Keele UniversityInternational Study Centre
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)
- International Year One (formerly called Foundation Diploma)
- Pre-Masters
- Entry requirements
- English Language Preparation
- Fees
- Dates
- Applying
- Pre-arrival
- Contacting us
Your University Degree
Which degrees can I study at the University?
Follow the links for degree programmes open to students successfully completing Keele University ISC courses:
How can I find out about the degree courses?
Links to information about Keele University undergraduate degrees can be found in Keele University's online undergraduate prospectus. More information about taught one-year Master'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. If you successfully complete the International Year One, you will gain advanced entry to Year 2 of your undergraduate degree, meaning you only have 2 years of study remaining before graduation.
How long are postgraduate degrees in England?
In the UK, taught postgraduate Master'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-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 Keele University 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 on the Your Degree page.
When do I have to choose the undergraduate degree I want to study?
You apply to take a particular subject route through the International Year One or Pre-Masters, 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 Keele University International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree at the Keele University.
Courses at the ISC
Who are the ISC courses validated by?
The Keele University.
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 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 in the centre of the Keele University 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 Year One
Who is the course designed for?
The International Year One is a unique course for international students who have completed High School with top grades or very high grades, but whose academic qualifications do not yet meet the University's general entrance or degree requirements. The International Year One is for you if you want a programme that allows you advanced entry to an undergraduate degree (you join in the second year) and ensures that you reach the the right academic level and English language proficiency for success.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose from four International Year One subject routes:
What will I study on the International Year One?
The courses are modular. You will study sixteen modules in total: three core subjects (e.g. English and Study Skills) and thirteen specific subject modules which vary depending on your subject route. You will study four modules each 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 International Year One last?
Study duration: 4 terms or 3 terms depending on your entry grades and English language level. If you have a very good grades and English level you may be accepted for the 3-term programme, but if your grades and English level are a bit lower, you will be offered the 4-term option to ensure that you benefit the most out of the programme.
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.
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.
Which subjects can I study?
You can choose from two Pre-Masters subject routes:
What is the structure of the Pre-Masters course?
The course is modular. You will study ten modules in total. Some modules are English skills for academic study and some cover academic subjects and research methods.
How long does the Pre-Masters course last?
That depends on your English level:
- 2 terms if your English level is equivalent to IELTS 6.0 (with 5.5 in all subskills)
If your IELTS level is lower, your study options will vary as follows:
- IELTS 5.0 (with 4.5 in all subskills) - 1 term of English for Pre-Masters (EPM) then 2 term Pre-Masters
- IELTS 4.0 (with 4.0 in all subskills) - 2 terms of English for Pre-Masters (EPM) then 2 term Pre-Masters
Entry requirements
What are the academic entry requirements for the International Year One?
A minimum academic background of high school graduation, with top grades. The International Year One is an advanced and challenging foundation course; we only accept students who have achieved A and B grades. 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:
- Recognised higher/advanced diploma in a related subject area
- Recognised (non-honours) degree in related field
- Honours degree in any subject
Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted.
What level of English language do I require for the ISC academic programmes?
International Year One students must have a minimum English language level equivalent to:
- IELTS 5.5 - International Year One [3 terms]
- IELTS 5.0 - International Year One [4 terms]
- Pre-course English Language Preparation is offered to students who do not have this level of English. See ELP FAQs below.
Pre-Masters students must have a minimum English language level equivalent to:
- IELTS 6.0 (with 5.5 in all subskills) Pre-Masters
- IELTS 5.0 (with 4.5 in all subskills) English for Pre-Masters (1 term EPM) then Pre-Masters
- IELTS 4.0 (with 4.0 in all subskills) English for Pre-Masters (2 term EPM) then Pre-Masters
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 Diploma and Diploma
- 20 years old when they start the Pre-Masters
If you will be under 18 on arrival at the ISC, your guardian needs to sign a policy which states that both you, and them, are aware that under UK law you are considered a minor until you turn 18. The policy outlines the steps that Keele University 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 'Home' or EU students. Progression for these students taking ISC courses cannot be guaranteed because competition for places from those students is very high. Instead we recommend students join an A Level course.
English Language Preparation
How can I find out my English Language level?
We can assess your class="iframe enquiry-form" href="http://www.studygroup.com/isc/EnquiryForm.htm?id=265">Contact us about taking the test. You do not need an IELTS or TOEFL grade.
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 one or two terms of English Language Preparation before you start your academic programme. Read more about English language training for International Year One and English for Pre-Masters.
What level of English language 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 4.0.
How long does English Preparation last?
One term.
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 the Foundation Programme you need an ESU score of 5.0 (or the equivalent).
Fees
What are the ISC academic and English language tuition fees?
Tuition fees in pounds sterling (GBP) are shown on the fees page. Fees are expected to increase each academic year.
What are the University degree fees?
The international student fee for Undergraduate degree tuition in 2009/10 at Keele University varies between 9,350 and 11,800 GBP per year. Postgraduate fees vary between 9,000–10,600 GBP per year. See more information about Keele University tuition fees.
When are my ISC 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-Masters) courses must be paid in full in advance.
An Accommodation Confirmation Payment of £2000 will be required with the first instalment of tuition fees, due one month before term starts. This payment will be passed to the University on your behalf, towards the cost of your rent and any applicable sundry charges. The balance of your accommodation fees will be payable directly to the university, in line with their standard payment options.
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
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?
- The International Year One [4 terms] starts in September.
- The International Year One [3 terms] starts in January.
- You can start the Pre-Masters in either January or April
When can I start the English Language Preparation or English for Pre-Masters course?
ELP and EPM courses start in January, April, June and September each year.
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 Keele University degree?
You will start your degree in the autumn following your ISC academic course start e.g if you enter the International Year One or Pre-Masters in September 2011, you will start your degree in autumn 2012. If you start your course in January 2012, you will also begin your degree in autumn 2012.
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, and at least a month before the start of their course. Note that the visa application process can cause delays to admission.
Subject to availability, we continue to consider applications until 2 weeks after the start of 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 online using the online application 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.
- Download an application form
(pdf file, 2.8MB), 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?
If you apply directly, 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 £1,000 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.
How do I get to the Keele University?
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 £58 from Manchester (MAN), £78 from Birmingham (BHX) and £235 from London Heathrow (LHR).
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. You can also visit our pre-arrival page for more information.
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 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 Keele 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.
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.