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)
- The Foundation Year
- The International Year One
- The Pre-s course
- Entry requirements
- English Language Level
- Accommodation
- Fees
- Dates
- Applying
- Pre-arrival
- Location in the UK
- The University and campus
- Contacting us
Your University Degree
What degrees can I study at the University?
Follow the links for degree programmes open to students successfully completing University of Huddersfield ISC courses:
How can I find out about the degree courses?
Links to information about University of Huddersfield undergraduate degrees can be found in Huddersfield's online undergraduate prospectus. More information about taught one-year s degrees is in the University's online postgraduate prospectus.
How long are undergraduate degrees in England?
England operates a 3 year bachelor degree system. Students may be able to choose to study an extended undergraduate s degree (e.g. MSci, MPharm, MEng) lasting 4 years (or 5 years with a placement).
How long are postgraduate degrees in England?
In the UK, taught postgraduate s degrees are usually completed in 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. The Pre-s 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 University of Huddersfield degree.
What grades do I need on my ISC 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 International Foundation Year or International Year One, in line with your intended area of undergraduate study, and then are helped to select your actual degree course during your time at the ISC.
Do I need to take an IELTS exam before progressing onto 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?
If you take your degree preparation course at the University of Huddersfield International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree at the University of Huddersfield.
Courses at the ISC
Who are the ISC courses validated by?
The University of Huddersfield.
Who are the ISC courses taught by?
ISC 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 60,000 students from 140 countries. The International Study Centre is a dynamic partnership between the University and Study Group. All ISC teachers are specialists in university preparation. Meet the teachers.
Where are the ISC courses taught?
Courses are taught at the International Study Centre, located in the Brunswick Building on the University of Huddersfield campus. You will study alongside British and other International students at the University.
How will I be assessed during my ISC course?
By a mixture of unseen examinations, assessed coursework, presentations, case studies and extended essays.
International Foundation Year
Who is the course designed for?
The International Foundation Year is for international students who have completed High School with good grades, but whose academic qualifications do not yet meet the University's general entrance or degree requirements. The foundation year is for you if you want a programme that takes you to the right academic level as well as improving your English.
Note that the International Foundation Year is NOT for British students who completed GCSEs in the UK.
If you come from an education system outside the EU, the International Foundation Year is designed to bridge the gap between your high-school studies and Huddersfield's undergraduate degrees.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose between three Foundation Year subject routes:
- Business, Hospitality, Law, Management, Marketing, Social Studies & Transport & Logistics
- Creative Arts (Art and Design, Media and Social Sciences, Music)
- Computing, Engineering & Science
What will I study on the foundation course?
The course is modular. You will study ten modules in total: four or five core subjects (e.g. English and Study Skills) and five or six specific subject modules which vary depending on your foundation route. You will study three of these modules in term 1, three in term 2 and four in the final term.
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 does the Foundation course last?
3 terms. The length of a term varies between 9 and 11 weeks.
How long do I study each module?
Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week.
International Year One
Who is the course designed for?
The International Year One is for international students who are overqualified for a foundation year but underqualified for direct entry to the first year of an undergraduate degree. See the University's general entrance or degree requirements. The programme is ideal if you:
- are a (senior) high school graduate with excellent grades and good English
- are a university student already in your first year of a relevant undergraduate degree in your home country
- have completed the first year of a HND or Advanced Diploma in your home country
- are a mature student with relevant experience
The International Year One provides you with the relevant academic knowledge, study skills and English language proficiency to succeed as a second-year degree student.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose from four International Year One subject routes:
What will I study on this course?
The course is modular. You will study eight modules in total: four core subjects (e.g. English and Study Skills) and four specific subject modules which vary depending on your route.
How long does the course last?
The International Year One is formed of 3 terms. The length of a term varies between 9 and 11 weeks.
How long do I study each module?
Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week.
The Pre-s course
Who is the course designed for?
The Pre-s is for International students whose academic qualifications do not yet meet the University's postgraduate degree entrance requirements. The Pre-s 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-'s programme will give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in your s studies.
What subjects can I study?
The Pre-s course covers Business, Marketing, Management and Computing subjects. Successful students can choose to progress to one of sixteen s degrees (postgraduate degree pathways table)
How long does the Pre-'s course last?
