Life returned to relative normality for international students studying in the UK in 2022, and with vaccines against coronavirus working, 2023 is also expected to see fewer restrictions and the more traditional UK university experience be the dominant one again.
Despite this, it is normal to have many questions about what to expect ahead of the 2023 academic year and we have collated a number of topics, including COVID-19, Brexit and EU student fees, below.
UK universities pride themselves on offering the best teaching staff, facilities and learning experience. Begin your UCAS application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
UK Study in 2023
EU Students and Brexit
All UK universities strongly believe that European and international students make a vital contribution to UK higher education and society as a whole and are excited to welcome both new and returning EU students to the UK in 2023.
EU Student Fees
EU students studying in the UK from 2022 are no longer eligible for home fee status and student finance, although there will be some exceptions.
If you are an EU national and are ‘settled’ or ‘pre-settled’ in the UK, you will remain eligible for home tuition as long as residency requirements are met.
EU students who began studying in the UK from September 2021, will continue to pay home fees for the duration of their course and be eligible for the UK’s EU settlement scheme if they arrived before December 31st, 2020.
Point Based Immigration
New routes for international students to apply for visas and study in the UK are now underway and a points based immigration system will “open up the UK to the brightest and the best from around the world”.
- Learn More: Types of Visa
Two-year Study Visa
The post-study work visa allows international students studying undergraduate and postgraduate courses at UK universities to look for work in the UK for up to 2 years after graduation.
During this period students can work at any skill level without requiring to meet the conditions of a minimum threshold salary or job sponsorship from employers and the Graduate Route is a great way for international students to access the lucrative UK labour market.
English Language Testing
UK universities are accepting more types of English language testing proof than ever before. Check with the institution you are applying to, but many now accept the following:
- IELTS
- IELTS Indicator
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL (China)
- PTE Academic
Public Health and the Coronavirus Vaccine
Travel to and from the UK is now simplified for international travelers. Vaccinated passengers arriving from low-risk countries will be permitted to take a cheaper lateral flow test, rather than the privately administered PCR lab tests now required. Unvaccinated travellers from low-risk countries will be required to take a pre-departure test, plus PCR tests on day two and day eight, and to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival.
International students in the UK are able to access vaccinations as they are rolled out across the country, meaning you may receive the vaccine quicker in the UK than your home country and will be protected when returning home.
Study in the UK
Are you ready to take the next big step and study in the UK in 2023? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today to get started.