New UCAS Personal Statement Format for 2026

26 November 2024

In a move designed to simplify and better support students’ university applications, UCAS is rolling out a new personal statement structure for students applying to UK universities starting in 2026.

The traditional, open-ended essay format has been replaced by a structured set of six targeted questions, allowing students to better showcase their academic drive, relevant experience, and unique qualities.

This change has been made to reduce the stress of writing a compelling narrative from scratch while ensuring admissions tutors receive clearer, more comparable insights into applicants’ suitability for their chosen courses.

Why Has the UCAS Personal Statement Changed?

According to UCAS, feedback from students, teachers, and admissions tutors highlighted that the old format often felt overwhelming and ambiguous. Many students were unsure of what to include or how best to structure their statement, sometimes leading to generic or formulaic essays. By shifting to a structured format with six defined questions, the new approach aims to make the application process more accessible, equitable, and reflective of each applicant’s unique strengths and aspirations.

This change is particularly beneficial for students from a wide range of backgrounds who may have found the previous format daunting. Now, all applicants have a clearer guide to follow, levelling the playing field.

The Six Key Questions: What They Mean and How to Answer Them

Each of the six questions has a specific focus, allowing applicants to address different aspects of their preparedness for university. Here’s a breakdown:

Motivation for Choosing the Course
This question encourages applicants to discuss why they are passionate about the subject. It’s an opportunity to convey enthusiasm and dedication. Admissions tutors want to see genuine interest, so applicants should provide specific examples, such as experiences, books, or influential figures that sparked their interest.
Relevant Academic Preparation
Here, students are asked to outline any academic experiences that directly prepare them for the course. This might include specific school subjects, projects, or even additional studies undertaken outside of school, such as online courses. Highlighting academic preparation shows commitment and readiness for the course’s academic demands.
Skills and Competencies
This section allows applicants to discuss any subject-specific skills that will be beneficial to their chosen field of study. For instance, a student applying for a science course might highlight their analytical abilities, while an aspiring writer could mention their proficiency in written communication. Focusing on these skills helps applicants illustrate how they are well-suited to the course requirements.
Personal Achievements Outside of Academics
Not all accomplishments happen in the classroom! This question provides applicants with a platform to share personal achievements that may not be directly related to their academic studies but demonstrate character, resilience, or dedication. Involvement in sports, volunteering, or creative projects can all help to paint a fuller picture of the student.
Preparedness for University Life
Transitioning to university is a major step. This question invites students to reflect on how ready they are for the independence and responsibility that come with university life. Examples might include time management skills, financial planning, or experiences living away from home, all of which show maturity and self-sufficiency.
Personal Qualities and Attributes
Finally, students can use this section to showcase the unique attributes they will bring to the university community. From being a team player to showing leadership skills, this is where applicants can highlight characteristics that make them stand out. It’s a chance to show how they will contribute positively to university culture.

How to Approach Writing the New Personal Statement

The new structure offers a more guided approach, which can be both a relief and a challenge. Here are some tips for making the most of the new format:

Be Specific and Authentic: Avoid clichés and general statements. Admissions tutors appreciate honesty and authenticity, so use specific examples to answer each question.
Reflect Deeply: Each question is designed to prompt thoughtful reflection, so take the time to consider what each answer reveals about your readiness and interest in your chosen course.
Seek Feedback Early: Share your responses with teachers, mentors, or parents. A second opinion can provide insights you might not have considered.
Use Each Question to Build Your Story: Although the statement is now segmented, each response should still contribute to a cohesive narrative about who you are as a student and why you’re the right fit for the course.

What This Change Means for University Applicants

The new question-led format benefits students who may feel daunted by the idea of crafting a single essay that effectively “sells” them as an ideal candidate. By focusing on individual questions, applicants can avoid the pitfalls of writer’s block and confidently tackle each topic with targeted responses.

For international and domestic students alike, this structured approach means they can now showcase relevant experiences in a way that is comparable across applicants, making it easier for admissions tutors to understand each candidate’s unique strengths and qualifications.

