Study Biomedical Sciences in the UK

Changed the way I see the world

Coming to study in the United Kingdom has been one of the best experiences that have happened to me in my life and has changed the way I see the world.

At first, I was a little nervous and wondering what could happen, because a challenge like this is not easy, you leave your family, friends and partner to make a dream come true, a dream that many would like to realize but not all. They are given the opportunity. You arrive in a new country with a new culture, with another language, which is not the one you are used to and at first you don't know what to expect but you are sure that this will change your life.

I finished studying my master's degree at the University of York, one of the most beautiful universities in the entire UK. The university is one of the best in terms of technology.

York is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen, very quiet and its people made me feel at home, everyone helps you if you need something or want to know something; It is a city that has a lot of history and I love that, from the Vikings and different places to visit, although it is a small city, you can get to know too many things.

Here I met friends who became very important to me, who had the same fear and concerns as me, who wanted to take on the world by getting to know other cultures or simply living with more people. I met many Latinos who made me feel unique and that Latino community that was created was very special because we were always there for what we needed; we did not leave anyone without help. People from other cultures who are not Latino were very kind and we had incredible moments together, moments that there is no exact definition; different parties we went to, different moments of laughing, crying, being angry because our plans didn't turn out as we thought but it was worth it, that's part of living, it's part of learning in life, always moving forward despite the adversities.

We all agree with the same thing; That is, that present fear that cannot be removed, that fear that is unique but as they say, “it is better to try than just think: What would have happened?”, those phrases define a lot, being outside your social circle increases your shape too much. to see the world and further forges your identity, it helps you understand who you are and what opportunities you have to take to be a better person.

When you finish your studies, you really are another person, you are a unique person, a very different person from the one who arrived, a person who not only made friends, but also made brothers for life. Moments that no one will change and many moments that will live in your head. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself “Try it without fear, you will see how much you can do it and how much you have learned, you are strong for this challenge that is coming, it will change your life but for the better and you will meet people you want to keep their friendship.”

The personal advice I can give you is to try, not to stay on the path, which I know is scary, uncertain about what will happen but I know that you will be better people; You will meet excellent people, people who will be unforgettable and even though they are far away, they are with you through a message, I know that it can be done and that is how it should be.

- Mario
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study environmental sciences in the UK

This international experience has broadened my perspective

Coming to study in the United Kingdom was a long-standing aspiration for me. I have always been attracted to the country's academic tradition and had an interest in its culture since childhood. In the field of environmental economics, the UK has been at the forefront of global research and reputation. Therefore, both for my professional and personal interests, coming to this country seemed ideal for me.

I chose to study at the University of York because of its reputation in environmental issues and its environmental economics program, which aligned perfectly with what I was looking for. The campus is surrounded by nature, with rabbits, foxes, ducks, swans, and various birds, which makes the stress of exams and deadlines much more manageable.

My advisors from Across the Pond provided me with guidance on university options that matched what I was looking for. They also offered information on scholarships and put me in touch with people at the universities, which allowed me to make the best possible decision. Their support didn’t stop once I was accepted; they also assisted me with legal aspects, preparation, and various types of advice, which made my transition to the UK much smoother and more secure.

I chose my master’s degree because I believe that the urgency of environmental issues is the most critical problem facing the planet. The University of York not only has a prestigious environmental economics program, but its professors have been fundamental in my education. They not only provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to tackle these challenges, but also offered constant support for my specific questions and interests. Having studied economics in Mexico, I was able to deepen my theoretical knowledge and apply it to the environmental field, in addition to acquiring new insights in areas such as climate change science and environmental protection.

When I first arrived in York, the city’s architectural beauty and the warmth of its people made me feel welcome from the start. The research I had done on the city fell short, because York is not only beautiful but also vibrant and full of life. Despite not being as large as other UK cities, the cultural offerings are impressive: museums, galleries, festivals, and, of course, its pubs. It is said that there are more than 365, one for each day of the year. Additionally, due to its location, traveling to cities like Manchester, Liverpool, or London takes less than 2 hours.

There were difficult moments, especially during exams. However, the University of York offers a wide range of support resources, both academic and emotional. I attended voluntary workshops on research, writing, and statistics, which were fundamental to my academic success. Additionally, the campus library, adapted to different study styles, became one of my favourite places to focus and learn.

