Do you want to study in the UK and are wondering if you need a visa? Maybe you have applied to British universities already, or are considering applying to university in London or elsewhere in the UK, but would like to know more about the UK student visa for European students? This webinar recording is about the UK Student Visa for students who will be starting their studies at a British university and are from European countries. We cover everything regarding the CAS, the application process, cost and other practicalities worth thinking about when applying for a student visa.

Did you know that all non-UK students need a visa to study in the UK? How much does a student visa cost? Is it difficult to get a student visa if you want to study in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? For most European students in the UK, a student visa is now a fact. 

After the UK left the EU, student visas have now become a reality for the vast majority of international students. It is therefore important to familiarise yourself with this process as early as possible, so that you are well prepared when the time comes to submit an application for a student visa. In this webinar recording, we will go through useful information about student visas, when to apply, what you need for the application, costs, and other tips and tricks that can make the process easier. This webinar is suitable for those who have already applied, those who have accepted an offer, but also those who are considering studies in the UK and want to know more about the visa process.

We have the information and tools most people need to be able to go through the visa process without the need for individual follow-up/advice beyond the general information and guide from us. Remember that Across the Pond cannot provide individual advice on your visa application, only certified immigration staff can.  In this webinar recording, you will learn about a number of important points that are good to be aware of when you familiarise yourself with the visa process.
 

This online session provides insight into studying Psychology at the University of Roehampton. Watch this session to learn more about what the department has to offer.
 

As someone who had always admired the United Kingdom, the prospect of studying there had been a long-standing dream of mine. However, for a time, it seemed like an unattainable goal. Despite having previously visited the country and been enamoured with its beauty and culture, I couldn't fathom how to make this dream a reality. That all changed when I discovered that the field I aspired to study was predominantly offered in the UK. Suddenly, my lifelong ambition felt within reach, and I was determined to make it happen. With the invaluable assistance of our facilitator from Across the Pond, I was able to turn my aspirations into tangible goals. Furthermore, studying in the UK presented a unique opportunity to sharpen my English skills, which I knew would be a valuable asset in my future career.

Looking back on my year of studying in the UK, I am filled with profound gratitude and awe. The experience was nothing less than unforgettable. One of the most exhilarating aspects of my time there was the opportunity to meet and learn from people worldwide. Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures allowed me to broaden my horizons and gain valuable insights into the world around me. Despite the differences in our upbringings and experiences, we all shared similar aspirations and goals, which was a humbling realisation.

In addition, studying in the UK allowed me to practice and improve my English skills in a way that wouldn't have been possible elsewhere. Being immersed in an environment where English is the primary language allowed me to learn about various accents and variations, which was incredibly helpful. Accessing such a wide range of educational opportunities and resources was a privilege. There was always something new to explore and learn, and I felt incredibly fortunate to have been given the chance to do so.

All in all, studying in the UK was an incredible adventure that I will always cherish. It allowed me to grow personally and academically, and I will always be grateful for the experience.
 

DISCOVERING ROEHAMPTON UNIVERSITY

I consciously decided to attend Roehampton University in London due to its vast array of psychology courses. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a wealth of new therapy courses and other subjects that have always piqued my interest. Despite its lack of a central location, I genuinely appreciate the university's charm. The campus is enveloped by a verdant, forested area that offers picturesque views to explore and revel in. Moreover, the campus is located near Richmond, a quaint, picturesque area that provides a refreshing escape from the city's frenetic pace.

The campus boasts scenic ponds, charming ducks, verdant fields, and a blend of modern and Victorian buildings. I have used the library several times, which is impressive and well-equipped. I was pleasantly surprised that the student society is active and regularly organises diverse events for me.

Although I have yet to visit every facility on campus, my classmates have informed me that there are gyms, cafes, the Union pub, and other amenities that I have yet to explore.
 

FINDING A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Since my husband and I decided to live together, we knew we wanted to find a flat to accommodate us and our furry friend. Although many options were available, finding a place that met our needs proved challenging. After two weeks of searching, we were overjoyed to finally find a charming accommodation nestled by the river in a delightful neighbourhood. The flat may be small, but it offers everything we need, and lush green areas surround us, a common sight in London.

My daily commute to Uni is convenient and affordable, thanks to the nearby bus route. I've learned that some classmates are fortunate enough to live in Uni-provided housing or nearby. Still, it's been a relief to know that various options suit different preferences and budgets.
 

