Guardian or Parental Consent

Guardian or parental consent

In order to be able to discuss your application with parents/guardians or others, we need your permission which you can authorise by completing the form below.

NB: This form is to be completed by the STUDENT giving a parent or guardian permission to engage with us about your UK university application.
 

JLK

Jan Levy

Senior Student Advisor

Education

  • BA Social Sciences with specialisation in Political Science and Sociology (NTNU, Norway) 
  • Study abroad year - Sociology (UC Berkeley, US) 
  • MA International Relations (University of Essex, UK)

Contact information

Email: janlevy.gl@studyacrossthepond.com

What did you do before joining Across the Pond? 

I have a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences specialising in Political Science and Sociology from Norway and the US. In addition, I have also completed a master’s degree in International Relations from the UK. When I was thinking of applying for a Postgraduate degree in the UK, I contacted Across the Pond. They had the knowledge needed to guide me so that I could make a good choice of degree and location. The result was an unforgettable year at the University of Essex.  
 

Why did you decide to study in the UK? 

After completing my Undergraduate degree in Norway and the US, it inspired me to continue my higher education abroad. Studying International Relations was a specialisation that was not available in Norway at the time, so that made the choice even easier. I was now able to study a subject that had international focus, in an English-speaking country and in an international environment. This seemed like the perfect combination for me.  
 

Why do you like working for Across the Pond? 

I have studied in multiple locations and countries where I have experienced different student environments. None of these were comparable as they are unique in their own way. Being a student in the UK was an incredible experience, which taught me a lot and went by quickly. Before I knew it, I was on the plane back to Norway again. I applied through Across the Pond, and I therefore thought this job looked interesting. When I later found out that there was a job opening, I did not hesitate to apply. This was to me a great opportunity to continue working with higher education in the UK, and to use my own experience to inform potential students about the great student life there. I had the best time, both academically and socially – and I hope that other students can have the experience that I had.  
 

Why do you think international students should study in the UK?  

There is so much to gain from studying abroad. You are showing a high level of independency and you get an additional language skill on top. This is an incredible opportunity if you are looking for high academic level and an international student environment. After my degree in the UK, I now have friends all over the world and wonderful memories. This is highly recommended! 
 

List all of your favourite things about the UK!  

London taxis, the red phone booths, the pub culture, old towns, castle and building, music festivals, Sherlock Holmes, James Bond and Stephen Hawking.

LR

Laura

Senior Student Advisor

Education

  • BA Elementary Education (Loyola University, New Orleans, US)
  • MA Education (University of Roehampton, UK)

Contact information

Email: laura.gl@studyacrossthepond.com

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE JOINING ACROSS THE POND?

I was a teacher in New Orleans for six years before deciding to pursue a master's in education. I decided to look at options in the UK to gain a more international view of education and experience living abroad, but needed help sorting through the mounds of information to get to the UK. That’s when I found Across the Pond. I wouldn’t have gone to the UK without their help and arrived as confident and as prepared as I did.
 

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO STUDY IN THE UK?

I chose to study in the UK for a few reasons. Academically, I felt that I would get a more well-rounded education pursuing a degree in education in a country other than my own. I could also complete the degree in just one year and it was more affordable than staying in the US to study. I felt comfortable expanding my horizons in a country where the native language was English and also felt drawn to a country rich in history.
 

WHY DO YOU LIKE WORKING FOR ACROSS THE POND?

I enjoy advising my students to provide them with as much concise information as possible to make an informed decision about where to attend university on an undergraduate or postgraduate level in the UK. Putting their minds at ease about their upcoming study experience abroad is rewarding and important to me. I love opening students’ eyes to a new culture and life experience that is easily accessible.
 

WHY DO YOU THINK INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SHOULD STUDY IN THE UK? 

I think potential students should study in the UK to gain an international perspective in their area of study and to broaden their horizons on a more general level. Studying abroad forces you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible.
 

