Discover your future with us

Studying with us means you will be based in a vibrant local community, with parks and green spaces on your doorstep, yet only a few stops away from all central London has to offer - everything from work placements and networking to soaking up culture and socialising.

Our courses and facilities are designed to take you beyond the classroom into the real world of work and focus on developing the qualities and expertise that your future employer will look for.

My time at UWL has been life-changing. The courses are led by outstanding lecturers and the University is strategically located between the airport and city centre. 

Samantha Wanda Goh Martin, Malaysia

International video

Why study at the University of West London?

University of the Year for Social Inclusion - Daily Mail University Guide 2024

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Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

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In top 30% of universities in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2024

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80% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent - Research Excellence Framework (REF)

How to apply

  • How to apply

    How to apply for a course as an international student.

    International students on Tower Bridge
  • Visas & immigration

    As an overseas student, you may need to apply for a visa to study with us and to work in the UK as a student.

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  • Fees and funding

    Information on fees and funding for international students.

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  • Your country

    We have students from over 100 countries worldwide studying with us. Find out which qualifications we accept from your country to join us.

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  • English language requirements

    If you are from a country that UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) have not defined as majority English speaking, you will need to provide evidence of your language ability to study at the University.

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  • Pre-sessional English language courses

    If you have not met the English Language requirements to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree course with us, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language courses.

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Supporting you every step of the way

At every step of your student journey, from the moment you apply to your graduation and beyond, we are here to provide you with the support you need.

Once your place at UWL has been fully confirmed, our International Student Experience Coordinator will be on hand to help you with any questions or concerns you may have – so you can get the support you seek when you need it.  

Supporting you every step of the way

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Hello,  

My name is Andreea, and I am your International Student Experience Coordinator.

I know first-hand what it is like to be an overseas student and I am passionate about making sure you have the best university experience. I want you to make the most out of your time with us and to #LoveUWL as much as I do.  

I am always very happy to guide and support you with anything you may need. You can get in touch with me at studentvisa.experience@uwl.ac.uk

Travelling to the UK

  • Documents needed for travel

    Keep these with you in your hand luggage: 

    1. A valid passport with your UK entry clearance stamp. 

    2. Your Biometric Identity Document (BID) decision letter, detailing the collection point for your BRP Card - normally at the Compliance Office at the University of West London. 

    3. Tickets for travel (airplane, ferry and/or train). 

    4. Testing and vaccination certificates, if required. 

    5. An X-ray certificate and/or a tuberculosis report, if required. 

    6. A letter of acceptance from your place of study. Keep information about the course you are studying as a paper copy not electronic - this includes your university Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number. 

    7. Documentary evidence that you have enough money to pay your tuition fees and accommodate yourself while you are in the UK (recent bank statements, proof of scholarship or sponsor’s letter). 

    8. Originals or certified true copies of any English language and degree certificates or technical qualifications. 

    We would recommend you take copies (in digital and paper format) of your passport and other paperwork before travelling.  

  • Before you travel

    Making plans:

    • Ensure you travel to the UK within the validity of your entry vignette to activate your immigration permission as a student.  

    • Check the information on the UK Government Border Control website about the travel and border control regulations that are currently in place when entering the UK.  

    Further information:

    Remember that travel and quarantine rules are subject to change, so please continue to check the latest rules while making plan and stay in touch with the University for the latest information and support.  

  • Tips for preparing to travel

    • Arrange your accommodation and plan your transport before you arrive in the UK. 
    • Ensure that you have some money with you (British currency), in case your debit/credit card is not working. Bring enough money to cover your immediate needs on your arrival in the UK, including customs charges, taxi and rail fares, and any emergency expenses. Please do not bring in large amount of cash.​
    • Ensure you have suitable clothing for the season that you will arrive. 
      • Make sure to check the weather when packing to move and compare it to your home country. Due to the unpredictability of English weather, you may wish to bring some clothing to suit warm, cold, wet, windy, and sunny weather
    • Bring enough medication with you if you require it, until you can register with a doctor in the UK.  
    • There are restrictions on what items you can take in your hand luggage and hold luggage when boarding a plane in the UK, so make sure that you comply with these rules. 
    • Make sure your phone will work in the UK.
      • Our major phone providers are EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone – remember to check that your phone is unlocked and compatible with a new network.
      • Get a free SIM card with EE, O2, or Vodafone - visit their websites to find out more.
    • UWL campus sites and accommodation provide free WiFi. 
    • Join the free 'Prepare to Study and Live in the UK' online course developed by British Council, The GREAT campaign and Study UK.
      • This course would be of immense benefit to international students who have been accepted to study at a UK university. It includes the following: 
        • Learn more about UK higher education – teaching methods, course structure, and assessment.
        • Tips for studying the English Language. 
        • Practical Information about living in the UK.
        • Interact with other, like-minded individuals who are preparing for their UK Education.
  • Keep us informed

    A female student with long dark brown hair is studying with several textbooks

    Keep in contact with the University regarding your current circumstances, travel plans, and if your arrival at UWL will be delayed. 

