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Frequently Asked Questions
You may find the answer to a specific question you have about the International Study Centre on this page. See frequently asked questions and answers about:
- Your University degree
- Courses at the ISC (general information)
- Undergraduate Certificate
- Pre-Masters
- Location in the UK
- The University and its campus
- Accommodation
- Entry requirements
- English Language Preparation (for Undergraduate Certificate)
- English for Pre-Masters (EPM)
- Fees
- Dates
- Applying
- Pre-arrival (insurance, visas, travel etc)
- Contacting us
Your University Degree
How long are undergraduate University degrees in Scotland?
Scotland operates a 4 year degree system. However, the Undergraduate Certificate foundation course equates to the first year of degree study and on completion, students move into the second year of an undergraduate degree. Therefore, international students can still complete their university study in 4 years.
How long are Masters degrees in Scotland?
In the UK, a Masters degree lasts 12 months (compared to two years in most other countries, including the USA and Australia). The Pre-Masters programme helps students to reach their potential in their Masters degree.
Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at that University?
If you obtain the required grades at the end of your ISC course, you are guaranteed a place on a Heriot-Watt University degree. Undergraduate students who have received a Certificate at the end of their study at ISC but fail to meet the standard for progression onto the second year, will be guaranteed a place in the first year of an undergraduate degree at Heriot-Watt University.
What grades do I need to achieve on my Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters course to gain a degree place?
You can find the grades required for each degree in the progression table in the Your Degree section.
When do I have to choose the undergraduate degree I want to study?
You apply to take a particular subject route through the Undergraduate Certificate, in line with your intended area of undergraduate study, and then are helped to select your actual degree course during your year at the International Study Centre.
Do I need to take an IELTS exam before progressing on to a degree?
No. You can take the ISC English test if you do not have a current IELTS or TOEFL grade. We will be able to make you an offer of a place on a course on the basis of this assessment but you will not be able to confirm your place without proof of a valid SELT.
A SELT, Secure English Language Test, is a test which is recognised by the UK Border Agency as proof of your English level when you apply for a student visa for the UK. For a full list of SELTs, see the pdf on the UKBA website.
Can I go on to study at a different university?
No, if you take the Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters at Heriot-Watt University International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree at the Heriot-Watt University.
Courses at the ISC
Who are the ISC courses validated by?
Heriot-Watt University.
Who are the ISC courses taught by?
ISC Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters courses are run and taught by Study Group, a world leader in education and training for international students. Every year, Study Group provides courses for 50,000 students from 120 countries. The International Study Centre is a dynamic partnership between the University and Study Group. All ISC teachers are specialists in university preparation.
Where are the ISC courses taught?
Courses are taught at the International Study Centre, located on the Heriot-Watt University campus. You will study alongside British and other International students at the University.
How will I be assessed during the Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters courses?
By a mixture of examinations, assessed coursework, presentations, case studies and essays.
Undergraduate Certificate
Who is the course designed for?
The Undergraduate Certificate is a foundation course or all international students, including those who have completed High School but who do not yet meet the University's undergraduate entrance requirements. The Undergraduate Certificate is for you if you want a course that gives you the best opportunity for degree success and improves your English.
Note that the International Study Centre does not accept HEU (home or EU) students.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose from three subject routes:
What will I study on the Undergraduate Certificate?
All subject routes are modular in structure. There are four core modules common to each route: English Skills for University Study 1, 2 and 3 and Project Study. Students also study specific subject modules carefully designed to focus on the academic areas most useful to their chosen degree.
How many hours a week will I study?
Study is for 36 hours per week, including 16 hours of class contact time (lecture and seminar style) and a minimum of 20 hours per week made up of small group seminar work and directed self-study.
How long is the Undergraduate Certificate foundation course?
3 terms. The length of a term varies between 10 and 12 weeks. These three terms will take place within one year, starting in September or January. You will then start your undergraduate degree the following September.
How long do I study each module?
Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week.
Pre-Masters course
Who is the course designed for?
The Pre-Masters is for International students whose academic qualifications do not yet meet the University's postgraduate degree entrance requirements. The Pre-Masters is for you if you want a programme that takes you to the right academic level, or want to refresh your knowledge, as well as improving your English. The Pre-Masters programme will give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in your Masters studies.
