Embarking on your studies at London Metropolitan University is an exciting step toward achieving your academic goals. We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help international students navigate the application process, understand visa requirements, and prepare for life in London.
Where can I find information about visas?
See our dedicated visa information webpage for the most relevant information.
Do I need a visa to study in the UK?
Yes, the majority of international students studying full-time require a student visa. Our International advice team offers guidance on applying for and meeting the visa requirements. London Met's International advice team supports students in understanding how to apply and meet all the requirements, including demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your course fees and living costs, for your UK visa.
How do I apply for a student visa?
To apply for a student visa, you need an offer from a UK university where you have demonstrated your academic ability, English language proficiency, a valid passport, and financial evidence that you can support yourself. If you meet all the requirements, you will be provided with a CAS and can apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration website. Please note, most international students will need to attend an in-person interview and/or a biometric appointment (eg, photo and fingerprints).
Can I work while studying?
Yes, with a student visa, you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Find out more about working in the UK.
What opportunities are there for post-study work in the UK after graduation?
The UK offers the Graduate Route visa, allowing eligible international students to stay and work in the UK for two years after completing their degree.
My family wants to visit me in the UK, do they need a visa?
This depends on their passport, length of stay, and plans while travelling. They can use the UK government website to check if and what visa they need. The UK government has announced a plan to gradually roll out Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETAs) from 2024, requiring travellers to apply online prior to travel, including for countries who did not previous need to apply. Please check the government website before travelling.
How can I fund my studies?
Funding options include personal savings, family contributions, educational loans, scholarships, and part-time work. London Met offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the International Bright Futures scholarship.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
International students are required to pay a deposit equal to 50% of the tuition fees for the first year. This must be paid before a CAS can be assigned. Students fully funded through some educational funding channels, such as US Financial aid, will have their deposit fee waived.
What should I budget for?
You should account for several key expenses: your course tuition fees, accommodation costs, visa application fees, the NHS healthcare surcharge, cost to travel to a visa centre, daily living expenses (such as food, bills, and local travel), initial and return flights, academic supplies, and personal insurances. It's also advisable to set aside funds for leisure activities and unforeseen expenses.
What are the entry requirements for London Met?
Review our entry requirements by country.
Do I need to take an English Language test?
Review our English language requirements.
Do you accept any alternative English Language test?
Review the Secure English Language Tests (SELTs) and alternative english language test we accept.
What is UCAS and how does it work?
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the centralised service that students use to apply to undergraduate courses in the UK. International applicants wanting to study full-time, can choose to apply via UCAS or directly to the university. Applicants can be linked with their school via a ‘buzzword’ if there school is a UCAS centre.
Should I apply direct or via UCAS?
International undegraduate applicants can apply via UCAS or direct. For students applying direct the university does not charge a fee. For applicants applying via UCAS the website will charge a fee to apply to up to 5 courses. Students applying via UCAS can apply to multiple universities at the same time, whereas applying directly will only create an application for London Metropolitan University.
Postgraduate applicants must apply directly.
What should I include in my personal statement?
Your UCAS personal statement should reflect your academic interests, career goals, relevant work or study experience, and motivations for choosing the course. The UK puts greater emphasis on your academic focus. See our International application guide for more support.
What should I include in my international supplementary form?
See our for information on what to include in the international supplementary form.
What should be included in a teachers reference?
See our international schools and colleges pages for guidance on what to include in a teacher reference.
My school is helping me to apply but is not familiar with the UK education system, can you offer any guidance?
We breakdown the english education system, FAQs for teachers and counsellors and support for advising students in our international schools and colleges webpages.
How soon after applying can I expect a decision?
For questions about applying, including how we make decisions, how to check on an application's progress and more, check out our applying FAQs.
What is the deadline to apply?
Deadlines vary according to intake and course. Find our most up to date deadlines.
Can I visit the campus?
Yes! Please see out events page for our upcoming events. If you are unable to make these dates please message international@londonmet.ac.uk to inquire about booking a campus tour.
What is the english education system like?
Review our guide of the english education system from primary to postgraduate studies.
What do students from my country need to know about attending London Met?
Find country-specific information and check out our international pages.
What are the term dates at London Met?
The academic term dates vary depending on your level of study and start date. Within the UK it is common to have larger breaks around Christmas, Easter and the summer.
What support services are available for international students at London Met?
London Met offers various support services, including library services, counselling, career advice, clinics, disability and dyslexia (including mental health) and many more.
I have a disability and would like to talk with staff about how London Met can support me?
You can contact our disability and dyslexia team by emailing studentservices@londonmet.ac.uk or calling +44 (0) 207 320 2848.
