English-language programmes lasting between 6 and 15 weeks to help candidates improve their proficiency in English.
Can I visit King’s College London ?
There are several specialised open days, depending on the campus and area of study.
King’s have been running a series of online events to allow everyone to visit from your computer. To watch the series click here.
Fees
Students from the European Union will no longer be eligible for home fee status and student loans in England from the 2021-22 academic year, the government has confirmed.
For more informations see this page.
Are you ready to study at King’s College London?
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Study at the University of Nottingham
Academic excellence at a campus-based English university
The University of Nottingham is a public research university situated in the East Midlands in England, UK. Described by the Times as “the nearest thing Britain has to a truly global university”, Nottingham stands out because of its campuses in Malaysia and China as well as in the UK. Its status as a global university is reinforced by Nottingham’s rank in 2010 as 13th in the world for the number of former alumni listed among CEOs of the Fortune Global 500, sharing the position with Tohoku University in Japan and none other than Stanford University in California.
Renowned for its exceptional employability rating, Nottingham has been described as “one of the most employer friendly universities in the world” by Virgin’s Alternative Guide to British Universities. Likewise, in the Times Higher Education world ranking, Nottingham places amongst the top 15 most targeted universities in the world by leading employers. A place at the University clearly leaves you in good stead when it comes to career prospects – but what’s it actually like to study there?
Student Life
Student life at Nottingham is characterised by societies, sports clubs, volunteering projects, student-run groups and networks, and events such as pub quizzes, live music, club nights and comedy nights. Its established Students’ Union (SU) is to thank for the plethora of different activities on offer and is even responsible for the critically acclaimed and award-winning cinema and theatre group ‘The Nottingham New Theatre’. Likewise, Nottingham’s status as a ‘campus’ university means that students – in particular first year undergraduates – are within close proximity of one another. The campus allows for the presence of a centrally located social hub – in the form of a Students’ Union – where students can congregate and get to know one another. Nottingham’s principal campus – known as ‘University Parks Campus’ – is located within the City of Nottingham and just west of the city centre. The campus is very green and the vast array of social space means that students are often seen picnicking outside when the weather permits. Described as “one of the most attractive (campus’s) in the UK”, by the study-in-UK website, Nottingham’s beautiful and green campus really is home to thousands of happy students.
Academic matters
Academically, the University of Nottingham performs at an extremely high level. It forms part of the prestigious Russell Group and was ranked as the 16th best university in the whole of the UK, according to the Times University Guide 2019. In subjects such as Pharmacy and Pharmacology (6th), Education (22nd), Anatomy & Physiology (36th), Veterinary Science (29th), Nursing (42nd), Geography (46th) and English Language and Literature (49th), Nottingham ranks as one of the best universities in the world, according to QS World subject rankings 2018. Furthermore, Nottingham is ranked as high as 8th in the UK for the power and effectiveness of its research, with more than 97% of its research gaining international recognition, according to the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. Given this high standard of academic excellence, Nottingham has become one of the most competitive universities in the UK to gain entry to. Despite this, there are just over 9,000 international students currently enrolled at the university, which demonstrates the diversity amongst students Nottingham.
Nottingham is a great destination for international students. It is home to a university-run International Office that provides added support to students less familiar with the UK. This may range from a designated student on arrival to show you around the campus and help you settle in, to help with opening an English bank account or extending a visa.
English language lessons and social support are also on offer. Nottingham’s participation in English family home-stay programmes – where international students are given the chance to live and speak with local families nearby to the university – is a great way for foreign students to get up to speed with the culture and the language.
A fun fact about Nottingham is that it is said to be the home of Robin Hood – the legendary and heroic outlaw who forms part of English folklore and literature. With the Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve not far from the city – where Robin Hood is said to have hidden – you never know what you may find in this special place. ‘Special’ is definitely a word that characterizes this university. Nottingham’s alumni have received prestigious awards such as 3 Nobel Prizes, a Fields Medal and ranked 2nd (together with Oxford) in the 2012 London Olympics for British medal winners. With established excellence in sport, academia and research, Nottingham really could be the university for you. Only a 20-minute drive away from East Midlands International airport, Nottingham is truly accessible for people from all areas of the world.
How Do I Apply?
For students wishing to apply to Nottingham, strong academic results and rigorous preparation are needed.
