Practical tips

Make sure you're well informed before you leave !

English

As a general rule, the standard tests requested by the universities for international students are the IELTS (International English Language Training System) and the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). The first one is a face-to-face exam that seeks to evaluate the skills of the candidate in Shakespeare’s language (written, oral, reading, listening). It is possible to take this test in France. The second one can be a written or a computer test in a registered centre. Do not hesitate to ask us for further details.

Budget and Employment

Cost of living varies highly between London and the rest of the United Kingdom. Whereas in London you will certainly need about 12.000 Euros per year for housing, food, going out etc..., the cost of living outside the British capital is approximately one third less expensive (around 8.000 Euros per year).

Student jobs are quite numerous and easy to find. Many shops, restaurants, bars and organizations hire students during the beginning of the academic year (September) and you can expect an hourly wage between 6 and 12 pounds. The international students’ office (that you will find in each university) is also there to help you in your search to find housing and a job.

Tuition Fees

Studies in the United Kingdom have to be paid. While school fees for students in the first two years of a university degree leading to a diploma (Bachelor's degree) are about 3.300 pounds per year in all universities (a little bit less than 4.000 Euros), the costs for a postgraduate degree vary between establishments and programmes. As European citizens, the French pay the same school fees as the British.

Accommodation

During the first year of university, students are likely to live on the campus of the university. If there is no campus, the university will always propose solutions in student housing and student residence halls. This solution is easier and more reassuring for newcomers - you will meet other people who are just starting like you and enjoy the safety and “family” atmosphere, which can be found on many campuses. For persons currently studying (from the 2nd year onwards), on campus housing is still a possibility. However most students prefer house or flat share off-campus. Each university has a department to help students to find an accommodation in town - a list of trusted landlords is made available to everybody.

Transportation

The United Kingdom has one of the most developed rail networks in the world, even if it remains really expensive. An inter-city bus service is also available (National Express). When a university is located outside a city, a regular bus service is put in place to ensure the connection. From France it is very easy to reach the UK via Eurostar, the Shuttle, boat or plane.