It is not easy to get into a UK university, especially if you haven’t got prior experience of studying in English. Nevertheless, if you take the right steps, your dream can come true!
1. Start preparing now. The vast majority of universities have established deadlines for application submissions. Most of the deadlines for courses starting in the autumn are January-March. However, for the most prestigious universities, the final deadline for submitting documents can be October-November, depending on the programme.
2. Look at the different league tables for UK universities and compare the subjects and universities in them.
Thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk, for example, shows that Bath University is first place now for marketing courses, however, in the same table it is indicated that data on the future employment of graduates is not yet available, because the programme is new. Perhaps, in this case, it is better to take a closer look at another universities if you are looking for a job in the UK. I advise that you compose an Excel spreadsheet for the universities of your choice and apply to at least five, to maximise your chances.
3. Find out if you need proof of your English skills. The general rule is if you haven’t studied a degree in English, you need to pass an IELTS or TOEFL exam. Compare these tests and choose the one that suits you the most. If you want to apply to US universities at the same time, maybe TOEFL will be a more suitable option for you.
4. Identify all possible scholarships. Keep in mind that many scholarships have their own deadlines for application submissions. Look through the pages of selected universities and make a list of scholarships in the same Excel table.
5. Keep a positive attitude. Not all students get accepted to university on their first try, but in the end, if you don’t try you won’t succeed!