What subjects can I study?
The Pre-Masters course covers a range of subjects. Successful students can choose to progress to a range of masters degrees
What is the structure of the Pre-Masters course?
The course is modular.You will study eight credit-bearing modules in total: four in term 1 and four in term 2. Some modules are English skills for academic study and some cover academic subjects.
How long is the Pre-Masters course?
2 terms. However if you do not meet the English language requirements you will need to study one or two terms of English for Pre-Masters (EPM).
The length of a term varies between 10 and 12 weeks.
Location in the UK
Where in the UK will I be studying?
On the campus of Heriot-Watt University. The University is in Scotland, the country neighbouring England to the north – and part of the UK. The campus is on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city.
Why study in Scotland?
Scotland’s universities have been world leaders in education for 500 years. Statistics show that more students in Scotland successfully complete their courses than anywhere in the UK, and that nowhere has a better record in getting students into jobs or further study. Over 170,000 students study in Scotland from more than 100 different countries. In addition, graduates from a Scottish Institution now have the opportunity to apply to remain in the UK to work for up to two years after graduation under the new Post Study immigration scheme. For more information visit the Scotland is the Place website.
How far is the campus from the nearest city?
Seven miles - a 30-45 minute bus ride to the centre of Edinburgh, or 20 minutes by taxi.
What is the nearest city like?
Edinburgh is a culturally diverse, historically significant, socially alive, environmentally aware, politically central, visually stimulating experience. It is Scotland’s stunning capital and one of Europe's most attractive, historic and inspiring cities. Edinburgh's famed international festivals attract the world's leading performers. The city skyline is dominated by Scotland's most famous castle but there's also world-class museums and art galleries, open-top bus tours and Edinburgh Zoo. Bars, restaurants and clubs create a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The Visit Scotland website gives information for visitors.
What is the cost of living?
Scotland is considered to have a relatively low cost of living, when compared to other parts the UK as a whole. You should expect to spend about £8,000 on living expenses (not including tuition fees or student insurance) during each academic year. This is only a guide figure and the amount you actually do spend is very much down to lifestyle choice. In addition to your accommodation rent, you are likely to have to pay extra for utilities if you move into privately-rented student accommodation in subsequent years (gas and electricity are inclusive of rent in University-managed residences). When planning a budget, some basic costs that should be taken into account include:
- Food (around £35 per week)
- Laundry (£6 per week on campus)
- Clothing (£300 per year)
- Travel (£31 for a four-week bus pass)
- Books and equipment (varies by department but about £250 per year)
- Social (£35 per week, includes sport, leisure, refreshments, entertainment)
- Telephone (£30 per month - mobile and landline)
How far is Edinburgh from London?
There is a fast, express rail line to London (with frequent services throughout the day, taking about five hours). There are also regular shuttle flights which take under an hour.
What are the nearest international airports?
Edinburgh (EDI) international airport is just six minutes by car from Heriot-Watt's campus. Read more information about travelling to Heriot-Watt by air.
What is the postal address of the International Study Centre?
The campus address of the ISC is only for use by students who are planning their travel to the University for the start of their course:
International Study Centre
Unit 2, Mercury House
Research Park North
Heriot-Watt University
EDINBURGH
EH14 4AP
UK
The University and its campus
How well regarded is the University?
Heriot-Watt University is the eighth oldest higher education institution in the UK, with origins dating back to 1821. Heriot-Watt is consistently rated as one of the top universities by leading national newspapers, and almost all research activity at the Edinburgh Campus is independently assessed at international or national excellence levels.
How many students does the University have?
At just over 7,000 on-campus students, Heriot-Watt is smaller and offers a more personal experience than Edinburgh's other Universities.
How many international students does the University have?
More than a quarter of the student population studying on-campus in Scotland is from outside of the UK.
Will I be a University student while I study at the ISC?
Yes, you will be a member of Heriot-Watt University from the day you start at the International Study Centre. You will have access to the full range of University services and facilities. See more information about the academic resources and campus facilities.
What is the campus like?
Set in 380 acres of mature meadow and woodland to the west of Edinburgh, the campus is modern, spacious and green. It is situated in the conservation area surrounding the city and enjoys a quiet and extremely attractive location. The campus is designed for the career focused, socially engaged, sports playing individual, who also happens to love being close to one of the finest and most attractive cities in the UK See a gallery of campus photos.
