Support and Benefits International Students Can Get While Studying in the UK -The United Kingdom has been a destination of choice for international students for decades. It’s renowned for its high-quality education system, rich history, and cultural diversity. International students are a vital component of the UK’s higher education system, and universities across the country strive to provide the best support and benefits to ensure they have a comfortable and enjoyable experience while studying in the UK. In this article, we will explore the various types of support and benefits available to international students in the UK.
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List of Support and Benefits International Students Can Get While Studying in the UK
Here are some of the support and benefits international students can get while studying in the UK;
Financial Support
One of the biggest challenges for international students is the cost of studying in the UK. Tuition fees and living expenses can be prohibitively expensive, and many students need financial support to make their dream of studying in the UK a reality. Fortunately, there are many options available for financial support.
Scholarships and Bursaries
Many UK universities offer scholarships and bursaries to international students to help cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses. As a result, these awards are usually awarded based on academic merit or financial need, and students can apply for them directly through their university.
Government Loans
International students from certain countries are eligible for government loans to help cover the cost of studying in the UK. For example, students from the United States can apply for federal loans, and students from the European Union can apply for a loan through the Erasmus+ programme.
Part-time Work
International students are allowed to work part-time while studying in the UK. They can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during holidays. As a result, many universities have a dedicated careers service that can help students find part-time work on campus or in the local area.
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Accommodation
Finding suitable accommodation is a major concern for international students studying in the UK. Most universities offer a range of accommodation options, including halls of residence and shared houses or flats. Here are some of the types of accommodation available to international students in the UK:
Halls of Residence
Most universities in the UK offer halls of residence for their students. These are usually located on or near campus and offer single or shared rooms with shared facilities such as bathrooms and kitchens. That is to say, halls of residence are a great option for international students who are new to the country and want to meet other students.
Shared Houses or Flats
Many students choose to live in shared houses or flats with other students. This option offers more independence and the chance to live with students from different backgrounds. As a result, it is a more cost-effective option, as rent and bills can be split between multiple people.
Private Accommodation
Some international students choose to rent private accommodation, such as a studio apartment or a room in a private house. This option is more private and independent, but can be more expensive and requires more responsibility.
Healthcare
International students who study in the UK are entitled to access the National Health Service(NHS). This means that they can receive medical treatment, including doctor’s appointments and emergency care, free of charge. To access healthcare in the UK, international students will need to register with a local GP (General Practitioner) and obtain a National Insurance number.
Mental Health Support
Studying in a new country can be a stressful experience, and many international students struggle with homesickness, loneliness, and other mental health issues. Most UK universities offer mental health support services for their students, including counselling, therapy, and workshops on managing stress and anxiety. Students can be able to access these services through their university’s student services department.
Language Support
Many international students studying in the UK have English as their second language, and may struggle with academic writing, reading, and speaking. That is to say, most universities offer language support services for their students, including one-to-one tuition, language classes, and workshops on academic writing and communication skills.
Career Support
Many international students have chosen to study in the UK to improve their career prospects and gain valuable work experience. UK universities offer a range of career support services to help students achieve their career goals, including:
Career Advice
Most UK universities have a dedicated careers service that offers one-to-one career advice, CV and cover letter reviews, and assistance with job applications. These services are available to all students, including international students.
Work Placements and Internships
Many UK universities offer work placements and internships as part of their courses, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in their field of study. These assignments are typically paid, giving overseas students the opportunity to earn money while getting useful job experience.
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Employer Events
UK universities regularly host employer events, such as career fairs and networking events, where students can meet with potential employers and learn more about different career options.
Visa Support
International students studying in the UK will need to obtain a visa to study and stay in the country. As a result, UK universities provide visa support services to help students navigate the visa application process and ensure that they have the necessary documentation to enter and stay in the UK.
International Student Societies
Many UK universities have international student societies that provide support and a sense of community for international students. These organizations plan activities for international students to interact with one another and share their experiences, such as social gatherings and cultural festivals.
Conclusion
Overall, studying in the UK as an international student can be an enriching and rewarding experience. However, it can also be challenging, particularly for those who are new to the country and unfamiliar with the education system and culture. Fortunately, UK universities provide a range of support and benefits to help international students adjust to life in the UK and make the most of their experience.
In conclusion, from financial support to language and career support, UK universities are devoted to making sure that foreign students have a pleasant and comfortable time while they study there.
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