FAQs about studying and living in the UK

A UK education opens doors, wherever you go in the world.

From our world-recognised universities to our innovative teaching approach and the leading minds who deliver it, we have what you need to reach your potential.

The UK has been the preferred choice for some of the most important minds in history. One in four world leaders has studied in the UK, so if you’re dreaming of achieving big things, you can be sure you’re in the right place in the UK.

We have prepared this list of frequently asked questions to help you find the answer you need quickly.

If you can't find the answer to your question in the list below, you are welcome to email us at studyuk.germany@britishcouncil.org and we will get back to you.

Can I get my certificates verified/ certified or translated at the British Council?

No. The British Council in Germany does not offer this service.  Please contact the institution requiring the certification and ask what other options they will accept for verification and/ or translation of your certificate. 

For example: the UK institution may accept a certificate (or stamped copy) sent directly from your (German or other foreign) university/ higher education institution that issued the original certificate / awarded the degree/qualification. 

You can find a list of professional translators in Germany on the website of the Bundesverband der Dolmetscher und Übersetzer e.V.  

UK citizens might be able to get their documents certified at British consulates in Germany. Please find relevant information on this UK government website.  

How do I find and apply for a course in the UK?

Whether you are looking for undergraduate, postgraduate, English courses or other study options, the UK has a wide variety of institutions and courses to choose from. You can search for courses and institutions via the Study UK Course Finder. 

On the UCAS website you can look up thousands of UK courses and scholarships using their search tools and resources. They list qualifications like undergraduate Bachelor's degrees, HNDs and postgraduate Master’s degrees, MBAs and doctorates. You can also find out about English language courses.

Find out about course types, qualifications and the different education systems for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales in your study options .

How much does it cost to study in the UK?

Fees for UK courses vary depending on your study level and where in the UK you are studying.

International undergraduate tuition fees vary from £11,400 - £38,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £22,200 per year.

Typically, undergraduate degree courses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland last for three years or four in Scotland.

International postgraduate tuition fees vary from £9,000 - £30,000. The average cost is estimated to be around £17,109 per year.

Many postgraduate degree courses in the UK can be completed in one year of full-time study. This has financial and career benefits. A one-year master’s programme usually has fewer and lower associated costs. It offers the option of faster entry or re-entry into employment than a traditional two-year master’s programme.

 

Where can I find information on scholarships and financial support for studying in the UK?

Detailed information on financing your studies in the UK can be found on our scholarships and financial support page. 

You can also search for the right scholarship for you on the Study UK course and scholarships finder.

Do I need a visa to study in the UK?

If you are 16 or over and want to study a course at higher education level in the UK lasting longer than six months, it is most likely that you will need to apply for a student visa through the Student Route

More information on visas and how to apply for one, can be found on our EU Student Visa Advice page and the Study UK website.

 

I'd like to stay in the UK to work after finishing my UK degree. Is this possible?

Yes. The UK’s Graduate Route welcomes international students to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, upon graduation. International students who have successfully completed an undergraduate or master’s degree can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after their studies. PhD graduates can apply to stay for up to three years. You can find more information on the Graduate Route and how to apply on the Study UK website.

I’m a student advisor. What information do you have that I can share with my students who are interested in UK study?

Our Study Guide for Student Advisors in Europe has all the relevant and up-to-date information on UK study, including an overview on the application process, deadlines, visas, fees, scholarships and funding, student life and more. 

How do I find a English Language school in the UK?

On the English UK website you can find information about learning English in the UK.  

You can also find an alphabetical list of British Council accredited language schools in the UK on our website.

Should you book through a German agent or tour operator, we recommend you to check that the language course is taught by a British Council accredited language school.

Can I sit UK school and other exams at the British Council in Germany (A-Levels, GCSE, Institute of Chartered Accountants etc.)?

No. The British Council in Germany does not offer the service of holding or invigilating external exams on our premises. 

How can I prepare for A-Level or GCSE examinations as a private candidate?

As far as we are aware there are no preparation courses available in Germany. You can prepare by self-study or enrolling in a distance learning course. You can find course providers e.g. on the website of the Open and Distance Learning Quality Council - (ODLQL) . We also suggest checking with the Examination Boards if they can recommend any course providers.