The Pre-master's of taught in two terms. You need an English level equivalent to IELTS 5.5 for this course. If your English level is at least IELTS 4.0 (with 4.0 in all subskills), you can apply for Pre-Master's with EPM (English for Pre-Master's). You will study EPM first before doing the Pre-Masters.
Entry requirements
What are the academic entry requirements for the Foundation Year and International Year One courses ?
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-'s 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
Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted.
What level of English language do I require for the ISC academic programmes?
Students must have a minimum English language level equivalent to:
- IELTS 4.5 or TOEFL 450 (133 computer based test) to join the International Foundation Year
- IELTS 5.0, TOEFL 510 (180 computer based test) to join the International Year One
- IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL 513 (180 computer based test) to join the Pre-s
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:
- 17 years old when they start the Foundation Year
- 20 years old when they start the Pre-s
If you will be under 18 on arrival at the ISC, please ensure that your guardian has signed a policy which states that both you, and they, are aware that under UK law you are considered a minor until you turn 18. The policy outlines the steps the University of Huddersfield will take regarding a resident under the age of 18.
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 are not able to accept applications from 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 Level
How can I find out my English Language level?
Contact us about taking the test.
What options are available if my English Language level does not meet the ISC academic course entry requirement?
Depending on your level of English, you can study English language preparation for Foundation before you start your undergraduate academic programme.
- You need to have a minimum English Language level of the equivalent to IELTS 4.0 for Foundation and Internation Year One
For Pre-Master's courses, you will need to study English for Pre-'s and then Pre-Master's.
- You need to have a minimum English Language level of the equivalent to IELTS 4.0 (with 4.0 in all subskills)
What level of English language do I require to start English Language Preparation at the International Study Centre?
Accommodation
Is accommodation guaranteed while I am at the International Study Centre?
Yes, providing you have accepted your offer of an academic place and we receive your accommodation application by the published deadlines, you are guaranteed a place in your selected accommodation. Rooms are offered to ISC students on a first come, first served basis.
What type of accommodation is available to me?
Huddersfield has superb student accommodation offering particularly spacious study bedrooms. Both Foundation Year and Pre-s students have the choice of the following two room types:
| Ashenhurst | Storthes Hall |
|---|---|
|
|
What furniture and fittings will I find in my bedroom?
| Ashenhurst | Storthes Hall |
|---|---|
|
|
Are there cooking facilities in the accommodation?
Yes. The kitchen is a communal area and the general meeting point within each flat/house. Each kitchen contains:
- Cooker/s (with oven and hob)
- Fridge Freezer
- Microwave
- Fitted Units
- Table and chairs
- Rubbish and recycling bins
- Kettle
- Toaster
- Fire blanket and extinguishers
What other facilities do the residences have?
| Both residences: | Ashenhurst Houses: | Storthes Hall Student Village: |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
Who owns the accommodation?
Both residences are independent of the University and privately owned and operated by Ubrique Investments Limited trading as ‘digs’ – go to the digs website for further information.
Where is the accommodation?
Storthes Hall Student Village is situated in parkland 5 miles (8km) to the south east of Huddersfield, near the village of Kirkburton. Ashenhurst Houses are in pleasant woodlands less than 1.5 miles from campus. You can see the location of the accommodation on a local area map.
How can I travel between the accommodation and the University?
Storthes Hall is a 20-25 minute bus ride from campus. Ashenhurst is a 15 minute walk or 10 minute bus ride. After purchase of a £5 annual bus pass, bus travel between the University and both residences is free during the day in term- time.
How much does the accommodation cost?
This varies depending on the accommodation type. See accommodation prices.
What is included in the accommodation fees?
All accommodation is self-catering. The weekly price covers the cost of renting your room, use of the shared facilities, broadband internet access and all your bills (e.g. gas and electricity).
Can I stay in my room over the vacations at no extra charge?
The tenancy agreement is for a set period of weeks, so if the Christmas and Easter vacation fall within that period, then rent for these periods is already included in your accommodation. If, however, you would like to stay at the end of the academic year (through the summer) then a fee will be applicable depending on your requirement.
Can I opt to make my own accommodation arrangements?
Students over the age of 18 years can arrange their own accommodation. The Opal Students and Campus Digs websites show various private accommodation options that are available in the area.
