Study Methods

An overseas education is quite different from studying in Hong Kong. It encourages students to learn actively and think independently; manage their time well; make use of libraries and other great facilities; listen, summarize and take notes during classes; develop skills in research, analysis, group discussion and debate; and be more motivated to study.

 English Language Courses

English Language Courses are offered by a number of private/government institutions and universities. The duration of these programs is normally between 5 and 30 weeks and comprises of 20 to 25 hours of classroom teaching and several hours of self-study and language laboratory work per week.

Each institution offers a wide range of English Language Courses, from elementary level to advanced level.

Types Program include:
General English
Business English
English for Academic Purposes
IELTS / TOEFL Preparation Course
High School Preparation Course
Study Tour

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
Some institutions offer the programs with a flexible entry date, such as every Monday. Others start their program monthly.

High School Program

There are both government and private high schools in United Kingdom; co-educational, boys only or girls only, religious or non-denominational, day or boarding, or both. The teaching aims are to develop their individual learning skills, interests and talents. Subjects are mainly languages, mathematics, science, social science, environmental science, arts, computer skills, personal development, health study and physical education, music, art, drama, etc.

Secondary School Levels

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
The school year starts in September and is divided into three terms.

Foundation Studies

The foundation studies is a 1 year (or more) full-time pre-university course designed to prepare international or full-fee paying students for entry into undergraduate courses. The program is offered by universities or private colleges. Students who complete the program and meet the faculty grade point average requirements are guaranteed a place into first year of the degree program at partner university. They may also gain entry into other universities.

Assessment is based on their internal academic results, assignments and internal test scores. The aims of this program are to improve the student's English language skills, and develop their individual learning skills and research skills so as to adapt themselves to university’s study style.

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
Foundation studies are available in January, April, May, and September.

Certificate And Diploma Courses

Certificate, diploma and advanced diploma courses are offered by government or private institutions. There are a wide range of disciplines such as accounting, design and drafting, hotel management, business, management, marketing, engineering, computing and information technology, travel and tourism, and communication, etc.

The programs are mainly focused on professional training skills and also developed in collaboration with work environments and community needs. Students can gain a world-wide recognized qualification such as certificate, diploma or advanced diploma. Some courses also lead to direct entry to year 2 of undergraduate courses at universities.

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
Certificate and diploma courses are available in January, April, May, and September.

University

Undergraduate Degree Programs
UK universities place great importance on developing the ability to think creatively and independently, read widely and critically, participate in debate and function in teams. Students should also make use of the libraries and other modern facilities, develop analytical and academic skills, and participate in-group discussions and projects, debates, etc in English only.

Student must achieve al least two D grade in their HKALE result (may vary by faculty and institution) and meet the English entry requirement for undergraduate degree entry. UK universities provide a wide range of disciplines and the duration of courses normally is between 3 to 5 years, with first and second class Honours being achieved in the final year. Diploma, Higher Diploma or Associate Degree holders may gain exemptions or credit transfer from your previous studies, if their subjects/courses are relevant to the university course (depends on subjects and institutions).

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
Undergraduate degree programs are available in September, although some courses are also available in January. If you would like to apply for Oxford University, Cambridge University, subjects in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science, you should submit an application before 15 January of the year of your planned entry.

Postgraduate Degree Programs

Graduate certificates and graduate diplomas are designed to further develop professional knowledge and skills. The duration of the courses is six months and one year respectively. Master degree programs can be undertaken either by coursework or research, and the duration of the courses is normally 1 to 2 years.

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is the most popular postgraduate degree courses in the UK. Students who gained the prestigious qualification eventually reach the most senior positions in the private or public sectors.

The Doctoral program (PhD) is the highest award offered by universities and can be conducted off-campus with the approval of the supervisor. The courses focus on research activities, research reports, and thesis writing. The duration of these courses is between 3 to 5 years.

Commencement Dates in the United Kingdom
Postgraduate degree programs are available at the end of September or the beginning of October. Some courses might have flexible entry date and may be offered on- or off-campus.

English Language Requirement

Different institutions and faculties might require different level of English proficiency, students must meet the English language requirement before entering any formal courses. If you do not meet the English requirement, then you will need to undertake English course prior to the commencement of your formal course. Please find the following English requirements of some courses for your reference:

Foundation Studies/ Certificates / Diplomas & Advanced Diplomas:
IELTS score 5 to 6 OR
TOEFL score 525 to 550 (paper based) or 197 to 213 (computer based) OR
HKCEE result with C Grade in English (syllabus B) or above

Undergraduate Degree Programs:
IELTS score 6 to 7 OR
TOEFL score 575 to 600 (paper) or 230 to 250 (computer) plus TWE 4.5 to 5 OR
HKALE result with C Grade in English or above

Postgraduate Degree Programs:
IELTS score 6 to 7.5 OR
TOEFL score 575 to 600 (paper) or 230 to 250 (computer) plus TWE 4.5 to 5

Entry Requirements

Different institutions, different faculties will have different entry requirement, please ask for detailed information from GES counselors.

Pathways for Form 5 student

Pathways for Form 7 student

Annual Tuition fee in United Kingdom

English Courses - ￡100 to ￡300 per week
Secondary School - ￡10,500 to ￡21,000 per year; includes boarding fee, meals and textbooks
Foundation Studies - ￡3,900 to ￡5,500 per year
Certificate or Diploma Courses - ￡3,800 to ￡5,500 per year
Undergraduate Degree Courses - ￡6,250 to ￡9,700 per year (depends on subjects)
Postgraduate Degree Courses - ￡6,500 to ￡9,950 (depends on subjects)

Living Expenses
￡5,900 to ￡7,300 per year (depends on location)

Insurance for international student
International student may be entitled to National Health Service (NHS) if you are enrolled on a course lasting for six months or more. You might need to pay ￡6.10 for prescription medicines if you are over 19 years old.

Entry Clearance Certificate Fees
Around HK$470

Work Permit
Student must apply for a work permit at British Consulate in UK. Then, you will allow to work up to 20 hours per week on a casual basis and full time employment during long vocations.

Accommodation

Student can have a wide variety of accommodation options, it depends on the institutions, student’s age and personality and student’s ability to adapt to new environment. Please think carefully and one may choose from the following options:

Halls of Residence
Halls of residence are usually located on campus or near campus. It provides a community-based living environment for student. Student will have the opportunity to meet and interact with new people. However, places are limited and they should apply early for on campus accommodation.

Homestay
Student can choose to live with homestay family, and have an individual bedroom. There are two homestay arrangements available; full board includes meals provided and part board without meals provided. Student can experience the lifestyle and cultural of an UK family and improve their English language skills as well.

Share apartment or house
Student can choose to rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment / house. Student is required to pay at least one month’s rental fee plus one or two months bond fee. The bond fee is refundable when the property is returned in good condition.

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