How to Apply to a British University

Middlesex University is among the world's most international universities, with over 145 nationalities represented among students and staff on its campuses in London, Dubai, Mauritius and Malta. Their network of offices and partners use local knowledge to support students and businesses around the world.

40,000+ students around the world
160 international partnerships
16 regional offices and teams

Part of the reason Middlesex is so popular among international students is its exceptional support for international students. Organising, applying and saving for a study trip abroad can be tricky, but Middlesex University supports its students in a myriad of ways.

Let us see how Middlesex University does so and how you can successfully apply to a British university.

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Step One: Find Your Course

The first step should (hopefully) be the most straightforward, though of course things don’t always work out that way: knowing which subject and at which level you will be applying.

This is the most important thing to do first as the application process will vary slightly dependent on the subject you will be studying, as well as which country you are applying from.

Natural Science Lab

At Middlesex University, the courses break down into the following categories:

As mentioned, the application process will depend on what course you want to study. Each course will carry its own Entry Requirements, which you will have to check and make sure you match.

In addition to course-specific entry requirements (which may include an interview/audition/portfolio), a British university will require evidence of your previous qualifications, potentially including evidence of English language proficiency.

If your English is not quite up to standard though, do not fear: universities will typically offer English preparation and degree foundation courses if you require them.

If you are still unsure which course would be right for you, you can speak online with the Middlesex University Admissions Team. You can also visit an international fair to speak to representatives directly, or contact the regional office for help.

Step Two: How to Apply

To apply to a Middlesex University programme, you must submit an application via their application portal here or via www.ucas.com.

Middlesex students at The Grove

UCAS is a British organisation that operates the application process for universities in Britain, for both domestic and international students. No matter which British institution you apply for, UCAS will likely be a company that you grow familiar with. Do note that UCAS charges a small fee for applying for up to five universities, but Middlesex’s direct application portal is free.

You will likely need to provide the following supporting documents when applying:

Transcripts and certificate of completion (the level of which will depend on what you are applying for). If you have not completed the education required, you may be able to upload your provisional transcripts. Check on your country page for more details about specific entry requirements
Personal statement
CV and professional experience (more likely to be required for postgraduate applications)
At least one letter of academic reference (in headed paper and signed)
ID page of passport(s) (valid for at least six months after the start of your programme)
English certificate, typically IELTS or TOEFL. To see the list of approved English tests, click here. Please note that English certificates are only valid for two years before the start of the programme.
Art & Design, performing arts and media programmes often require a portfolio, show reel or audition piece. Please see the entry requirements listed in the programme’s online profile and the interviews & portfolios tabs for more information.

Important: If you are missing any of the aforementioned documents, it is recommended that you go ahead and submit an incomplete application. You can continue to upload the required documents as they become available to you.

A postgraduate application will be mostly similar to an undergraduate application, though there will likely be some minor differences. The most important one to recognise is the application date, which will vary dependent on course type.

Step Three: Track Your Application

Check the status of your application through UCAS or, depending on the course you've applied to, through Middlesex University’s Online Applicant Portal.
Your offer
The Admissions team will contact you with a response to your application. Here are the different options you may get:

Unconditional offer - you have a place on your chosen course as you have met all the necessary entry requirements. Congratulations!
Conditional offer - you have a place on your chosen course but you still need to meet some of the entry requirements as specified in your offer letter. Congratulations!
Rejection of application - unfortunately, you do not currently meet the entry requirements for any courses. If you suspect that you meet the entry requirements for a similar course or want to know the reason for rejection, contact the regional team at: [email protected]

Step Four: Deposit and Visa Application

To secure your place as an international student, you will need to pay a deposit. This will be deducted from your tuition fee due when you enrol. If you choose to defer entry to the following academic year, the deposit will be held for one academic year.

Sports and Exercise Science Facilities

When the university receives your deposit, they will register you with the UK Visas and Immigration Deposit (UKV) and you will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Students (CAS) reference number. You should use this when you apply for the Tier 4 or CAS visa. You must pay the minimum deposit before the Tier 4 or CAS visa can be issued.

You can also pay your tuition fees in full before your visa appointment and in which case the total fee due will be stated on the CAS confirmation letter or your offer letter.

Visas and Immigration
Many international students need a visa to study in the UK. You should start your visa application when you have received an offer.

-Tier 4 visa
This visa allows you to study on a course that is longer than six months. Most international students need this visa to study in the UK.

-Short-term Study visa
This is a temporary, short-term visa which allows you to come to the UK for a maximum of six months.

Step Five: Fees and Funding

When you study in Great Britain, you will have to budget for:

Tuition fees that vary according to the course you are studying and are subject to inflation. Look at your chosen course page for current information
Accommodation costs in halls of residence or privately rented accommodation
Living costs, such as food, travel and entertainment
English language tuition fees if you want to study English in the UK before you begin your course.

Students hard at work

If you are an international student, you'll need to support yourself financially when you study with in the United Kingdom as there are no UK Government-backed loans and grants available.

However, there are other options available.

Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

You can receive financial support to help with the cost of your studies that is based on your personal circumstances. Scholarships and bursaries recognise your academic excellence and other achievements and unlike a loan, you don't have to pay them back.

Scholarships, bursaries and awards can reduce your tuition fees or help pay your living expenses. You are only eligible to receive one scholarship award from Middlesex University.

There are also scholarships, bursaries and grants for study available from the UK government such as the Chevening Scholarships. Some charities and private trusts also give awards.

Visit the British Council website or the UK Council for International Student Affairs website for more information.

Many governments also offer funding to help their students to study abroad. For more information on Fees and Funding, visit your country information page, contact your nearest regional office, or read Middlesex University’s guide on financial support for international students.

Step Six: Preparing to Land

Before you arrive in Britain, you will have a place to stay. If necessary, Middlesex University can also help pick you up from the airport as well as support you in your new life. Check Middlesex’s guide on orientation here.

But most importantly of all, enjoy yourself! Studying in Britain is an amazing and unique experience that will set you up for the rest of your life.

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Application to a British university can be a time-consuming process, but remember that universities will offer lots of support and want you to join them! Middlesex University, for example, works with education advisors based in a variety of countries that can help students with the application process for free. Visit your country page for more details on these advisors.

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