STUDENT LIFE

Having pursued my master's degree in Mexico, I've observed a few variances in the student lifestyle in the UK. The most notable one is the opportunity to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs, making my classes all the more stimulating. Furthermore, my program is very hands-on, giving me a more practical understanding of my chosen career path.

Although the grading system and assessment criteria may vary, I've discovered that they ultimately enhance the calibre of my work beyond my initial expectations. I've also benefited from continuous guidance and feedback throughout the process, which has proved extremely helpful. The extension policy is notably lenient and prioritises maintaining good mental health, which I find quite commendable.
 

MA PLAY THERAPY

I am currently pursuing a master's degree in Play Therapy at Roehampton University, an opportunity that I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have. The course has been both challenging and fulfilling, as I have been exposed to various forms of therapy, such as art, drama, dance, and movement. This has significantly broadened my knowledge and expertise in the field.

The unique coursework comprises seminars, discussions, practical opportunities, and workshops, which have provided me with a comprehensive and diverse learning experience. Unlike my previous academic classes, this program focuses on an integrated therapy approach, allowing me to work with individuals holistically. This approach enables me to become the best therapist by incorporating my past experiences to enrich my practice.

Moreover, the course emphasises the significance of self-awareness and self-discovery as essential tools for responsible practice. This emphasis has been instrumental in my growth as a therapist, and I have learned to appreciate the importance of introspection in my line of work.

Despite its intensity, I would not have preferred any other course. The program has challenged me to go beyond my limits, and I am confident that it will equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to impact my future practice positively.
 

LIFE IN LONDON

Living in the bustling metropolis of London has been an exhilarating experience for me. The city offers many opportunities to explore and indulge in its diverse offerings. The feeling of exploring London is surreal, and the endless possibilities it presents are simply astounding. One of my favourite pastimes is trying out diverse cuisines worldwide, and I enjoy interacting with people from different backgrounds. Safety is paramount for me, and I feel secure walking around London's charming parks and streets.

London boasts numerous attractions besides its delightful green spaces, such as world-renowned theatres, museums, and sports venues. Whether you're passionate about attending large-scale events or prefer intimate gatherings tailored to your interests, London offers something for everyone. The city's endless array of exciting and lively activities ensures you will never run out of things to do. Still, if you prefer a more laid-back and peaceful time, you can easily find relaxation in its tranquil spaces.
 

NOT EVERYTHING IS STUDYING

My school experience has been unique, and living in a multicultural environment has been an incredibly exhilarating experience. It has allowed me to engage in various social activities outside of school, such as fairs and events, where I've had the opportunity to make new friends and have an absolute blast. Interestingly, I've realised that making new friends isn't as daunting as initially, which has opened up a whole new world of possibilities.

I feel incredibly grateful for the frequent public events like concerts and fairs throughout the year. They offer great chances to spend quality time with friends and opportunities to make new acquaintances. I adore the summer months when everyone seems to be outside having picnics and enjoying the beautiful weather. It's a fantastic time of year that I always look forward to.
 

SPEAKING ENGLISH 24/7

Upon my arrival, my proficiency in English was decent. However, I had to undergo a period of adjustment to become accustomed to the diverse accents and colloquialisms. Consistently speaking in English was indeed tiring and required a significant amount of mental exertion. Nonetheless, with time, I adapted to the language. I take pride in the fact that I have made remarkable strides academically. Even though I did not utilise it, universities typically offer support for writing and language skills, especially those who hail from foreign countries or possess different mother tongues. My English has improved significantly, and I have gained a wealth of knowledge and insight by being exposed to different forms of English and accents from individuals from all corners of the globe. It is reassuring to know that everyone makes an effort to comprehend and communicate with one another.
 

"ACROSS THE POND": A FRIENDLY ALLIED IN THE PROCESS

A well-informed and seasoned individual's assistance and counsel can make a difference. I recall experiencing great anxiety surrounding the paperwork and communication with the university while residing in my home country. Nevertheless, our esteemed consultant from Across the Pond, consistently demonstrated kindness and helpfulness towards addressing our concerns. This instilled a sense of reassurance and confidence throughout the process. I am genuinely grateful for our exceptional support and strongly recommend it to anyone seeking guidance in similar circumstances.

