.gif)
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 Undergraduate Certificate foundation course
Pre-Masters
Location in the UK
The University and its campus
Accommodation
Entry requirements
English Language Preparation
Fees
Dates
Applying
Pre-arrival (insurance, visas, travel etc)
Contacting us
Your University Degree
Q: What degrees can I study at the University?
A: The University of Stirling degrees available to students successfully completing the foundation course can be seen in the undergraduate degree pathways. Pre-Masters students can progress to one of 13 taught Masters degrees as listed under postgraduate degree pathways.
Q: How can I find out about the degree courses?
A: Links to information about University of Stirling undergraduate degrees can be found in the University’s A-Z course list. More information about Masters degrees is available on the postgraduate section of the University of Stirling's website.
Q: How long are undergraduate University degrees in Scotland?
A: 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.
Q: 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.
Q: What grades do I need to achieve on my Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masers course to gain a degree place?
A: You can find the grades required for each degree in the progression tables on the undergraduate degree pathways and postgraduate degree pathways pages.
Q: When do I have to choose the degree I want to study?
A: On application to the Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters you will need to nominate the degree programme that you are interested in studying. However, you will have flexibility to change to a different subject, within your available options, up to the end of Semester 3 (halfway through your second year).
Q: Do I need to take an IELTS exam before progressing on to a degree?
A: No, but you must gain the English grade required for your chosen degree at the end of the foundation course.
Q: Can I go on to study at a different university?
A: No, if you take the Undergraduate Certificate or Pre-Masters at the University of Stirling International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree at the University of Stirling.
Q: When do I start my degree course?
A: The autumn following completion of your ISC course
Courses at the ISC
Q: Who are the ISC courses validated by?
A: University of Stirling.
Q: Who are the ISC courses taught by?
A: 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.
Q: Where are the ISC courses taught?
A: Courses are taught at the International Study Centre, located in the Cottrell Building on the University of Stirling campus. You will study alongside British and other International students at the University.
Q: How will I be assessed during the Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters courses?
A: By a mixture of unseen examinations, assessed coursework, presentations, case studies and extended essays.
The Undergraduate Certificate foundation course
Q: Who is the course designed for?
A: The Undergraduate Certificate is for all international students, including those who have completed High School but who do not yet meet the University's general entrance or degree requirements. The Undergraduate Certificate is for you if you want a course that gives you the best preparation for your degree and improves your English.
Note that the Undergraduate Certificate is NOT for British students who completed GCSEs in the UK.
Q: What subjects can I study?
A: You choose modules from three subject routes:
Q: What will I study on the Undergraduate Certificate foundation course?
A: The course is modular. You will study ten modules in total: six core subjects (e.g. English skills, Study skills and British Culture) and four elective modules. You will study four modules in term 1, three in term 2 and three in term 3.
Q: How will I be assessed during the foundation course?
A: By a mixture of examinations, assessed coursework, presentations and extended essays.
Q: How many hours a week will I study?
A: 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.
Q: How long is the foundation course?
A: 3 terms. The length of a term varies between 10 and 12 weeks.
Q: How long do I study each module?
A: Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week.
Q: Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at that University?
A: Yes, if you obtain the required grades at the end of the foundation course, you are guaranteed a place on the second year of a University of Stirling 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 University of Stirling.
Pre-Masters
Q: Who is the course designed for?
A: 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.
Q: What subjects can I study?
A: The Pre-Masters course covers Accounting, Banking, Finance, Energy Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Investment Analysis, Management, and Marketing subjects. Successful students can choose to progress to one of 13 Masters degrees (see Your University Degree FAQs).
Q: What is the structure of the Pre-Masters course?
A: 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.
Q: How long is the Pre-Masters course?
A: That depends on your English level:
- 3 terms if your English level is equivalent to IELTS 4.5
- 2 terms if your English level is equivalent to IELTS 5.5
The length of a term varies between 10 and 12 weeks.
Location in the UK
Q: Where in the UK will I be studying?
A: On the campus of the University of Stirling. The University is in Scotland, the country neighbouring England to the north – and part of the UK. Stirling is centrally located in the country and lies just where lowland and highland Scotland meet. See a map of the region.
Q: Why study in Scotland?