Accommodation
Is accommodation guaranteed while I study at the ISC?
Yes, providing you have accepted your offer of an academic place and we receive your accommodation application by any published deadlines, you are guaranteed a place in University-managed accommodation.
Is accommodation guaranteed throughout the rest of my degree?
Only your first year of accommodation is guaranteed. However, subject to availability, final year undergraduate students and first year postgraduate students are normally offered a place if they apply in good time for an on-campus residence.
What type of accommodation is available to me?
Rooms are offered to ISC students on a first come, first served basis:
- For Undergraduate Certificate students: Single en-suite rooms in Robert Bryson Hall
- For Pre-Masters students: Single en-suite rooms in Lord Thomson Hall
Kitchens are shared between 4 to 6 students and each hall has communal facilities including a TV lounge, laundry, 24-hour computer labs and a warden. Read more about University-managed accommodation.
Where is the accommodation?
All University-managed accommodation is on the western side of the campus within a 15 minute walk of the ISC and a 5-10 minute walk of the library, sports centre and Students' Union.
How much is the accommodation?
See accommodation prices for the weekly rent payable for University-managed accommodation.
What is included in the accommodation fees?
All accommodation is self-catering. Fees include utilities (e.g. gas and electricity) and broadband/network access.
Can I stay in my room over the vacations at no extra charge?
If your tenancy agreement includes the Christmas and Easter vacation periods then vacation supplements will not be applicable.
Can I opt to make my own accommodation arrangements?
Students over the age of 18 years can arrange private accommodation. The University's off campus accommodation page includes links to private accommodation options that are available in the area.
However, if you have not pre-booked accommodation in university residences, we are unable to confirm your place at the ISC until you provide contact details of where you intend to stay or details of the arrangements you are proposing to make. This must be completed pre-arrival. Students under 18 years of age are strongly encouraged to stay in University-managed accommodation.
Entry requirements
What are the academic entry requirements for the Undergraduate Certificate foundation course?
A minimum academic background of high school graduation, with good grades or equivalent academic study. See entry requirements page for requirements by country.
What are the academic entry requirements for the Pre-Masters course?
Students are expected to have at least one of the following:
- Recognised higher/advanced diploma in a related subject area
- Recognised (non-honours) degree in related field e.g. Business Studies
- Honours degree in any subject e.g. BA International Relations
See entry requirements page for requirements by country.
Do I need to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam before applying to the International Study Centre?
You may apply to the International Study Centre before taking an English langauage test, however any offer made will be conditional offer which will only be valid once you have satisfied the entry requirements with a Secure English Language Test (SELT). You must have taken a SELT and achieved the required grades to confirm your place on a course.
How old do I have to be to start at the International Study Centre?
There is no legal minimum age requirement, but students are usually:
- Undergraduate Certificate: Most students will be at least 17 years old at the start of the course. Students under the age of 17 who are well qualified for the course will be considered on a case by case basis. Students under the age of 17 who are starting a course in September will be expected to turn 17 during the first term of the course and students starting in January will be expected to turn 17 before the start of the course.
- 20 years old when they start the Pre-Masters
Can ‘overseas’ students apply to the International Study Centre?
Yes, the International Study Centre offers specialised University preparation for 'overseas' students. In broad terms, an 'overseas' student is one who is not normally resident in the UK or in one of the countries of the European Community. Overseas students are accepted onto all ISC academic programmes.
Can UK, EU or EEA students apply to the International Study Centre?
Unfortunately we do not accept applications from Home or EU students. Progression for these students taking the foundation course cannot be guaranteed because competition for places from those students is very high. Instead we recommend students consider joining an A Level course.
English Language Preparation (ELP)
My English Language level does not meet the Undergraduate Certificate entry requirement.
If you do not have the english language level required to study the undergraduate certificate you can study one term of English Language Preparation before you start the Undergraduate Certificate.
See the entry requirements page for more details
How is my English Language assessed for progression onto my ISC academic programme?
At the end of the ELP you will be required to take a SELT exam. The cost of your first SELT exam will be covered by the International Study Centre. If you do not pass the SELT first time with the required grades for the Undergraduate Certificate you will be expected to pay for subsequent exams yourself.