The Role of Support Services in Crafting the Perfect Personal Statement

Despite this more structured format, many students will still need guidance on how to answer these questions effectively. At UK Study Options, we offer personalised support to help students make the most of their personal statement. Our expert team can guide applicants through each question, helping them choose the most relevant examples, structure their responses, and ensure they meet the expectations of university admissions.

Whether you’re looking for tips on motivation, academic preparation, or discussing your unique qualities, UK Study Options is here to support you every step of the way. Get in contact today.

What Are Predicted Grades and Why They Matter

6 November 2024

For many students applying to UK universities, predicted grades are a key part of the application process. But what exactly are predicted grades, and why do they hold such significance when applying to higher education institutions in the UK? This article will explain what predicted grades are, how they are determined, and why they are so important for prospective students.

What Are Predicted Grades?

These are the grades that teachers or school staff estimate a student is likely to achieve in their final exams, such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other pre-university qualifications. These are usually submitted as part of a student’s university application, helping admissions officers understand a student’s academic potential before their final exam results are available.

The UK has a pre-results admissions process, which means that students apply to university before they finish school and before they get their final results. For UK university applicants, they are typically included on the UCAS application, which is submitted months before students sit their final exams. Since universities won’t know the final results at the time of application, they use these as a benchmark for offering conditional places to applicants.

How Are they Determined?

Teachers use a variety of factors to predict a student’s final grades, including:

Past Performance: A student’s performance in previous exams, such as mock A-levels, IB tests, or coursework, plays a major role.
Work Ethic: A student’s attitude towards their studies, participation in class, and ability to meet deadlines can influence what they are predicted to achieve.
Potential for Improvement: Teachers also consider how much a student has improved throughout the course and whether they are likely to continue progressing in the lead-up to their final exams.

It’s important for students to maintain consistent performance in their coursework and assessments to ensure accurate and realistic predicted grades, as universities rely on this information when making offers.

Why do they Matter?

University Offers

In the UK, most universities make conditional offers based on predicted grades. A conditional offer means that a student will be offered a place at the university provided they achieve certain grades in their final exams. For example, a student might receive an offer stating they need to achieve AAB in their A-levels. If their predicted grades meet or exceed this threshold, they are more likely to receive an offer.

Influencing University Choices

Predicted grades play a crucial role in determining which universities a student can apply to. Most UK universities publish the typical entry requirements for each course, and students are encouraged to apply to universities where their predicted grades match or exceed the course requirements. While students can apply to a range of institutions, including some “aspirational” choices, having realistic predicted grades helps students focus on universities where they have the best chance of being accepted.

Planning and Preparation

Predicted grades provide a benchmark for students to set realistic goals and prepare for their final exams. They give students insight into their current academic profile and highlight areas where they may need to improve before taking their final exams. Knowing their predicted grades can help students plan revision schedules and identify subjects that require extra attention.

The Impact of Over- and Under-Predicted Grades

While predicted grades are essential, they are not always 100% accurate. Some students may be over-predicted, which can lead to disappointment if they fail to meet the university’s conditions. Others may be under-predicted, potentially limiting their choices when it comes to applying to more competitive institutions.

If a student’s final grades do not match what they were predicted to achieve, they can still explore options like Clearing, which allows students to find alternative university places if they miss their original offer conditions.

Maximising the Value

For students, making the most of their predicted grades means working closely with their teachers, maintaining strong academic performance, and being proactive in identifying areas for improvement. These are more than just a formality in the application process—they are a vital tool for students, universities, and admissions officers to make informed decisions about a student’s future.

At UK Study Options, we guide students and families through the complexities of the UK university application process, offering personalised advice on how to strengthen applications and maximise the chances of securing a place at a top institution. Our services ensure that students are fully prepared to make the most of their university experience. Get in contact today.

