Study in UK
Gloucester
Education and quality of academic institutions and community
The University of Gloucestershire offers a welcoming and supportive environment for international students. Recognised for its commitment to practical learning, the university provides a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students with real-world skills.
In the 2025 Times University Guide, the University of Gloucestershire is ranked 90th, reflecting its dedication to academic quality. The university has also achieved high subject rankings, placing seventh in Paramedic Science and within the top 20 for Town and Country Planning and Landscape.
International students at the University of Gloucestershire benefit from smaller class sizes, fostering personalized attention and a close-knit academic community. The institution’s focus on practical experience and industry connections ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers.
With modern facilities, experienced faculty, and a commitment to student success, the University of Gloucestershire provides an enriching educational experience for students from around the world.
Tuition fees and scholarship opportunities
Tuition fees for international students in the UK are generally lower than in the USA, but can still be a significant expense. The UK has a tiered fee system where tuition fees vary depending on the level of programme, but also varies significantly depending on the institution. Undergraduate fees for international students can range from £10,000 – 35,000 GBP per academic year. Meanwhile, postgraduate degrees typically have higher tuition fees, and can range from £10,000 – 50,000 GBP per academic year.
Generally, scholarships for undergraduate study are offered directly through institutions. These can be searched for on a specific university’s website. Scholarships are generally awarded based on academic merit and excellence. A good resource for finding scholarships based on subjects, institutions or nationality is the Study UK website.
Additionally, the UK offers a range of scholarships to help students cover the cost of their education. Notable scholarships for international students wanting to study in the UK are listed below:
Chevening
Chevening Scholarships provide opportunities for international students from a wide range of countries to attend a fully-funded master’s degree in the UK. Offering academic excellence, cultural exchange, and networking opportunities, the program empowers scholars to drive positive change in their home countries while experiencing the best of UK education and society.
GREAT Scholarships | Study UK
Great Scholarships are offered at a variety of institutions across the UK, and offer nationals from 18 countries the opportunity to have £10,000 GBP towards their tuition fees for a one-year taught postgraduate course. In the 2025-2026 academic year, over 200 scholarships will be offered by over 70 universities across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK
The Commonwealth Scholarships Commision in the UK (CSC) offers citizens of low and middle income Commonwealth countries scholarships to attend higher education in the UK. Funded by the UK government, CSC supports academic excellence and professional development, allowing recipients of the scholarships to pursue postgraduate studies and research through PhD programmes.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (students) – Erasmus+
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters scholarship programme is a unique and prestigious scholarship programme for international students to pursue a joint master’s or PhD at multiple universities across the UK and Europe. They typically include periods of study, research, traineeship and thesis preparation, with a range of scholarships going towards tuition, visa costs and living expenses. Use the search tool on the Erasmus website to find scholarships specific to the UK.
Cost of Living
Gloucester offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other UK cities, making it an attractive option for international students. Groceries such as milk, bread, and vegetables are cheaper than the national average, with meals at casual restaurants costing around £11. Dining out at mid-range venues and leisure activities like cinema tickets or gym memberships are also more affordable. Rent is competitive, with average prices for a one-bedroom apartment around £740 per month. Public transport is slightly cheaper compared to larger cities, making Gloucester a budget-friendly option for students.
Student Visa and immigration policies
To be eligible to apply for a UK student visa, you must provide evidence of financial stability to pay your tuition fees and support your living costs. You are required to have one-year’s tuition for your course, which is shown on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) form. You will also need to show evidence of having £1,023 per month (or £1,334 for courses in London), for up to 9 months. Please note that after 2 January 2025, this will increase to £1,136 GBP (and £1,438 GBP for courses in London).
- Acceptance of a course from a licensed institution
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Valid passport and travel documents
- English language test results (SELT, English GCSE or proof of completing a degree-level qualification in English)
- Parent consent if you are under 18
Applications can be made up to six months before the start date of your course, with a decision on your visa typically being given 3 weeks after completing the application. A student visa costs £490 GBP to apply from outside the UK.
Post-Study Immigration Policies
If you are over 18 and undertake a degree-level course, you can stay in the UK for up to 5 years on a student visa. After this, you can switch to a Graduate visa which will allow you to stay in the UK for 2 years after successfully completing your course (or 3 years if you hold a doctoral qualification). You can apply for a graduate visa if you meet the following criteria
- You are in the UK
- You current hold a UK student visa
- You studied a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with your Student visa
- You institution has told the UK Home Office you have successfully completed your course
You must apply before your Student visa expires. You will need to provide your identity documents. If you are ineligible for a Graduate visa, you can check the Check if you need a UK visa – GOV.UK website for other types of visas that the UK offers.
Job opportunities (during and after studies)
When on a Student visa, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during the holidays. While studying, popular part-time jobs for students are tutoring, retail and hospitality, as they offer flexibility and help to cover living expenses. Universities may also provide on-campus job opportunities or internships relevant to students’ fields, such as student ambassador roles or research assistant positions.
The UK has a diverse economy and offers a wide range of opportunities across industries such as healthcare, technology, finance and beyond. The Graduate visa allows students to work or look for employment for up to 2 years after graduating (3 years for doctoral qualifications).