- Ingrid
 

For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to study abroad. At the age of 16 when I began my first job and received my first paycheck, I put it in the bank immediately, saving for the day I had an opportunity to travel and live abroad. In high school, I traveled to the Amazon Rainforest on a trip with my Ecology Class. Throughout childhood, I traveled with my family to France, Iceland and across the United States. Then, after saving for four years, I got on a plane and moved to Aix-En-Provence in the south of France for a semester abroad. The experience was all I hoped for. Having gotten a taste of what life in Europe was like, I decided to apply to graduate school in the United Kingdom.

Why did I choose London out of all the amazing cities in the United Kingdom? There are many reasons as to why London was where I decided to make my home while I was studying my Master’s. Firstly, I chose London because I had visited it. Even though I was only here for a week, I absolutely fell in love with the city (especially a nice afternoon tea!). As I was looking at universities to pursue my Master’s, I had to consider where I felt as though I could make a life for myself while I was at university. As I had already visited London and felt a strong connection with the city, I knew studying at a university in London would be the right choice.

Another reason I chose London is because there are six major airports in London. As you can tell from what I’ve said about traveling to the Amazon Rainforest, Iceland, and France, I’ve got the travel bug. As London has six major airports, it makes it easy for me to continue to travel and explore the world, something that is very important to me. Finally, I chose London because of everything London has to offer. Whether you are someone who likes a cozy day at a museum, someone who loves theater, or someone who likes to dance the night away, there are options for you. For example, I am someone who loves museums and there are more than 170 different museums for me to explore here (and most of them are free!). Having options for a fun day or night out that did not involve just going out for drinks or going out clubbing were important to me, and I found that London was the perfect place for that.
 

Why University of Roehampton and why MSc Forensic Psychology?

There were many factors which went into my decision for choosing the University of Roehampton (UoR). UoR is nestled in Southwest London makes it relatively easy to get to the heart of the city while still being able to enjoy the nature and quiet of the suburbs.

Growing up in the suburbs of Massachusetts, I grew up surrounded by nature and quiet neighborhoods. My undergraduate degree, which I completed at Fairfield University in Fairfield Connecticut, was very similar location wise to the area I had grown up in. In other words, for the first twenty two years of my life, the only experience I had in a city was short weekend trips to New York City or a day trip into Boston. The weekends I spent in New York City or days in Boston I always enjoyed, but at the end of the day I was always happy to go back to my sleepy little town or the quiet of my dorm room. All of this being said, I enjoy what cities have to offer. From aquariums and museums to clubs and fantastic restaurants. This is why I decided to make Southwest London my home because it would allow me to live the best of both worlds. Not only, could I enjoy the quiet streets of Roehampton and afternoon strolls in Richmond Park, but I could also escape into Central London to experience the city.

As previously mentioned, I come from a suburb in the United States which means I’m not used to a concrete jungle like Central London. One of my favorite things about UoR is the green space around campus. Unlike many other universities in London, UoR has lawns, ponds, and even an old orchard. On the main campus, walking between Frobel and Digby Stuart, you can walk by Frobel Lake and past the old orchard. On Whitelands, you can gaze out on the large lawn and see students picnic between classes or play football to pass the time. Not only does it remind me of home, sitting outside on the beautiful green lawn between classes gives me a chance to breathe in some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors.

So why specifically did I choose to study Forensic Psychology at UoR? Aside from all the reasons I fell in love with UoR such as the proximity to London and the green space, I chose UoR because of the strength of the program. UoR is ranked 5th in London for Psychology, demonstrating how strong the psychology department truly is. Additionally, the MSc Forensic Psychology program at UoR only takes a year to complete if you are full time. As part of the program, you are taught how to design and run your own research in an area of your interest. This is a great opportunity to build your resume and to grow professionally as well. You have the opportunity to learn different programs such as Qualtrics or SPSS, programs which are widely used in the research world. You also work alongside a professor who is a specialist in their field and potentially the topic you’re interested in exploring, giving you a chance to learn from an expert.
 

