Study Abroad in UK
Discover the easy steps required to study in UK with Scholars Zone as your trusted companion. We’re here to simplify the process for Bangladeshi students, from understanding admission requirements to finding the right institution, and right program and securing scholarships. Let us guide you through this exciting educational journey with ease. Start your application process today and take the first step toward your dreams of studying in UK.
Index
- Overview of UK
- Why Study in the UK?
- Why should we choose the UK?
- Type of Programs in the UK for Bangladeshi Students
- Admission Criteria For Bangladeshi Students
- Academic Intake to study in the UK
- Cost of living in The UK
- Application Procedure For Bangladeshi Students
- Top Subjects
- Subject wise Universities
- Additional Notes For Bangladeshi Students
- Tuition fees Range
- How To Get Pr In Uk After Study
- Universities for Pathways
Overview of UK
The UK has years years-old history of education with some of the oldest universities that to date are on the top university list. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, 4 of the top 10 and 8 of the top 50 universities in the world are in the UK. The United Kingdom offers a wide range of short and flexible courses, from traditional to modern ones. Many students from Bangladesh choose to study there because of the variety of options available. In addition to their studies, students can enjoy the lively modern culture and visit historical sites. Students can explore ancient castles as well as modern cities with advanced technology and fashion.
The UK is the second most popular destination for international students. Studying there helps students build a strong foundation for their future careers.
UK universities are known worldwide for their innovative and challenging environments. They have high standards and expert teachers in many different subjects. Therefore, they consistently rank high in international university rankings.
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the United Kingdom holds significant appeal for Bangladeshi students for several reasons. Firstly, the UK has a renowned reputation for academic excellence and a rich educational heritage. Its universities consistently rank among the best globally, with prestigious institutions like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and University College London leading the pack.
Each year, the UK welcomes around 460,000 international students, indicating its popularity as a global study destination. This diverse student community creates a lively multicultural environment, fostering cross-cultural understanding and broadening perspectives. Moreover, the UK is committed to research and innovation, investing heavily in scientific advancements and promoting collaboration between academia and industry. This emphasis on research leads to cutting-edge discoveries, innovative technologies, and significant contributions across various fields.
Beyond academics, studying in the UK offers promising career prospects for Bangladeshi students. UK degrees are highly valued and recognized by employers worldwide, increasing graduates’ employability and opening doors to global job opportunities. Additionally, universities’ strong connections with industries and businesses facilitate internships, work placements, and networking events, enhancing students’ professional growth.
Considering these advantages, Bangladeshi students can confidently choose to study in the UK, benefiting from its top-notch education system, diverse cultural experiences, and promising career pathways.
Geographical Location
Located off the northwest coast of Europe, the United Kingdom comprises four distinct countries:
- England (Capital is London).
- Scotland (where programs typically span four years)
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
[Note: With a single visa, individuals can travel freely between these four countries within the UK.]
Why should we choose the UK?
The United Kingdom offers shorter course durations compared to other countries, providing several advantages:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Complete a Bachelor’s degree within 3 years, saving one year’s worth of tuition fees compared to longer programs elsewhere.
- Master’s Programs: Master’s programs last one year, allowing for faster completion and entry into the workforce or further studies.
- MBA Programs: MBA programs usually take one year to complete, enabling students to swiftly enhance their skills and advance their careers.
- Paid Internships: Many courses include a placement year, offering paid internships that align with the curriculum. This provides valuable practical experience and helps cover living expenses.
- Post-Study Work Permit: Upon graduation, students can benefit from a 2-year Post-Study Work Permit (PSWP), allowing them to gain work experience in the UK and enhance their career prospects.
Type of Programs in the UK for Bangladeshi Students
In the UK, undergraduate degrees typically last for three years, while master’s programs are usually completed within one year. For Bangladeshi students aiming to enhance their English proficiency or fulfill conditional offer requirements, foundation courses and English language schools serve as valuable resources to achieve their goals.
If you’re uncertain about the appropriate academic level for your studies in the UK, we invite you to schedule a free consultation at our office. Our team of university specialists is dedicated to assisting you in identifying the ideal institution, course, and location to suit your needs and aspirations.
Available programs in UK for the Bangladeshi Students:
Foundation: For Bangladeshi students who have completed their high school exams and have less than 13 years of education, pursuing their first degree in the UK requires completing a foundation course at a UK university or college. A foundation program is a one-year preparatory course tailored for international students who require additional English language and academic preparation before enrolling in a UK university undergraduate course.