A: 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 to this there is the 'Post Study Workers' scheme whereby graduates from a Scottish University have the opportunity to apply for a two year work visa after graduation to remain in the UK for work. For more information visit the Scotland is the Place website.
Q: How far is the campus from the nearest city centre?
A: 2 miles - a 10 minute bus ride to the centre of Stirling.
Q: How far is the University from the nearest major cities?
Edinburgh and Glasgow are the two largest cities in Scotland. It takes an hour by car to both cities, and 45 minutes by train
Q: What is the nearest city like?
A: Stirling is a small, friendly, historical city with a population of around 30,000. It has associations with two of Scotland’s historic heroes, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, as well as an impressive medieval castle. It's the smallest city in Scotland, but still the local centre for shopping and nightlife. Stirling has easy access to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, two world-class cities. As a bonus, on the city’s doorstep you can find tranquillity and solitude in Scotland’s unspoiled mountains, lochs and shores or a wide range of outdoor pursuits, such as walking, canoeing, mountain biking and sailing. The Visit Scotland website gives information for visitors.
Q: What is the cost of living?
A: Stirling is considered to have a relatively low cost of living, when compared to other parts of Scotland, and other parts of the UK as a whole. On average students at Stirling will spend between 5,000GBP to 6,500GBP a year (not including fees). When planning a budget, some basic costs that should be taken into account include accommodation (plus any bills), food, telephone, clothes, entertainment and travel.
Q: How far is Stirling from London?
By rail, Stirling is 5 hours 15 minutes from London. There are also regular flights which take under 90 minutes.
Q: What are the nearest international airports?
A: Edinburgh (EDI) and Glasgow (GLA) are both international airports. It takes an hour by car or train to get to campus from either airport.
Q: What is the postal address of the International Study Centre?
A: 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
1A Cottrell Building
University of Stirling
STIRLING
FK9 4LA
UK
The University and its campus
Q: How well regarded is the University?
A: Stirling was the first university in the UK to introduce the semester system, which has been followed by many other universities. The Times Good University Guide 2009 ranks the University of Stirling 40th out of 113 institutions. The Guardian League Table 2009 places Stirling 32nd out of 117 institutions. The University has been placed in the top 10 for overall student experience. Stirling is Scottish University of the Year 2009 according to The Times.
Q: Which subjects are rated particularly highly at the University?
A: The Guardian University Guide 2008 ranked these Stirling undergraduate subjects in the following positions in the UK:
- 16th Psychology
- 18th Communication and Media Studies
- 20th Politics
- 26th Business & Management Studies
- 28th Economics
- 34th Computer Science
- 36th Sociology
- 40th Law
Q: What are the career prospects of University of Stirling graduates?
A: Very good! 96.4% of Stirling's graduates are in employment after six months (Higher Education Statistics Agency, 2008).
Q: How many students does the University have?
A: 7,000 undergraduate and 2,000 postgraduate students.
Q: How many international students does the University have?
A: 17% of students are international and more than 80 nationalities are represented on campus.
Q: Will I be a University student while I study on the foundation course?
A: Yes, you will have full student status at the University of Stirling from the day you start at the International Study Centre.
Q: What is the campus like?
A: Stirling's campus is often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. Set in 300 acres at the foot of the Ochil Hills, it has a beautiful lake and the 18th century Airthrey Castle at its heart. The views around campus are breathtaking and the buildings have been designed to harmonise with the landscape. Excellent and modern academic, sports, catering and entertainment facilities are all on hand with the close-knit community creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. See a gallery of campus photos.
Q: Will I have access to campus facilities and academic resources?
A: You will have access to the full range of University services and facilities. See more information about the academic resources and campus facilities.
Q: Am I able to worship in my own faith on campus?
A: Yes, the University has a multi-denominational chaplaincy. There is a prayer room on campus for Muslim students and an Islamic Society run by the SUSA. The city of Stirling is also home to the Central Scotland Islamic Centre.
Accommodation
Q: Is accommodation guaranteed while I study on the foundation course?
A: 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. Accommodation is allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Q: Is accommodation guaranteed throughout the rest of my degree?
A: Yes, the University will continue to provide guaranteed University-managed accommodation for the duration of your undergraduate studies.
Q: How do I apply for accommodation?