What extracurricular activities does London Met offer?
London Met offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, societies, social spaces, and cultural events.
How can I meet other international students when I arrive?
London Met has various societies and clubs, including international student groups. For students arriving in September or January we arrange international orientation a few days prior to general orientation where you can meet other international students.
Can I speak with a London Met representative?
Yes, you can message international@londonmet.ac.uk with any specific questions. You can also check out our meet us overseas page to see the events we are attending in person in your country. Finally you can speak with our students directly via our chat service.
Where can I find out more about what its like being at student at London Met?
Check out our videos, read our student blogs and articles and explore our social media channels to hear students experiences of student life at London Metropolitan University.
What accommodation options are available for students at London Met?
London Met does not own or manage any halls of residence (student dormitories); however, there are several privately owned halls providers. Alternatively, students may choose to search for privately rented accommodation. More information can be found on our accommodation pages, including answers to the most commonly asked questions about accommodation.
What is it like for students to live in the UK?
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming at times. We have created these student life webpages to cover a range of topics, such as safety, medical care, opening a bank account and more.
How safe is London?
London is a major city with a generally good safety record, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions. Find out more about personal safety and common scams. In an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, ambulance, or coastguard services, for non-emergency enquiries contact 101 (police).
How can I travel around London?
London has an extensive, 24-hour, public transport system, including buses, the Tube (subway), trains, trams, boats, and bicycles. Students can apply for a student Oyster card for discounted fares and may be eligible for a railcard. Due to the extensive transport system most students chose not to get a car whilst studying in London however you can find out more information about driving in the UK. Whilst living in London you will be in easy reach of cities across the UK and Europe with London being a hub for coach and train travel and served by 6 airports and the Eurostar.
How do I access medical care, and do I need health insurance to study in the UK?
As an international student, you'll have access to the National Health Service (NHS) through the immigration health surcharge paid whilst applying for your visa. You may also opt for additional private health insurance. You should register with a General Practitioner (GP) as soon as possible once you arrive in the UK. More information can be found on our health page including information about bringing you medical history and dental care. For non-emergency medical attention, you can visit a local GP, walk-in centre or call 111. In an emergency, you should call 999 and/or go to the nearest hospital's Accident and Emergency department (A&E).
What should I pack for my move to London?
Pack essentials like clothing (with good waterproof shoes), personal documents, electronic devices, and any specific academic materials. You will have access to a range of shops and online retailors so will be able to purchase anything you need. For electrical items, Britain uses 240 volts AC at 50HZ. Most power sockets are designed for standard three-pin square plugs. If your devices have different plugs, you'll need a plug adapter or converter.
Are there any specific items I can't bring into the UK?
Certain items are restricted or prohibited from being brought into the UK, such as controlled drugs, medicines, firearms, weapons (including pepper stray), and certain food products. Check the UK government website for a full list.
Do I need to open a UK bank account?
While it's not mandatory, having a UK bank account can make financial management easier, including paying bills and receiving any potential UK income.
Will my mobile phone work in the UK?
This depends on your phone and your carrier. It's best to check with your provider; you may need to unlock your phone before traveling. We typically recommend students get a UK SIM card for local and cheaper rates. These can be purchased at the airport, online or at several high street (main street) retailers.
What is the cost of living in London for a student?
The cost of living varies, but students should budget for accommodation, bills, food, travel, books, and personal expenses. International students applying for a visa are required to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living experiences.
What can I do in London?
London is bursting with activities for every interest as one of the world’s most diverse and exciting capital cities! From exploring world-class museums like the British Museum and the Tate Modern to catching a show in the West End. Foodies can revel in diverse culinary scenes at markets like Borough Market, while history buffs can wander the historic streets and visit landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Don't forget the plethora of parks and gardens and greenspaces that London has to offer. Read more about what you can explore in London and within our local community.
What cultural activities are available in London?
London's cultural landscape is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from art exhibitions and theatre productions to music gigs and film screenings. Many museums and galleries offer free entry or discounted tickets for students. London's cultural festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from literature to film, food, and fashion.
How can I explore London's history and heritage?
London's history can be explored through its historical landmarks, from the Roman walls to medieval castles and Victorian museums. Joining walking tours, visiting historical sites like the Tower of London, or exploring the city's many museums can provide a deep dive into London's rich past.
Where can I find student discounts in London?
Students in London can take advantage of numerous discounts on transport, entertainment, shopping, and dining. The Student Oyster Card offers reduced fares on the Tube, buses, and trams. Additionally, many museums, cinemas, and theatres offer student rates, and countless restaurants and retail outlets provide discounts upon presenting a student ID. Additionally, you can use online websites such as UniDays and Student Beans for more discounts.