What are the different stages of the application?
There are several steps:
- Apply on UCAS
- Receive a conditional offer
- Meet requirements from your offer
- Confirm your acceptance
The details of these steps are covered below and on the University’s website.
How to begin an application:
Candidates apply via the British online platform UCAS, and upload a letter of motivation (Personal Statement), their predicted exam marks, and a letter of recommendation from one of their teachers. Students may only submit one Personal Statement for all the universities they apply for (maximum of 5 choices). The Personal Statement, no more than 4,000 characters, should explain why students want to study their chosen course, what aspects particularly interest them, what steps they have already taken to engage with the subject (reading, conferences, internships etc), and, if possible, what aspects they are looking forward to studying.
Conditional offer and acceptance:
If students succeed in all these stages, in January they will receive a ‘conditional offer’ of admission. This means that they will be accepted if they attain the required marks (most often a high grade in your end of high school studies, and in a standardized English exam: 7.5 in the IELTS for example).
What is the deadline for applying?
Deadlines:
The deadline for applications to the University of Nottingham is the 15th January of a students’ final year of secondary school or sixth-form college (Year 12).
Fees
University fees vary based on your choice of degree. To get an idea of how much you can expect to pay, follow the links below and select your preferred degree.
When taking into account the cost of any university, you should also consider the cost of living.
Nottingham provides an estimate for the cost of living, which can be found on this website: they provide a detailed list of costs you can expect to incur including housing and social costs.
You might predict an annual average budget of around £10,000 per year, including accommodation, transport, personal expenses etc.
When do you have to start preparing for the University of Nottingham?
It is recommended that students try to find aspects of their chosen course that genuinely interest them and to think deeply about why they wish to study this subject – after all, students are applying to study this subject full time for at least 3 years.
Is it possible to visit the campus?
Open days at Nottingham have now closed for this academic year. More information can be find here.
Are you ready to study at Nottingham?
We’re here to help you.
Study at the University of Manchester
A prestigious university renowned for sciences and engineering
The University of Manchester is a Russell Group university located in the North of England, in the riveting city of Manchester. It is a relatively new addition to the wealth of fantastic universities in Britain, having been formed by the merger of the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology and the Victoria University of Manchester in 2004. Despite that, its roots hark back to 1824, with the formation of the Mechanics’ Institute. What’s more, the University is a source of great pride for many Mancunians (as residents of Manchester are called), as Manchester is the world’s first industrial city, making the University one of the best in the UK for engineering and sciences.
With over 40,000 students, of which 27,000 are undergraduates, it is the largest single site university in the UK, and the second-largest in the UK overall. In addition, in the 2018-2019 QS World University Rankings, the University of Manchester ranked 6th.
The University boasts many famous alumni, such as Ernest Rutherford, who, whilst on the university’s academic staff 1909, first split the atom. In fact, amongst the University’s former staff and students, there are 25 Nobel Prize winners!
Although the University is widely referred to as a campus university, this is not strictly correct. With its red-brick academic buildings and facilities interspersed around the town of more than 500,000, the University of Manchester is a vital part of the city. It is worth noting that most of the university is spread across two parts, that are colloquially referred to as the ‘North Campus’ and the ‘South Campus’.
Academic matters
The University of Manchester is home to the largest number of full-time students in the UK. It is extremely international, with thousands of students hailing from 154 countries around the world.
It is a research-intensive university, with the 6th largest research income of any English university. A post-graduation employability ranking published by Emerging in 2015 put Manchester in the impressive place of 5th nationally.
The University has an impressive scientific legacy, which is demonstrated by the fact that both the contraceptive pill and the first working computer were created by academics at the University. However, science is not its only forte. The Sunday Times stated, in 2006, “Manchester has a formidable reputation spanning most disciplines, but most notably in the life sciences, engineering, humanities, economics, sociology and the social sciences.” Teaching is primarily lecture-based, but students will also have smaller, more personalised seminars. The amount of contact hours a student will have is entirely dependent on the course, as some have far more than others. For instance, English Literature students will have far fewer contact hours than students of Medicine.
