Colleges in London - Levels of Higher Education in The UK

There are a diverse variety of type and level of qualifications available at universities and colleges in London.

There are two main types and levels of qualification in UK Higher Education, Vocational and Academic which are linked to the Qualifications Credits Framework (QCF) and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ).

Career-Related Qualifications

Vocational qualifications are measured by level and size according to credit value, or accumulated learning hours and are structured around the QCF. As well as eight Levels of Study which increase in complexity, there are three sizes of vocational qualification from Awards which bear between 1 and 12 credits to Diplomas which bear 37 or more Credits. Qualifications awarded in Higher Education colleges in London start from Level 4 of this framework.

The QCF also aligns with a European framework so that National Qualifications can be recognized of equal value in EU countries.

Recognized Awarding Body Qualifications

University colleges in London award Academic Qualifications in compliance with the Quality Assurance Agency and FHEQ, a framework uniquely associated with recognized UK University awarding bodies.

Level 4 of the QCF is equal to the first level of the FHEQ which defines each level of study by Undergraduate Foundation degree, Bachelor’s degree, progressing to Postgraduate Masters and Doctorate at level 8.

The duration and level of Academic study varies from a 3 year Undergraduate Degree equal to Level 6 of the QCF to a Postgraduate Doctorate at Level 8 and may be studied for an unspecified amount of time.

An Adaptable Pathway to your Chosen Career

One year Diplomas are vocational qualifications taught at some accredited colleges in London and can be a more accessible pathway towards Academic study in Higher Education. Diplomas at Level 4 and Level 5 are equivalent to the first and second year of an Undergraduate Bachelor’s Degree, and can be converted to a recognized Higher Education Academic qualification by completing a final Top up year equal to the final year of a Bachelor’s Degree.

The diverse qualifications and levels offered at colleges in London may seem slightly bewildering, but despite the seeming complexity of the UK Higher Education system, the two qualification frameworks utilized enable students to choose a flexible and specialized route in any subject area whether it’s by gaining an accredited career related qualification or by developing academic and research skills through an internationally recognized degree.

Study In London - Significant Considerations for Success

By taking a few easy steps you will ensure a great arrival when you study in London. There are quite a few international groups that support students when they arrive in London after leaving the safety of their homes. The information below should help you in getting ready to leave.

Student Immigration Help

Make sure that you understand the exact visa requirements before you start the process. The best places to start would be the UK Border and Immigration Agency (UKBA), UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) and British Council as they are the official sources and give you the most accurate information.

Before Departure

Make sure you have a map of London and know exactly where your college is (Google the location). There are a number of student blogs that you can read with more information of what life is like when you study in London. Ask if your school has a Facebook or social network page to put you in touch with other students as no one can help you more than a students that have been through the experience.

London's Transport System

The "Tube" or London underground is divided into 6 zones and you are charged depending on how far you travel in these zones. Zone 1 is "the City" and 6 are more towards the suburbs. Students get an amazing 30% discount on most public transport in London! Get your student card from your school and start enjoying the benefit of this discount for almost any duration ticket you buy. The TFL (Transport for London) administers this system and your college should point you to them.

Railcards for Students

Apply for this card if you are between the ages of 16-25 and you are able to travel all over the UK at discounted prices. The card is valid for a year and available at most railway stations at a small cost. 16-25railcard.co.uk will give you all the info you need.

Where to Stay

Students have more than enough options to choose from when it comes to accommodation in London. Accommodation and schools are almost synonymous and students will always find something that suits their needs.

Important Health and Safety Pointers

If you are on a 12 month or longer course you will have access to the NHS (National Health Services). Almost all medical care is free while you study in London although dental treatments will have to be paid for. Your college will help you with the process of registering with the NHS.

Employment in London

Most students are allowed to work under certain conditions while they study in London. The rules around student working hours are regulated by the UKBA and you should confirm the latest regulation before you start working. There are diverse options for employment as many of the top companies in the world have offices in London. Start your search for a job on the internet. There are also newspapers that students can look at and some of them are free (Metro & Standard).

Banking Cards for Students

Many international banks have students account and it is worth trying opening a bank account before you leave for London. Most banks in London are student friendly and students can open up a bank account having your passport at hand. Take your time in choosing a bank that is right for you as there are so many options to choose from.