What is the date and time format within the UK?
The date format within the UK is Day / Month / Year. It is also common for the UK to use the 24-hour clock format e.g., 18:00 instead of 6pm.
What measurement system does the UK use?
The UK using a mix of metric and imperial measurements e.g., temperature is measured in Celsius whereas the road speed limit is in miles.
Please find below a list of key terms around UK higher education. We have also created a document with key terms you can download and save.
UCAS
Key term |
Explanation |
|
Buzzword |
A unique word provided by a school (if they are registered as a UCAS centre) that acts as a key identifier, linking a student's undergraduate application with the school. This allows them to track the application and upload references and relevant information. |
|
Clearing |
A UCAS process that allows students to find and apply for university courses that still have vacancies, typically after the main application period. Whilst the date that UK universities open for Clearing varies, many will have it available on A-Level results day (typically the second Thursday in August). While Clearing is open to all students, it particularly supports those who did not receive the grades they needed for their conditional offer or those who exceeded their conditions. It varies as to whether universities allow international students to apply via Clearing due to the short time between Clearing opening and term starting, meaning visas can be difficult to acquire. |
|
Conditional Offer |
An offer of a place at a university that is dependent on the applicant meeting specific conditions, often related to exam results or other qualifications. |
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Firm Choice |
In the UCAS application process, the firm choice is the student's preferred and first choice university. |
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Insurance Choice |
In the UCAS application process, the insurance choice and second choice serves as a backup in case the firm choice is not secured, for example, by not meeting the academic conditions. |
|
Oxbridge |
A colloquial term combining "Oxford" and "Cambridge," referring to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge in the UK. You can only apply to one of these universities per year on your UCAS application. |
|
Personal Statement |
A written document submitted with a university application (like a college application essay), in which the student details what course they want to study, why they want to study it and what makes them a good candidate for that course. |
|
Tariff Points |
A numerical system assigned to different qualifications and grades provides a standardised way for universities to assess and compare applicants' academic achievements. |
|
Teacher Reference |
A written recommendation provided by a teacher or advisor as part of the UCAS application. Recent changes to the teachers' reference have created three separate sections covering general information about a school, extenuating circumstances and supportive information about the applicant that is relevant to the course. |
|
UCAS |
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, a central application service for students applying to higher education institutions in the UK. |
|
UCAS Centre |
A UCAS centre is an educational institution or organisation registered with UCAS, allowing students to make their application through that institution. It is free for a school to become a centre with more information provided on the UCAS website. |
|
UCAS Extra |
A UCAS service allowing students who have used all five choices and haven't received any offers to apply for additional courses one at a time. |
|
UCAS Track |
An online system that allows applicants to track the progress of their UCAS application, including offers, replies, and the status of chosen universities. |
|
Unconditional Offer |
An offer of a place at a university without any specified conditions, indicating that the applicant has already met the necessary requirements. |
For additional information on UCAS key terms and abbreviations please see their website.
Qualifications
Key term |
Explanation |
|
2:1 (Upper Second) |
Denotes a specific classification of an undergraduate degree, typically awarded for achieving a mark between 60% and 69%. |
|
2:2 (Lower Second) |
Represents another classification of an undergraduate degree, indicating a performance within the range of 50% to 59%. |
|
Adv Dip Pro Dev |
Advanced Diploma in Professional Development, a program designed to enhance professional skills and knowledge beyond the undergraduate level. |
|
A-Levels |
Advanced Level qualifications usually taken by students aged 16-18. They are subject-specific and widely used for university admissions in the UK. |
|
BA |
Bachelor of Arts, an undergraduate academic degree typically awarded in the arts, humanities, or social sciences. |
|
BEng |
Bachelor of Engineering, an undergraduate academic degree awarded in the field of engineering. |
|
BSc |
Bachelor of Science, an undergraduate academic degree typically awarded in the natural sciences, mathematics, or related disciplines. |
|
BSocSci |
Bachelor of Social Science, an undergraduate academic degree in social sciences, encompassing disciplines like sociology and anthropology. |
|
BTECs |
Business and Technology Education Council qualifications, offering a more vocational and practical approach than A-Levels usually taken by students aged 16-18. |
|
DBA |
Doctor of Business Administration, a doctoral-level academic degree emphasising practical application of business knowledge and research. |
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First |
Refers to the highest classification of an undergraduate degree, indicating outstanding academic achievement and typically a mark of 70% or above. |
|
GCSEs |
General Certificate of Secondary Education, taken by students aged 14-16. GCSEs cover a range of subjects and are crucial for further education and employment. |
|
GDL |
Graduate Diploma in Law, a conversion course for individuals with a non-law degree seeking to qualify as solicitors or barristers. |