Tips When Applying for a UK Medical schools

4 November 2024

Applying to UK medical schools in the UK is one of the most competitive and rigorous processes that prospective students can undertake. With limited spots and high academic standards, it is crucial to prepare effectively and ensure that every aspect of your application is as strong as possible. In this guide, we offer tips to help you navigate the complex application process and improve your chances of securing when applying to UK medical schools.

1. Start Preparing Early When Applying to UK Medical Schools

The earlier you begin preparing for your medical application, the better. Medical schools not only look for academic excellence but also value a well-rounded profile that includes relevant work experience, voluntary work, and strong personal skills such as communication and empathy. Begin by researching medical schools and their entry requirements well in advance to ensure you meet their expectations.

Many students aim to apply through the UCAS system in the final year of their A-levels (or equivalent), but preparation often begins years earlier. Early planning can help you meet the necessary academic standards and build up your experience portfolio.

2. Understand Entry Requirements and Predicted Grades

Medical schools in the UK typically set very high entry requirements, often demanding A-levels in subjects such as Biology and Chemistry, with grades of AAA or higher. Some schools may also require Mathematics or Physics.

Predicted grades are crucial, as medical schools use them to determine conditional offers. Only apply to courses where your predicted grades meet or exceed the university’s entry requirements. Aim to maintain a consistent academic record and work closely with your teachers to ensure your predicted grades accurately reflect your potential.

3. Prepare for the UCAT

Medical schools require applicants to take an admissions test called the **UCAT** (University Clinical Aptitude Test). These tests are designed to assess various skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis. Preparing thoroughly for these exams is vital, as strong scores can set you apart from other candidates.

– UCAT: Used by many UK medical schools, the UCAT assesses cognitive abilities, attitudes, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. Practice tests and preparation materials are widely available, and consistent study will help you perform well.

4. Gain Relevant Work Experience

Medical schools expect applicants to have gained insight into the healthcare profession. Work experience is a critical component of your application, as it demonstrates commitment to medicine and provides valuable understanding of the demands of a medical career.

You should aim to complete work placements in clinical environments, such as hospitals, care homes, or GP surgeries. Due to the competitive nature of gaining such experience, it’s important to plan well in advance. Alternatively, voluntary work or shadowing healthcare professionals can be equally valuable. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many students found virtual work experience opportunities, which some universities still recognise.

5. Craft a Standout Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to demonstrate your passion for medicine, explain why you are suited to a career in healthcare, and showcase any relevant experiences and skills. Medical schools want to see that you understand the challenges of a medical career and that you are committed to overcoming them. Be honest about your motivations and avoid clichés.

Focus on:

– How your academic achievements and work experience have prepared you for medicine.

– Specific skills like communication, empathy, and problem-solving.

– Evidence of leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

– Personal reflections on your experiences and what they taught you about the medical profession.

6. Prepare for the Interview

Medical school interviews are a critical part of the selection process. These interviews can take different formats, including traditional panel interviews or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs), where you rotate through several stations, each assessing different skills and attributes.

Preparation is key to success. Medical schools want to evaluate your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and ethical reasoning. Research common medical interview questions, including ethical dilemmas and current medical issues. Be ready to reflect on your personal experiences and discuss your motivations for becoming a doctor.

7. Consider International Student Requirements

If you are an international student, ensure you understand the specific requirements for applying to UK medical schools. Some schools limit the number of places available to international students, so competition can be even fiercer. Additionally, you may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and you will need to research visa requirements.

For British and Irish expats, understanding fee status is equally important. UK Study Options offers tools like the [Fee Status Checker](https://ukstudyoptions.com/fee-status-checker/) to help families determine whether they will be charged Home or International fees, which can significantly impact the cost of a medical degree.

8. Don’t Forget About Alternatives

While it’s important to remain focused on your goal of entering medical school, also consider backup options. Given the highly competitive nature of medical degrees, applying for similar health-related courses, such as biomedical sciences or pharmacy, can provide a solid alternative. Many students who don’t receive an offer for medicine in their first year reapply after gaining further experience or study.

