Studying and Living in UK
Introduction
If the United Kingdom is your destination to pursue higher studies, here are a few pointers that'll help you prepare for the big move. Do some research on whatever universities fit your bill and shortlist them depending on interest and financial situation, etc. The standard tests that a student needs to have appeared for are the International English Language Test (IELTS) for most universities and colleges, the Test for English as a Foreign Language (everyone will recognize the name TOEFL) and for management courses the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a requisite. Applying to UK Do some research on whatever universities fit your bill and shortlist them depending on interest and financial situation, etc. After you get your acceptance letter from your preferred university, get your documents in order and apply for a VISA at the UK consulate in India. Most of the big cities in India have a British Council, they offer lots of information and orientation programs, they also help you with your visa application process. Visit www.britishcouncil.org for further details. Months of Admission The major intake by most of UK universities is September/October, few Universities do offer January/February intake too. Courses and Duration Full-time undergraduate courses in the UK vary from one year to four years depending on the type of course you choose. A postgraduate course in the UK gives you the ultimate opportunity to pursue your own specialist interests. Courses last from one year to four years, and you can choose from thousands of opportunities in the arts, sciences, social sciences and humanities. Eligibility Most UK universities accept the Indian graduation system of three years for entry into most postgraduate courses. An Indian bachelor's degree like B.A., B.Com. Or B.Sc. is equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree. However, some courses and universities may require a qualification equivalent to British Bachelor (Honours) Degree, which requires 16 years of formal education, which would mean another year after graduation or a four year degree course like B\.E\., B\.Tech or other such courses. Here are some of the list of available courses in UK -
 Cost of Study UK postgraduate study offers you great value for money. Course fees can vary considerably between institutions, but the figures below show approximately what you'll need to pay.
Students Accommodation There are various options available for living in the UK. Most universities have rooms in their halls of residence where international students can rent a room. However, if you accept a room in a university's residence hall, you would be required to sign a binding arrangement to remain in hall for the full academic year. One can also take private accommodation. This could be with either a British family or sharing a flat with other students. All UK universities have an accommodation office, which help students with their accommodation issues. If you are a higher education student going to the UK for the first time, accommodation provided by your college or university is probably the most suitable choice, which is why it is taken up by more than half of the international students on degree courses in the UK. Your institution will try to match your needs with the options available. The cost of living in the UK varies depending on whether you live in or outside London and on your own particular lifestyle. The estimated cost Outside London is about £7,000 per year and in London its about £9,000 or more per year. A lot also depends on the standard of living you expect to enjoy. These include the cost of accommodation, heating, lighting, food, clothing, books and daily travel for one person for one year. Health Services in UK As an international student you may be entitled to free or subsidized treatment in the UK under the National Health Service (NHS). To avail this service, your course needs to be of six months or more in duration. If you are in the UK for less than six months, you may only receive free emergency treatment on the NHS. You can find information and advice about the most common illnesses, and a range of treatments for them, on the NHS Direct website - www.nhsdirect.com or by phoning NHS Direct on 0845 4647 Life in UK The hardest thing to adjust to there is the weather. The weather in the UK is drastically different from what Indians are used to. Most often it's dreary and gray with constant rainfall. Winter is extremely cold and bitter. The weather differs from one part of UK to another. Research their culture and way of living, it's quite different even though we more or less follow the British model for a lot of things. Almost all UK natives are completely self sufficient and independent by the time they're 18. Learn to be independent and self reliant. No one is going to mother you and the sooner you learn to fend for yourself the better you'll settle in. Research the weather in the area of your university and take suitable clothes. Stock up on your recipes and learn to put them to use. Eating outside in the United Kingdom is very expensive, knowing how to make your own meals gives you an advantage and you will spend only a marginal amount on groceries and gas. Learn the English names for pulses and vegetables - Aubergine for Brinjal and Mung Lentils for Moong Dal etc., it'll save you a lot of time at the grocery store. There is only so much that one can prepare for, other experiences you will have to deal with as and when they come. Keep and open mind and be flexible, these will take you a long way in adjusting to any kind of environment. Add Comment CommentsYou may also like to read
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