Do I need a visa to study in the UK?
Yes, the majority of international students studying full-time require a student visa. Our International advice team offers guidance on applying for and meeting the visa requirements. London Met's International advice team supports students in understanding how to apply and meet all the requirements, including demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your course fees and living costs, for your UK visa.
How do I apply for a student visa?
To apply for a student visa, you need an offer from a UK university where you have demonstrated your academic ability, English language proficiency, a valid passport, and financial evidence that you can support yourself. If you meet all the requirements, you will be provided with a CAS and can apply online through the UK Visas and Immigration website. Please note, most international students will need to attend an in-person interview and/or a biometric appointment (eg, photo and fingerprints).
Can I work while studying?
Yes, with a student visa, you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Find out more about working in the UK.
What opportunities are there for post-study work in the UK after graduation?
The UK currently offers the Graduate Route visa, allowing eligible international students to stay and work in the UK for two years after completing their degree.
My family wants to visit me in the UK, do they need a visa?
This depends on their passport, length of stay, and plans while travelling. They can use the UK government website to check if and what visa they need. The UK government has announced a plan to gradually roll out Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETAs) from 2024, requiring travellers to apply online prior to travel, including for countries who did not previous need to apply. Please check the government website before travelling.
How can I fund my studies?
Funding options include personal savings, family contributions, educational loans, scholarships, and part-time work. London Met offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the International Bright Futures scholarship.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
International students are required to pay a deposit equal to 50% of the tuition fees for the first year. This must be paid before a CAS can be assigned. Students fully funded through some educational funding channels, such as US Financial aid, will have their deposit fee waived.
What should I budget for?
You should account for several key expenses: your course tuition fees, accommodation costs, visa application fees, the NHS healthcare surcharge, cost to travel to a visa centre, daily living expenses (such as food, bills, and local travel), initial and return flights, academic supplies, and personal insurances. It's also advisable to set aside funds for leisure activities and unforeseen expenses.
What are the entry requirements for London Met?
Review our entry requirements by country.
Do I need to take an English Language test?
Review our English language requirements.
What is UCAS and how does it work?
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the centralised service that students use to apply to undergraduate courses in the UK. International applicants wanting to study full-time, can choose to apply via UCAS or directly to the university. Applicants can be linked with their school via a ‘buzzword’ if there school is a UCAS centre.
Should I apply direct or via UCAS?
International undegraduate applicants can apply via UCAS or direct. For students applying direct the university does not charge a fee. For applicants applying via UCAS the website will charge a fee to apply to up to 5 courses. Students applying via UCAS can apply to multiple universities at the same time, whereas applying directly will only create an application for London Metropolitan University.
Postgraduate applicants must apply directly.
What should I include in my personal statement?
Your UCAS personal statement should reflect your academic interests, career goals, relevant work or study experience, and motivations for choosing the course. The UK puts greater emphasis on your academic focus. See our International application guide for more support.
What should I include in my international supplementary form?
See our for information on what to include in the international supplementary form.
How soon after applying can I expect a decision?
For questions about applying, including how we make decisions, how to check on an application's progress and more, check out our applying FAQs.
What is the deadline to apply?
Deadlines vary according to intake and course. Find our most up to date deadlines.
Can I visit the campus?
Yes! Please see out events page for our upcoming events. If you are unable to make these dates please message international@londonmet.ac.uk to inquire about booking a campus tour.
What do students from my country need to know about attending London Met?
Find country-specific information and check out our international pages.
What are the term dates at London Met?
The academic term dates vary depending on your level of study and start date. Within the UK it is common to have larger breaks around Christmas, Easter and the summer.
What support services are available for international students at London Met?
London Met offers various support services, including library services, counselling, career advice, clinics, disability and dyslexia (including mental health) and many more.
I have a disability and would like to talk with staff about how London Met can support me?
You can contact our disability and dyslexia team by emailing studentservices@londonmet.ac.uk or calling +44 (0) 207 320 2848.
What extracurricular activities does London Met offer?
London Met offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, societies, social spaces, and cultural events.
How can I meet other international students when I arrive?
London Met has various societies and clubs, including international student groups. For students arriving in September or January we arrange international orientation a few days prior to general orientation where you can meet other international students.
Can I speak with a London Met representative?
Yes, you can message international@londonmet.ac.uk with any specific questions. You can also check out our meet us overseas page to see the events we are attending in person in your country. Finally you can speak with our students directly via our chat service.
Where can I find out more about what its like being at student at London Met?