Final Thoughts When Applying to UK Medical Schools

Applying for a UK medical degree is a challenging yet rewarding journey. By understanding the entry requirements, preparing thoroughly for exams and interviews, and gaining relevant work experience, you can strengthen your application and improve your chances of success. Remember, every part of the application—from your personal statement to your predicted grades—plays a vital role in showcasing your potential.

At UK Study Options, we are dedicated to helping families and students navigate the complexities of university applications, including medical school. Whether you need guidance on fee status or support with other aspects of your application, we are here to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today.

Expert Personal Statement Services

30 August 2024

A good personal statement can be the key to making a lasting impression on university admissions teams. At UK Study Options, we offer tailored personal statement services that can help you craft a narrative that reflects your unique strengths, experiences, and aspirations.

Why the Personal Statement Matters

The personal statement is a crucial component of your university application in the UK. It’s your chance to go beyond the numbers and show the admissions committee who you are as an individual. This document provides you with the opportunity to explain why you’re passionate about your chosen field of study, how your experiences have shaped your academic and career goals, and what makes you an ideal candidate for the programme.

A well-crafted personal statement can be the difference between a successful application and one that gets overlooked. It allows you to highlight your achievements, discuss any challenges you’ve overcome, and demonstrate your readiness for university-level study. With the fierce competition for places at top UK universities, investing time and effort into your personal statement is essential.

UK Study Options: Expert Guidance at Every Step

At UK Study Options, we understand how daunting the personal statement can be. That’s why we offer comprehensive support to help you articulate your story in the most impactful way. Our team of experts, who have extensive experience in the UK higher education system, will guide you through every step of the process.

Personalised Consultation: We start with a one-on-one consultation to understand your background, academic interests, and career aspirations. This initial discussion allows us to tailor our advice to your specific needs and ensure that your personal statement reflects your unique voice.
Strategic Planning: Crafting a personal statement isn’t just about writing; it’s about strategy. We help you identify the key themes and experiences that will resonate most with admissions committees. Our team will work with you to create a structure that flows logically and keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.
Drafting and Feedback: Writing a compelling personal statement takes time and revision. We provide detailed feedback on your drafts, focusing on everything from content and tone to grammar and syntax. Our goal is to help you refine your statement until it’s polished and persuasive.
Final Review: Before you submit your application, we conduct a final review to ensure that your personal statement is error-free and aligns with the expectations of the universities you’re applying to. This last step is crucial in ensuring that your application stands out for all the right reasons.

Why Choose UK Study Options?

Choosing UK Study Options means partnering with professionals who are dedicated to helping you succeed. Our personalised approach ensures that your personal statement isn’t just another generic essay but a powerful reflection of your individuality and potential. Here’s why students trust us with their university applications:

Expertise in UK Admissions: Our consultants have a deep understanding of the UK university admissions process and know what it takes to impress admissions committees.
Tailored Support: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every personal statement we help create is customised to highlight your unique experiences and aspirations.
Comprehensive Services: From brainstorming ideas to final edits, we’re with you every step of the way. Our services are designed to alleviate the stress of application writing and give you the confidence to submit a standout personal statement.
Proven Success: Our track record speaks for itself. Many of our clients have gained admission to prestigious UK universities, thanks in part to the powerful personal statements we helped them craft.

Start Your Journey Today

If you’re ready to take the next step towards your academic future, UK Study Options is here to help. Don’t let the pressure of writing a personal statement hold you back. With our expert guidance, you can present yourself as a compelling candidate who is ready to make a mark in your chosen field.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your university application process. Your path to a UK university starts here, and we’re excited to be part of your journey.

UK University Showcase Evening: Reflections on a Successful

21 August 2024

We are pleased to report that our recent ‘UK University Showcase Evening’, held at The Other House, was a resounding success. The event was an excellent opportunity for students and families to gain valuable insights into the UK university admissions process, as well as explore accommodation and relocation solutions for those planning to study in the UK.