    Contact the Student Visa Experience Team: studentvisa.experience@uwl.ac.uk 

Travel guidance FAQs

Arriving in the UK

  • On arrival in the UK

    Staying safe in the UK:

    • It is very important to keep your personal details private at all times. Do not reveal details that could easily identify you (eg your name or date of birth), your address, or your financial details (eg bank name, account number, funds in your account).  
    • If you are in doubt about an email or call that you received, and if you want to check if it is genuine, please contact the UWL IT Service Desk:

    Further information:

    • Ensure your UK address and contact details are up to date on MyRegistry.

    • Register with a GP. As you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, this means that you are entitled to use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) in the same way that a UK resident would.  

    • Collect your BRP from the Compliance Team and complete your on-campus enrolment and the Right to Study Check (you will receive further instructions on when and how to do this).

    • Explore and learn more about what is the best way for you to travel around London.

  • Studying at UWL

    1. Engage with your studies and attend your classes – there are specific requirements for students on UK visas and you need to be aware of and comply with these.

    2. Enjoy your UWL student life and if you need help, just ask. As you are a student at UWL you are automatically a member of the International Students House. This membership allows you to make use of their facilities in central London as well as their travel clubs etc.

    3. Use our Student Hub for confidential help, support & guidance on different topics, such as study support, careers, or immigration. 

    4. Get involved in the many curricular and extracurricular activities that we organise for you via our What's on page.

    5. You can join many societies as a student, such as the International Students Society, Gaming Society, and UWL Book Club. Joining a society is a great way to meet people with similar interests or develop new skills. 

  • Setting up a bank account for international students

    You will need a UK bank account to pay your tuition fees, pay bills and receive wages from employers if you are eligible to work.

    You will need:

    • Passport with valid student visa + BRP card in original format
    • a University Letter – that can be accessed via My Registry under the Communications section
    • any additional documents, required by the bank during your application process that are not listed above

    In order to request a University Bank Letter, please log into the e:Vision portal.

    Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand column, then under the Communications section to the right of the webpage, please select Request a Letter, select a Bank Letter (you need the Bank Name, Address and Post Code) and follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Please ensure that your term time address is up to date on MyRegistry before you submit any letter requests.

    If you have any further queries about student letter requests, please contact studentletters@uwl.ac.uk.

    Examples of Student Bank Accounts you can open:

  • Student letters

    Additionally to the Bank Letter, we provide the following letter types, all of which can be requested via MyRegistry on the e:Vision portal.

    Student Status Letter 

    This is an official letter that the University can provide to confirm your course details and active status.

    It is a verified document that you can share with a range of external bodies where required.

    In order to request a Student Status Letter please log into the e:Vision portal.

    Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand column, then under the "Communications" section to the right of the webpage, please select "Request a Letter", select "Student Status Letter" and follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to the personal email address listed on the webpage as well as your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Additionally, letters that you have previously requested, together with their request date, will appear below this section and can be downloaded again from the portal at any later point by clicking on the hyperlink.

    Please ensure that your term time address is up to date on MyRegistry before you submit any letter requests.

    Council Tax Exemption Letter

    If you are a current student on a full-time course, then you could be eligible for a Council Tax Exemption letter.

    In order to request a Council Tax Exemption Letter please log into the e:Vision portal.

    Click on the MyRegistry index in the left-hand column, then under the "Communications" section to the right of the webpage, please select "Request a Letter", select "Council Tax Letter" and follow the steps on the portal.

    Once requested, the letter will be sent to the personal email address listed on the webpage as well as your student email as a PDF attachment.

    Additionally, letters that you have previously requested, together with their request date, will appear below this section and can be downloaded again from the portal at any later point by clicking on the hyperlink.

    Please ensure that your term time address is up to date on MyRegistry before you submit any letter requests.

Arriving in the UK

Studying in the UK may seem quite different from studying in your home country. The following organisations offer support and advice, and you can learn more about the different aspects of academic life in the UK:

Study for a UWL degree in your country

3 students in a lecture room with laptops

Did you know we have a UWL campus in the United Arab Emirates? At Ras al Khaimah, our UAE branch, we ensure our courses, support and campus are based on our students' needs.

We also have global partnerships that give you the chance to study for a UWL degree in your home country. With a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, you can gain the same qualification as those awarded in the UK.

Student stories

Alan Szafarczyk, Computer Science student, tells us about what it's like to move to London for university as an international student. 

Student stories

Caleb Essang, MSc Digital Marketing student, talks to us about life as a Nigerian student studying in London.

 

Get in touch

A female UWL student looking on her phone

Our International Office is available for enquiries from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm: 

Ask our International Recruitment Team a question or call us on +44 (0) 20 8231 2440

Prospective students can take a virtual tour or join us in person for a West London Campus tour.