10 Frequently Asked Questions About Student Life in the UK

Here is a list of often-asked questions and their answers to help you get ready for student life in the UK!

1. Do students often work a part-time job while they are in university?

Absolutely. Part-time jobs for students are common in UK universities; such jobs are usually in hospitality, academic tutoring, or student union work. To make sure you have sufficient time to attend to your studies, your university could also offer limitations for the maximum number of hours you should work.

2. How much does living cost in the UK while studying?

The average cost of living in the UK is 5.44% less than in the US, however, rent is 20.97% less in the US, per Numbeo. Exactly where you study in the UK will decide the exact amount. 

3. What do student residence halls in the UK look like? 

First-year students are allocated to the student halls on campus at several universities in the United Kingdom. These residence halls often offer great value for the money, convenient access to any facilities you want, and opportunities to socialize with other students. Even single-sex shared apartments and/or en suite toilets are available in some halls but at a higher cost. For students who are unable to get a spot in their university’s halls, comparable accommodations are provided by privately owned companies that operate private halls of residence.

4. Will I receive language assistance to assist me work on my English?

Yes. There ought to be a language help center at your institution where you can work on your speaking, writing, and listening skills. 

5. How does Freshers’ Week happen?

To welcome the new batch of students, Freshmen’s Week is conducted at the beginning of the academic year. It includes get-togethers, fairs, performances, comedy shows, and an array of other events held throughout campus. 

6. What if I don’t pass a year or an exam? 

You could be able to retake your tests if you don’t pass after a year, but your score might only be up to 40% (i.e., a third-class degree). In most cases, you would have to retake the full year, drop out, or think about changing to another subject if you failed again. Individual coursework tasks that you fail will probably only hurt your grade average, but you might be able to resubmit in certain situations. 

7. How many hours should I expect to spend in class each week?

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the majority of full-time undergraduate programs last three years (four if you choose a foundation degree). Four years is the standard in Scotland. A typical week’s worth of class time is from 15 to 25 hours, however, the exact duration will vary greatly based on your subject and university.

8. Will I get homework like in high school?

Yes. Projects and assignments will be assigned to you. 

9. Will I receive support for my dyslexia or disability?

Sure. Support services provided by British universities to students with disabilities include professional care personnel, adapted housing, and learning support coordinators who have the skills to help you make the most of your degree. 

10. Is there rain every day?

In the UK, there can be some sunshine at least once a day even though it does rain quite a bit, especially during September and May.