Key Highlights from the Event

The evening featured a series of informative presentations from industry experts, who shared their knowledge on a range of essential topics:

How to Get Offers from Competitive London Universities: Sam Goodwin, Head of Global Engagement at UK Study Options, provided attendees with strategic advice on navigating the competitive landscape of London’s top universities.
Understanding UK University Fee Status: Dannielle Elster, Fee Status Manager at UK Study Options, offered a deep dive into the complexities of UK university fee status, helping attendees understand the criteria that determine whether they qualify for home or international tuition rates.
Maximising the Student Experience with Global Mobility & Relocation Services: David Brady, Managing Director of Realm, discussed how global mobility and relocation services can significantly enhance the student experience, ensuring a smooth transition to life in the UK.

Engagement and Networking

We were delighted to see such a high level of engagement from our attendees. The evening was not just about presentations—it was also an opportunity for participants to connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and ask questions directly to our experts.

Looking Ahead

The positive feedback we received has encouraged us to continue offering events like this to support students and their families as they navigate the journey to higher education in the UK. Your enthusiasm and participation made this event truly special, and we are grateful to everyone who contributed to its success.

If you missed the ‘UK University Showcase Evening’ or if you would like further guidance, UK Study Options is here to help. Whether you need assistance with understanding your UK university fee status or support with your university applications, our team of experts is ready to provide personalised advice and support.

Feel free to contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in making informed decisions about your higher education journey.

UK Study Options: Meet the Experts

21 August 2024

At UK Study Options, we are dedicated to providing bespoke university guidance and fee status advice to students and families worldwide. With a strong reputation for saving families thousands on tuition fees, our experts help both international and UK students gain entry to top universities through tailored support packages.

Fee Status Team

Kate Raison: Managing Director at UK Study Options
Kate has over 15 years of experience in higher education, working across admissions and student recruitment teams, and more recently specialising in UK university fee status. Her expert advice has saved many British expat families from unnecessarily paying overseas fees.
Sam Goodwin: Head of Global Engagement
Sam brings a wealth of experience in international education policy and operations. He is expert in the UK university fee status rules and how they affect British and Irish expatriate families.
Dannielle Elster: Fee Status Manager
Dannielle is known for her detailed and accurate fee status assessments, helping students navigate complex regulations.
Sarah Lewis: GCC Representative
Based in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, Sarah provides personalised support to families, helping them with university applications and fee statuses.
Puvani Gazi: Fee Status Consultant
Puvani excels in understanding fee status regulations, offering precise and individualised assessments to students.

Counselling Team

Geraldine Raison: Director & University Guidance Counsellor
Geraldine combines her extensive knowledge of the education sector with a personalised approach, guiding students to their ideal university choices.
Steve Martin: University Guidance Counsellor
With a strong background in education, Steve helps students identify and apply to universities that align with their goals and aspirations.
Iram Lone: University Guidance Counsellor
Iram provides compassionate and strategic advice, ensuring students are well-prepared for their university applications.

Marketing Team

Judith Burt: Project Coordinator
Judith manages our projects with precision, ensuring smooth and effective execution of our initiatives.

How We Can Help

We offer expert support for both university applications and fee status assessments, ensuring students and families navigate the complex landscape of higher education with confidence. Our tailored support packages are designed to meet individual needs, providing guidance on everything from undergraduate and postgraduate courses to funding and visa options. With our help, students can achieve their educational goals while potentially saving thousands on tuition fees.

For more details and to meet the experts, contact UK Study Options.

Navigating University Clearing: A Lifeline for Students in the UK

14 August 2024

University Clearing is a crucial process for students who find themselves without a university place after results day. Whether you missed your expected grades, surpassed them, or decided to apply late, Clearing provides a second chance to secure a spot at university.

What is University Clearing?

Clearing, managed by UCAS, connects students with available university courses. Running from mid-July to October, this system helps students who didn’t secure their first-choice offers or applied after the UCAS deadline.