These foundation programs are ideal for Bangladeshi students who have studied a non-British curriculum but aspire to pursue a degree at a UK university. Acting as a bridge between their current qualifications and the undergraduate entry requirements of UK universities, the foundation course aims to address academic deficiencies, enhance English language skills, and introduce students to UK life and culture to prepare them for university life.
Bath Academy | Cambridge Education Group | Education First | Lansdowne College | Queen Mary, University of London |
Bell Cambridge | Central College Nottingham | INTO | London South Bank University | Sheffield Hallam University |
Bellerbys College | Chelsea Independent College | Kaplan International Pathways | London Metropolitan University | SOAS University of London |
University of Buckingham | Coventry University | King’s College London | Loughborough College | University of St Andrews |
Brooke House College | David Game College | Kings Education | University College London | |
De Montfort University | Oxford Brookes University | University of Westminster | ||
University Foundation Programme |
Entry Requirements: Students who have less than a GPA of 4.00 and a minimum IELTS score of 4.5 is required for international students wishing to study a foundation, with no single element less than 4.0. If you have no formal English qualifications, you may need to attend an English language course or college prior to starting your foundation course.
Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees are typically awarded after three (3) years of full-time study in the UK, except in Scotland. It will take four (4) years if the student is studying in Scotland, or the student adds a year of work experience in between their study terms, referred to as a sandwich year. Professional degrees, such as medicine, veterinary, and architecture degrees, require five (5) years of study.
In the United Kingdom, students have access to a range of course options tailored to their academic and career goals. Here are the main types of courses available:
- Typically lasting for three years, undergraduate programs provide a comprehensive foundation in a chosen field of study.
- Many undergraduate programs offer an optional additional year for industry placement (familiar as Co-op) extending the total duration to four years. During this placement, students gain valuable practical experience related to their field of study in a professional setting.
- The combination of academic study and industry placement known as placement year enhances students’ understanding of real-world applications of their learning and strengthens their employability prospects upon graduation.
Sandwich Programs:
Sandwich programs typically span a total of four years and offer a structured approach to combining academic study with practical experience.
- These programs involve two years of academic study followed by a placement or job in industry for one year. The industry placement provides students with an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting and gain insights into professional practices.
- Following the placement year, students return to complete their final year of academic study, consolidating their learning and preparing for graduation.
- Sandwich programs are highly valued by employers for providing graduates with a blend of academic knowledge and practical skills, making them attractive candidates in the job market.
Both undergraduate programs with optional placements and sandwich programs offer students the chance to gain hands-on experience through internships or industry placements, thereby enhancing their skills and increasing their employability upon completion of their studies.
Entry Requirement: HSC 4:00 GPA above with IELTS 6 with no band less than 5.5
Pre-Masters: For Bangladeshi students, a Pre-Masters program in the UK serves as preparation before starting a direct master’s degree to meet the entry requirements. These programs focus on improving English skills and developing research, academic writing and seminar abilities needed for postgraduate studies.
Courses usually last from ten weeks to twelve months, providing a strong basis for successful postgraduate study. Usually, it holds for three-months to nine months program for international students. Enrolling in a Pre-Masters program offers benefits such as enhancing English language proficiency and getting acquainted with UK teaching methods, making the transition to higher education in the UK easier. Typically, tuition fees range from £7,000 to £15,000 per year.
Entry Requirements: You must have finished an undergraduate degree with at least a pass at a recognized institution with a CGPA below 2.2 minimum and an IELTS score of 5.5 is generally required for a typical two-semester Pre-Masters.
Top Pre-Masters in the UK
UK universities are open to postgraduate students from all over the world, therefore, do not let your academic or English language proficiency hold you back. Explore some of the leading Pre-Masters programs in the UK designed to support you in meeting the required standards and succeeding in your academic journey. Learn more about some of the best Pre-Masters providers in the UK:
University of Aberdeen | University of East Anglia | University of Leicester | Oxford Brookes University | Swansea University |
University of Bath | University of Exeter | London Metropolitan University | Queen Mary, University of London | University College London |
Cardiff University | University of Goldsmiths | University of Newcastle | Royal Holloway, University of London | University of Sheffield |
University of Chester | University of Huddersfield | Northumbria University | Regent’s University London | University of Sussex |
Durham University | King’s College London | Nottingham Trent University | SOAS University of London |
Masters: In the UK, after completing an undergraduate degree, students can pursue a postgraduate or master’s course. Unlike in some other countries where master’s programs last two years, in the UK, they usually only take one year. This shorter timeframe allows international students to save time and money and start their careers sooner with a respected UK postgraduate degree.
