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Gain insights into the United Kingdom higher education framework, academic culture, teaching methods, and grading system to prepare for your studies.
3 years in England, for example the BSc at the University of Manchester; usually 4 years in Scotland
Level 6: the UK level of a course (6 is a bachelor's, 7 a master's). For example a BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons). Honours degrees get a grade.
Often 1 year full time for a master's with classes
Level 7. For example an MA or an MSc (master's in science). An integrated master's (a bachelor's and master's in one degree), such as an MEng, is also level 7.
Doctorate
Level 8. For example a PhD or DPhil.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland have 9 qualification levels. Degrees are levels 6, 7 and 8. Scotland has its own framework.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland use 9 levels. Scotland has its own framework.
Level 6.
Level 7.
Level 7.
Level 8.
A UK bachelor's degree with honours gets a grade, called a class. Universities work it out from your average mark.
| Letter Grade | Percentage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| First Class (1st) | 70 and above | The highest class. |
| Upper Second (2:1) | 60 to below 70 | Upper second class, often written 2:1. Many master's courses ask for it. |
| Lower Second (2:2) | 50 to below 60 | Lower second class, often written 2:2. |
| Third Class | 40 to below 50 | The lowest honours class. |
Most universities start in late September and finish in June.
28 September to 11 December 2026
11 January to 26 March 2027
26 April to 25 June 2027
28 September to 11 December 2026
25 January to 7 May 2027
Start dates can differ by department.
For a Student visa, your university must be a licensed sponsor: a university the UK government approves for international students.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the UK visa office, keeps the list.
The list of places licensed to sponsor Student visas.
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