Student life
The University of Manchester Students’ Union is the UK’s largest student union, and it provides students with the chance to get involved in whatever takes their fancy, offering over 400 extra-curricular societies including ‘Barbershop Singers’, ‘Creative Writing’, and ‘Dogs Unleashed’. The University also has an Athletics Union with over 40 sports clubs including ‘Trampolining’ and ‘Ultimate Frisbee’. Students can enjoy the city of Manchester itself, with its vibrant music and sporting scene, including the Manchester Arena and the Old Trafford. In 2018, it was voted the UK’s top city to live in by The Economist’s Global Liveability Index. The University proffers the best of both worlds: a social and convivial campus community, along with the opportunity to explore a city with a rich cultural scene.
The accommodation is spread out between several different areas. Students live in ‘halls’, of which there are 19, and can tailor the halls to suit their needs, such as deciding between catered and self-catered housing. There are many different options, for instance, the halls ‘Owens Park’ and ‘Oak House’ are known to be two of the most socially vibrant halls, whereas ‘Denmark House’, and several others offer family and partner accommodation.
To sum up, if you’re looking for a renowned engineering & sciences university in a large city that isn’t London, Manchester might just be the place for you!
How do I apply?
Queen Mary University of London requires strong academic results and rigorous preparation is needed.
What are the different stages of the application?
There are several steps:
- Application
- Conditional offer
- Acceptance
The details of these steps are covered below.
How to begin an application:
Candidates apply via the British online platform UCAS, and upload a letter of motivation (Personal Statement), their predicted exam marks, and a letter of recommendation from one of their teachers. Students may only submit one Personal Statement for all the universities they apply for (maximum of 5 choices). The Personal Statement, no more than 4,000 characters, should explain why students want to study their chosen course, what aspects particularly interest them, what steps they have already taken to engage with the subject (reading, conferences, internships etc), and, if possible, what aspects they are looking forward to studying.
Further information specific to the University of Manchester can be found on Manchester’s website.
Conditional offer and acceptance:
If students succeed in all these stages, in January they will receive a ‘conditional offer’ of admission. This means that they will be accepted if they attain the required marks (most often a high grade in your end of high school studies, and in a standardized English exam: 7.5 in the IELTS for example).
What is the deadline for applying?
Deadlines:
The deadline for applications to the University of Manchester is 15th January of a students’ final year of secondary school or sixth-form college (Year 12).
What is the profile of the students at the University of Manchester?
Because of the high selectivity of the university, we recommend to apply to this university only if yo can show strong academic results and you are sure to obtain at least a Mention ‘Assez Bien’ grade in the Baccalaureate.
Moreover, you must also show an excellent command of the English language.
When do you have to start preparing for the University of Manchester?
It is strongly recommended that students begin preparing from the end of Year 11 or beginning of Year 12. If possible, start any reading and thinking about what to write about in a Personal Statement as early as possible. Some candidates, particularly those with a weaker level of English, need to consider preparing even earlier. See this link for useful information for international candidates.
It is recommended that students try to find aspects of their chosen course that genuinely interest them and to think deeply about why they wish to study this subject – after all, students are applying to study this subject full time for at least 3 years.
Is it possible to visit the campus?
To check the Open Days dates see this page.
Are you ready to study at Manchester?
We’re here to help you.
Study at the University of Cambridge
Academic excellence and tradition in the world’s 4th oldest university
The University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious UK universities and is located in the charming town of Cambridge in England.
Second in the ranking of best universities in the world in 2018 (THE’s World University Ranking 2018), Cambridge has thousands of illustrious graduates. Cambridge alumni notably includes: Charles Dickens, Isaac Newton, Emma Thompson, Arianna Huffington, Alan Turing and Stephen Hawking. Moreover, 96 of their former students and professors have received the Nobel prize and 10 have received the Fields Medal.
Today, the University of Cambridge is home to more than 21 000 students who are part of 31 colleges and one hundred academic departments.
The University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge shares numerous traditions with the University of Oxford, which explains why they are often grouped together with the term ‘Oxbridge’.
The University of Cambridge is home to more than 21 000 students who are part of 31 colleges and one hundred academic departments.
Second in the ranking of best universities in the world in 2018 (THE’s World University Ranking 2018), Cambridge has thousands of illustrious graduates. Cambridge alumni notably includes Charles Dickens, Isaac Newton, Emma Thompson, Arianna Huffington, Alan Turing and Stephen Hawking. Moreover, 96 of their former students and professors have received the Nobel prize and 10 have received the Fields Medal.
