Study - United Kingdom

• The UK comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with London as its capital.
• It boasts a rich academic environment with numerous top-tier universities and abundant educational resources. According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, four UK universities are in the top 10.
• The UK has a robust education system with diverse pathways, highly regarded internationally.
• The country has a well-developed transportation network, including railways, buses, and subways. Students can apply for various Travel Cards or purchase discount tickets for public transport in cities.

• The UK's weather is highly variable with significant day-night temperature differences. Warm clothing is necessary regardless of the season.

• Most universities offer foundation courses lasting about one year.
• No public exams are required upon completion. Evaluation is based on internal grades, attendance, tests, and exams.
• Students select three to four subjects based on their desired degree in addition to English and Math.
• Successful completion with specified requirements allows direct entry to the first year of university.
• Suitable for students with at least Form 5 qualifications. Top 20 universities also offer these courses.

• Equivalent to the first year of university, suitable for students who have completed Form 6.
• Lower admission requirements compared to direct university entry, with a wide range of subject options.
• Involves university-level academic content, additional English, and study skills training.
• Small-class teaching; most courses are taught within affiliated universities.
• Successful completion leads to progression to the second year, an ideal pathway to renowned universities.

• The UK has over 130 universities offering a wide range of disciplines. Courses usually begin in September or October, with some offering January intakes.
• Bachelor’s degrees typically last three years, with longer durations for Medicine, Engineering, and Health Sciences.
• Master’s degrees last between one to one and a half years.

• Divided into public and private schools; public schools are available only to UK citizens or students with a BNO visa.
• Secondary education starts from Year 7 to Year 13. After completing Year 13, students take GCE A-Level to apply for universities.
• The academic year usually begins in September, with three terms per year.

• Students (BNO/HKSAR passport holders) enrolling in courses longer than six months must apply for a student visa.
• Applicants must complete the online application process and schedule an online appointment.
• Applicants are required to pass a tuberculosis test at a designated medical institution.
• All student visa applicants must pay a healthcare surcharge.
• Applicants must bring the required documents (original and copies) to the visa center for submission and verification.
• Typically, consulates issue visa decisions within 15 business days of submission (excluding peak seasons).
• Priority visa processing services (at an additional cost *) can expedite the decision within 3–5 business days.

* Fees are based on official website rates. For detailed student visa information, refer to the online application guidelines.

• All student visa applicants must pay the healthcare surcharge to access the National Health Services (NHS) in the UK.
• Students should register at a local health center near their school upon arrival in the UK.
• During registration, students must present proof of student status. Once registered, they receive an NHS medical card, which must be shown to access NHS services.
• NHS website: http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

• Most UK institutions offer student dormitories, which may not necessarily be on campus.
• Dormitories come in various room types, and students can apply based on their budget and preferences.
• Dormitory fees range from GBP £100–300 per week (depending on room type) and usually include utilities and internet.
• Most dormitories require students to cook their meals.
• Dormitories are supervised by staff to ensure student safety.
• Demand for dormitories is high, and spaces are limited, so early applications are recommended.

• Students live with a UK family, who provide a private room.
• Homestay families typically offer two meals a day (breakfast and dinner) on weekdays and three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on weekends and public holidays.
• Homestay fees include utilities and basic furnishings.
• Special requests should be stated during the application process, and schools or related institutions will try to match suitable families.