Who Can Use University Clearing?

Clearing is available to anyone who:

Didn’t receive any offers or didn’t meet the conditions of their offers.
Declined all their offers.
Applied after the UCAS deadline.
Exceeded their expected grades and wants to explore other course options.

How to Navigate Clearing Successfully

Prepare in Advance: Before results day, research potential universities and courses that interest you in case you need to use Clearing. This will help you act quickly if necessary.
Act Quickly but Thoughtfully: Once your results are released, start researching available courses immediately if you’re eligible for Clearing. Use the UCAS website to find vacancies, but don’t limit yourself to well-known institutions—smaller universities often offer excellent courses too.
Contact Universities Directly: After identifying courses, contact universities directly with your UCAS ID, qualifications, and questions ready. This conversation is your opportunity to demonstrate why you’re a good fit for the course.
Be Open-Minded: Clearing is about finding the best available option, so flexibility regarding course content, location, or university ranking may be necessary.
Make a Decision: Once you receive an offer, respond quickly. However, ensure that you’re choosing a course and university that genuinely excite you, as this decision will shape your university experience.

Benefits of Clearing

Clearing isn’t just a fallback option—it can be a positive experience leading you to a course better suited to your interests or one you hadn’t previously considered. It’s an opportunity to explore new pathways and, for some students, it becomes a decisive turning point that leads to success.

Final Thoughts

While the prospect of entering Clearing might seem daunting, it’s an integral part of the university application process in the UK. With the right preparation and a positive mindset, Clearing can open doors to exciting opportunities that you may not have initially considered.

For more information, contact UK Study Options today and get expert guidance for your university journey.

UK University places are more competitive than ever

7 July 2022

A recent article in The Times (29.06.22) states that this year’s admissions will mark the start of a “new tougher era” in the battle for university places.

According to Professor Lee Elliot Major, Professor of social mobility at Exeter University, grade inflation, a growing population of school leavers and new student loan rules from 2023, (lowering the threshold for graduates to start repaying their loans) means that this year is about to become one of the most competitive in living memory. So, Professor Major told The Times, “Students with high A-level grades will no longer be able to guarantee places” as universities have disclosed that they have fewer places on offer this year.

Personal Statment

So how can we help our students get the places they deserve? Here we have put together some tips and advice so that you can help and encourage your children to write a strong and compelling Personal Statement. We view this as a process that should not be rushed, don’t skimp on research! This particularly applies to applications to research intensive degrees (e.g. Russell Group universities). Therefore, students need to show that they are interested and self-motivated enough to read some seriously academic material. By the end of the process the student will be well prepared and set up for a successful three years or more at university.

Research and reading

Make sure you know your shortlisted courses – look at the modules and know the difference between a BSc and a BA.
Show your motivation for the subject and provide evidence to support your motivation. You need a wide variety of reading different academic sources not just lightweight introductory reading.
Academics need proof that you know what you are letting yourself in for. Prove you are interested by critically engaging with the subject and reflect on what you have read.

Make it Personal

Admissions Tutors want to get a sense of who you are – what are you offering? Are you good at languages? Tell them. Are you an ace communicator or debater? Let them know. Are you an avid scientific researcher? Write about it.
Your extra-curricular activities are not as important as your academic achievements – talk about them in terms of skills you are offering. Negotiation, communication, time-management, leadership and teamwork are all important skills that you will be expected to have.
Your writing style should be engaging and interesting. Use active verbs to bring your Personal Statement alive, encouraging the Admissions Tutor to read on and ultimately offer you a place.

So, have a read of our blog Personal Statement Essentials – What You Need To Know for further tips and advice. Meanwhile, UCAS provide a useful guide on writing a personal statement.

Each year UK Study Options helps students obtain some cracking university places. It’s not an easy process and the student has to put the work in. Our team of former admissions tutors provide support, guidance and expertise to cut through the confusion.