Alongside the University of Oxford, Cambridge is one of the most selective universities in England, even the world, with only 1 candidate in 5 admitted.
Academic matters
At the undergraduate level, 30 courses are on offer, from which students should pick just one. Some courses cover multiple subject areas, for instance:
- Natural Sciences allows students to choose modules in hard sciences, from Biology, Physics and Chemistry to Earth Sciences and Mathematics
- Human, Social and Political Sciences students can choose modules such as Politics and International Relations, Anthropology and Sociology
Most degrees on offer at Bachelor’s level are typically 3 or 4 years long. Each year at Cambridge is made up of three terms. Cambridge terms, like those at Oxford, are quite unique amongst UK universities, since each term is only 8 weeks long.
These intense study periods are packed full of activity, and allow a deep focus on academic matters through lectures, supervisions*, and private study. Science students typically have lab-sessions at least once a week, and students of essay subjects will normally have 1-2 essays to work on during each week of term.
*What are supervisions?
Oxford and Cambridge are unique amongst UK universities in offering regular one-to-one or small-group discussions with expert academics. These give students a chance to go deeper into the subject by asking questions, reflecting on topic content, and receiving extra reading recommendations personalised to your particular interests in the subject, or what you are hoping to explore further.
At Cambridge, you could find yourself in lectures or supervisions with the same academic that has professionally published a book or journal article on the topic you are studying!
Term-time is also the perfect time to interact with other students in between study sessions and through student societies. Read on for more about student life at Cambridge!
Living and studying in Cambridge
Cambridge students are housed within one of the 31 colleges, each with their own personality. For a good overview of the Cambridge colleges, their location in the city and student life there, see the university prospectus.
The Cambridge colleges are spread around Cambridge, a city with a bustling centre and plenty of green spaces, museums, and a stunning mixture of architecture. The colleges in themselves are havens for students in the city, offering a space to live, share meals with fellow students, relax, and of course study.
Study spaces are numerous, and include: departmental buildings and libraries, the University library, smaller College libraries, and other spaces such as shared or private study rooms, College JCRs (Junior Common Rooms), which also double as a place to socialise with other students of the College.
While Cambridge students work hard, they also like to ‘play hard’, and there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of the student experience at Cambridge. From traditional formal halls and May Balls, to the 959 (!) student societies on offer. Societies are a chance to get involved in something new, pursue an existing hobby.
Around Cambridge, you could also shake off your essay stress at a student bar, watch a show at the ADC theatre (whose stage once saw the likes of ex-students Rachel Weisz, Ian McKellen and Hugh Laurie) or see talks by big-name speakers at the cambridge union.
In terms of getting around the city, many people get around Cambridge (to lectures, for instance) on foot or by bike, although the city is also well served by buses. Travelling outside of Cambridge is also convenient: taking a train from Cambridge’s train station will allow you to get to London in under an hour, whether for a day-trip or for a weekend.
How do I apply?
Note: If you decide to apply to Cambridge for Undergraduate level in order to obtain a Bachelor of Arts (BA), you will not be able to apply to Oxford as well. You will therefore have to choose between either applying to Oxford or to Cambridge.
What are the different stages of the application?
There are several steps:
- Application
- Test
- Interview
- Conditional offer
- Acceptance
The details of these steps are covered below.
Beginning your application
Once you have decided on your ideal course of study, you will have to begin filling in the candidate file on the UCAS platform, which allows you to apply to up to 5 different courses/universities in the UK.
The UCAS application consists of a written Personal statement (of up to 4,000 characters) as well as a letter of recommendation from one of your teachers. After submitting your UCAS application, you will also be invited to fill out a Cambridge-specific Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ), in which you will confirm certain details from your academic transcript.
You will also be asked to choose one of Cambridge’s colleges in your application, specifying choosing the one you wish to apply to. It is also possible to make an ‘open application’ (in which you do not indicate one college in particular, but will be assigned one automatically).
Interview and admissions tests
If your application is successful in the first stage (following submission of the UCAS application and Personal Statement), you will then be invited to an interview at the start of December in Cambridge. In this interview, the objective is to test your academic capacities and your motivation for your subject in front of a few members (‘fellows’) of the College you applied to. Given that Cambridge is highly selective, these interviews are very demanding and require a large amount of preparation.
