英國留學：研究生留學指南(二）

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　　Despite its relatively small geographic size, the UK is a big player on the international stage, in terms of its economy, cultural influence and also its higher education system. Second only to the US as a study abroad destination, the UK boasts an impressively large selection of universities ranked among the world’s best. It’s also well-known for its innovation and leadership in multiple industries, from engineering and finance to fashion design and music.

　　For those looking to undertake graduate study in the UK, here’s an overview of top UKuniversities, common application requirements, scholarships for international students and tuition fee information.

　　Applying for graduate study in the UK

　　Unlike the undergraduate procedure for study in the UK, there is no centralized organization that deals with postgraduate applications to UK universities. Instead you’ll most likely be required to apply directly to your chosen university, so application processes will differ accordingly.

　　The easiest way to apply for graduate study at universities in the UK is usually through an online submission process, which often will allow you to track the progress of your application once sent. You will usually be required to include a personal statement, along with supporting documents such as evidence of your previous qualifications and two references.

　　As an international student you’ll also need proof of your English language proficiency (i.e.TOEFL/IELTS test scores) and a copy of your passport. PhD applicants may be asked to present a research proposal. Some universities may require you to attend an interview, either in person or via phone/internet, in addition to your written application.

　　Tuition fees and living costs

　　Postgraduate tuition costs for international students vary significantly depending on the subject and institution, but as a rough idea you can expect to be charged from around UK£6,000 to £20,000 per year (~US$9,000-$30,000), with the majority of programs priced between UK£10,000 to £12,000 (US$15,000-$18,000). However, those wishing to study a subject like medicine at one of the leading universities in the UK, for example, should expect to pay much more, with top prices coming in at around UK£38,500 (US$57,700).

　　You will also need to consider living expenses, including the costs of accommodation, food, travel and entertainment. The UK Border Agency recommends that you budget around UK£1,020 (~US$1,500) per month if living within London and UK£820 (US$1,200) outside of London.

　　Unfortunately, student loans are not usually available to master’s students, whether from the UK or overseas. However, other graduate funding options may be available, including scholarships, bursaries, grants and financial awards. If you’ve lived in the UK for three years prior to application then you could also be eligible for a bank loan.

　　UK scholarships for international students

　　Scholarships for international students looking to study in the UK are numerous, but also highly competitive. This shouldn’t deter you from applying to a scholarship scheme, however, and if you are unsuccessful you can always seek alternative postgraduate funding options (more details here).

　　The good news is that scholarships for graduate study in the UK are generally more widely available than undergraduate UK scholarships. While opportunities are sometimes offered by external organizations and foreign government schemes, the majority of graduate scholarships for international students are offered by individual UK universities, the British government and via the EU (e.g. Erasmus+).

　　Almost all UK universities offer opportunities to gain funding, which are worth looking into. The amount you may be eligible for depends on where and what you choose to study, as well as your current financial situation. Types of support include full studentships with additional grants for maintenance and housing, bursaries for those in particular financial need, and paid teaching or research assistant positions – the latter are especially common for students at PhD level. Awards of up to UK£3,000 (US$4,500) for high-achieving students are also available from some institutions. To find these opportunities, you should visit the website of the university you’re interested in attending, and search for information about funding for graduate study which is open to international students.

　　You can find a full list of scholarship opportunities and alternative options on the British Council’seducation website, and you may also want to look at our selection of articles listing UK scholarships;

　　Scholarships to Study in the UK

　　Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries

　　Scholarships to study in the World’s Best Student Cities (featuring scholarships to study in London)

　　Or discover even more international scholarships here.

　　Due to limited opportunities, you should apply for UK scholarships as early as possible to maximize your chances of gaining funding.

　　UK student visas and permits

　　To study in the UK as an international student from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you’ll require a Tier 4 (general) student visa. You should apply for your visa at least three months before you’re due to travel and you will need to have received an unconditional offer from your chosen university. You’ll also need to demonstrate proficiency in English, as well as proof of sufficient funding, which must already be approved. As well as a current passport, tuberculosis test results are also required from residents of some countries.

　　With a general Tier 4 student visa, international students are able to work either within their student union   or the National union   of Students during their studies. Students may also take up additional work, but are restricted to working up to 20 hours a week during term-time; full-time work is permitted during vacations.

　　Upon graduation, international students are required to leave the country within one to four months, depending on the length of your program. You may apply to have your visa extended within this time.

　　Applying for a UK student visa will cost you just under UK£300 (US$450). For more information, take a look at our guide to getting a UK student visa, or visit the UK government site gov.uk.

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　　英國留學：研討生留學指南(一）

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