The diversity and daily interactions allowed me to learn not only about my master’s program and British culture, but also about cultures from other countries. This international experience has broadened my perspective and made me more aware of global issues and the different ways to address them. Moreover, I have made friendships and met people I want to keep in my life forever.

To future students, I would recommend making the most of everything the University has to offer, from academic resources to extracurricular activities. There are societies of all kinds where you can find people with similar interests. The university system gives students a lot of independence to study and research on their own, so managing your time well while taking advantage of the opportunities in York is vital.

Studying in York has provided me with growth not only professionally but also personally. This experience has been one of the most enriching in my life, and I hope to apply everything I have learned to contribute to more sustainable development in my country.

- Eduardo
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study social media abroad

Did you know that York has 365 pubs?

I was looking to do a Masters in Social Media and Social Research because I wanted to learn more about user behaviour on social networks. The University of York is ranked first in Sociology for research impact and fourth in the UK (according to Times Higher Education), and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group. It was therefore always my first choice.

During my time as a student at the University of York, I felt very integrated and welcomed. I was very supported by all the academic staff, the welfare team and the staff at my college (Wentworth). I also had the opportunity to be a course representative for my master's degree and I did a communications internship for my college. The University of York opened up a world of possibilities and new opportunities at the same time!
 

Student Life: York as a university city

The city of York is a university city par excellence. Studying in its two campuses was a wonderful experience because they are places where you connect with nature and the tranquillity necessary to study. 

In addition, the university is very well connected to the city centre in no more than 15 minutes by bus. If you like cycling like I do, it will definitely be a great experience, as you can easily cycle around York safely in its streets and parks. 

York's nightlife is vibrant and lively - did you know that York has 365 pubs? You can definitely enjoy one every day of the year. 
 

How did I get to York? Thanks to Across the Pond 

There is no doubt that my dream of studying in England would not have been possible if it hadn't been for the advice I got from Across the Pond. I worked with them for 4 years where they helped me to find a Master's degree that matched my interests, as well as to apply to the University of York and to receive funding from Becas Chile. 

My advisor and I know how long this journey was because I didn't speak any English, but I finally managed to get the scholarship to study abroad and the level of English that the university required me to study. I will be infinitely grateful to Across the Pond forever. 

- Ana Karina
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study Gender and Women Studies abroad

Learn from classmates from all over the world

Studying in the UK has been a unique and invaluable experience for me. I would encourage anyone considering studying abroad to take the leap—it’s a decision that has positively shaped my life in more ways than I could have imagined. Despite the cloudy days, the wonderful people I met and the many opportunities to learn both in and out of the classroom brightened my journey.

I chose to live on campus at the University of York, and although sharing a kitchen with seven other people came with its challenges, I don’t regret this choice. Living on campus allowed me to fully engage in university life and take advantage of everything the campus has to offer. From cheese and wine nights at my college to free menstrual health products, a nearby gym, and the beautiful natural surroundings, the campus provides a rich and fulfilling environment.

One of the biggest perks of living on campus was being within walking distance of the main library. The library has become a highlight of my university experience, offering a wealth of resources and a variety of study environments. Whether I need a quiet space, a room with a computer, or a place for video calls or group work, the library has it all.

Student life in the UK is quite different from back home in Brazil. Here, there’s a greater emphasis on independent learning, and the multicultural environment has broadened my horizons. It’s amazing to be able to listen to and learn from classmates from all over the world. Their diverse experiences have enriched my academic life and offered fresh perspectives within the European academic context. I’ve been constantly challenged to think critically and creatively, and the course structure— with its mix of lectures, seminars, and practical work—has kept me engaged and motivated.

Living in York has been a delight. The city may be small, but it’s vibrant and full of character, with plenty of charming spots to explore. In my spare time, I enjoy discovering new parts of the city, visiting cafes, and wandering through the natural beauty around me. The people here are incredibly welcoming—my nerves about arriving in a new country were eased the moment I stepped off the train on my first day, when two York ladies helped me with my luggage and jokingly remarked that it was bigger than me. Their kindness made me feel instantly at home.

As English is not my first language, the transition to studying in English was initially challenging. However, with the support of university resources, like courses offered by the library, and a welcoming community, I quickly adapted. Since my course requires extensive writing, it was incredibly helpful to have this support and to be among people who understand the challenges of pursuing higher education in a non-native language.