If your application is successful in the first stage (following submission of the UCAS application and Personal Statement), you will then be invited to an interview at the start of December in Cambridge. In this interview, the objective is to test your academic capacities and your motivation for your subject in front of a few members (‘fellows’) of the College you applied to. Given that Cambridge is highly selective, these interviews are very demanding and require a large amount of preparation.
The conditional offer of admission
Finally, if you succeed in the interview stage, you will then receive a ‘conditional offer’ of admission. Offers should be received by 15th January.
Our Oxbridge Admissions Pack can help you through the entire Cambridge or Oxford admissions process.
When do you have to start preparing for the University of Cambridge?
The deadline for applying to the University of Cambridge is fixed at October 15th of your final year.
In all cases, take into account the huge scale of preparation required for admission to Cambridge, it is strongly recommended to start preparing yourself from the start of your penultimate year in order to maximize your chances of success.
A good way to prepare for studying in Cambridge is to have a good look at the information for your course so as to know what to expect. Once you are confident in your choice of subject and your determination to study at Cambridge, you should begin researching your course further by reading around your subject.
It would also be a good idea to go to an open day. Open days run throughout the year, but most occur in the months leading up to October. For specific dates, you should look out for subject-specific open days, college-specific open days, and university-wide open days.
In 2019, Cambridge will be holding uni-wide open days on 7 & 8 July 2022. For these open days, booking is necessary: Sign up to the Student Newsletter to be notified when bookings open and for other opportunities, advice and resources.
What is the profile of the students at the University of Cambridge ?
Admission to the University of Cambridge is reserved for the best students and requires both excellent school results and lots of rigorous preparation.
Given the extreme selectivity, we recommend that you only apply to this University if you can show excellent academic results and can be sure of obtaining the highest grades in your final year of pre-university studies (i.e. a ‘Très Bien’ grade in the French Bac). The University of Cambridge is also particularly reputed for their science programs and expectation will be even higher for these.
Moreover, given the selection process contains interviews, you must also master the English language.
If you are confident that you fit the profile of a Cambridge student, the next step is to reflect on whether the workload and supervision system is right for you.
Finally, you should do all that you can to start preparing for studies at Cambridge, in order to create a stand-out application and so that you can adapt well to new the living and studying conditions on arrival.
Financing your studies
Fees:
Following UK Government’s amendment of the regulations relating to fee status due to Brexit, EU, EEA and Swiss students will now be classified as international/overseas students.
Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the course studied. Most international students also have to pay College fees in addition to tuition fees. See this page for details.
Are you ready to study at Cambridge?
We’re here to help you.
Study at the University of Bath
A university with a global outlook in an exceptional setting
The University of Bath is nestled in the region of Somerset, England, one hour by train from London on a hilltop overlooking the town of Bath.
Bath is one of the top universities in England and in 2018 it took the 6th spot in national rankings in The Guardian and the 160th place in the QS World University Ranking.
In 2014, it also achieved the title of ‘Best Campus University in England’ in the Times, a list that it continues to appear on. So what makes this place so special?
The city of Bath
With around 90,000 year-round residents, Bath just may be the most charming city in England. The Telegraph agrees saying that the city, which is a World Heritage Site, “pretty much ticks all the boxes”.
Tourists come from far away to visit the famed Roman Baths as well as more modern spas – the city’s full name is Bath Spa after all. The Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent and Circus – both beautiful Georgian architectural feats inspired by the city’s Roman heritage – the Jane Austen Centre, beautiful green parks… these are just a few of the most popular landmarks!
Students will find that the city, located a short bus ride down the hill from the University of Bath’s campus, also offers plenty of eateries, bars, nature activities, cultural events and stunning scenery.
The campus
The main campus of the university, reminiscent of many American college campuses, is situated in the periphery of Bath, and was constructed in 1964 in the modernist style of the era. The University’s proximity to such a charming city and its academic excellence make it a great alternative to London’s universities (an hour away by train) if you’re hoping for a campus university experience. Regarding accommodation, first-year students are guaranteed on-campus housing in the first year while afterwards they tend to move off campus to live with friends.