The way of life in the UK is something I hold very dear. I love the high streets, little supermarkets dotted everywhere, walkability, the normality of traveling anywhere and everywhere (pre-COVID), the British demeanor, everyone welcome at a pub, a pint, Sunday roasts, curries and the list goes on and on.

Study Marketing in Winchester, England, UK

This is an incredible experience

My name is Clara. I am 23 years old and from Halmstad, southern Sweden. I will have completed my first semester at "The University Of Winchester" within two weeks, and I have really enjoyed it so far.

In addition to my interest in studying abroad, my boyfriend, from Southampton, also played a role in my choice to study in England rather than Sweden. Being a Swede, learning a foreign language is an excellent advantage in a career and thrilling experience.

For the past four years, during the winter months, my boyfriend and I worked as ski instructors in the Austrian Alps, and it was fantastic to live in the spectacular winter landscape. In addition to skiing and sports, I am passionate about marketing, and I believe that studying marketing at an English university will allow me to combine my interests.

From the beginning, I applied for the Marketing program at five other universities in the area around Southampton. Still, my instinct told me that "The University Of Winchester" would be the best fit. I've been to Winchester several times over the past years, and the city is charming, with nature and history, and it feels very similar to my hometown. I was looking for a university located in a town where I could go for walks in nature, spend time with friends at cafes and just feel safe. And Winchester ticked all the boxes for me. One of the primary reasons I chose the university was that I received a lot of informative e-mails from the international staff at "The University of Winchester" and from Norwegian students who currently were students at the university. I had all my questions answered (about my Visa, Brexit, insurance, financing, etcetera), responded by David Street and the team.

When you start studying at a university, and more so in another country, it is very stressful, and there are a lot of questions and uncertainties. During the spring and summer, before I started in September, I had to do an English test and sort out a couple of things with the Swedish government. It was stressful, and there was a lot to do, but when everything was done, I could really enjoy the experience, and I could already notice how much I'd learnt from this experience already.

Also, in England, university degrees have a strong reputation internationally, and there are teams at universities that assist new graduates in finding jobs. It was vital for me to know how easy it is to get a job after my degree. Winchester has sent me e-mails already about available positions, such as Marketing jobs in London, that I can apply for now and begin working for in a few months. Students' well-being and teachers' teaching rank highly at Winchester among other universities. As an international student, I found it essential to find a university that could provide all my studies because I come from different backgrounds and school systems.

Since I live with my boyfriend, I haven't experienced "student life on campus", but my friends say they enjoy the people they live with and have made lifelong friends. There are various events to attend during "Fresher's week" and during the semesters. There are many ways to find friends at Winchester University, and I've joined a group called "Snowsports", where several people interested in skiing are involved. Most of us get together once a week and have some events planned. As an international student, making friends through different groups is great for me, especially when I don't live on campus.

As the first weeks progressed, I felt increasingly confident in the course, the approach, and the new strategies. My teachers have been helpful, and I have received the support I needed if I did not understand something. We have had plenty of time during lessons to work on the last assignment, which is at the end of the course. It is a good structure for me, and I am happy with it.

If you consider studying in England, I can recommend The University Of Winchester because the school offers excellent support, and the city is charming. Furthermore, it is only an hour's train ride from London, so it is very easily accessible for friends and family to visit. My friends can't wait to come over here and see how my student life in Winchester is. Winchester is a quiet, safe city, with a lot of nature and culture, so my parents are also happy with my choice. Living in another country for over three years is a huge step and a big part of life. University is for everyone, it doesn't matter of age or background, this is an incredible experience and if you feel like it could be something you could benefit from – do it!

- Clara
 

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Courses A-Z

Study in the UK - Courses and Programmes A-Z

What can you study in the UK? British universities offer all subjects and degree levels. Do you know you want to study abroad, but don't know exactly what you are looking for? In the UK, you have more choices than you can imagine! Below we have listed a number of subjects you can study at undergraduate and postgraduate level. If you are interested in a course or subject that is not listed, talk to one of our advisors, who can help you find the perfect course for you!