Off-Campus Living with the Benefit of Support from the University

Finding a place to live is one of the most important things to do as where you live helps you settle in and make anyplace new your home. Having completed my undergraduate degree in the USA and living on-campus in dorms throughout that time, I decided that I wanted to live off-campus for my Master’s degree. As I had lived with my parents for the first eighteen years of my life and in university dorms for another four years, I had absolutely no clue how to go about renting my first place. Thankfully, I discovered University of Roehampton had an Off-campus Accommodation Officer. Additionally, they had a page on their website which displayed listings of different flats in the nearby area whose landlords had the Roehampton stamp of approval. This made the whole process of finding a place to live in another country significantly less stressful as I knew I had someone I could go to with any questions regarding housing laws or any issues with my landlord.

The flat I rented was located just five minutes from campus and was a lovely little four bedroom, two bathroom, one kitchen/living room house share. As I had found a landlord through the university, everyone I was living with were students of UoR or recent graduates or UoR. This was great because it gave us the ability to bond over a collective experience and an identity as UoR students.

My bedroom was a small single bed (meaning a twin bed) by the front door of the flat and under the stairs which I loving referred to as my “Harry Potter Room.” Upon first arriving to the flat, I remember experiencing absolute culture shock as accommodation outside the USA is very different from what many of us were used to. The room was smaller than I had originally realized, under the stairs, and had the radiator still in it for the entire flat. Across the hall, there was a bathroom the size of a closet with a toilet and a shower. It took a bit of time to get used to it all, but soon enough I found myself loving how cozy and comforting my “Harry Potter Room” was and enjoyed being the only one brave enough to use the compact shower across the hall from my room. Despite the fact the flat as a whole was much smaller than what a typical American apartment would be for four people, it did the trick. Furthermore, I would say the size of it made our flat even closer and kept it cozy in the cold winter months.
 

Culture Shock 101

Moving to another country and experiencing culture shock when it comes to social norms or the language in which people use can be a lot, so it’s good to know what to expect when it comes to studying in a different country to avoid academic culture shock.

Firstly, the language which is used when it comes to your academics is different. is a list of common USA academic phrases and their United Kingdom equivalent:

• Major = Course
• Class = Module
• Grade= Mark
• Head of Department/Course = Programme Convenor
• Professor = Lecturer
• Senior Project = Dissertation

Secondly, how you receive your final grade/mark is determined differently. From my experience in high school and undergraduate university in the USA, your grades are determined by a large amount of coursework over the entity of that class. For example, in my Social Psychology course during my undergraduate degree, I had a total of four different tests and weekly homework assignments which made up my entire grade. In the United Kingdom, you have less homework which is checked and graded, therefore, a majority of your grade hinges on big projects and tests.

Finally, not only are grades determined differently, the grade scale is different as well. In the USA, if you receive a 77% that is the equivalent of a C or C+. However, in the United Kingdom that same 77% is actually a fantastic grade and is closer to an A or higher. This can be challenging to comprehend at first as getting a 60% in the USA is often disappointing but getting a 60% in the United Kingdom is great. Understanding this can save you a lot of stress
 

“Studying” Abroad

What I truly love about London is that I can always find something to do. Personally, I am more of a museum type of person, meaning I have taken great advantage of the free museums (Natural History, Victoria and Albert, Science Museum, Wallace Collection, National Gallery, etc.). Did you know there are more than 170 different museums in London? That means there’s always a lot to learn and see! Each museum also does some amazing late night events which bring together the best of both worlds. The Science Museum, for instance, stays open late one Thursday a month and it adults only! They offer lecturers, free roaming the exhibits, drinks, and more. Similarly, the Natural History Museum hosts different events outside of normal museum hours such as a silent disco under the famous blue whale skeleton

If my friends and I are not at a museum, you can often find us at the theater. London is the perfect place for those who love theater and musicals. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre located in Central London performs Shakespeare’s works sometimes with a twist and is my favorite place to go see a performance. The best part is, tickets are cheap and student friendly! Groundling tickets (meaning you’re standing throughout the show) are only £5 and offer a fun and sometimes interactive experience. What I truly love about seeing a Shakespeare performance in the standing room only area is that you are watching it as Shakespeare intended! It’s amazing to be transported back in time and dive into stories that have been told over and over again.

If I’m not studying, exploring London, or traveling elsewhere, then you can find me working. There are plenty of part time jobs and internships available in a city like London. During my Master’s program, I worked part-time at a local café as well as a Student Ambassador at UoR. The great thing about both these jobs is that they were flexible and allowed me to make some money so that I could go and enjoy London. Additionally, both jobs were ones where I was surrounded by locals, and therefore, it helped me adapt and assimilate into life here in London.
 

