Guide to UK University Entry
Degrees awarded by British Universities are recognised and respected around the world.
This section provides background information about entry requirements for UK undergraduate courses
and the options open to international students who need to study to prepare for UK university entry.
What are the entry requirements for UK universities?
For academic subjects, you will need a high school certificate equivalent
to 2 or 3 British A Levels. Vocational (i.e. career based) subjects have widely varying entry requirements and
often consider professional qualifications and relevant work experience as well as academic qualifications.
If your first language is not English, you will need an English certificate that is equivalent
to at least IELTS 6.0 or a Cambridge Advanced Certificate (CAE).
Is my school leaver's certificate sufficient for UK University entry?
If you have completed at least 12 years of study at high school in your own country, your
school leaver's certificate may be sufficient for entry to some courses. If you are unsure, you can contact
your student advisor at click-courses.com, who will be able to advise you whether your qualifications are
sufficient.
What if my qualifications are not sufficient?
If your qualifications from your own country are not sufficient for direct entry to university,
you can bridge the gap by taking A levels or a University Foundation Course.
What are University Foundation Courses?
University Foundation Courses are also known as University Foundation Programmes or International
Foundation Years. They take one year to complete and enable successful students to go straight on to a degree course at
a UK university.
Students study a range of topics and skills related to the subject they want to
take at university (e.g. computing, business, engineering etc.). Foundation courses are often assessed on course work rather
than exams. However, you you will only be able to study at one of the universities that recognises the foundation course you take.
What are A Levels?
A Levels are UK public examinations taken at the end of year 12 by secondary school students. They are
regarded as a 'gold standard' in the British education system and are recognised by all UK academic institutions, including
top universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
The standard A level course takes two years. Students study 4 subjects in the first year,
then take 3 of those forward into the second year. There are examinations as the end of the first year (AS levels) and
second (A2 Level). Many colleges offer intensive courses of one year or 18 months for
international students with a good secondary education from their own country
Which option is best for me - University Foundation Course or A Levels?
University foundation courses provide a fast-track route to UK universities and are usually cheaper
than the alternatives. But remember, you can only study at a university that recognise the foundation course you
take. So, if you have a particular university in mind, make sure they recognise the course you plan to take!
A Levels are more academically demanding than University foundation courses, take longer to
complete and are more expensive. However, they are recognised by all UK universities. If you want to study at any of the
top universities in the UK, you should take the A level route.
If you are still not sure which is best for you, please contact your student advisor at click-courses.com.
What about the International Baccalaureate (IB)?
Most UK institutions recognise the International Baccalaureate (IB) as equivalent to A Levels.
Where can I find more information?
This web site lists a range of A level courses and
university foundation programmes for international students who need
to prepare for entry to a UK university. We also list
undergraduate degree courses and
postgraduate degree courses taught
at private colleges. Finally, check out our section on
IELTS classes if you
need to improve your English to qualify for an undergraduate programme.