Keeping in Touch

A mobile phone in London is a must so make sure you have one when you get there. There are more than enough options to choose from when you start looking at mobile packages. Pay As You Go (pre-paid) sim cards are available with cheap international rates and there is no reason to sign lengthy contracts. There are many international options and it is worth spending time getting the best one for your home country.

Final Move

You have to of course make sure you go to the right school for you. Fortunately there are so many sources and guides to help you make the decision in selecting a school that is right for you. Take some time to read the advice and make sure you ask all the right questions. A good way to see the schools is by joining a summer session during the European summer to sample a few schools. Now you are ready to

Significant Things to Know When you Want to Study in London

Considerations to study in London make it extremely important to understand what to consider before you come to London and in this article I will share with you the most important factors in making your decision. The factors to avoid will also be covered in subsequent articles.

The most important factor to consider is the University, School or College you choose. There are 2 reasons why this is an important consideration, the first being the network of people you will build up during your period of study in London and secondly, the ranking of the institution you will be studying at.

The network of people you gather during your studies could result in you finding work through them and also you having access to people you may well one day want to appoint. You can choose the best of these students and appoint them in your company one day.

Universities are ranked in the UK by a number of publications, most notably the Times Higher Education and the Guardian. Higher ranking often means higher price, but can also come with better facilities. If you perform well academically the school ranking could be less important when looking for a job, find a school that suits your pocket.

The student profile at the school should also influence your decision to study in London. Student profiles is a very important piece of information and you should not hesitate to ask for it. It is important to study with people of similar ability to yourself as this will not drain your acquired skill but rather help you enhance it.

Lecturers would be the obvious next factor to consider before you study in London...make sure that you look at a lecturer profiles. Make sure you get it. Teaching experience and qualifications are very important and can make the difference between pass and fail.

Class size has impact on your own student experience as well as your potential to pass. Many institutions, Universities in the main, have classes of 300+ and your chances of seeing your lecturer are very slim...it is good to avoid this. Class sizes of between 25-40 are ideal and you will find many colleges offering this.

Study in London - Why London is the Best Place to Study?

If you have always wanted to boost your career or further your studies, why not study in London? London is famous for its vested mercantile operations, fashion, culture, sports and music. It is also equally recognized across the globe for its acclaimed universities.

Here are a few reasons why London is a great place to live.

1. Most international students get their first taste of England in London which is the capital city. Just like most capital cities, London has a variety of culture that is evident, so no matter where you originated there are likely to be many people from the same background while you study in London.

2. London has gained a lot of respect and has become popular for the diverse industries it has to offer. Some of these enterprises include finance and business, IT, sports, culture and the most noteworthy being hospitality. International students will be able to put their experience to use and bring growth to any occupation in their chosen industry.

3. An array of universities and colleges in London have links that contain information on industries locally where you can ask questions regarding assistance with your course, or work experience. When local business companies are in need of temporary staff or research assistants on a fixed term they usually take international students into consideration.

4. There are a lot of jobs that are attainable while you study in London; it is surely an advantage if you have studied a competitive discipline greatly because of the sheer volume and diversity of industries in London. You will have the best chance of being employed in London than most other cities in the UK.

5. Different individuals often choose to study in London because they are attracted to the globally diverse student community and multicultural way of life. Therefore it is easy to see why London is a popular choice with international students. A perfect way to discover and experience the world is to chose London as a place to study and jump start your career.

6. It is not just the UK that is getting more international students, but this seems to be the trend all over the world. London gives international students a chance to better their English skills and the ability to interact with businesses overseas.

7. Once you start to look past the employment and collegiate aspects of London you will be in awe of their breath taking attractions such as museums, the West End, the Royals to mention just a few. You are pretty much on Europe's doorstep and you are lucky enough to be able to explore central Europe as a student with fairly reasonable costs.

8. The number of universities and colleges available in London will assist you in determining what course will not only fit your interest, but also your budget. There are many kinds of discounts available to students in the UK to help relieve the financial stress.

9. When you have accomplished your goals as you study in London, you will then be given the option to remain there if it was not your permanent residence prior to your studies.

10. In closing, there are so many things to do in London that you will never be idle. There are so many events that take place such as football, cricket or other types of social activities that you can attend. You will create friendships that may last a lifetime and meet acquaintances and take your life to a whole new level.

There is no question that London is a magnificent place to live and study. So, why don't you consider enrolling at a quality private college in London that will help you get the kind of life you have always imagined. London School of Business and Management is ready for YOU.

