How the British education system works
Overview
British higher education is regulated nationally, so a degree from a modern university and a degree from an ancient one are both full degrees, quality-assured by the same bodies.
Levels and how long they take
| Level | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation year | 1 year | For students whose school qualification is not accepted for direct entry, or who need academic English first. |
| Bachelor's (BA, BSc, BEng, LLB) | 3 years (4 in Scotland or with a placement year) | Honours degrees. A sandwich year adds a paid industry placement. |
| Master's (MA, MSc, MBA, LLM) | 1 year taught, 1 to 2 years research | Taught master's run September to September with a dissertation over the summer. |
| PhD | 3 to 4 years | Independent research with a supervisor. Often funded through studentships. |
Grading
First (70%+), Upper second or 2:1 (60 to 69%), Lower second or 2:2 (50 to 59%), Third (40 to 49%). Master's degrees are awarded with Distinction, Merit or Pass.
Intakes
| Intake | Notes |
|---|---|
| September | Main intake. Widest course choice, most scholarships, apply by June or earlier. |
| January | Second intake at most post-1992 universities and many Russell Group master's. Apply by October. |
| May | Smaller intake for business, computing and management programmes at a handful of universities. |
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How much study gap is accepted for a UK master's?
Most universities accept a gap of two to five years if you can explain it: work, family, an exam attempt, or a business. Gaps longer than that are still possible with relevant work experience. We help you write the explanation the university and the visa officer both want to see.
How much money do I need to show for a UK student visa?
Your first year's tuition fees (minus anything already paid) plus living costs of £1,483 a month in London or £1,136 elsewhere for up to nine months. The money must sit in your or your parents' account for 28 days before you apply. Education loans from recognised lenders are accepted.
Can I get permanent residence after studying in the UK?
Not directly from a student visa. The usual path is Student visa, then Graduate Route, then a Skilled Worker visa with an employer, and after five years on qualifying visas you can apply for settlement. The rules changed in 2025 and may change again, so treat this as the current picture, not a promise.
Do I need IELTS for the UK?
Many universities accept a Medium of Instruction letter, or your school English marks, instead of IELTS, especially for students from India, Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. Others insist on IELTS, PTE or the Duolingo English Test. We check each course before you spend money on a test.