Check out our videos, read our student blogs and articles and explore our social media channels to hear students experiences of student life at London Metropolitan University.
What accommodation options are available for students at London Met?
London Met does not own or manage any halls of residence (student dormitories); however, there are several privately owned halls providers. Alternatively, students may choose to search for privately rented accommodation. More information can be found on our accommodation pages, including answers to the most commonly asked questions about accommodation.
What is it like for students to live in the UK?
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming at times. We have created these student life webpages to cover a range of topics, such as safety, medical care, opening a bank account and more.
How safe is London?
London is a major city with a generally good safety record, but like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions. Find out more about personal safety and common scams. In an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, ambulance, or coastguard services, for non-emergency enquiries contact 101 (police).
How can I travel around London?
London has an extensive, 24-hour, public transport system, including buses, the Tube (subway), trains, trams, boats, and bicycles. Students can apply for a student Oyster card for discounted fares and may be eligible for a railcard. Due to the extensive transport system most students chose not to get a car whilst studying in London however you can find out more information about driving in the UK. Whilst living in London you will be in easy reach of cities across the UK and Europe with London being a hub for coach and train travel and served by 6 airports and the Eurostar.
How do I access medical care, and do I need health insurance to study in the UK?
As an international student, you'll have access to the National Health Service (NHS) through the immigration health surcharge paid whilst applying for your visa. You may also opt for additional private health insurance. You should register with a General Practitioner (GP) as soon as possible once you arrive in the UK. More information can be found on our health page including information about bringing you medical history and dental care. For non-emergency medical attention, you can visit a local GP, walk-in centre or call 111. In an emergency, you should call 999 and/or go to the nearest hospital's Accident and Emergency department (A&E).
What should I pack for my move to London?
Pack essentials like clothing (with good waterproof shoes), personal documents, electronic devices, and any specific academic materials. You will have access to a range of shops and online retailors so will be able to purchase anything you need. For electrical items, Britain uses 240 volts AC at 50HZ. Most power sockets are designed for standard three-pin square plugs. If your devices have different plugs, you'll need a plug adapter or converter.
Are there any specific items I can't bring into the UK?
Certain items are restricted or prohibited from being brought into the UK, such as controlled drugs, medicines, firearms, weapons (including pepper stray), and certain food products. Check the UK government website for a full list.
Do I need to open a UK bank account?
While it's not mandatory, having a UK bank account can make financial management easier, including paying bills and receiving any potential UK income.
Will my mobile phone work in the UK?
This depends on your phone and your carrier. It's best to check with your provider; you may need to unlock your phone before traveling. We typically recommend students get a UK SIM card for local and cheaper rates. These can be purchased at the airport, online or at several high street (main street) retailers.
What is the cost of living in London for a student?
The cost of living varies, but students should budget for accommodation, bills, food, travel, books, and personal expenses. International students applying for a visa are required to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living experiences.
What can I do in London?
London is bursting with activities for every interest as one of the world’s most diverse and exciting capital cities! From exploring world-class museums like the British Museum and the Tate Modern to catching a show in the West End. Foodies can revel in diverse culinary scenes at markets like Borough Market, while history buffs can wander the historic streets and visit landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Don't forget the plethora of parks and gardens and greenspaces that London has to offer. Read more about what you can explore in London and within our local community.
What cultural activities are available in London?
London's cultural landscape is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from art exhibitions and theatre productions to music gigs and film screenings. Many museums and galleries offer free entry or discounted tickets for students. London's cultural festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from literature to film, food, and fashion.
How can I explore London's history and heritage?
London's history can be explored through its historical landmarks, from the Roman walls to medieval castles and Victorian museums. Joining walking tours, visiting historical sites like the Tower of London, or exploring the city's many museums can provide a deep dive into London's rich past.
Where can I find student discounts in London?
Students in London can take advantage of numerous discounts on transport, entertainment, shopping, and dining. The Student Oyster Card offers reduced fares on the Tube, buses, and trams. Additionally, many museums, cinemas, and theatres offer student rates, and countless restaurants and retail outlets provide discounts upon presenting a student ID. Additionally, you can use online websites such as UniDays and Student Beans for more discounts.
What is the date and time format within the UK?
The date format within the UK is Day / Month / Year. It is also common for the UK to use the 24-hour clock format e.g., 18:00 instead of 6pm.
What measurement system does the UK use?
The UK using a mix of metric and imperial measurements e.g., temperature is measured in Celsius whereas the road speed limit is in miles.