A common route of employment following the completion of your studies are through graduate schemes. These are entry level training programmes available to individuals with degrees, which provides you with hands-on experience, a structured training programme and a route to develop your talent and skills as a future leader at a company. These schemes generally last from 1 to 4 years and recruitment generally begins in the summer, while some companies recruit all year round or when a position becomes available.
- Student and graduate websites for vacancies and tips for applying
- Your university careers service
- Employer events or careers fairs at your university
- National recruitment exhibitions – network and build your professional reputation
- Follow companies on social media
- Speak to someone at a company you’re interested in
Safety and security
Gloucester is a safe and welcoming city for international students, offering a friendly and close-knit community atmosphere. The city has relatively low crime rates and benefits from a proactive local police force that works closely with the University of Gloucestershire to ensure student safety.
The university provides 24/7 campus security, safety resources, and guidance to help students navigate the city confidently. Students are encouraged to take basic precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas at night and securing valuables. The university also provides safety resources and guidance to help students navigate the city confidently. With its supportive environment and robust safety measures, Gloucester is an ideal location for international students to live and study with peace of mind.
Language requirements
The language primarily spoken in the UK is English, with countries having other native languages as well such as Welsh, Irish or Gaelic. All UK universities teach and assess their programmes in English. International students wishing to study at UK institutions are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English speaking, reading and writing with a qualification equivalent to the CEFR level B2, or a 5.5 – 6.0 IELTS score. Please note however, that some universities or colleges may require higher scores and some programs may have specific language requirements.
Gloucester offers a rich social and cultural lifestyle that blends history, modernity, and vibrant student life. The city is famous for its stunning Gloucester Cathedral, a historic landmark and popular filming location for films like Harry Potter. Students can explore the bustling Gloucester Docks, home to trendy cafés, restaurants, and the Gloucester Quays shopping outlet, perfect for relaxing and socialising.
For cultural enthusiasts, the city hosts annual events such as the Gloucester History Festival and the Tall Ships Festival, celebrating its maritime heritage. Music lovers can enjoy live performances at venues like the Guildhall, while sports fans can cheer on Gloucester Rugby at Kingsholm Stadium.
The University of Gloucestershire also offers a lively student scene, with societies, cultural clubs, and events such as open mic nights and international food festivals. With its dynamic blend of activities and welcoming atmosphere, Gloucester ensures a memorable experience for students.
Accommodation availability and options
The cost of accommodation in the UK varies widely depending on location, type of housing, and lifestyle preferences. International students in Gloucester have access to a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
The University of Gloucestershire offers several halls of residence with varying amenities:
- En-suite Rooms: Average weekly rent is £167, with a 40-week contract totaling approximately £6,680.
- Non-En-suite Rooms: Average weekly rent is £160, with a 40-week contract totaling approximately £6,460.
- Studio Rooms: Average weekly rent is £238, with a 40-week contract totaling approximately £9,520.
These rates include utility bills, internet access, and basic contents insurance.
Private Housing:
For those considering private accommodation, options include shared houses and flats:
- Shared Houses: Rent averages around £88 per week.
- Private Flats and Houses: Costs vary based on location and facilities, typically ranging from £95 to £110 per week, excluding bills.
It’s advisable to begin your accommodation search early to secure a place that best fits your needs and budget.
Healthcare system and student insurance
The UK healthcare system provides international students access to the National Health Service (NHS), which offers comprehensive medical services, including general practitioner (GP) consultations, emergency care, and hospital treatment. To access the NHS, students need to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This covers most healthcare services but excludes dental and optical treatments, which may require additional payment.
Students are encouraged to register with a local GP upon arrival for easy access to healthcare. For added protection, many students opt for private health insurance to cover services not included in the NHS, such as specialised treatments, faster access to elective procedures, or private consultations. Universities often provide guidance on securing insurance and navigating healthcare options.
The NHS emphasises preventive care and public health, ensuring students have access to vaccinations, mental health support, and chronic illness management. Pharmacy services are also widely available, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Climate and weather conditions
Connectivity to home country (flights and travel costs)
International students studying in Gloucester benefit from convenient travel options to their home countries, primarily through nearby Bristol Airport, located approximately 40 miles from Gloucester. Bristol Airport offers a range of international flights, facilitating easy connections for students. The airport is serviced by a wide range of budget-friendly airlines, such as EasyJet and RyanAir, which can offer more affordable fares for students. For instance, return flights from Bristol to Hong Kong or Barcelona cost approximately £550 and £35 respectively, depending on demand, season and time of booking.
Recognition of degrees internationally
The recognition of degrees can vary significantly from one country to another, depending on several factors. These include the mode of study (such as online or in-person programmes) and the specific list of approved universities and degree programmes as outlined by a country’s Ministry of Education or relevant authority. Therefore, students should ensure that the degree they pursue is recognised both in their home country and in any other regions where they might plan to work or further their education.
The UK national agency for international qualifications and skills is a useful resource to determine whether your existing credentials, and the program you wish to pursue, are recognisable in and outside of the UK.