Study in UK
Preston
Education and quality of academic institutions and community
Preston is home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and student success. UCLan offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
The university enrolls approximately 24,460 students, including around 2,410 international students.With an acceptance rate of 72%, UCLan maintains a balance between accessibility and selectivity, ensuring a diverse and talented student body.
UCLan’s emphasis on practical learning and industry partnerships equips students with the skills needed for successful careers. The university’s supportive academic community, experienced faculty, and modern facilities contribute to a rich educational experience in Preston.
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
Preston is an affordable city for international students, with reasonable living costs compared to other UK cities. The weekly grocery cost is approximately £25-£30, while utilities like electricity, heating, and water can amount to £35-£50 monthly. Rent for shared accommodation typically ranges from £80-£150 per week. Eating out costs vary, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant around £12-£15. Transport is affordable, with a bus pass costing around £20-£30 per month. For leisure activities, students can enjoy parks, museums, and cultural events, often for little or no cost.
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).
To apply, you must provide evidence of:
- 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
Preston is a welcoming and safe city for international students, with a strong focus on community welfare and student wellbeing. The city has a relatively low crime rate and benefits from the presence of a proactive local police force that works closely with UCLan to ensure student safety.
Students are encouraged to follow simple safety measures, such as staying in well-lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. UCLan provides additional security support, including 24/7 campus security, access to the safety app ‘SafeZone’, and guidance on staying safe in the city. With these measures in place, Preston offers a secure environment where international students can focus on their studies and enjoy their university experience.
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.
The UK offers international students a vibrant multicultural society which fosters inclusivity and global connections. UK universities attract high numbers of international students and continue to encourage international collaboration. From world-class museums, music festivals, and historic landmarks to diverse cuisines and sporting events, there’s something for everyone. Students can use the extensive train or bus connections to explore cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester or enjoy the scenic countryside.
Preston offers a vibrant and diverse social and cultural scene, making it an exciting city for students. The city is home to a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants, catering to all tastes, including international cuisines. The lively Guild Hall regularly hosts concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical performances, while the Harris Museum and Art Gallery offers a mix of history, art, and culture.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Avenham and Miller Parks provide scenic spots for picnics, walks, and student gatherings. Preston also celebrates its rich heritage through events like the Preston Guild, a historic festival held every 20 years.
Students at UCLan benefit from a bustling campus life, with frequent social events, cultural celebrations, and active student societies to join. From nightlife to nature, Preston provides a dynamic and inclusive lifestyle for students to explore and enjoy.
Accommodation availability and options
Preston offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options for students, and is generally more affordable from other cities in the UK. On-campus accommodation at UCLan typically costs between £85 and £120 per week, depending on the type of room and facilities provided.
For those who prefer private housing, shared flats and houses in the city are a popular choice, with rent averaging around £75 to £100 per week, excluding utilities. Studio apartments are also available for students seeking more privacy, with prices starting at approximately £140 per week.
With its variety of options and relatively low living costs, Preston ensures that students can find comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation to suit their needs.
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
The UK experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild seasons. Summers are warm, averaging 15–25°C, while winters are cool, with temperatures around 0–7°C. Rainfall is consistent year-round, so a waterproof jacket and appropriate footwear is essential. Snowfall is rare in the south of the UK, but students living in Northern England or Scotland should be mindful of colder weather and higher chances of snow.
Connectivity to home country (flights and travel costs)
Preston is well-connected for international students traveling to and from their home countries. Manchester Airport, located approximately 40 miles from Preston, offers a wide range of international flights. For instance, return flights to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) are available, with prices starting around £670, depending on the airline and booking time. Similarly, return flights to Amman, Jordan, can be found starting at approximately £157, though prices may vary based on factors such as season and demand.
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.