Contact us on hello@ukstudyoptions.com for details of our Personal Statement Package and how we can support you with your own Personal Statement.

The Cost of an Undergraduate Degree in the UK

8 June 2022

A guest blog article from our partner TorFX who specialise in currency transfer

As one of the most popular study destinations in the world, thousands of students move to the UK each year to start their undergraduate degrees.

The UK is home to over 160 higher education institutions, including some of the most prestigious, competitive and well-known universities in the world. It offers great choice to both British and international students alike.

The benefits of UK higher education are numerous; unrivalled student experience, globally-recognised education, excellent career prospects, and more but studying in the UK can be costly and families need to plan and budget effectively.

There are three main areas of costs that families need to consider when planning for university in the UK; tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses.

Tuition Fees

UK bachelors degrees are usually 3 years in duration for most subjects although some degrees may be longer such as Engineering, Architecture, Veterinary Science, Medicine and Dentistry. Scottish bachelors are typically 4 years. Before starting to budget for the cost of tuition fees, you need to check the duration of the course you are interested in.

Tuition fees in the UK vary depending on whether you’re a home or an international student.

Home students pay tuition fees of between £1,820 and £9,250 a year, depending on which UK country you study in. Most students can apply for a government-provided tuition fee loan that covers the cost of this and is paid directly to your university.

International students

For international students, undergraduate degrees begin at around £10,000 per year and can go as high as £61,000 per year, depending on the course you’re applying to. Tuition fees also vary depending on the university you’re considering – more competitive institutions tend to charge higher fees. Some universities also charge international students additional college fees of around £10,000 per year. It’s best to check the fees for any course you’re thinking of applying to for the year that you are applying, as fees tend to go up each year by around 5-10%.

International students aren’t eligible for the tuition fee loan. You may be able to secure a scholarship, grant or bursary, although these can be highly competitive. It’s worth contacting the universities you’re interest in to see if they offer any funding.

Accommodation and Living Expenses

According to Unipol, rented student accommodation was about £166 per week on average in 2021-22. While private accommodation cost £155 per week for an en-suite room in a house-share and £228 for a studio flat.

Of course, this varies hugely across the country. Rural and northern towns tend to be cheaper, while cities and popular tourist destinations are far pricier. In London, costs were significantly higher. University accommodation averaged at £212 per week and private rooms averaged at £259.

Living expenses, meanwhile, sit around £389 per month. This includes everything from groceries and gift-giving to health expenses and household bills. Students with family abroad will likely have higher travel costs too, so that’s something to factor in.

Overall, students can pay between £600 and £1,100 a month on accommodation and living expenses. Online student calculators are a great tool for adding up the cost of living and comparing costs in different parts of the country.

Loans

Once again, home students are eligible for a government maintenance loan to go towards their cost of living. The amount is based on your household income. In 2022-23 ranges from £3,597 to a maximum of £12,667 (for someone studying away from home in London) per year.

Maintenance loans rarely cover the total cost of living. Instead, students will likely need financial support or to work while they study.

As with the tuition loan, international students are not eligible for government maintenance loans. Instead, they’ll need to secure their own funding or apply for a scholarship.

How TorFX Can Help

While TorFX can’t shrink the price that universities charge for a degree, we can minimise extra costs associated with currency exchange.

If you’re transferring an international currency into Pounds to pay for tuition, accommodation and living costs, you are likely to be charged for the transaction. You are also vulnerable to fluctuating exchange rates, as US banks, for example, request that your payment be made before providing you with a rate.

Currency exchange providers, on the other hand, specialise in conducting international money transfers – and can often offer a more competitive exchange rate. At TorFX, an account manager will explain the current rates available and can offer a variety of tailored products to help get the most from your transfer.

Tools TorFX can offer

Tools we offer include spot contracts, forward contracts and market orders. Respectively, these allow you to transfer money immediately at the current exchange rate, fix a favourable exchange rate up to two years ahead of a transfer, or target the rate you’d like to achieve so that if and when that rate is achieved, the transfer will take place.