Academic matters
Over 17,000 university students study in one of Bath’s four faculties (Engineering and Design, Humanities and Social Sciences, Management, and Science). Since it opened in 1966, Bath has been particularly reputed for engineering (electronic, electric and mechanical in particular), physical sciences, mathematics and technology. Today, Bath is also well known for management, humanities, architecture and the social sciences – especially psychology. See the full list of course offerings here.
Bath aims to help students gain professional experience and in many of its courses offers the chance to take a year to work in industry in order to acquire professional experience before graduating.
Moreover, Bath’s campus is in a state of constant improvement and has benefited from an investment of £450 million over the past 10 years. A five-storey library has room for individual study, group work, and engineering and design space and more. Plus, it’s open 24 hours a day, even in exam term, which proves useful for night owls and early birds alike! Among other recent developments are a brand new Psychology building that houses one of the University’s most highly-ranked programs. Equally acclaimed is the School of Management whose new building will be opening in 2021. In addition, The Edge, a building for both management and arts, offers concerts as well as events, and the Sports Training Village, which includes a range of sports facilities including indoor tennis courts and a swimming pool, weight rooms, and an indoor as well as an outdoor track. With such great facilities, it may not come as a surprise that Bath also enjoys a reputation as one of the leading UK universities for athletics, offering all kinds of sport activities from American football to Canoe Club, Dodgeball, Jiu Jitsu, Latin and Ballroom dancing and Windsurfing!
Outside of competitive programs, sports, arts activities and ample green spaces on campus and around the city, students at the university can also join a range of other student associations to make the most of their campus experience and contribute to continuing to make Bath one of the UK’s top campus universities!
How do I apply?
To apply to the University of Bath, as with other UK universities, you will need to submit a candidate file on UCAS, including a Personal Statement, teacher’s letter of recommendation, proof of English proficiency where necessary (by sitting a standardised test), predicted results for your current studies (or grades already achieved) as well as your contact information and details on any past work experience you have completed.
See Your Dream School’s tips for applying for more information.
Also refer to the pages Applying for an undergraduate course or Applying for an graduate course on the University of Bath’s website.
Are there any specific requirements?
Each subject will have its own specific entry requirements. This information will be detailed on the course page for your specific course.
When do you have to start preparing for the University of Bath?
The deadline for applying to Bath for the Bachelor’s is fixed at January 15th of your final year.
In all cases, take into account the preparation work necessary for admission to Bath, we strongly advise you to start preparing your application from your penultimate year in order to maximize your chances of being accepted.
What is the profile of the students at the University of Bath?
Given the high selectivity of the university, we recommend that you only apply to this university if you can show excellent academic results and that you are sure of obtaining high grades in your end-of-year exams in the International Baccalaureate, A Levels or equivalent.
Moreover, you must also show an excellent command of the English language.
Certain programs at Bath like engineering and management receive a huge number of applications annually and generally require A grades at A Level, or in equivalent qualifications.
Are you ready to study at HEC Montréal?
We’re here to help you.
How can we support you in your application?
Study at the
University of York
A beacon of cultural and historical diversity
The University of York is a collegiate plate glass research university. After opening its doors in 1963 and now has over 17,900 students who study in thirty academic departments. It is a campus university, covering over 500 acres of land just south-east of the city of York in Northeast England.
The University has two campuses called Heslington West and Heslington East, respectively. It has nine residential colleges that are spread out between the 2 campuses.
The latter campus only opened in 2009 and is home to 3 of the 9 colleges and a sports village, whilst the former campus houses 6, and also incorporates York Science Park and the National Science Learning Centre. This makes for a very green and open campus!
York has produced many alumni who have been active in politics, including at least 15 Members of the United Kingdom Parliament, 5 members of the House of Lords, 2 Members of the Scottish Parliament, 1 Member of the European Parliament and a handful of ministers of other governments around the world.
Academic matters
The University of York is a highly selective institution, with the average student at the University achieving a UCAS Tariff of 430, the 19th highest in the UK. Only 78.5% of applicants receive offers of admission, which is the joint 15th lowest amongst the Russell Group, a self-selected association of 24 public research universities in the United Kingdom.
The Times University Guide said of York that “The university is increasingly recognised as a permanent fixture in the top rank of British higher education” and that “No university had a better record for teaching quality.”
Incidentally, it was ranked 12th in the UK both for the quality of its research, and also in the general national rankings in 2019 by The Guardian.
