Courses and qualifications in the UK
UK qualifications are recognised worldwide, and the one-year master's is a major reason international students choose the UK. Here's how the levels fit together and how you apply.
Levels of study
Foundation / pathway
One-year programmes that bridge international qualifications into a UK undergraduate degree, often with English support.
Undergraduate (bachelor's)
Typically 3 years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; 4 years in Scotland. Applied for through UCAS.
Postgraduate taught (master's)
Usually 1 year full-time — one of the main draws of UK study for international students.
Postgraduate research (PhD)
3–4 years. The only level at which most students can currently bring dependants.
Popular courses
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor's 3-4 years
An undergraduate degree in computing and software development, typically three years in England or four years in Scotland.
BSc Natural Sciences
Bachelor's 3-4 years
A flexible undergraduate science degree letting students combine physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics before specialising.
MBA
Master's 1 year
A one-year, full-time postgraduate management degree combining core business disciplines with leadership training for working professionals.
MSc Engineering
Master's 1 year
A one-year postgraduate taught degree deepening engineering specialisation through advanced modules, research projects, and industry collaboration.
How you apply
- Undergraduate: through UCAS, the centralised admissions service. You can apply to several universities with one application.
- Postgraduate: usually directly to each university.
- Once you hold an offer and a CAS, you apply for the Student route visa.
Entry requirements
Requirements vary by course and university, but you'll generally need recognised academic qualifications and an approved English language test (such as IELTS) unless exempt. Check each institution's published requirements — see UK institutes.
Official sources: UCAS, Office for Students.