If you want to apply for bachelor’s degrees in the UK, your starting point will be the UCAS website. On there you can find all the information you need about universities and courses, and submit applications. Make sure you don’t miss the relevant deadline. It’s a good idea to apply as far in advance as possible to be sure there’re still places available and to have time to meet any additional requirements. Applying for master’s degrees is often done directly on the particular university’s website. The PhD application process can be a bit different compared to other countries, as you need to identify a potential supervisor who is willing and able to supervise your thesis; actually applying is, in a way, just a formality.

The university you apply to should state what entry qualifications they accept from your particular country. It can sometimes be necessary to complete a foundation programme before you can start a degree course. If you need any more help evaluating your international qualification, you could also look at UK ENIC. Apart from your qualifications, the most important part of your application will likely be your personal statement and I can help you with this, if you want. I can also help you with your research proposal if you’re applying for a PhD.

You will probably have to apply for a student visa. Your university will provide you with the paperwork you need and you will also need to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself. You will almost certainly have to take the IELTS, which will test your speaking, listening, reading and writing abilities. The score you will need to get will depend on the course you’re applying for. I can help you prepare for this exam.

Tuition fees have increased massively in recent years and going to university in the UK is now unfortunately hugely expensive for everyone, but you may be entitled to some scholarships, loans or grants and you may want to get a part-time job. As already mentioned, rents in London are also very high. You may want to check if student accommodation is available to you and will otherwise probably want to find a room in a shared house. Make sure you get a certificate of student status from your university so you can be exempt from paying council tax. The good news is that, as a student, lots of discounts are available to you!

Of course, you’ll keep in touch with friends and family back home, but if you ever get into any kind of trouble or just have some concerns, your university will likely have a lot of welfare and support services available to you, some of which will be specifically aimed at international students. The Student Room is a huge online student community that you may also find useful. UK universities tend to have a lot of clubs/societies, so there should be plenty of opportunities for you to make friends.

Once you start your course, I can help you to continue developing your Academic English and study skills. I can help you to prepare for any presentations you may have to give and proofread your coursework. Once you get towards the end of your course, I can also help you apply for graduate schemes and prepare for the assessment centres you will almost certainly have to go through. If you have any questions, just let me know.

As a student (and everyone else really) in London, going out is likely going to be important to you, so please read on to the final section of my short guide.