What factors should I consider when making a choice of
course?
Select the courses according to the area you are interested in
studying and look carefully and thoroughly at the content of each
course by consulting the page of the respective department within
the pages of the individual institutions. If, after looking at this
information, you still have doubts about the course, you should
contact your IDP counselor.
Apart from the course, it is very important that you feel happy
with the facilities being offered by the relevant university.
Are the courses and institutions that I have chosen of a high
standard?
The UK government does not have an official ranking of all
universities and institutions. While the primary responsibility for
academic standards and quality rests with individual universities
and colleges the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) checks how well
they meet their responsibilities through institutional audit and
subject reviews. For research courses, the Research Assessment
Exercise (RAE) conducted every five years reviews the research
activity of institutions and the quality profile determines the
grants received for research from various funding bodies.
What financial support is available for international
students?
There are a limited number of awards available for international
students. The amount varies from level of study as well as the
institutions. The scholarships are competitive and you need to
demonstrate exceptional academic achievements.
What opportunities are there for working and studying at the
same time?
Many universities have a dedicated job centre on-campus for
students that offer or advertise a range of job opportunities to
help students develop skills. The university Careers Advisory
Service is also a useful source of information and advice. If you
pursue a course of degree level or above you are permitted to work
for 20 hours a week during the term and full time during the
vacations.
How can I find accommodation?
Most UK universities and colleges will guarantee accommodation
to international students if they have accepted the offer and
applied for the accommodation within the deadline. The student
housing officers at the university will be able to offer advice and
guidance on finding suitable accommodation. Private accommodation
outside of the University or college will be cheaper if you are
prepared to share the facilities with another student and are
suitable to postgraduate or mature students. Undergraduate students
in their first year of the course are recommended to stay in the
halls of residence on-campus. A number of universities and colleges
now manage their accommodation in line with government-approved
codes of practice.
When should I begin the application process for September
intake?
It is recommended that you begin you application process at
least a year in advance to give enough time to the institutions to
process your applications.
Does IDP have any special relationship with UK
institutions?
Yes, IDP has signed up with specific UK institutions which will
certainly give you the benefit of better turnaround time for
application assessment and other requirements.
Will IDP help me with the pre departure formalities?
Yes, IDP will organize a pre-departure orientation program which
will help you transition to life as a student in the UK.