Colleges in London - Make Sure of the Right Choice

When searching for colleges in London, the huge choice of Educational Organisations and courses appear to be overwhelming. Universities and colleges in London enrolled 426,175 students in 2008/9 according to recent research carried out. The 60 public universities and colleges in London are quality controlled by the UK Government run Quality Assurance Agency. In addition to these publicly funded Educational organisations, exist a multitude of specialist Independent colleges offering courses ranging from Diplomas in Fashion Drawing to Masters of Business and Administration.

Finding a Good College in London

If you are searching for colleges in London from overseas you may have made your final selection online. Please be cautious and do your homework before you make any payments!

Check if the college is recognized to issue UK degrees and qualifications. Unfortunately, fraudulent independent colleges in London attract many International students each year by purporting to be either accredited or of university status.

Recognised UK Degree Awarding Bodies

Universities and colleges in the UK are renowned throughout the world for their academic excellence partly due to strict external reviews which must be carried out at every publicly funded educational organisation. For an educational institute to be able to call itself a university and to have UK degree awarding powers it must be assessed by the Advisory Committee on Degree Awarding Powers (ACDAP), part of the UK Quality Assurance Agency of Higher Education (QAA) and is required to carry out regular and mandatory external quality assurance reviews. Quite a mouthful!

Once the HEI has been officially accepted by ACDAP it can be added to the DBIS list of Recognised Bodies and is authorised as an Independent Organization to award UK certified qualifications.

Look Out for Bogus Colleges in London

Private colleges are not legally required to undergo external quality reviews and cannot be registered as Recognized Bodies preventing them from independently distributing UK degrees as an official university. If you are a prospective International student about to apply to any of the private colleges in London, please make the following checks before signing anything.

Precautionary Checks

• Do not approach any private college without accreditation from an independent external quality agency such as the British Accreditation Council (BAC).
• Ensure the college is recorded by DBIS as a Listed Body, and affiliated with a recognized UK university.
• Ensure that the college is partnered with an internationally recognized awarding body by checking on UK NARIC.
• Make sure the college offers accredited qualifications by a recognized awarding organization such as Edexcel or OCR listed on the Register of Regulated Qualifications (OFQUAL).
• Do not choose a college which is not authorized by the UK Border Agency to enrol international students.
• Only colleges which have official Tier 4 licences registered with the UK Border Agency have the authority to distribute Visa letters (CAS letters).

It is undeniable that there is a broad spectrum of courses and colleges in London to choose from providing a host of opportunities, however to ensure you get the best learning experience from one of the leading cities for study in the world, make sure you do your homework first.

Colleges in London: No 1 Destination

London is a primary location for International students. Colleges in London have so much more to offer students on campus as well as off campus compared with other colleges in the world.

The following points touch on why people like to study at colleges in London:

• Placed in the top 10 ranking universities of the world, and top 20 ranking universities in Europe, Imperial, UCL, Kings and LSE are all located in London. These top - ranking colleges set a high benchmark of standard for all other educational institutions in London offering Undergraduate and Postgraduate qualifications. With a vast selection of colleges and courses to study.
   
• With over 30000 courses on offer, from level 3 foundation to level 8 PhD, from over 40 colleges in London, there is no limit of options.
   
• Colleges in London are well equipped for students carrying out research for their studies providing access to over 350 public libraries, plus archives of many organisations and professional bodies, most notably the British Library which houses 14 million books, 920,000 journal and newspaper titles, 58 million patents, and 3 million sound recordings. (bl.uk).
   
• The multicultural student community of London offers students an extensive learning experience and opportunity to gain cultural understanding. Statistics indicate that 90,000 International students from over 200 countries worldwide study in London contributing to an overall population of 400,000 students in London. 25% of the total International student population in the UK in 2009 were studying in London.
   
• Students at Colleges in London can benefit from a diverse landscape of employment opportunities and internships. Colleges in London will usually have professional networks with leading businesses which will be based in London. The scope of job opportunities and career prospects in organizations in London is easily accessible to London's students.
   
• As an International student, it is more economical and accessible to live in London rather than other UK cities if you wish to return home during holidays or have visitors to stay from overseas.
   
• Life as a student in London is economical.
   
• Travel discounts are available for students at colleges in London through the TFL 30% Oyster discount scheme for transport in London and the Young Persons Railcard for travel around the rest of the UK.

Numerous other student discounts can be discovered in London on music, books, clothes, and tickets.