The UK hosts some of the world’s top universities, known for their excellence in teaching and research. Obtaining a postgraduate degree in the UK is highly valued by employers, offering international students a valuable opportunity to enhance their English proficiency and engage with a diverse academic community. Here’s what you can expect:
- Enhance your career prospects.
- Obtain an internationally recognized qualification.
- Potentially earn higher salaries throughout your career due to the prestige associated with a UK Masters.
- Enjoy flexibility in structuring your studies to accommodate your schedule.
According to a study conducted by the Higher Education Statistics Agency, 86 percent of students who completed a Postgraduate Masters in the UK secured full-time employment after graduation, compared to only 75 percent of undergraduate graduates.
Types of Master’s Degrees:
Taught Masters:
Taught programs typically fall into four main categories:
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
These programs usually span 1-2 years when pursued full-time. During a taught program, students participate in weekly seminars, tutorials and lectures, similar to undergraduate studies. Assessment methods may include exams, dissertations or projects.
Research Masters:
Research degrees entail students taking greater responsibility for their work and schedule, focusing on a thesis under academic supervision. The most common research degree is the PhD, which typically takes 3-4 years to complete. Students are required to produce a thesis ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 words and defend it in an oral examination.
Other types of research degrees include the
- Master of Science (MSc),
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Master of Research (MRes)
While these degrees also involve research, they are generally less academically demanding, with shorter paper requirements compared to a PhD. With this program, students can apply with dependents.
Admission Criteria For Bangladeshi Students
For Postgraduate (PG) Programs:
- Applicants should hold an Honours Degree, with a preference for a 2:1 upper 1st class (GPA 3) or 2:2 upper 2nd class (GPA below 3).
- A minimum of 70% or its equivalent in the undergraduate degree is required.
- An IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required, although some courses may accept a score of 6. With no band less than 5.5
For Undergraduate (UG) Programs:
- Candidates should have achieved a GPA ranging from 3.4 to 4 in their IGCSE or equivalent qualifications.
- A level grade of ABB, BBC or CCD is typically required.
- The acceptable range for the IELTS score is between 6.5 and 6. Alternatively, PTE and TOEFL scores are also considered.
N.B: Specific Requirements for Nursing Programs Applicants should aim for a high band score (Approximately 7) in the IELTS exam.
Additional Notes for English Medium Students:
- For O levels, a minimum of 5 subjects is required.
- Completion of 2 to 3 A-level subjects is necessary.
UCAS Points Calculator: To apply inUK, need to calculate the GPA through the UCAS calculator. UCAS Tariff points assign a numerical value to your qualifications and grades. While not all qualifications have a UCAS Tariff value, many do, with the value varying based on the size of the qualification and the grade achieved. Higher education course providers utilize these numerical values to evaluate if you meet their entry requirements for specific courses.
https://www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator
This tool will help you understand the grades required for entry into your desired course
Undergraduate Programmes | ||
Academic Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS Score |
A Levels/ Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) | Minimum of 3 A Levels; completed HSC + Approved Foundation Programme | 5.5 – 6.0 |
International Baccalaureate | IB Diploma | N/A |
2-Year Bachelor’s Degree | Good 2-year degree from a recognized institution | 5.5 – 6.0 |
Higher National Diploma (HND) | Equivalent to 2 Scottish Highers, 1-2 A-Levels, etc. | 5.5 – 6.0 |
Foundation Degree | Equivalent to 1-2 Scottish Highers, A-Levels, etc. | 5.0 – 5.5 |
Diploma of Higher Education Degree | Equivalent to 3-4 Scottish Highers, 2-3 A-Levels | 6.0 – 6.5 |
Bachelor’s Degree | Meet higher secondary/A-level/foundation year standards | 6.0 – 6.5 |
Postgraduate Programmes | ||
Academic Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS Score |
Pre-Master’s Programme | Undergraduate degree with CGPA below 2.2 | 5.5 – 6.0 |
Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma | Undergraduate degree or Pre-Master’s Course | 6.0 – 7.0 |
Master’s Degree | Upper second or first undergraduate degree or Pre-Master’s Degree | 6.0 – 7.0 |
MBA | First undergraduate degree + 2-3 years business experience | 6.5 – 7.0 |
PhD | Master’s degree | 6.5 – 7.0 |
Admission to Russell Group Universities:
- Admission to Russell Group institutions may be facilitated through the completion of a foundation program.
