Frequently Asked QuestionsYou 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 DegreeWhich degrees can I study at the University?The Heriot-Watt University degrees available to students successfully completing the Undergraduate Certificate foundation course can be seen in the undergraduate degree pathways table. Pre-Masters students can progress to one of six taught Masters degrees:
How can I find out about the degree courses?Links to all of the undergraduate degree subjects can be found in Heriot-Watt's online undergraduate prospectus. More information about Masters degrees is in the University's online postgraduate prospectus. 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), with the first formal assessments four months into your programme. It will be challenging. The Pre-Masters programme helps you to reach your potential. Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at that University?Yes, 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?If your application is successful and you are offered a place on an ISC programme, you will be informed of the minimum grades required in order to guarantee progression onto your degree. 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 foundation year. Do I need to take an IELTS exam before progressing on to a degree?No, but you must gain the English grade required for your chosen degree at the end of your ISC course. 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. ^ topCourses at the ISCWho 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 40,000 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 in the Research Park on the Heriot-Watt University campus. The Research Park is immediately adjacent to the main entrance and is widely regarded as a model of long-term university/industry partnership. 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 unseen examinations, assessed coursework, presentations, case studies and extended essays. ^ topUndergraduate CertificateWho 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 Undergraduate Certificate is NOT for British students who completed GCSEs in the UK. What subjects can I study?You can choose from three subject routes: What will I study on the Undergraduate Certificate?The course is modular. You will study ten modules in total: five core subjects (e.g. English skills, Study skills and British Culture) and five specific subject modules from your chosen route. You will study three modules in term 1, three in term 2 and four in term 3 (including Project Study). 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. How long do I study each module?Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week. ^ topPre-Masters courseWho 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 Business, Economics and Management subjects. Successful students can choose to progress to one of six Masters degrees (see Your University Degree FAQs) What is the structure of the Pre-Masters course?The course is modular. On the three-term Pre-Masters you will study ten credit-bearing modules in total: two in term 1, four in term 2 and four in term 3. On the two-term Pre-Masters 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?That depends on your English level:
The length of a term varies between 10 and 12 weeks. ^ topLocation in the UKWhere 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. See a map of the UK showing the location of Heriot-Watt University. 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:
How far is Edinburgh from London?Edinburgh is not close to London, but 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: ^ topThe University and its campusHow 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. The Sunday Times University Guide 2008 ranks Heriot-Watt University 41st out of 123 Higher Education institutions. Which subjects are rated particularly highly at the University?The Times Good University Guide 2009 ranked these Heriot-Watt undergraduate subjects in the following positions in the UK:
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. 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. Will I have access to campus facilities and academic resources?You will have access to the full range of University services and facilities. See more information about the academic resources and campus facilities. ^ topAccommodationIs 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:
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. You can see the location of the Halls on a map of the University campus. 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 private lets webpage includes links (at the bottom) to various private accommodation options that are available in the area. You can also try Student Pad Edinburgh. 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. ^ topEntry requirementsWhat 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. Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted. What are the academic entry requirements for the Pre-Masters course?Students are expected to have at least one of the following:
What level of English language do I require for ISC academic programmes?Students must have an English language level equivalent to:
Pre-course English Language Preparation is offered to students who do not have this level of English. See ELP FAQs below. Do I need to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam before applying to the International Study Centre?No. You can take the ISC English test if you do not have a current IELTS or TOEFL grade. We can assess your approximate English Language level from this test before you arrive. 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:
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. ^ topEnglish Language PreparationMy English Language level does not meet the Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters entry requirement of IELTS 5.0.Depending on your level of English, you can study one or two terms of English Language Preparation before you start your academic programme. Read more about English language training for the Undergraduate Certificate and English language training for Pre-Masters. What level of English do I require to start English Language Preparation at the ISC?You need to have a minimum English Language level of the equivalent to IELTS 3.0. How long does English Language Preparation last?One term for students with IELTS 4.0+. Two terms for student with IELTS 3.0+. How is my English Language assessed for progression onto my ISC academic programme?You are not required to take an IELTS exam. We measure your English language ability with an internal assessment based on the English Speaking Union System (ESU). The ESU provides a scale from 0 to 9. 0 is a beginner in English, and 9 is a near-native speaker. To start an ISC academic programme you need an ESU score of 5.0 (or the equivalent). ^ topFeesWhat are the ISC academic and English Language tuition fees?Tuition fees are shown on the fees page and are valid from 1 March 2008. What are the University degree fees?The fee for Undergraduate degree tuition in 2008/098 at Heriot-Watt University varies between 9,000GBP and 11,350GBP per year for 'overseas' students. For taught postgraduate degrees fees range from 9,450GBP to 11,810GBP. See full information about Heriot-Watt University tuition fees. When are the ISC tuition and accommodation fees payable?Once you accept your offer of a place, we require a deposit of £500 together with £500 advance payment of fees (plus StudyCare Insurance fees applicable). 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. Accommodation fees can be paid yearly in advance or termly. 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). What bank account should fees be paid into?Account name: International Study Centre 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. ^ topDatesWhen 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. What date do I start my Heriot-Watt University degree?You move onto your degree programme in the autumn following your ISC academic course start i.e. if you begin the Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters in either September 2008, January 2009 or April 2009, you will progress to your degree in autumn 2009. ^ topApplyingHow 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 four ways:
Read more about the steps in the admissions process. 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. ^ topPre-arrivalIs 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. Read the general pre-arrival information for new students or download a pdf file the latest pre-arrival information ( ^ topContacting usHow 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: 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. A Student Enrolment Adviser will answer your question in your 'Student Inbox' - an online environment we use to communicate with you. When your question has been answered, you will receive another email asking you to log in to your Student Inbox. After follow the instructions to log in, you will be able to find the answer to your question and correspond with your dedicated Adviser. 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. ^ top |
Contact our team of expert Student Enrolment Advisers now for free advice or to apply. We are ready to take your call.
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