A: When you have confirmed your place on a course at Stirling International Study Centre a room will be reserved for you in the halls of residence. You will then be sent an information pack on how to log in to the online accommodation booking system to confirm your place and make your own room preferences. You must log in and confirm your place by August 27th, after that date the room will no longer be held and accommodation will be subject to availability.
Q: What type of accommodation is available to me?
A: Single rooms in either Andrew Stewart Hall (en-suite rooms or private facilities nearby) or A K Davidson Hall (standard room wash basin in room, shared toilet/shower).
Q: Are there cooking facilities in the accommodation?
A: Yes, all accommodation is self-catering with well-equipped kitchens and ample cooking and storage facilities.
Q: What furniture and fittings will my bedroom have?
A: All bedrooms are fully furnished with a bed, heater, chair, desk, lamp, mirror and storage for books and clothing.
Q: What other facilities do the residences have?
A: Each Hall has communal social facilities including TV lounge with wide screen TV and DVD, and games rooms. View more information about University-managed accommodation.
Q: Is there internet access in my room, is it free?
A: All bedrooms have network sockets installed to enable access to the internet. A small charge is payable.
Q: Where is the accommodation?
A: All accommodation is in Halls of Residence overlooking the loch in the centre of the campus. You can see the residence locations on a map of the University campus.
Q: How much is charged for accommodation?
A: See accommodation prices for the latest academic year.
Q: What is included in the accommodation fees?
A: All accommodation is self-catering. Fees include utilities.
Q: Can I stay in my room over the vacations at no extra charge?
A: If your tenancy agreement includes the Christmas and Easter vacation periods then vacation supplements will not be applicable.
Q: Can I opt to make my own accommodation arrangements?
A: Students over the age of 18 years can arrange private accommodation. The University Accommodation website has various private off-campus accommodation options.
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
Q: What are the academic entry requirements for the foundation course?
A: 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..
Q: What level of English language do I require for the foundation course?
A: Students must have an English language level equivalent to IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 500 (173 computer based test). Pre-course English Language Preparation is offered to students who do not have this level of English. See ELP FAQs below.
Q: Do I need to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam before applying to the International Study Centre?
A: 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.
Q: How old do I have to be to start at the International Study Centre?
A: Most students studying at the international study centre 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.
Q: Can ‘overseas’ students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: Yes, the foundation course is designed 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 (EC).
Q: Can UK, EU or EEA students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: Unfortunately we would not be able to accept applications from Home, EU or EEA 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.
*EU/EEA/Home includes the following categories:
- Permanent residents in the UK who have been resident in the UK for three years
- EEA (European Economic Area) migrant workers and their families in the UK who have lived in the EEA for three years
- EU nationals and their children who have lived in the EEA for three years
- Refugees (recognised by the UK government) and their families
- People who have applied for asylum and have been granted leave to enter/remain, and their families
English Language Preparation
Q: How can I find out my English Language level?
We can assess your English level if you complete our English Test. Contact us about taking the test. You do not need an IELTS or TOEFL grade.
Q: My English Language level does not meet the Undergraduate Certificate entry requirement of IELTS 5.0?
A: Depending on your level of English, you can study one or two terms of English Language Preparation before you start the Undergraduate Certificate.
Q: What level of English language do I require to start English Language Preparation at the International Study Centre?
A: You normally need to have a minimum English Language level of the equivalent to IELTS 3.5.
Q: How long does English Preparation last?
A: Normally one term for students with IELTS 4.0+. Normally two terms for student with IELTS 3.5+.
Q: How is my English Language assessed for progression onto the foundation course?
A: 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 Undergraduate Certificate you need an ESU score of 5.0 (or the equivalent).
Fees
Q: What are the Undergraduate Certificate and English Language Preparation fees?
A: Tuition fees in pounds sterling GBP are shown on the fees page. Fees are likely to increase each academic year.
Q: When do fees increase each year?
Fees for the academic year 2010/11 come into effect on 1 April 2010. If you confirm your place before this date, you will be able to pay 2009/10 fee levels, as long as full fees are received a month before the start of term.
Q: What other costs might I need to pay?
A: You should also consider the costs of accommodation, insurance, airport transfer, bedding packs and other sundry charges for accommodation, internet access, and the credit card surcharge.
Q: What are the University degree fees?
A: The fee for Undergraduate degree tuition in 2010/11 at the University of Stirling varies between 9,100GBP – 11,200GBP per year for international students. Fees for Master degrees vary between 9,900GBP and 14,300GBP for international students.