Study MBA abroad - do an MBA in the UK

Beyond a postgraduate degree

My desire to study in the United Kingdom began in my childhood, promoted partially by having received my primary education in a British-oriented Chilean school. Once I finished my undergraduate studies and had accumulated a few years of work experience, I wanted to materialize my desire. Thus, I decided to study an MBA at a British business school with worldwide recognition. However, I constantly postponed starting the application process because of how cumbersome I found preparing to apply for a study program of these characteristics. On one occasion, it occurred to me to search on Google for some type of advice to apply for postgraduate degrees in the United Kingdom and thus I managed to find Across the Pond. I am tremendously grateful for the professional advice received, plus it was completely free. They gave me the necessary push to transform the dream into a real fact.

I was clear that I wanted to study an MBA in the United Kingdom, but I didn't know where. The world ranking of the program in the Financial Times, the fact that it was located outside London so that it was a smaller city and therefore friendly for my family, the cost of the program, the GMAT test requirement, and even whether the university had some type of support for the student's family, were all relevant on making the final decision. I applied to Durham University and University of Edinburgh, where my first choice was the one located in Durham. My application to Durham University was accepted before being interviewed at the University of Edinburgh, so I did not complete the application process at the latter.

Durham's MBA year of study was much more than an academic milestone. It was an enriching experience, both for me and my family. During the program I shared with classmates of more than 20 different nationalities, in a cohort of less than 50. If I can summarize my personal learning in simple words, it would be that never judge another person, but seek to understand the reason for their actions or words within the framework of their culture.

My family and I lived in an apartment that belonged to the university. This was very supportive for my wife and daughter, not only to find companionship in a country far from where they were born, but also to be exposed to a diverse culture. Additionally, it served to force them to improve their English.

Living in the historic city of Durham was something extraordinary, which my family and I remember with happiness and nostalgia. We were able to have a car, which helped us get around the city better. In addition to the above, we will not forget the historical events experienced: the celebration of the 70 years of reign of the beloved Queen Elizabeth II, and later the national mourning for her death.

In life there will always be ups and downs, and what we experienced in Durham was no exception. However, there are many more pleasant moments experienced and, in summary, they justify my positive brief description of them.

- Juan Pablo
 

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Study Environmental Pollution and Remediation abroad

I got to meet people from all over the world

I came to Scotland with my daughter to Study a MSc in Environmental Pollution and Remediation in the University of Aberdeen. I wanted something related to the environment, and this program, apart from being the only one in Scotland, gave certain flexibility that allowed me to take care of my daughter. In the program, most of us were international students, and I got to meet people from all over the world. Two of my best friends are international students I met here.

The University offers a lot of opportunities, but it´s important to contact the right people and ask. Always ask. Career support is a great help, and there are lots of free seminars that you can take to help you in your professional life.

Things and timings work somewhat differently here than in Chile. Life has another rhythm and things are done in a different way. Appointments, applications, booking tickets and even social activities are arranged online or post. Most shops and stores close early, but you can buy almost anything online. About the city, I love the fact that Aberdeen is right next to the sea. There is always a fresh (or cold) wind from the sea, and it’s very open. I rented a small flat near the university, and from my bedroom window I just catch a glimpse of the Northern Sea. 

It has been a unique experience, and although it has been hard at times, I think it has been a way to open doors to a better future.

- Pia
 

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Study Global Literature and Culture abroad

I love interdisciplinarity!

My journey began in Mexico City, at a Euro-postgraduate fair with my friends from University. We were going through an after-degree identity crisis. I felt even more lost because I was passionate about many disciplines, but they were all very dispersed. I studied Hispanic Literatures at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and I thought I could continue my studies at a Spanish university and decide if I wanted to study culture, history or literature. I saw the Across the Pond booth and filled out a form. Shortly after I received an email from my advisor, and from there we started talking about all the different master's degrees in the United Kingdom. After many more emails and a year of preparation I began my master's in Global Culture and Literature at the University of York. At the time I didn't really know why I chose this program beyond "how interesting!", but now I better understand why it was such an important part of my path, eight years later and just about to finish my PhD at the University of Nottingham: I love interdisciplinarity!