Please be aware that Bangla Medium (HSC Passed) students may not be eligible to apply directly and may need to explore alternative pathways like Foundation or International Year 1.
Russell Group Universities:
The Russell Group comprises premier research-focused universities in the United Kingdom. Renowned for their excellence in research and teaching, these institutions maintain exceptional academic standards. Their strong emphasis on research contributes to robust partnerships with businesses and the public sector. Although geographically diverse, these universities are united by their commitment to delivering high-quality education, conducting cutting-edge research, and ensuring student satisfaction. As independent institutions, they offer a wide array of subjects and courses tailored to meet diverse academic interests.
Russell Group UniversitieS list:
University Name | THE Ranking | QS Ranking |
University of Oxford | 1 | 3 |
University of Cambridge | 5 | 2 |
Imperial College London | 8 | 6 |
University College London (UCL) | 22 | 9 |
University of Edinburgh | 30 | 22 |
King’s College London | 38 | 40 |
London School of Economics and Political Science | 46 | 45 |
University of Manchester | 51 | 32 |
University of Bristol | 81 | 55 |
University of Glasgow | 87 | 76 |
University of Southampton | 97 | 81 |
University of Birmingham | 101 | 84 |
University of Sheffield | 105 | 104 |
University of Warwick | 106 | 67 |
University of Leeds | 129 | 75 |
University of Nottingham | 130 | 100 |
Queen Mary University of London | 135 | 145 |
University of York | 147 | 167 |
Newcastle University | 168 | 110 |
University of Liverpool | 168 | 176 |
Durham University | 174 | 78 |
University of Exeter | 177 | 153 |
Cardiff University | 190 | 154 |
Queen’s University Belfast | 201-250 | 202 |
Academic Intake to study in the UK
Colleges and universities in the UK typically offer three intakes, also known as terms, throughout the academic year:
Intakes | Start date |
Summer Intake | May-June |
Autumn Intake | September-October |
Spring Intake | January-February |
Application Timeframe:
Intake | Application Duration |
September | January to June |
January | September to November |
May | Late April to April |
Cost of living in The UK
Location | Cost per Month (GBP) | Total Cost for 9 Months (GBP) |
Inside London | £1334 | (£1334*9) = £12,006 |
Outside London | £1023 | (£1023*9) = £9,207 |
Application Procedure For Bangladeshi Students
Step 1: Offer Acceptance
Upon receiving an offer letter from a UK educational institution, the student must first accept the offer. This can be either a conditional offer or an unconditional offer. If the offer is conditional, the student needs to fulfill the specified conditions before proceeding further.
Step 2: Payment of Tuition Fees Deposit
After accepting the offer, the student is required to pay the tuition fee deposit as per the institution’s guidelines. This deposit secures the student’s place in the program.
Step 3: Receipt of Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
The institution issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once the tuition fee deposit has been received. To obtain the CAS, the student may need to fulfill certain prerequisites such as attending an interview, submitting a Statement of Purpose (SOP), and other requirements as specified by the institution. The CAS is a crucial document required for the visa application process.
Prerequisite Interview:
Some institutions may require the student to attend an interview as part of the CAS application process. This interview aims to assess the student’s suitability for the course and their intentions for studying in the UK.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
The student may need to submit a Statement of Purpose detailing their academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific course and institution.
Direct Interview:
The student may also undergo a direct interview with immigration officials to ascertain the genuineness of their intentions to study in the UK.
UK Medical Test:
As part of the visa application requirements, students may be required to undergo a medical test, including a tuberculosis (TB) test. This test is mandatory for obtaining the visa and may need to be conducted at authorized medical centers. Along with that students need to have IHS (THE IMMIGRATION HEALTH surcharge) which costs around 600GBP.
Time for CAS Issuance:
The issuance of the CAS typically takes between 10 days to 1 month, depending on various factors such as the institution’s processing time and the completeness of the student’s application.
Step 5: Visa Submission
Once the CAS has been received, the student is ready to submit their visa application. This involves completing the visa application form and providing supporting documents including the CAS, financial evidence, and biometric information.
Biometric Submission:
As part of the visa application process, students are required to submit their biometric information at designated centers.
Overall, the UK Student Visa process involves several steps including offer acceptance, payment of tuition fees, receipt of CAS, fulfilling prerequisites, visa submission, TB test, and biometric submission. It’s important for students to carefully follow each step and ensure all requirements are met to increase the chances of a successful visa application.