CIFE - The International Dimension
While the proportion of international students in CIFE colleges varies from under 20% to over 80%, all CIFE colleges firmly believe in the importance of an international dimension in educating effective citizens of the twenty-first century world.
It is not only in the teaching of subjects such as Economics or Politics that the experience of international students can add thought-provoking ideas: all aspects of college life can benefit from a well-integrated yet diverse body of students.
Small classes, individually-tailored programmes and (where needed) good language support, all enable overseas students to integrate quickly in CIFE colleges, so that they add to rather than hold back their classmates' learning.
International students' FAQs covers many of the questions we get asked. Do please contact us if you need more information.
What qualifications do I need for a UK university?
UK universities expect qualifications at two levels - GCSE level and A level. They will usually accept overseas qualifications (such as High School Graduation) instead of GCSE. There are only a few overseas qualifications which they accept as being fully equivalent to A levels. Some of the less popular universities may accept you solely on the basis of your overseas qualification but most will not. Because the well-known UK universities have many applicants to choose from, they will expect you to have an extra, UK-based qualification, as well as your High School results. The two main 'extra' qualifications are A level or Foundation Course. A levels are accepted by all British universities, whereas Foundation courses are only accepted by a more limited number. Please click here if you would like to see information comparing A-level and Foundation courses.
If English is not your first language universities will want a recognised English language qualification. There are several which they will accept: GCSE, IGCSE, the NEAB Test, the Cambridge Proficiency exam, IELTS, etc. Other English-language exams, such as TOEFL, are accepted by some but not all universities. IELTS is one of the most popular qualifications. Most universities will accept a mark of 6.5, some will accept 6.0, and a few require 7.0, especially for courses such as Law which require very good English. The UCAS website has a great deal of information about the entrance requirements for each UK university course.
How can a CIFE college help me?
CIFE colleges will give you accurate and honest advice. They are very flexible and used to helping students settle in to their new surroundings. Their class sizes are small making it easier to ask questions and to develop a positive relationship with your teachers. And of course, their record of results and university entrance is excellent.
What qualifications do I need to join a CIFE college?
Each college has its own admissions policy, so you will need to email the colleges you are interested in. However, colleges' main concern is that you have enough background knowledge to start your course successfully. They will also want a reference or testimonial from someone who knows you well to say that you are serious about your studies, and they will want to know that you have the English language skills to cope. If your English skill is below IELTS 5.5 or Cambridge First Certificate level you will find A-level work difficult, and you probably ought to take a full-time English course before you start.
How many international students study in CIFE colleges?
In some CIFE colleges most of the students come from abroad, in others most students are UK nationals. If you join a college with many students from your own country it can be easier to settle in, but you may find you don't learn English so fast. Colleges will be happy to tell you about their nationality mix if you email them.
How can I apply to a CIFE college?
Just contact the college you want to join. They will send you details of the information they need and the forms you must complete and any other documents you must provide. The college will tell you if it needs to meet you for interview, or needs you to contact an official college representative in your own country. If the college then offers you a place it will explain what you must do to accept the place. That may include sending some money as a deposit. Please note that colleges will generally not give you your deposit back unless there is an exceptional reason why you can't join them: they certainly won't return the deposit of a student who simply changes his mind!
What are the best subjects to study?
Your college will be able to give you good advice on subject choice. They can tell you if universities expect you to take particular subjects to join the degree course you want, and can help you decide which subjects suit your academic background and language skills. UK universities prefer students to take subjects which don't overlap too much: Accounting, Business Studies and Economics is not such a good combination for top universities. Of course it is also important that you like the subjects you will study!
How can I improve my English?
Ask your chosen college about the courses they provide to help you get the right English Language qualification. You should also find that living in England and using English every day, in and out of class, will rapidly improve your speed and confidence. Beware of spending all your free time speaking your own language with class mates from home. It's good to do some of that, but too much will slow down your language learning!
Can CIFE colleges help me to get a visa?
If you are not a citizen of one of the European Union countries you will need a student visa to study in Britain. A student visa cannot be obtained while you are in the UK, you must apply to the British Embassy in your own country. This is usually straightforward, but can take some time - six or more weeks. You will need to supply personal and financial details, and you may need to attend an interview. You will also need a firm acceptance letter from the college where you will be studying. CIFE colleges can provide proper acceptance letters, though they will not do so until you have completed enrolment formalities including paying any deposit required. Colleges can also give you good advice about visa applications.
How much does it cost to study in the UK?
Each college sets its own fees. These might depend on the exact details of the course you take, so you will need to ask them to find out the true cost of your teaching, including any extra things like language classes, examination entry fees etc. Then you will need somewhere to live during term time and during holidays too. Some colleges expect you to live in college accommodation, especially if you are under 18 years old, and may be able to help with holiday accommodation too. Finally you will need to work out how much spending money is necessary and how much it will cost you to travel to and from the UK. Do ask for your college's advice on costs.
Can I get a scholarship from a CIFE college?
Most CIFE colleges provide scholarships and bursaries, though there are very few scholarships which pay for the full course cost. Each college has its own criteria for whether to award a scholarship, but you are likely to have to prove that you have exceptional academic promise and that you cannot afford to pay fees. You will be expected to attend for interview, and unless your college has representatives in your own country, that generally involves having to visit the UK. If you need financial assistance you should apply directly to the college of your choice as early in the year as you can.
Do I need to have a guardian in the UK?
Ask your college about this. If you are 16 or older, most colleges will not require you to have a 'Legal Guardian' in the UK. However, most colleges do expect your family to appoint a UK resident who has the authority to look after your interests while you are studying here. This person can be a family member, a friend or a business associate who is willing to visit the college if necessary. There are good professional guardians who will do this for a fee. Your college will be able to recommend guardian organisations if need be.