However, if you have not pre-booked accommodation in residences officially approved by the university, 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 the University of Huddersfield’s preferred and approved accommodation: Storthes Hall Park Student Village and Ashenhurst Student Houses.
Fees
What are the ISC academic and English language tuition fees?
Tuition fees in pounds sterling (GBP) are shown on the fees page.
When do fees increase each year?
Fees for the academic year 2012/13 come into effect on 31 March 2012. If you confirm your place before this date, you will be able to pay 2011/12 fee levels, as long as full fees are received a month before the start of term.
What are the University degree fees?
The international student fee for Undergraduate degree tuition in 2012/13 at the University of Huddersfield varies between 11000–12000GBP per year. Postgraduate fees vary between 10000–13500GBP per year. See more information about University of Huddersfield 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) - this being the required Confirmation Payment.
For courses lasting 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-s) courses must be paid in full in advance.
An accommodation confirmation payment of £2000 must be paid pre-arrival. The balance of accommodation fees is paid to the accommodation provider after arrival.
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, card, 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.
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 International Foundation Year, International Diploma and three-term Pre-s in either September or January. You can start the two-term Pre-s in either January or April.
When can I start the English Language Preparation 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 Foundation Year study plan options and Pre-s study plan options.
Applying
What is the deadline for applications?
Although there is no official deadline for applications, accommodation places may fill up in advance of the course start dates and therefore we recommend applicants submit their application as early as possible. Note that the visa application process may cause delays to admission. Subject to availability, we continue to consider applications up until the start of the academic programmes.
How do I apply for ISC courses?
You need to apply directly to the International Study Centre. Do not apply through UCAS. You can submit your application in three ways:
- Apply using this online application form. You will be required to submit copies of all relevant academic transcripts and certificates of English language qualifications later in the process.
- Download an application form,PDF file, 1.5MB) 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 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.
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 and students are liable to be sent home by the immigration authorities if caught doing so.
Further advice can be found on the University of Huddersfield International Student Services webpages.
How do I get to the University of Huddersfield?
Full details of how to travel to the University are on the Maps and Transport page.
Can I arrange an airport pick-up 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 are £40 from both Manchester (MAN) and Leeds/Bradford (LBA) 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. This will tell you where you should go when you arrive on campus and give details of your induction programme at the International Study Centre. Read general information for new students and download the latest pre-arrival information.
Location in the UK
Where in the UK will I be studying?
On the campus of the University of Huddersfield. Huddersfield is a large town in the north of England. See map of the location in the UK.
How far is the University from the town-centre?
The University campus is right in Huddersfield town-centre. You are a short walk away from the shops, railway station, bars and eating places. More details.
What is Huddersfield like?
Huddersfield is a large town in the county of West Yorkshire in the north of England, with a population of over 140,000. It is an important commercial centre surrounded by the cities of Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester and boasts impressive architecture, with 1,660 listed buildings - the third highest number in the country.
The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Huddersfield is a lively and multicultural town, well known for its award winning festivals and growing artistic reputation. The low cost of living in Huddersfield makes it a popular student location. Read more about Huddersfield on Wikipedia and local visitor information.
What is there to do in Huddersfield?
Cultural and artistic events in Huddersfield include the Festival of Light, Caribbean Carnival, Asian Mela, Huddersfield Food and Drink festival, and the Contemporary Music Festival. See Huddersfield events calendar.
Huddersfield Art Gallery has an excellent permanent collection of British Art. Music lovers can enjoy the world famous Huddersfield Choral Society, many live music nights and events in venues throughout town, and rock concerts at the Galpharm Stadium. The stadium is home to major Rugby Union and Rugby League internationals.
There is a large and diverse retail shopping area, including the Kingsgate Centre adjacent to campus, home to several national high street retailers and Chain stores.
How do I get to Huddersfield, and around the UK?
See comprehensive travel and transport information for the University of Huddersfield.
How far is the University from the nearest city?
The nearby principal cities are Leeds and Manchester. Leeds is 16 miles from Huddersfield, and Manchester is 30 miles. Frequent express train services operate from Huddersfield. See journey times to nearby cities.
How far is Huddersfield from London?
Huddersfield is 190 miles (306km) north of London. There is no direct train service to London, but by changing at either Leeds or Wakefield, the journey time is approximately three hours to London.