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Honours Degree (Hons) |
Honours, denoting an undergraduate degree program focused on specialisation and typically awarded to students with higher academic achievements. |
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LLB |
Bachelor of Law, an undergraduate academic degree in law. |
|
LLM |
Master of Laws, a postgraduate academic degree in law, often pursued for advanced specialisation in legal studies. |
|
MA |
Master of Arts, a postgraduate academic degree that follows a bachelor's degree and often involves advanced study in the arts or humanities. |
|
MArch |
Master of Architecture is a postgraduate academic degree for individuals pursuing advanced studies and architectural qualifications. |
|
MBA |
Master of Business Administration, a postgraduate academic degree focusing on business and management principles. |
|
MFA |
Master of Fine Arts, a postgraduate academic degree focused on creative and visual arts, including areas such as painting, sculpture, and writing. |
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MPhil |
Master of Philosophy, a postgraduate academic degree that often involves a combination of coursework and research. |
|
MSc |
Master of Science, a postgraduate academic degree awarded in various scientific and technical fields. |
|
PG Cert |
Postgraduate Certificate, a short program providing specialised knowledge and skills, often completed in less time than a full master's degree. |
|
PG Dip |
Postgraduate Diploma, a more extensive program than a certificate, offering in-depth study and often serving as a pathway to a master's degree. |
|
PhD |
Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree awarded in various fields, requires original research and a doctoral thesis submission. |
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Prof Doc |
Professional Doctorate is a doctoral-level qualification focused on applying research to professional practice in various fields. |
|
QTS |
Qualified Teacher Status is a professional accreditation in the UK allowing individuals to teach in state-maintained schools. |
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Third |
The classification below 2:2, indicates a pass but with lower overall academic performance typically awarded for achieving a mark between 40% and 49%. |
|
T-Levels |
A vocational qualification introduced in the UK, focusing on technical skills and practical experience in a specific industry. |
To see what type of qualification your London Metropolitan University degree holds, please see our course finder.
General higher education
Key term |
Explanation |
|
Alumni association |
An organisation connecting former students (alumni) with their former university, fostering networking, mentorship, and support opportunities. |
|
Bursary |
Financial aid provided to students based on financial need. Bursaries can assist with tuition fees, living expenses, or other educational costs. Bursaries within the UK are typically for domestic students; however, international students may be able to access other financial aid through scholarships and grants. |
|
Campus university |
A way to refer to the style and location of a UK university that offers distinct environments for student life. A campus university has a more self-contained campus setting and may be based in a more suburban area or away from the inner city. |
|
Career services |
University-provided resources and support to help students explore career options, develop job-search skills, and transition into the workforce after graduation. Careers services can often help students look for part-time work during their studies and work placements. |
|
City university |
A way to refer to the style and location of a UK university that offers distinct environments for student life. A city university is located within an urban area, possibly with multiple locations. |
|
Core modules |
Core modules are mandatory components of a program. As a generalisation, within the UK, undergraduate courses start with more core modules, and as the student progresses through the years, more optional modules become available to them. London Metropolitan University includes a list of our course's core and optional modules on the individual course pages. |
|
Course rep/representative |
A student elected or appointed to represent the views and concerns of their peers to academic staff and university management. |
|
Course syllabus |
An outline of the topics, readings, and assessments covered in an academic course. The syllabus provides a roadmap for students throughout the academic year. |
|
Coursework |
Assignments, projects, or tasks that students complete as part of their course assessment. |
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Dissertation |
An extended piece of academic writing involving in-depth research on a specific topic. Within the UK, it is common for undergraduate students to complete a dissertation within their final year. It is typically required for postgraduate study, |
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Distance learning |
A mode of study where students engage in courses remotely, often online, without attending physical classes on campus. |
|
Enrolment |
The process of officially registering for courses and becoming a student at a university for a specific academic term. Within the UK, students do not typically have to sign up for modules before their arrival. However, this varies between institutions. |
|
Examination period |
The specific time frame during which formal exams take place, usually at the end of a term or academic year. Within the UK, these typically take place in December or January and/or May or June for undergraduate students. |
|
Foundation year |
An additional preparatory year before the start of a degree program, designed to provide essential knowledge and skills to students who may need extra support. |
|
Freshers' week/welcome week |
The initial week of the academic year features orientation activities, social events, and introductions to university life. |
|
Gap year |
A break typically taken by students between finishing high school and starting university, often spent traveling, working, or engaging in volunteer activities. |
