Studying in the UK offers the unique ability to develop your passion for English language and literature. UK post secondary schools provide outstanding research opportunities and globally-recognized qualifications. Studying in the UK also offers the opportunity to experience ancient culture and breathtaking history in some of the world’s most recognized cities.

Post Secondary School Structure in the UK

As a Canadian high school student, you can apply to study an undergraduate degree at a certified UK school. Undergraduate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees, usually run for three years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and four years in Scotland. Maintaining a high academic average during your UK education typically results in graduating with a distinction known as “honours”. Some Scottish undergraduate degrees are awarded with the title "master's" depending on the tradition of the school.

After completing an undergraduate program, students can apply for postgraduate study program. Postgraduate programs can require one to three years of full-time study for successful completion.

There are 3 main types of postgraduate qualifications in the UK:

• Certificates and diplomas
• Master's degrees
• Doctorates

Entry Requirements for Canadian Students

Entry requirements will vary depending on the school you wish to apply to. Typical requirements for a Canadian student include:

• Tier 4 (General) student visa specific to studying in the UK
• English proficiencies
• Minimum 180 UCAS Tariff points from A-levels, International Baccalaureate or equivalent

The UK Evaluation System

Many UK institutions do not count first year examination results towards a student's final degree. Final degree results are often derived from a combination of second and third year results and a dissertation.

You may find a UK institution that offers a "modular system of assessment". With this structure, courses are made up of units. Your final degree is awarded based on the total points you have collected upon the completion of units within each course. Finally, some UK degrees are awarded based on performance of final examinations, known as finals.

An honours degree refers to the top grade or "first- class". The 2:1 or "two-one" is awarded more frequently than the first class. Below the 2:1 is known as a lower second (honours), or a 2:2. The final ranking is known as third (honours). If a student does not meet the grade requirements for third (honours), an "ordinary" degree or "pass" may be awarded.

Useful Resources:

For information on the UK education system including the benefits of a UK education, entry requirements for Canadian students, scholarships and more, visit Education UK at www.educationuk.org/.

For detailed information on Canadian student visas for studying in the UK, visit UK and Canada - Inside Government at www.gov.uk.

To learn more about international student affairs and opportunities, visit The UK Council for International Student Affairs at www.ukcisa.org.uk.

To learn more about requirements for Canadian students and the application process, visit UCAS at www.ucas.com.