Q: When are the ISC tuition and accommodation fees payable?
A: 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. The remaining tuition fees can be either be paid in instalments, 1 month prior to the start of term, or in full in advance if preferred.
An accommodation confirmation payment of £2000 must be paid pre-arrival. The balance of accommodation fees is paid to the University after arrival.
Q: How can fees can be paid?
A: 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).
Q: What bank account should fees be paid into?
A: 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.
Q: Do I get a refund if I cancel my place?
A: 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
Q: When can I start the Undergraduate Certificate course?
A: You can start the Undergraduate Certificate in either September or January.
Q: When can I start the Pre-Masters course?
A: You can start the Pre-Masters programme in September, January or April (the latter only for 2-term programmes).
Q: When can I start the English Language Preparation course?
A: ELP courses start in January, April, June and September each year. See the key facts section for the English Language Preparation start dates available for each Undergraduate Certificate entry point.
Q: What are the ISC academic term dates?
| Term | 2009/10 academic year | 2010/11 academic year |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | 14 September to 11 December 2009 | 13 September to 10 December 2010 |
| Spring | 11 January to 26 March 2010 | 17 January to 25 March 2011 |
| Summer 1 | 12 April to 18 June 2010 | 11 April to 17 June 2011 |
| Summer 2 (Undergraduate Certificate and Pre-Masters) | 21 June to 27 August 2010 | 20 June to 26 August 2011 |
| Summer 2 (English Language Preparation) | 21 June to 27 August 2010 | 20 June to 26 August 2011 |
Note that the ISC term dates differ from the University's semester dates.
Q: What date do I start my University of Stirling degree?
A: You enter the second year of your degree in the autumn following your foundation course start i.e. if you begin the Undergraduate Certificate in either September 2009 or January 2010, you will progress to your degree in autumn 2010. If you start the Pre-Masters programme in September 2009, January 2010 or April 2010 (for 2-term programmes) you can progress to your Masters degree in autumn 2010.
Applying
Q: How do I apply for the Undergraduate Certificate, Pre-Masters and English Language Preparation course?
A: You need to apply directly to the International Study Centre. Do not apply through UCAS. You can submit your application in three different ways:
- Contact our Student Enrolment Advisers using the online 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 the application form (pdf file, 1.71MB), 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.
Q: What happens after I submit my application?
A: Read about the steps in the admissions process.
Q: Who will help me with my application?
A: 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.
Q: If my application is successful, when will I receive the documentation required for visa application?
A: 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.
Q: How long does it take to apply to the International Study Centre?
A: 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.
Q: What is the deadline for applications?
A: Subject to availability, we continue to accept applications right up until the start of the Undergraduate Certificate programme. See the programme entry dates. Note that the visa application process can cause delays to your admission.
Pre-arrival
Q: Is there an insurance policy offered to international students?
A: 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.
Q: Do I need a visa to study at the ISC?
A: That depends on your nationality or country of residence. See our visa 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.
Q: Can I work while I am a student in the United Kingdom?
A: 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. It is a very serious offence if you work without permission. Further advice can be found on the International Student Information pages.
Q: How do I get to University of Stirling?
A: Full details of how to travel to the University are on the Maps and Transport page.
Q: Can I arrange an airport collection and how much is it?
A: 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 transfer prices can be found on the fees page.
Q: When should I arrive at the University?
A: You should aim to arrive at the University on the Saturday or Sunday before your course starts.
Q: What will happen when I arrive in the UK?
A: 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 the general information for new students or download the latest pre-arrival information 
.
Contacting us
Q: How do I find out more about the courses, the ISC or the University?
A: 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.
Q: How can I contact the ISC?
A: 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.
Q: Who will answer my questions?
A: The ISC is run by Study Group, a world leader in education for international students, in partnership with University of Stirling.
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.
Q: What if my English isn't very good?
A: 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.
Q: How can I get in contact with current students at Stirling?
A: Stirling International Study Centre is on Facebook. Join our Facebook community to connect with ISC students and staff, ask questions and leave messages.
Q: I am trying to use your enquiry form but it does not work.
A: 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
Q: I have received an email from you, but it does not answer my question.
A: 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.
Q: How do I contact someone in my own country to help with my application?
A: 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.