The educational experience was very different from what I knew. They are have short terms, with few subjects and few hours, and the workload compensates for that free time. I think the hard part about this, for me, was that I had to learn better self-management, and being alone in a new place! But it was worth it, and adjusting to university and social life was easier. I was surprised by the number of activities and events for all tastes. I even went to a “Retired Dog Petting Day.” Little by little I started making a family among the international roommates that I randomly had with the student accommodation, my classmates from the master's degree, and the community of Mexicans that Across the Pond helps you form from the moment you arrive.

I think the only thing I wish I'd known before moving (and didn't care to research) is that there really isn't much sun. I knew, from the movies, that it is a rainy and cold country, but I also knew that it rains more in Mexico City than in London, so it didn't seem so serious to me. What I didn't know is that during the winter it gets dark from 4:00 pm. And when it's daytime, weeks can go by without seeing the sun or the blue sky. But I also didn't know that Mexico had taught me to love the United Kingdom, and that the United Kingdom would teach me to love Mexico more.

- Alicia
 

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Do a PhD in Geology abroad

Energy, a door to the future!

My name is Jorge, and I am a PhD student in the Department of Earth Sciences, which is among the top 50 programs in the QS World University Rankings by Subject this year: Earth & Marine Sciences. I have always believed that the area of energy is one of the topics that must be fully developed in a multidisciplinary manner, since without energy there is no future!
 

Why I decided to study in UK?

The main reason why I decided to study in the United Kingdom is that its universities have a high academic level which allows them to be among the best universities worldwide, in addition to the fact that many of the topics they develop are cutting-edge knowledge.

In this case, my university has a program strongly focused on reducing CO2 emissions, where I had been understanding techniques and methodologies that are not yet available in Mexico and they are developing in UK. An example of this is that there is already well-developed regulations in the UK and Europe on CO2 capture, so for Mexico it represents a challenge, since an effort must be made to standardize the fields of frontier knowledge in research and in the development of public policies.
 

Choosing a University

It is very important to select the program that one chooses, especially due to the topic that one wishes to develop. In my case, the selection of my supervisor was made according to his background due to the breadth of topics that he has developed and the multiple multidisciplinary works that he has done, especially in areas of energy, geosciences and economics at national (UK) and international level.
 

Advisors and Department

It is important to have a cordial and respectful relationship with both the advisors and the department staff, since as your project progresses, the need may arise to request help from them in order to develop and fulfil the project and achieve with the objectives and deadlines of the proposed project.
 

Adaptation and accommodation

In my case, I was lucky to find a room in the university colleges, since I arrived late in Durham (late January), in a period when room availability was low. In this sense, my adaptation process was very fast since I immediately had to interact with locals, and at the same time interact with international students in the department.

The first two weeks were a bit of a shock, because I had some difficulty understanding English, I assumed at the time that English wasn't too difficult, but each region has a different accent and here in Durham people speak fast.

Whatever, during these days I learned to adapt to the climate (I am still adapting), identify groceries, go buy a jacket, learn to use public transportation, get a SIM card; fortunately, one of my supervisors was very concerned about my adaptation process and gave me a lot of advices. For example, contact with the Mexican society at the university. As a recommendation, always check if there is a society from your country, because it can also help you to adapt quickly and understand some additional details.
 

Enjoying Durham

Durham is a beautiful place with a lot of nature around, so you can get to different places just by walking! It has an Oriental Museum, a botanical garden and there are many restaurants, so you can taste many cousins. Plus, people in Durham are very friendly, so you can easily talk to local and international universities.

It may seem like it is not important, but I have seen that many of the students have a very active life linked to sports, so you will not feel strange if you like to practice them all the time, even on a Friday at 10 p.m. it can be an excellent time to exercise in this city!

- Jorge
 

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