Student Life
The collegiate system at York creates a lively social atmosphere. Each student is randomly assigned a college to which they belong for the rest of their degree. Most colleges have a Junior Common Room for undergraduate students, which is managed by the elected Junior Common Room Committee, and a Graduate Common Room for post-graduate students, as well as a Senior Common Room, which is managed by elected representatives of the college’s staff. The Sunday Times asserted, “The colleges are tight-knit communities within the university and enjoy a healthy rivalry.”
The students’ union at the University of York plays an important role, with its membership consisting of the entire student population. There are over 200 societies on offer, from ‘Hummus Appreciation Society’ to ‘Opera Society’. What’s more, each College has its own JCRC or students’ association which provides many services, including organising college events and student welfare services.
Interestingly, the University of York is home to both the oldest student television station, and the oldest independent radio station in the United Kingdom. In addition, York’s student newspaper, Nouse, also won many Guardian Student Newspaper awards, due to its website and its outstanding journalists. Moreover, the University of York Music Society and the University of York Drama Society are 2 of the University’s largest societies, and both put on performances and/or concerts every week during term time. Naturally, due to all of these achievements and societies, there is a real culture of creativity, artistic enquiry, and journalism at the University.
Combining the features of a collegiate university with a rich history of political and cultural engagement, and the features of a modern and trendy university, York is one of a kind!
How do I apply?
For students wishing to apply to York, strong academic results and rigorous preparation are needed.
What are the different stages of the application?
There are several steps:
- Apply on UCAS
- Receive a conditional offer
- Meet requirements from your offer
- Confirm your acceptance
The details of these steps are covered below and on the University’s website.
How to begin an application:
Candidates apply via the British online platform UCAS, and upload a letter of motivation (Personal Statement), their predicted exam marks, and a letter of recommendation from one of their teachers. Students may only submit one Personal Statement for all the universities they apply for (maximum of 5 choices). The Personal Statement, no more than 4,000 characters, should explain why students want to study their chosen course, what aspects particularly interest them, what steps they have already taken to engage with the subject (reading, conferences, internships etc), and, if possible, what aspects they are looking forward to studying.
Conditional offer and acceptance:
If students succeed in all these stages, in January they will receive a ‘conditional offer’ of admission. This means that they will be accepted if they attain the required marks (most often a high grade in your end of high school studies, and in a standardized English exam: 7.5 in the IELTS for example).
What is the deadline for applying?
Deadlines:
The deadline for applications to the University of York is the 15th January of a students’ final year of secondary school or sixth-form college (Year 13).
When do you have to start preparing for the University of York?
It is strongly recommended that students begin preparing from the end of Year 11 or beginning of Year 12. If possible, start any reading and thinking about what to write about in a Personal Statement as early as possible. Some candidates, particularly those with a weaker level of English, need to consider preparing even earlier. See this link for useful information for international candidates.
It is recommended that students try to find aspects of their chosen course that genuinely interest them and to think deeply about why they wish to study this subject – after all, students are applying to study this subject full time for at least 3 years.
Is it possible to visit the campus?
To check the upcoming visit days at York see this page.
What is the profile of the students at the University of York
Before deciding to apply to York, we recommend you review the specific academic requirements of the academic course you are interested in. Occasionally, students may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
Fees
The UK government has confirmed that as of 2021/22 entry EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England. You can see more here.
Tuition fees vary depending on whether your course is laboratory or classroom-based. If your course is both laboratory and classroom-based you will pay the higher fee.
When taking into account the cost of any university, you should also consider the cost of living.
York provides an estimate for the cost of living, which can be found on its website: they provide a detailed list of costs you can expect to incur including housing and social costs.
You might predict an annual average budget of around £10,000 per year, including accommodation, transport, personal expenses etc.
Are you ready to study at University of York?
We’re here to help!
Study at UCL (University College London)
A global university at the heart of London
University College London (UCL) is ‘London’s Global University.’ Located in the heart of London, but with over 18,000 students from outside of the UK (out of around 39,000 in total), the University is one of the most international in the UK. Founded in 1826, UCL was the first university in the United Kingdom to be secular, accepting candidates regardless of religion, and awarded the first 4 bachelor’s degrees to British women in 1880.
