Study in UK Application Procedures: A Guide for International Students

Applying to study in the UK can feel overwhelming, especially because the process varies depending on the university, level of study, and type of course you choose. This guide simplifies the full UK application process entry requirements, deadlines, documents, and FAQs, so you can confidently prepare your application and start your journey toward studying in the UK.

UK Application Process Overview

The UK higher education application process differs between undergraduate, postgraduate, English language programs, and foundation courses. Before you start your application:

Check eligibility and entry requirements
Understand English language score requirements
Prepare documents early
Apply within recommended timelines

Most major courses begin in September/October, and many universities open applications up to 12 months in advance.

UK Intakes for International Students

The UK offers two major intakes:

Main Intake

September / October - offered by almost all universities.

Secondary Intake

January / February - available for selected programs at a few universities.

English Language Requirements to Study in the UK

Most UK universities accept the following English proficiency tests:

IELTS

UG: 0 overall
PG: 5 overall

TOEFL (iBT)

UG: 80
PG: 90

PTE (Accepted by selected institutes)

Possible Exemptions

You may be exempt from English tests if:

You studied a previous degree in English
You scored 70%+ in English in Standard XII
You belong to an English-speaking country

Entry Requirements for UK Universities

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

65%+ in XII for Humanities
70–80%+ for Science, Commerce, Engineering
Below 60% may be considered for Foundation or Diploma programs
Applicants must be 18+ years at course start

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

60%+ in your Bachelor’s Degree
Some universities accept 55%+ with GMAT (600–700)
MBA programs often require:
- 2–4 years of full-time work experience
- AMBA-accredited universities require min. 3 years and age 25+

Documents Required for UK Applications

Prepare the following documents:

Attested mark sheets (Std X, XII, Bachelor’s)
At least 2 academic reference letters
Work reference letter (if applicable)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV
Score reports (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/GMAT)
Portfolio for art, design, or architecture courses
Certificates for extracurricular achievements

How to Apply: Undergraduate Applications (UCAS Process)

UCAS is the UK’s centralised admissions portal for undergraduate courses.

Key Points

Only one UCAS application allowed per academic year
Apply to up to 5 universities
Application fee:
- £12 for one course
- £23 for multiple courses

UCAS Deadlines

15 January – Main deadline
15 October – Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary
24 March – Art & Design courses
30 June – Final deadline

Tip: Apply as early as possible universities receive a very high number of applications.

Sandwich Programs

Include industry placements
Typically 4 years (vs. standard 3)

Foundation Programs

One-year bridge courses for students who do not meet direct entry requirements.

How to Apply: Postgraduate Applications

Postgraduate applications are made directly through university portals.

Important Notes

Application forms available at Edwise offices for free
Few universities charge an application fee
Apply 6–8 months in advance, especially for popular programs

FAQs - UK Application Procedures

What documents are required for a UK student visa?

To apply for a UK student visa, you will typically need:

CAS letter
Valid passport
Visa application form
Previous BRP (if applicable)
English proficiency scores
Academic transcripts
Proof of financial support
TB test results (if required)
Passport-sized photos
Accommodation details
Additional supporting documents
Parental consent (if under 18)

Can I apply to multiple UK universities using one application?

No. The UK does not offer a single common application for postgraduate programs. Undergraduate students apply through UCAS, and then must complete university-specific forms. Each application must be tailored for the course and university.

How does the UCAS system work?

UCAS is the UK's central undergraduate application portal.
Steps include:

Create an account on the UCAS Hub
Fill in personal details
Add academic qualifications & work history
Choose up to 5 courses
Upload references
Submit and wait for decision (unconditional or conditional offer)

Are undergraduate and postgraduate applications different?

Yes.

UG applications go through UCAS
PG applications go directly through individual university portals

What is the UK university application deadline?

15 January – Main UCAS deadline
24 March – Art & Design
15 October – Oxford/Cambridge/Medicine

How can I check my UK application status?

University application portal
Email notifications
Contact admissions office
UCAS Track for undergraduate applicants

What requirements must international students meet?

Common requirements include:

English proficiency scores
SOP or personal statement
Reference letters
Portfolios (if applicable)
Visa documentation
Proof of funds & health insurance

Can I apply for scholarships along with my course application?

Yes. Students can apply for scholarships in parallel. Always check eligibility, deadlines, and required documents early.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in UK applications?

Missing deadlines
Incomplete or inaccurate details
Generic SOP or personal statement
Ignoring university-specific requirements
Not meeting visa requirements

How can international students apply to UK universities?

UG: Apply via UCAS
PG: Apply via university portal
Submit documents + English test scores
Receive offer
Apply for visa and arrange accommodation

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International, and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Universities in Australia, study in Australia, study in UK, study in USA, study in Canada, study in Ireland, study in New-Zealand, study in Singapore, study in Mauritius, study in Germany, study in France and many other countries.