Where are the nearest international airports?
Manchester (MAN) international airport is approximately 28 miles from the University. Leeds/Bradford (LBA) airport is closer but there are fewer international flights landing here. Read more about travelling to Huddersfield by plane.
What is the area around Huddersfield like?
Huddersfield is surrounded by many major northern cities and towns, but also offers easy access to the countryside. It is close to the rugged South Pennines with its high moorland landscape. To the north and east the landscape becomes gentler with wooded valleys and rolling green fields. The dramatic Peak District, Brontë Country and the Yorkshire Dales all within easy reach. Walking, cycling, riding, golf, gliding, climbing and canoeing are great ways to enjoy the surrounding region.
The Visit Yorkshire website gives more information about the area.
What is the cost of living?
The cost of living in Huddersfield is among the lowest in the UK. Huddersfield was ranked seventh in a league table of UK ‘towns with a wealthy lifestyle on the cheap’, compiled by the Royal Bank of Scotland.
The University estimates you will need 5,500GBP per academic year to cover living costs (in addition to tuition fees). The amount you spend is very much down to lifestyle choice. You will be given advice on costs and budgeting when you arrive at Huddersfield. When planning a budget, some basic costs that should be taken into account include: accommodation rent, food, laundry, clothing, travel, books and equipment, socialising (sport, leisure, refreshments, entertainment), and telephone (mobile and landline).
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
The Brunswick Building
University of Huddersfield
Queensgate
Huddersfield
HD1 3DH
UK
The University and campus
How well regarded is the University?
The University has a long-established reputation in areas such as textile design and engineering, and a flourishing relationship with industry.
The annual National Student Survey consistently shows that Huddersfield’s students are particularly satisfied. In 2005, around 80% of the University’s scores were at or above the national average, and Huddersfield came 20th overall for Student Satisfaction (in a table published by the Times Higher Education Supplement). In the 2008 National Student Survey, students voted Huddersfield in the top 10 UK Universities for History, Initial Teacher Training, Tourism and Transport, Accountancy, Building, Food Science, Physiotherapy, Nursing and Politics.
In the most recent Government Research Assessment Exercise, five subject areas were rated nationally or internationally excellent for research. Over 25% of Huddersfield's research staff work in world-class grade 5 research groups.
A Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) institutional review in 2004 praised the quality of teaching programmes and had complete confidence in the future of academic standards at the University.
Huddersfield was ranked 48th (out of 120 institutions) in the The Guardian University Guide 2013.
Read more about the University of Huddersfield.
What are the career prospects for University of Huddersfield students?
Huddersfield has a strong track record for graduate employment with a high proportion of graduates obtaining work in their chosen field, including international students.
The University has a tradition of vocational education and is among the UK’s top five providers of ‘sandwich courses’ which include a year of paid work placement that gives significant advantage in the job market after graduation. The University has placed students with many international companies including Microsoft, Panasonic, Ferrari, BMW, Bosch and Intel.
The UK government’s Post Study Work scheme allows international students who graduate with a University of Huddersfield degree, to stay on and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
Read more about Work Placement and Careers at Huddersfield.
How many students does the University have?
22,500 students including 3,500 postgraduate students, which makes it one of the larger UK universities and increasing in popularity each year.
How many international students does the University have?
Around 1500. Huddersfield is an internationally focused University with students from 87 countries studying on campus.
Will I be a University student while I study at the ISC?
Yes, you will be a member of the University of Huddersfield from the day you start at the International Study Centre.
What is the campus like?
The University of Huddersfield has a town centre campus, offering many places to eat, shop, relax and study. The buildings are a mixture of modern architecture and imaginatively converted 19th century textile mills, set either side of a narrow canal. The canal is an attractive feature with tow-path walks, green spaces and colourful barges. There are extensive views of the wooded Pennine foothills from campus.
The University has invested over £70 million in the campus and its resources over the last 10 years, including a new Students’ Union building at the heart of campus, offering with a range of social, leisure and retail facilities. Read more about the campus.
Will I have access to the University's academic and campus facilities?
You will have access to the full range of University services and facilities. See more information about the academic resources and campus services.
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 the University of Huddersfield.
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 contact with current students at Huddersfield?
Huddersfield International Study Centre is on Facebook. Join the 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.