Famous alumni include Mahatma Gandhi, Kwame Nkrumah (the founder of modern Ghana), and members of the band Coldplay. Today, it is one of the top universities in the UK, and hovers near the top 10 # worldwide (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019, QS World University Rankings 2019). It is the third-largest university in the UK, part of the ‘Russell Group’ of elite British universities, and part of the Golden Triangle (including Oxford and Cambridge) of research-intensive universities.
Life at UCL
On campus, students can enjoy a brand new student center, the or find a quiet corner in the beautiful law library. There are several green areas in this bustling part of London including the charming Gordon Square and the larger Russell Square, both popular for picnicking. The much larger Regent’s Park is about 10 minutes away. To help create a community feel each department has its own common room, where students from the same course, or different ones, can meet, relax, or study together.
Accommodation
UCL guarantees housing in residential halls to all first year students. Accommodation can be catered and most halls are centrally located and within walking distance or a short bus or tube ride from the main campus.
UCL offers two catered halls: Ifor Evans and Ramsay Hall but students can also choose to stay in an Intercollegiate hal (International Hall, Garden Halls, Lilian Penson Hall) where they will be mixed with students from other London universities.
Academic Matters
Increasingly well known and consistently highly ranked internationally as noted above, UCL offers a constantly evolving range of courses. Recently added, the BASc Arts & Sciences course allows students to discover a broader range of subjects, while Law, Biomedical Science, Economics and Computer Science continue to be the most popular (and most selective!) courses. See the full of list of bachelor’s and master’s courses on UCL’s website.
Considered highly selective, UCL is one of a few universities in the UK not to offer courses in Clearing as reported by THE.
Master’s degrees can be either taught or research programs and include a wide range of programs including architecture, economics, education and philosophy. Find out more about all courses on offer here.
How to apply:
Bachelor Candidates
Undergraduate candidates apply via the British online platform UCAS, and upload a letter of motivation (Personal Statement), predicted grades for the Baccalaureate in each subject, and a letter of recommendation from one of their teachers. Note that students send only 1 Personal Statement for all the universities they apply for (maximum of 5 choices.
The Personal Statement, maximum 4,000 characters, should explain why students want to study a chosen course, what aspects particularly interest them, what steps they have already taken to engage with the subject (reading, conferences, internships etc), and, if possible, what aspects they are looking forward to studying. For advice on how to write a Personal Statement please see here.
Generally, UCL asks for a ‘bien’ grade in the Baccalaureate. However, the most popular courses require a minimum of 15.5/20 in the Baccalaureate as well as an assessment day, where students may have to sit exams and have an interview.
If you succeed in all these stages, you will receive a ‘conditional offer’ of admission. This means that you will be accepted if you attain the required marks (most often a bien in the Baccalaureate and in a standardized English test.
When should students start preparing?
It is strongly recommended that students begin preparing in from the end of Year 11 or beginning of Year 12. If possible, start any reading and thinking about what to write about in a Personal Statement as early as possible.
It is recommended that you try to find aspects of your chosen course that genuinely interest you and to think deeply about why you wish to study this subject – after all, you are applying to study this subject full time for at least 3 years.
The deadline for application to UCL is 15th January of Year 13.
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, all UCL open days will now take place online.
UCL’s Undergraduate June Virtual Open Days are live. For more informations, please see this page.
Masters & PhD Candidates
Graduate candidates generally apply directly to the program that they are targeting. Admissions are rolling, which means there is no deadline, however, when a course is full, no further students can apply. Responses are generally given with 6 weeks of application submission.
The Application must include:
- Academic transcript
- Application Fee
- English language requirement
- Personal statement
- 2 Letters of reference
- Research Proposal (PhD candidates only)
Depending on the course, students may need to submit additional materials such as GRE scores or a portfolio. See this page for more information.
When do you have to start preparing for IE Madrid?
The deadline to apply for a Bachelor’s at IE University is at the end of your final year.
Always bear in mind the preparation work needed for admission to IE University, it is therefore strongly recommended that you start preparing your application at the start of your final year to maximize your chances of success.
A year of tuition at IE University ranges from just over €20,000 to €24,000 depending on the course. The University offers some Financial aid opportunities, which may cover up to 100% of enrollment fees. Students may apply for IE Loans, IE Scholarships or outside funding and should do so by completing their Financial Aid application.
Are you ready to study at UCL?
We’re here to help you.