Why Should You Study Outside the USA?

Personally, I believe studying outside of the country you grew up in is an amazing opportunity. Taking a step to move across the ocean and start a new life is a big one and it certainly puts you outside of your comfort zone. However, outside of your comfort zone is where you have the most room to grow. Plus, when else in your life are you going to be able to pick up everything and move across the world to explore another culture?

- Rebecca
 

I did not originally choose to study in London. I started at a university in America before deciding to transfer once I studied abroad for 3 months. I loved the diversity on campus, the freedom that came from living in a different country, and the opportunities it opened up for me career-wise. For context, I am studying nursing, so once I graduate I will have the ability to work in the US and the UK if I so please.
 

What do I love and not love about London?

I love that there is public transportation so that you can get around with ease, and the cost of grocery shopping is low in comparison to the US right now. The nightlife is also amazing. If you’re not into partying, there are so many options available to you. Just taking a trip down to central at night and walking around is an experience. What I don’t love about London is that, despite my saying that groceries are cheap, the city itself can be quite expensive. As a university student and international student, the amount of time I can work personally is restricted to 20 hours, so if I planned on self-paying, the money to support myself would have to come from outside sources as well.
 

How are the accommodations?

Living on campus is automatically the cheapest option for people studying as international students. The rent includes utilities, and there are washers and dryers on campus. While they differ in quality based on the amount paid, they are still good quality from an objective standpoint. There’s also the option of having your own bathroom, but areas such as the kitchen and the living room are shared. Also, Roehampton allows you to choose who you want to live with. Lastly, if an issue arises in the flat, such as a clogged drain, there is a website where you can submit a ticket for that issue and a litany of other issues or questions that don’t pertain to accommodation.
 

How are the classes?

As an American, I am used to a large workload in terms of tests and homework. There is not a bunch of tests. There is homework, however it is not graded. This makes some people view this as optional, so you must hold yourself accountable to get the reading or work done. The lecturers are nice and will follow up with you to ensure that you have what you need. They are also good at accommodating personal issues or learning disabilities. As a nursing student, I have classes most days of the week, and then I have 6 or 7-week-long clinical placements. The dedicated time off to catch up on reading on complete assignments is also amazing. The only issue I might have is the ease of the course during the first year. It gives a false sense of security to students that results in constant questions that have already been answered, and unneeded confusion on tasks that are supposed to be “easy”.
 

What do I do in my spare time?

Right next to the campus is Richmond Park. It is so beautiful, and I love to put in my earphones and go for walks there to clear my mind. If I don’t feel like studying in my dorm, I can hop on one of the buses (there is a bus stop right outside the university) and go to a nearby cafe. There are tons in Richmond and Putney. I also like to read, and the campus has a lot of green areas that you can sit in and relax if the weather permits. On weekends, I do enjoy going to a cocktail bar, which there are also plenty of in Putney, which is about a 10-minute bus ride from campus, give or take depending on time and traffic. If I don’t want to spend money, I will just get together with my friends on campus and go to the bar on campus. The bar on campus regularly holds things such as quiz night and karaoke, which do not cost to go to.
 

Did you experience any issues with the university?

The only complaint I have is that the university does take a while to respond to some issues, even ones that are time-constrained, which can be very stressful. This previous year when I moved there officially, I was in continuous contact with the university to get the documents needed to start my visa process, which is also time-constrained. There was a major delay in the area for me personally. Lastly, there was an issue with students from the US receiving their financial aid. Instead of receiving my financial aid in September/October, I received it in the middle of November, which caused obvious issues with the cost of living.
 

Is there anything I wish I had known?

As a person coming to study abroad, I wish I had travelled more. Skyscanner is an amazing website that shows low-cost flights to places within Europe and elsewhere. As a person who is now an international student going to university full-time from America, I will say to research financial aid before you decide this is an option for you. Personally, the nursing courses at Roehampton are not eligible for federal funding, so that means private loans would be your next and only option if you do not have support from family or a sponsor. There are a few scholarships for students from the US studying permanently in the UK, but they are hard to find. I will also say to get a railcard. It will pay for itself in maybe 2 to 3 trips, and depending on where you are travelling, it might pay for itself in one trip. Lastly, if you need a job, check with campus resources first, and see if you can get a job on campus. They will accommodate your studies and other engagements better than an outside job would usually.

- Taniya