Looking back, I wish I had known more about how to cope with the three biggest challenges faced by international students: homesickness, the cost of living, and the dark winter. My advice for handling all of them is to surround yourself with a supportive community. Having friends by your side means sharing the cost of groceries, making plans to spend long winter nights watching movies or enjoying a cup of tea British-style, and having someone to lean on when you’re missing home. These connections help you realize that you’ve found a new home away from home.

- Evelyn
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study Film and Television Production with Cinematography abroad

An unforgettable experience

I had always wanted to study abroad in order to broaden my academic and personal horizons. When I decided to actually do it, I considered my great interest in the United Kingdom, which led me to seek an authentically British experience. I finally chose York, which has a rich history and culture, as well as excellent connections to other cities and a good balance of quality of life and fun.

I applied for the MA Film and Television Production with Cinematography because of the content of its program and because it has the Screen Skills certification, essential for the professional audiovisual sector in the United Kingdom. In addition, the University of York is recognized worldwide and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, which was a decisive factor in choosing York over other universities.

The university's facilities are first class, with state-of-the-art equipment that allowed me to develop projects with professional standards. In addition, thanks to agreements such as Fiderh and scholarships from the same university, I was able to access a quality education at a very affordable cost.

From the beginning of the program, I moved to the city centre with my partner, which has been a great decision because despite not living on campus, he enjoyed what the city itself has to offer.

Without a doubt, studying a master's degree at York University has given me the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve my professional goals in the film industry. In addition, studying at such a prestigious university in a country with such a rich culture, and in a city with so much history, has been an unforgettable experience.

- Edgardo
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study Women studies abroad

Driven by the country's exceptional reputation for higher education

Choosing to study in the UK was driven by the country's exceptional reputation for higher education. UK universities are internationally recognized for their academic excellence, with many holding high prestige across various disciplines. At the master’s level, the breadth of cutting-edge programs and the significant research output were particularly appealing to me. The opportunity to learn from leading scholars and engage with the innovative knowledge they produce was a major draw.

Another compelling reason to study in the UK is its vibrant international student community. The UK offers a truly global perspective, not just by immersing students in British culture but by providing an environment where you can interact with peers from around the world. In my master’s program, I had the invaluable opportunity to explore the realities of my field from diverse perspectives, including those from Latin America, Africa, Asia, the United States, and Europe. This diversity of thought has enriched my understanding and significantly broadened my academic and cultural horizons.
 

Did You Receive Any Funding or Scholarships to Study at York?

My opportunity to study abroad was made possible by the prestigious Chevening Scholarship for emerging leaders, offered by the UK government. This highly competitive scholarship draws over 72,000 applicants worldwide each year. The Chevening Scholarship covered my tuition fees, air travel, and provided a monthly stipend, making my master’s studies in the UK financially feasible.

Applications for Chevening Scholarship open annually, typically between August and November. These options make it possible for students to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university, which I found to be a fantastic opportunity.
 

Do You Have Any Tips on Managing the Cost of Living?

One aspect of living in the UK that pleasantly surprised me was the ease with which students can maintain a sustainable and budget-friendly lifestyle. There are numerous student discounts available in shops, charity stores, and second-hand outlets, where you can find high-quality items at a fraction of the cost. I was able to purchase excellent winter clothing at minimal prices, and many universities, including York, offer donation points at the beginning of the academic year where students can pick up essential items like kitchen utensils and clothing for free.
 

What Do You Love About York?

Initially, I wondered if I should have chosen London to experience life in the capital city. However, after a few weeks in York, I realized how much I appreciate the quality of life here. York offers a level of tranquility and safety that is rare in many cities, not only in Colombia but in other parts of the world as well. The friendly locals, coupled with the city’s charming medieval atmosphere, create a welcoming environment where I feel safe walking through the streets at any time.

One of the things I love most about York is exploring its historic streets and discovering its many pubs—there are 365 in total, one for each day of the year! The city’s unique character and vibrant community have made my time here truly special, and I’m grateful for the experience.

- Claireth
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study Linguistics for Language Teaching

The cultural and life exchange was amazing

It was all born from the experience of visiting my brother during his master studies in Sussex, that vacation trip convinced me of the panorama and university life outside the country, the cultural and life exchange was amazing. 