English for Pre-Masters (EPM)
My English Language level does not meet the Pre-Masters entry requirement of IELTS 5.5.
- If you have an IELTS 4.5 (with 4.0 in all subskills) you can study the Pre-Masters with one term of EPM.
- If you have an IELTS 4.0 (with 4.0 in all subskills) you can study the Pre-Masters with two terms of EPM.
Fees
What are the ISC academic and English Language tuition fees?
Tuition fees in pounds sterling (GBP) are shown on the fees page. Tuition fees are likely to rise each academic year.
What are the University degree fees?
See Heriot-Watt Universities fees page for full information about Heriot-Watt University tuition fees.
When are the ISC tuition and accommodation fees payable?
For courses that last three terms or more, the balance of tuition fees can be paid termly, one month before the start of each academic term, or in full in advance in preferred. However, fees for two-term (Pre-Masters) courses must be paid in full in advance.
An Accommodation Confirmation Deposit (ACP) of £2000 must be paid pre-arrival. The remaining balance should be paid to the University when due, after arrival, as per their accommodation Terms and Conditions.
The International Study Centre can not accept cash payments of more than £500.
How can fees can be paid?
We accept payment by cheque, Sterling bank draft, telegraphic transfer or credit card. Credit card payments are accepted in sterling from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Switch, Solo, JCB or Debit Card.
Please note that a 2% surcharge will be added to payments made by credit card, and £1 charge for payments by debit card. However, these surcharges are waived if payment is made before the due date (1 month in advance of your programme start date).
The International Study Centre can not accept cash payments of more than £500.
What bank account should fees be paid into?
Account name: International Study Centre
Account number: 60060832
Sort code: 53-61-02
Swift code: NWBK GB 2L
IBAN Number: GB92 NWBK 5361 0260 0608 32
More information on payment of fees can be found in our Terms and Conditions.
Do I get a refund if I cancel my place?
If you do not meet visa entry requirements, a full refund will be given. A cancellation fee is charged if visa entry requirements have been met. For details see our Terms and Conditions.
Dates
When can I start my ISC programme?
You can start the Undergraduate Certificate and three-term Pre-Masters in either September or January. You can start the two-term Pre-Masters in either January or April.
When can I start the English Language Preparation (ELP) course?
ELP courses start in January, April, June and September each year. Your start date will depend on your English Language level. For the applicable English Language Preparation start dates, see Undergraduate Certificate study plan options and Pre-Masters study plan options.
What are the ISC academic term dates?
Please note that ISC term dates differ from University's semester dates.
| Term | 2011/12 Academic Year | 2012/13 Academic Year |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | 12 September to 9 December 2011 | 10 September to 7 December 2012 |
| Spring | 9 January to 23 March 2012 |
7 January to 22 March 2013 |
| Summer 1 | 10 April to 15 June 2012 | 2 April to 7 June 2013 |
| Summer 2 (Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters) | 18 June to 24 August 2012 | 17 June to 23 August 2013 |
| Summer 2 (English Language Preparation) | 18 June to 31 August 2012 | 17 June to 30 August 2013 |
Can I go home during the holidays?
Students are advised to check with the Head of Centre before booking their travel back home at the end of each term. In particular it is advised that you check with the Head of Centre before booking travel home at the end of the course in case it is necessary to remain in order to receive results and be advised of the next steps in your study plan.
What date do I start my Heriot-Watt University degree?
You move onto your degree programme in the autumn following your ISC academic course i.e. if you begin the Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters in September 2009, January 2010 or April 2010, you will progress to your degree in autumn 2010.
Applying
How do I apply for the Undergraduate Certificate, Pre-Masters and English Language Preparation course?
You need to apply directly to the International Study Centre. Do not apply through UCAS. You can submit your application in three ways:
- Contact our Student Enrolment Advisers using the online enquiry form to begin the application process. You will be required to submit copies of all relevant academic transcripts and certificates of English language qualifications later in the process.
- When you are ready to apply simply fill in the online application form. Please note that you will need to send us documents and transcripts to support your application
(Alternatively you can Download a PDF application form (
, 1.72MB), print it out, complete it and fax it back to us along with the relevant documentation) - Complete the Find a Local Agent form to apply through an educational representative in your country.
What happens after I submit my application?
