articleUK

STUDYING ABROAD
article by William Bickerdike

UK and US universities are consistently popular destinations for students wanting a degree - so how do you go about getting a place? University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) offers some advice.

Going to university is a big step for any student - more so if it means moving to another country. Many students travel to the UK and US to continue their studies. Formal application usually starts in the autumn term of the final school year, but start researching options as early as possible - there's a lot to think about so the sooner you start planning the better.

To help, here are answers to a few frequently asked questions:

What qualifications will I need?

In order to enter any university course you need accepted or 'recognised' qualifications in the right subjects, and at the right grades. For example, International A Levels, such as those from Cambridge, are recognised worldwide as evidence of a student's readiness to study at undergraduate level, and are considered equal to the UK equivalent. Each university has a list of recognised qualifications - if you discover that your current qualification or course of study is not on the list you might still be able to change to a recognised course, such as A Level, although you may then have to delay university entry until next year. Contact the British Council for more advice on where you can study A Levels.

You also need to check the minimum grades required for your chosen degree course. It goes without saying that the more prestigious universities, and the more popular courses, demand the highest grades, so you must be realistic about your examination potential when you apply. Mid-course or AS Level results give a good indication of future performance, and also help you plan your final year of study more strategically.

Does the entry process differ between the UK and the US?

Yes it does. Students wanting to go to a UK university must apply through UCAS (the University and Colleges Admissions Service), which streamlines entry procedure. Application is very straightforward, and all necessary information can be found on the websites for UCAS (www.ucas.ac.uk) or the British Council (www.britishcouncil.org).

US universities are more autonomous, so students must apply directly to the university of choice, through the admissions office. It's worth knowing that some US universities give candidates with good A Level grades 'advanced standing' or college credit in that particular subject. Many US university handbooks do not actively state that credits may be given in this way, so it's important to ask the admissions counsellor when applying.

It's also important to note that, although a qualification such as A Level will provide the academic evidence required, you may also need proof of fluency in English, and might have to take an aptitude test. Each university will advise on its specific requirements.

How do I find the best university for me?

The British Council can help students find out more about UK universities. The Internet is the best starting point for US research (and is good for the UK as well). Refine your search by applying some very basic criteria. Think about geographical location - a far away location might seem very exciting but will you be homesick? What about the university's international student community? Some institutions have a long history of welcoming students from Bangladesh and have established support networks and thriving social clubs.

Choice of course is just as important, and may in fact guide your selection of a destination. Take a critical look at the course on offer - does it match your academic ambitions? Is it run by a respected department? How is it regarded in the outside world? And, most importantly, will your expected grades satisfy the entry criteria?

How can I find out more?

The British Council can provide specific, up-to-date information on how to apply for study in the UK or US. Most universities now have their own websites that provide comprehensive practical information and give a flavour of the lifestyle on offer. And exam boards such as CIE can supply a detailed list of all institutions recognising their qualifications so you can start your search with confidence.

Cambridge recently launched its new Recognition Database which allows students, parents and teachers to search for universities' entrance requirements in specific countries. The Database allows students to identify where and how their Cambridge qualifications are recognised by employers across the world. To access the database, visit www.cie.org/recognition. From here just click on the 'search recognition' icon.

About William Bickerdike

William Bickerdike started his overseas educational career as a Teacher of English as a Foreign Language at Manarat al Riyadh School in Saudi Arabia, before joining King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals as a Lecturer in English.

In 1992 William gained an MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from London University and shortly after joined the British Council in Saudi Arabia as a Senior Teacher. William worked with the British Council for 15 years his posts included Teaching Centre Manager at the British Council in Morocco and Country Examinations Manager for the British Council in South Asia.

He was appointed as CIE's Regional Manager South Asia in 2006. Cambridge is at the forefront of India's growing interest in international education and William's considerable experience of working with CIE's educational partners including the British Council and Government bodies will be vital in supporting and growing our schools in South Asia.