|
Halls of residence |
Another term for student dormitories. Halls of residence, commonly referred to as ‘halls’, offer various room options and communal facilities, fostering a sense of community among residents. These can be owned by the university or private companies. Within the UK, it is typical for students to have a private bedroom with options for personal bathrooms (ensuite). Halls can be catered (food provided like a meal plan) or self-catered (kitchen provided to complete your own cooking). |
|
International orientation |
A period, often just before the start of the academic term, where international students are invited to campus for sessions covering information relevant to them such as visa compliance, setting up bank accounts, UK laws and more. Not all institutions will provide this however London Metropolitan University does. |
|
Internship/placement |
A period of work experience related to a student's field of study, providing practical skills and insights into the industry. |
|
Lecture |
A formal, instructor-led presentation or talk on a specific subject, usually delivered to a large group of students. |
|
Library resources |
Various materials and services are available to students in a university library, including books, journals, electronic databases and study spaces. |
|
Module |
A self-contained unit of study within a course, often with its own set of learning objectives, assessment methods, and academic credit value. In other countries, this is referred to as a 'class'. |
|
Module handbook |
A document outlining details of a specific academic module, including objectives, assessment methods, reading lists, and other relevant information. |
|
Open day |
An event hosted by universities to showcase their campus, facilities, and academic programs, allowing prospective students to explore and gather information. You can see all upcoming London Metropolitan University open days and campus tours on our events page. |
|
Optional modules |
Another term for an elective. Optional modules allow students to choose which classes they would like to attend. These are often still within their subject area but allow students to select where they would like to specialise. The students are often told how many optional modules they can take per year. As a generalisation, within the UK, undergraduate courses start with more core modules, and as students progress through the years, more optional modules become available to them. London Metropolitan University includes a list of our course's core and optional modules on the individual course pages. |
|
Personal tutor |
An assigned academic staff member who provides guidance, support, and advice to students throughout their academic journey. |
|
Plagiarism |
The act of presenting someone else's work, ideas, or intellectual property as one's own without proper acknowledgement considered academic misconduct. This extends to the personal statement within the application. |
|
Postgraduate |
Education pursued after the completion of an undergraduate degree. Includes master's degrees, PhDs, and other advanced qualifications. |
|
Reading week |
A designated week during the term when students are encouraged to focus on independent study, catch up on reading, and prepare for upcoming assessments. |
|
Resit/retake |
The opportunity for a student to retake an exam or assessment after an initial attempt, often due to a suboptimal performance. Often marks for resits are capped at a pass rate; however, this depends on the course and institution. |
|
Sandwich/ placement year |
A year within an undergraduate degree where students undertake work placements or study abroad to gain practical experience in their field, often between Year 2 and 3. |
|
Scholarship |
An award granted to students based on academic merit, talent, or other criteria. Scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. You can review London Metropolitan University’s scholarships on our funding pages. |
|
Semester |
A division of the academic year, usually consisting of two terms. Within the UK, universities typically use a three-term or two-semester system. London Metropolitan University uses the three-term system. |
|
Seminar |
A collaborative and interactive session where students engage in discussions, debates, and group activities related to the course material often led by a lecturer or facilitator. |
|
Student Loan |
Financial assistance provided to students for tuition fees and living expenses, often offered by government or private institutions. Domestic students use funding such as Student Finance England whereas international students may be able to access this from their home countries such as US federal loans. |
|
Student society/club |
An organisation run by and for students, focusing on shared interests, hobbies, or activities. Societies provide opportunities for socialisation and personal development. |
|
Student support services |
Resources and services provided by universities to assist students with academic, personal, or emotional challenges. London Metropolitan University offers services such as counselling, disability and dyslexia, careers and more. We also have a dedicated international and adviceteam. |
|
Students' Union |
An organisation representing students within a university, providing services, support, and organising social and recreational activities. |
|
Term |
A specific period of the academic year, typically divided into three terms (autumn, spring, and summer). Within the UK, universities typically use a three-term or two-semester system. London Metropolitan University uses the three-term system. |
|
Transcript |
A record of a student's academic performance detailing courses taken, grades received, and other relevant information. |
|
Tutorial |
A small-group session, often led by a tutor, focusing on discussion, clarification of course material, and addressing students' questions. |
|
Undergraduate |
Refers to the level of education that comes before a student earns their first degree. Undergraduate programs typically include bachelor's degrees. |
For additional London Metropolitan University specific terms please see our glossary.