Read more about the steps in the admissions process.
Who will help me with my application?
One of our team of expert Student Enrolment Advisers, based in the UK, will support you with your application and with the visa process right up until you arrive at the University. Read more in the Contacting us FAQs.
If my application is successful, when will I receive the documentation required for visa application?
Once we have received your £1000 confirmation payment (see the fees FAQ above for details), we will send you a Certificate of Enrolment and Visa Support letter. You will need to submit this with your visa application.
How long does it take to apply to the International Study Centre?
The ISC application process is much faster than applying directly to a University through UCAS. If your application is successful, we can issue an offer within one working week once we have all your relevant documentation.
What is the deadline for applications?
Subject to availability, we continue to consider applications up until the start of the academic programmes. Note that the visa application process may cause delays to admission.
Pre-arrival
Is there an insurance policy offered to international students?
Yes. StudyCare is a comprehensive insurance plan administered by ACE European Group Limited, a leading insurance provider. It has been developed specifically for international students by leading education specialists with over 35 years' experience. View more information about StudyCare insurance
Do I need a visa to study at the ISC?
That depends on your nationality or country of residence. See our visas page for more information. Visas will be issued for 1 year duration, and you will need to apply for a second visa before you start your degree.
Can I work while I am a student in the United Kingdom?
If you are hoping to work while you are in the United Kingdom, you must check the stamp or sticker which is put on your passport by the immigration authorities. If you have a student visa you are allowed to work for 20 hours per week in term time and any amount per week in holiday times. If you have a 'prohibition' stamp then you are not allowed to work. It is a very serious offence if you work without permission.
Further advice can be found on the Heriot-Watt International Student Information website.
How do I get to Heriot-Watt University?
Full details of how to travel to the University are on the Maps and Transport page.
Can I arrange airport collection and how much is it?
You can book an airport pick-up during the application process. This means that a taxi will pick you up on arrival and take you to campus. Airport transfers cost £30 from Edinburgh International airport.
When should I arrive at the University?
You should aim to arrive at the University on the Saturday or Sunday before your course starts.
What will happen when I arrive in the UK?
Specific pre-arrival information will be provided once we receive your flight details and due fees. You can also read the general pre-arrival information for new students or download a pdf file of the latest pre-arrival information (, 579kB).
Contacting us
How do I find out more about the courses, the ISC or the University?
If you have a question and cannot find the answer on this website, please contact us. We will be pleased to help you with any questions you have.
How can I contact the ISC?
You can contact us using the online enquiry form, by telephone, by fax, by post, on Facebook or in person if we are visiting your country. Details are on the How to Contact us page.
Who will answer my questions?
The ISC is run by Study Group, a world leader in education for international students, in partnership with Heriot-Watt University.
Our team of expert Student Enrolment Advisers will assist you with any questions you have, and will help and support you through the application process, until you arrive at the University. Our advisers speak 15 languages between them: English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Arabic, Farsi, Japanese, Spanish, Norwegian, Hungarian, Polish, German, Russian, Portuguese, French and Italian.
Meet our Student Enrolment Advisers.
What if my English isn't very good?
To make it as easy as possible for you, our Advisers speak a variety of languages (see list above), and understand several more. Do not worry if your English is not very good - we are experienced in communicating with non-native English speakers, and we will do our best to understand you.
How can I get in content with current students at Heriot-Watt?
Heriot-Watt International Study Centre is on Facebook. Join our Facebook community to connect with ISC students and staff, ask questions and leave messages.
I am trying to use your enquiry form but it does not work.
Apologies! We try to avoid errors on our enquiry form but sometimes they can occur. You may wish to contact us by phone or fax instead:
Phone: +44 (0) 1273 339333 (omit the zero if you are calling from outside the UK. Normal international charges apply. Our working hours are 09:00 to 17:30 GMT).
Fax: +44 (0) 1273 339398
I have received an email from you, but it does not answer my question.
The first email you receive from us in response to your online enquiry is an automated response. You will receive another email shortly, from a Student Enrolment Adviser, who will answer your question. You will then be able to correspond with your dedicated Adviser by email.
How do I contact someone in my own country to help with my application?
If you think you will feel more comfortable talking to someone face-to-face in your own country, you can contact a Study Group educational agent. Complete the Find your Local Agent form.