It took me about two and a half years to consolidate my own trip, this time to York at York University. During the application process at the university as well as scholarships and funding, my advisor from Across the Pond was always supporting me with the paperwork and forms to expedite the process. She was always very cordial and attentive to all my questions and guidance throughout the process. It was a real adventure to arrive because the airline I was traveling with went bankrupt the same day the flight was leaving, fortunately the British government sponsored the trip for all those stock in Cancun. The arrival to York was wonderful, via Manchester by train admiring the architecture, some landscapes and a new life. York had begun.   
 

Accommodation 

The university offers accommodation of various sizes and prices. Before leaving it is important to have this defined as it can be a bit stressful to some extent the first few days. The positive thing is that there are always people and new friends who support you in this aspect until you find a place. The truth is that both options either at the university or outside are quite good. In my case I chose to be outside the university allowing me to be in two different locations whose advantages are having a larger space and being able to interact more closely with people who already lived there, two English people to be precise that nowadays are my friends, learning more about the culture and way of life in England.  
 

The campus  

The second day l arrived, a very good friend of mine took me on a 25 minute walk through downtown to arrive at the campus, such an impression of the city, green and walled, pedestrian and bicycle paths were visible. After passing a small hill we arrived at the reception, simple, located in an orange-brown building with the name of the university in silver, l feeling of joy and successfulness to be finally on campus.  

It consists of the West campus and East campus, which during the year of my stay was being expanded and remodelled. Both campuses offer endless activities and spaces for socializing, studying and even resting. 

For example, there are the music rooms, whereby joining the York Music Society you can access to these rooms where every room has a piano, or drums, and you can practice any other instrument. Another example is the Buddha that connects the surrounding buildings, a sort of small altar where you can be quiet, meditating or chatting with someone while having a drink and/or a snack. 

Continuing with the societies, there are a variety of them, such as swing, art, drama and every sport you can imagine, from handball to jiujitsu. In addition, there are often student events where you can dance and socialize in a lot of activities organized in conjunction with the university. 

On campus there are several cafeterias and bars, what I mean is that each department or faculty has a bar and cafeteria service in its building, as well as meeting points where you can chat and have a drink either at night or during the day.  

It has its own cinema, so if the seventh art is your passion you can join and have a membership that will give you access to all the movies on the billboard, it is the same experience as in a movie theatre and patience rewards both time and economy. 
 

University life 

The campus is divided into various departments, equivalent to faculties in Mexico. Chemistry, Music and Education are some of them. It doesn't really matter which department you study in, since class sessions are usually attended in multiple classrooms throughout the university, so you have the opportunity to get to know them all. Find your way around and also get lost along the way, small adventures that are well worth the experience. It is not less important to highlight that the university is surrounded and constituted by beautiful green areas where birds, especially ducks and geese inhabit it, it is very beautiful and relaxing, even the university has a lake that surrounds an auditorium and connects various buildings, I reiterate the use of bicycles since it is the most efficient way to get around. 

In the academic field, the university always supports you with courses or workshops to improve your communication in English both in writing and in conversation as well as in different software oriented to the program and department you are studying, as well as other more general ones from Word to Excel and programs for data analysis, for example.

In the specific case of the master's degree that I studied, each subject is attended once a week, so well organized time can be used to study another language, in my case I studied French giving me the opportunity to improve my level and meet other students and friends from both master's degrees and bachelors’. During my stay I made great friends from all over the world, China, UK, Colombia, Turkey, Spain to name a few, we met to play soccer, organize parties and birthday celebrations, we made a wonderful community to get to know each other and socialize, in other words having a lot of fun, dancing, listening to music and playing games. To welcome twice the new year with such energy and happiness, having dinner and later toast in the Minster’s bells ranging out and sparkling wine  were something to remember for a lifetime. 

You can really enjoy and live the university life in a total  immersion throughout  the university itself; classmates and friends generate an identity and association that greatly enrich the experience of studying. 
 

Applied linguistics for Language Teaching 

The program offers the study and analysis of the most relevant linguistic research related to the learning and teaching of English. In addition, there are optional modules or classes that each student can choose on a personal basis given the particular interest to study specific areas of the master's program, for example Inter culturalization or the advances of software that provides support and help to students and teachers to improve the performance of students in a specific language. 
 

