Planning For Your Child’s Future: How To Apply For UK Universities From Overseas

Finding The Right Uni

Some teens have a clear-cut idea of what they want to study at university while they're at sixth form based on their A-Levels or their interests in the IB. For others, it's less obvious. At this stage, research is key so explore available courses aligned with their strengths and interests and check out entry requirements.

If possible, arrange virtual tours or in-person tours in the school holidays to get a feel for the campus: some teens may crave the quiet of a campus-based university, while others will prefer the buzz of a city location.

Pic: Tetiana Shyshkina/Unsplash

Getting To Grips With UCAS

To apply to a UK university as an international student, you'll need to apply through UCAS, the centralized UK university application system. Some universities offer direct application options outside of UCAS.

First up, create a UCAS account, fill out the application form and submit required documents like proof of identity, academic transcripts, and English language proficiency. If your kids aren't British, you'll need to apply for a student visa; this includes those with a British National Overseas passport.

Want more? Check out the UCAS International Podcast, which features experts and current students, for discussions on leading questions like "how do I apply?", "what support is available", and "what's it really like in the UK"?

Completing The Application Form

While the personal statement forms part of the application, your teen will also need to fill out an application form. It's important to make sure personal details are correct, as is the info about education and qualifications, predicted grades, and work experience. In the case of referees, choose those who can provide insightful and relevant information about your child's academic and personal qualities. 

Before you press 'send', proofread to check for any mistakes and ask teachers, mentors, or friends to review your application before submitting. There's more info on Filling in Your UCAS Undergraduate Application here.

Writing A Personal Statement

An undergraduate personal statement is a chance for your teen to get noticed for their talents beyond academia, whether that's relevant work experience, being involved in a sports team or if they've taken part in schemes such as the The Hong Kong Award for Young People (formerly the Duke of Edinburgh Award).

You can encourage them to address questions like why they have chosen the course, their long-term career ambitions, and what has attracted them to the course. Remember it can only be 4,000 characters, which is about two sides of A4. A word of warning: don't be tempted to copy or share your personal statement, as any similarity greater than 30% will be flagged and UCAS will inform the universities and colleges to which you have applied. Check out UCAS's full list of Do's and Don'ts here.

Applying For A Student Visa

If you're applying for a student visa for outside the UK, your teen will need to prove their identity with a passport and also have the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter from their course provider.

Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity document. You’ll also need to create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, or have your fingerprints and photo taken at a visa application centre (the one in Hong Kong is in North Point).

So, how long does it take? You'll usually get a decision within three weeks, and if time is short, you may be able to pay to get a faster decision.

Getting Your Finances In Place

Applying For Scholarships

Scholarships require a strong academic record but will also consider your teen's extracurricular activities and leadership skills. Eligibility is also determined by nationality, residency status, academic performance, and household income. To apply for a scholarship for a UK university as an international student, research available scholarships (there's a link here at the British Council website where you can search by institution).

Universities typically have dedicated pages on their websites outlining scholarships, and student welfare offices can provide further guidance.

Confirming Your Child's Place

To confirm an offer as an overseas student, you typically need to accept the offer through the university's application portal, pay any required deposit, and then apply for a student visa. You'll also need to provide the university with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which is needed for your visa application.

If you applied through UCAS, you can track your application status and accept the offer online. If you applied directly to the university, you'll likely have an online portal where you can view and accept the offer. Make sure to accept the offer before the deadline specified by the university.

Once your visa is approved, you can start making arrangements for your teen's travel and accommodation!

Going Through Clearing

If your child didn't get the expected grades or doesn't want to do the course they've chosen anymore, then don't panic – many students find university places through clearing, a process through UCAS that helps universities fill any remaining spots on their courses.

How To Withdraw Or Change The Application

Maybe your teen wants to study closer to home, take a gap year, has changed their mind about going to university, or is keen to change course. If they want to withdraw from a university place in the UK, they need to officially decline their offer through UCAS and contact the university directly to inform them. If they've already accepted an offer, they'll need to contact both the university and UCAS to withdraw their application.

If they want to remain at the same university but swap their course, they should speak to the chosen university or college first. There's more information on Changing and Leaving Your Course here.

Applying For Boarding Schools From Overseas

In addition to being home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, the UK is also home to many of the best boarding schools, including Eton College, Westminster School and Shrewsbury School. With more than 500 boarding schools available, there are plenty to choose from, so research the best schools for your child, understand their admissions process, and prepare necessary application documents, including entrance exams and visa applications.

You'll also need to secure a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school and arrange for guardianship if the student is under 18. For more information on applying, check out this article on The Application Process by UK Boarding Schools.