We also offer stop loss orders, where you can set your minimum exchange rate. Ifif the market moves to this level, your transaction will go ahead, protecting you from further losses.

Whatever the cost of a UK university education amounts to, don’t be tricked into paying more than you need to. Contact TorFX today by filling out our form for an online quote.

At UK Study Options, we offer bespoke university guidance, find out more here.

What makes a standout postgraduate application?

11 January 2021

Competition at the best UK universities at postgraduate level is tough, so it’s time to ‘cash in’ on all your accomplishments up to now.

Universities will expect you to have used your undergraduate time wisely and to have developed yourself in a number of ways. An average candidate will have academic achievements, experience (professional and/or life) and well-developed soft skills. In your postgraduate application, you need showcase all of these. But the most promising candidates will have an impressive overall profile that can boast uniqueness, ambitious careers goals and a desire to ‘give back’ to their chosen institution.

When applying for a course at any university, some things are a given:

You must meet the entry requirements – this sounds obvious but it’s extremely important. Most universities publish the minimum entry requirements that they accept such as a 2:1 in your first degree or a number of years’ work experience. Actually, the average grade/work experience that applicants have is usually much higher, so meeting the entry requirement is by no means a guarantee of a place on the course, you need to offer more than this to compete for a place.

You must demonstrate a range of well-developed soft skills – teamwork, problem-solving, time-management, detail-orientated, creative, good communicator, networker – whatever is relevant and useful to your studies and future career. And you need to evidence these in your studies, work experience and achievements. You may be academically strong but without soft skills to match this, you will be limited in achieving your potential at postgraduate level.

The above merely makes for an adequate application which doesn’t guarantee you a place, so what makes a STANDOUT application? From helping students get into the top universities in the UK for over 10 years, we’ve come up with our top three things that make a standout postgraduate application.

What’s unique about you?

Does you profile bring something distinctive to this year’s cohort? Your personal combination of background, experiences, passions, goals is surely unique but easily overlooked when you take it for granted. Try and look at yourself objectively and articulate to prospective universities what you have to offer. What perspective, skillset, knowledge will you bring into the classroom/lab? How will you contribute to the diversity that universities love within their cohorts? Work out what this is and make yourself a ‘must have’ for any class of 2022. We can help you look at yourself with fresh eyes and enhance your profile, such as Imran, who we helped shape his Social Sciences degree, passion for agri-business and experience growing up in India into a impactful pitch to Warwick’s International Business MSc.

What’s the endgame?

Postgraduate education is a stepping-stone to a promising career so it’s assumed that you will have thought considerably about what you will do after you graduate. Universities will want to know about your career aspirations and see that you have thought about what challenges you may face in getting there, how you will resolve these and generally what your roadmap to success will be. It’s essential that these are realistic and well-researched. If the journey from undergraduate to postgraduate to career doesn’t make sense on paper, then you need to explain your rationale and convince the Admissions team that your postgraduate course is the right choice. At UK Study Options, we help students develop credible and compelling aspirations that complement and justify their academic journey – like Alex from Greece, who we supported from a Law degree, to studying Economics at Imperial, to a career in Finance in London.

What’s in it for them?

Sometimes the measure of a great student is what they will give back to the university. Beyond your studies, what will you contribute as a student or as a graduate? During your time at uni will you lead the entrepreneurship society? Will you help the university recruit the next cohort of promising students? Will you enter competitions and elevate the university name? Universities don’t have impressive communities of accomplished alumni by accident – they scout out such individuals. What will you go on to achieve as an alumnus/a? No doubt you are ambitious, so voice those ambitions, and give the university something that they want to put their name on, like Lara from Lebanon who following her degree in Information Management at UCL went on to work in counterterrorism.

The UKSO team has been supporting students in their applications to the top UK universities and courses at postgraduate level for over 10 years. Whatever your education goal, we can work with you to help you achieve it. Get in touch for a free consultation to discuss your study ambitions.