The city 

From the beginning, a beautiful city, influenced by the Vikings and the Roman Empire, it offers an incredible number of cultural spaces, all of which can be visited by bicycle and in my opinion the most recommendable means of transportation. Not to be missed are the Clifford Tower, the city walls and the York Art Gallery which hosts an automaton clock whose mechanism is operated by the museum staff twice a week, it is a beautiful spectacle, every figure and detail wonders who observes it. York also has several pubs and local breweries where you can appreciate beers for all tastes and have an excellent meal. The city of York also has its own chocolate factory shop where they offer guided tours around the factory with chocolate tasting. 

The Shambles, inspiration for Harry Potter lovers, a number of clubs and pubs make the nightlife of York something unique, a few streets away you can go from one to another in minutes and eat some Kebab in a food truck after party time. 

Both day and night York is a very safe city, you can move day or night without any problem, the nocturnal wildlife also manifests itself especially  on the bicycle paths, wooded and out of a thriller movie host owls and even foxes, it is wonderful to see these animals on a night walk or back home after a movie with friends. 

- Sergio Alfredo
 

Back to Student Experiences
Image
Discover UK Universities

Student Accommodation in the UK

Where do you live when studying abroad? Do universities in the UK offer student housing? How much does student accommodation cost? Did you know that as an international student, you are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the first or all your years studying at most of our UK universities? You will need to apply by the housing application deadline, and of course the best student accommodation in the UK goes first - so that is a good reason to apply early! There are several different student accommodations, price levels and facilities to choose from!

Most students choose to live on campus in their first year. This is social and a fantastic way to get to know students from all over the world! After that, most students choose to move into privately rented accommodation with their new friends. We recommend everyone to live in university accommodation in their first year, as it is a great way to get to know other students (and not just those on your degree).

Learn more about the different options, on-campus accommodation, how to arrange private accommodation and everything you need before applying for student accommodation in the UK via this webinar!
 

Do you want access to our webinar recordings?

Which country are you from?

We noticed you chose the United States.

We would love to be able to help all students in all circumstances but unfortunately US federal rules prohibit third party involvement for candidates anticipating making use of federal funding.

Dates of the event
This is a continuous 
Webinar

Location

Sit back and enjoy whenever and wherever you want!


Back to events
Image
Discover UK Universities

Visa for European Students who want to study in the UK

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.
 

Do you want access to our webinar recordings?

Which country are you from?

We noticed you chose the United States.

We would love to be able to help all students in all circumstances but unfortunately US federal rules prohibit third party involvement for candidates anticipating making use of federal funding.

Dates of the event
This is a continuous 
Webinar

Location

Sit back and enjoy whenever and wherever you want!


Back to events
Study Politics in England

I am happy I made the decision to study abroad

My name is Debbie and I currently do my Masters degree at the University of York, studying Conflict, Governance and Development. 

Across the Pond was of great help through my entire process; first, by helping me choose a University suited to my interests; then, by being able to apply to the different universities through their website, making it easier and faster; finally, by supporting me through the process of getting ready to arrive to the UK, with topics such as visa documents, finding accommodation, etc. They also helped me apply for a CONAHCYT scholarship, which I got. I am very grateful to Across the Pond for making it easier for me, since the process in itself is quite long and complicated, but with their company I didn’t struggle as much. 

Regarding my experience in the UK, it has been quite good. I had been here a few times before and I have experience studying and working in English, so I did not have any problems with that. However, it is quite difficult to get used to a different routine, different habits, lack of sun, lots of rain. It is important to find a good support system in the new place that you find yourself in; it is especially useful to find international friends, since they are the ones who understand what you’re going through. I have friends from Malaysia, Korea, Colombia, Norway, Hong Kong, among many other countries. We like to go out to pubs, to travel to small cities near York and to play board games. 

Finally, I am very satisfied with my decision to study at the University of York. It is a very good school with a good level of education, and they are extremely accommodating to international students, organizing several trips for us and being open to any questions we have about any sort of topic. There are very good and cheap options for accommodations on campus as well, and I live on a private student accommodation outside campus, which is also a good option if you do not find space on the ones on campus. York is a very small city and nothing is really that far from the school, so there is no problem about that.

Overall, my experience in the United Kingdom, in the University of York and with Across the Pond have been very fulfilling and I am happy I made the decision to study abroad. If you are interested in studying in the United Kingdom, definitely contact Across the Pond and consider doing so in the University of York.

Cheers!

- Debbie
 

Back to Student Experiences
Subscribe to University of York