Its cool being a student in London!

You will always be able to find something fun to do in London even without spending any money. Students at colleges in London have access to many free events, galleries, live music, museums, historical buildings and parks.

For those prospective students deciding between colleges in London and colleges in other parts of the UK, choose London if you want to have a one of a kind learning experience!

Colleges in London - Settling into Student Life in the UK

The thought of re-locating to study abroad may seem overwhelming, however many Universities and colleges in London will assist International students by providing support services which can make the process of settling into the UK slightly easier. An accommodation service is usually included amongst these services, which provides information and assistance for students looking for somewhere to live.

Accommodation for Students

Students will usually have the option of living in Halls of Residence which is a specific type of accommodation offered by universities and colleges in London. Halls of Residence are university or privately owned and managed, custom built accommodation blocks for students only.

It is possible to live in single sex or mixed residences if you prefer, and you will find the location of the accommodation is likely to be near or on the college site. These residences do not usually provide prepared meals, but generally are well-suited to overseas students who would like to be part of a student community. Prices vary depending on location, size of room and whether they are private or college owned but generally start at around £213 a week for a room with an ensuite bathroom in Zone 1.

Positive Aspects of Student Halls of Residence

Choosing Halls of Residence benefits overseas students by providing an accommodation option with the least amount of risk in terms of expectation. Students will know exactly where they will be living in London and with whom, providing a relatively easy and worry-free choice of accommodation and lifestyle. Halls of Residence provide new students with a friendly, often International community to engage with, and are usually located within walking distance from the college campus.

This type of accommodation is usually self contained and standardized with inclusive high specification facilities such as private kitchens, bathroom, TV, internet and onsite laundries and community relaxation areas.

Some communal, on site facilities provided by Halls of Residence may include a Gym, laundry, café, shop and bar.

If you want to study and live centrally, Halls of Residence provided by colleges in London, or even privately owned are often the most affordable and convenient option for International students.

Also, Halls of Residence buildings maintain a strict security system enabling students to feel free to leave their belongings safely if travelling during the holidays.

Restrictions of Halls of Residence

Living in Halls of Residence may present limitations for some people which may make it a less suitable accommodation option.
Certain restrictions exist in most Halls of Residence relating to a minimum stay of 50 weeks, advance payment required and a limit to the number of visitors a resident is allowed to bring onto the premises at one time.

Despite the fact that most rooms are standardized, some may be very short on space and not comfortable to study in for prolonged periods of time, also you may find that other students in the building can be disruptive.

Most new students starting at colleges in London will spend their first year in Halls of Residence before moving into a less structured type of accommodation, such as a shared house, as it allows them time to settle into living in London and provides an opportunity to develop friendships.

Colleges in London - London is the most Cost Effective Place to Study

As a prospective International student you may be undecided over your choice of study location, between studying in London or outside London.

Costs associated with studying in colleges in London will usually be seen to be higher than those at other colleges in the UK. Perhaps unexpectedly, according to a survey investigating the cost of study in Higher Education London was found to be the most economical place to study, and York was found to be the least economical student location.

Abundance of Free Resources Outweighs Costs on Travel and Property

It is true that studying at colleges in London could be seen as more costly due to high property prices and demand, and relatively costly travel on the London Underground. Nonetheless higher expenses are certainly overshadowed by all that London has to offer students in terms of resources, entertainment and discounts.

Savings for Students on Travel in London

Full-time students at colleges in London are entitled to discounted travel around the capital, as part of the TFL Student Oyster Discount scheme. The cost of a monthly travel card in Zones 1 and 2 drops from £106.00 to £74.20 if this scheme is used. London transport also includes a large bus network covering the expanse of the capital which is equal in cost to bus transport anywhere else in the UK.

Unrestricted Travel in London

A TFL Student Oyster card will benefit students at colleges in London not only in financial terms, but also in time in contrast to students studying elsewhere.With instant access to some of Europe's leading academic resources as well as unparalleled night life, students at colleges in London will be able to take full advantage of all that the capital has to offer.

Free Talks Led by Leading Professionals

Many students at colleges outside London will not have the opportunities presented to London's students, to attend the multitude of diverse free lectures and talks on offer and ultimately become part of communities of practice at the top of their field. Most of the Institutes, Museums and colleges in London specialising in Business, Science, Arts and Humanities will hold a regular programme of free monthly lectures led by globally recognized professors, researchers and statesmen. Time Out London and the Friday Guardian Supplement will often be a good place to find listings for all the free events happening in London week by week.

Student Savings on Almost Anything

Numerous discounts are available to students at colleges in London, in addition to free activities, on a vast array of things to do and buy. London is a great place especially for students, to find bargains as there is so much choice and opportunity to shop around for the best priced products on offer.

Colleges in London - Earn While You Learn

Students at colleges in London earn on average £167.40 a week from part-time work according to a survey investigating cost and place of study across the UK indicating that students in London have higher earning potential than those based further afield.

A Principal Financial Centre of the World

London is a leading centre of national, European and Global Business and Service Sector Industries, and houses the Headquarters of over 100 of Europe's largest 500 companies. More than 85% of London's inhabitants work in the Service Industry Sector which provides various employment prospects. For students at colleges in London employment is accessible due to the high numbers and types of companies in this Sector such as Hospitality, Retail, Health, Media and Business.

Work Adaptable, Part -Time Hours in London

As a result, students at colleges in London will find it relatively easy to find flexible part-time or Holiday work in areas such as hotel, catering and administration to fit in around their studies and supplement living expenses. Students working in part-time jobs in London will undoubtedly earn more than students doing the same type of work elsewhere in the UK, so they will not have to spend as much time working and can direct their energies on their studies instead. Often colleges in London will have a specialist service for students providing information about part-time work opportunities. The benefits gained by International students even working part-time will not only be monetary, but will also be in the form of vital experience of London work life and by contributing to students communication skills.

Graduate Career Prospects

Apart from the advantages of increased earning potential, 90% of 55,000 skilled graduates from colleges in London effectively find employment in the capital and South East, according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency. On top of part-time and temporary employment opportunities, students at colleges in London will be in close proximity of the Headquarters of many International companies in their chosen subject area. Companies in London will often provide Internships and work experience opportunities which can easily be seized by students living in the capital and may result in a career break.

Enhancing your Prospects

From an economical perspective, choosing to gain an education from colleges in London, over those located in the rest of the UK, will ultimately be an investment of time and money by providing a significant array of prospects and new experiences to develop your future.

How To Select a Desirable College When You Plan To Study at Colleges in London

If you are searching for colleges in London, it would not be surprising if you felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume on offer. Recent figures indicate that there were 426,175 students enrolled at universities and colleges in London. The UK Quality Assurance Agency, funded by the Government, strictly monitors the 60 public universities and colleges in London. Apart from the public universities and colleges of London are a whole host of Independent colleges some of which specialise in courses as varied as Diplomas in Fashion Drawing to Masters in Business Administration.

Locating the Best Colleges in London

As a prospective International student it is possible that you have found your chosen college in London using the internet. Please be cautious and do your homework before you make any payments!

Make sure the college is established to give out accredited qualifications. Unfortunately, fraudulent independent colleges in London attract many International students each year by purporting to be either accredited or of university status.

Recognised UK Degree Awarding Bodies

The UK Higher Educations' well-reputed status is sustained by mandatory rules of standardisation. In order for an HEI to be recognised as a university with awarding powers it is required to undergo review by ACDAP, a division of the UK QAA.

For a university to be able to issue its own certified qualifications, it must be both approved by ACDAP and registered as a Recognized Body by the DBIS.

Do Not be Deceived by Fraudulent Colleges in London

Independent colleges are not entitled to award their own UK degrees as a Recognised Body such as a university and are under legal obligation to be regularly quality assessed. The following points must be considered by prospective students from overseas applying to any of the independent colleges in London.

Flashing Hazard Lights

• Beware of any college which has not been reviewed by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), or a similar quality assurance agency for the private sector.

• Check that the college is listed on the register of Listed Bodies by the DBIS, and linked with a Recognized Body, or official university.

• Ensure that the college is partnered with an internationally recognized awarding body by checking on UK NARIC.

• Make sure the college offers accredited qualifications by a recognized awarding organization such as Edexcel or OCR listed on the Register of Regulated Qualifications (OFQUAL).

• Do not choose a college which is not authorized by the UK Border Agency to enrol international students.

• Visa letters (CAS letters) can only be issued by registered colleges with a valid Tier 4 licence from the UK BA.

The infinite choice of courses and colleges in London provides an option for anyone wanting to broaden their horizons, however to make sure you do not get caught out and have the most beneficial time of your life it is surely worth asking a few more questions before deciding on that college.