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
The foundation course
Location in the UK
The University and its campus
Accommodation
Entry requirements
English Language Preparation
Fees
Dates
Applying
Other (insurance, visas, arrival information etc)
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 progression table.
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.
Q: How long are 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: 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.
Q: What grades do I need to gain a degree place?
A: If your application is successful and you are offered a place on the Undergraduate Certificate, you will be informed of the grades that you are required to reach in order to guarantee progression onto the second year of your degree.
Q: When do I have to choose the degree I want to study?
A: On application to the Undergraduate Certificate 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 at the University of Stirling International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree at the University of Stirling. In effect, you are enrolling for four years of study on the University campus.
The foundation course
Q: Who is the course validated by?A: The University of Stirling
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: Who is the course taught by?
A: The Undergraduate Certificate foundation course is 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.
Q: Where is the course taught?
A: The foundation course is taught on the University of Stirling campus – you will study alongside British and other International students. The International Study Centre is based in the Cottrell Building at the heart of the University campus.
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 does the foundation course last?
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.
Location in the UK
Q: Where in the UK will I be studying?The University of Stirling is in Scotland, the country neighboring 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. Edinburgh and Glasgow are the two largest cities in Scotland. It takes an hour by car to both cities, and 45 minutes by train. 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 'Fresh Talent Initiative' whereby graduates from a Scottish Institution now have the opportunity to apply for a two year work visa after graduation to remain in Scotland for work. For more information visit the Scotland is the Place website.
Q: How far is the campus from the nearest city?
A: 2 miles - a 10 minute bus ride to the centre of Stirling.
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 2007 ranks the University of Stirling =37th out of 109 institutions. The Guardian University Guide 2008 places Stirling 38th out of 120 institutions. The University has been placed in the top 10 for overall student experience.
The Guardian University Guide 2008 ranked these Stuirling 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: How many students does the University have?
A: 7,330 undergraduate and 2,110 postgraduate students. 17% of students are international.
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.
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: What type of accommodation is available to me?
A: Single rooms in either Andrew Stewart Hall (ensuite rooms or private facilities nearby) or A K Davidson Hall (standard room wash basin in room, shared toilet/shower). 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: 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 the accommodation?
A: See accommodation prices for the 2008/09 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.
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: There is no legal minimum age requirement, but students are usually 17 years old when they start at the International Study Centre.
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 EU/EEA students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: Yes, we do consider EU/EEA students, but places are limited.
Q: Can UK students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: Unfortunately we would not be able to accept applications from UK students. Progression for these students taking the foundation course cannot be guaranteed because competition for places from those students is very high. Instead we recommend students consider joining an A Level course.
English Language Preparation
Q: What options are available if 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 need to have a minimum English Language level of the equivalent to IELTS 3.0.
Q: How long does English Preparation last?
A: One term for students with IELTS 4.0+. Two terms for student with IELTS 3.0+.
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 are shown on the fees page.
Q: What are the University degree fees?
A: The fee for Undergraduate degree tuition in 2008/09 at the University of Stirling varies between 9100GBP – 11200GBP per year 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 fees can be either be paid in instalments, 1 month prior to the start of term, or in full in advance in preferred.
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 not that a 2% surcharge will be added to payments made by credit card, and £1 charge for payments by debit card.
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 foundation course?
A: You can start the Undergraduate Certificate in either September or January.
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 foundation course term dates?
| Term | 2007/08 academic year | 2008/09 academic year |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | 10 September to 07 December 2007 | 15 September to 12 December 2008 |
| Spring | 07 January to 20 March 2008 | 12 January to 27 March 2009 |
| Summer 1 | 7 April to 13 June 2008 | 14 April to 19 June 2009 |
| Summer 2 | 16 June to 22 August 2008 | 22 June to 28 August 2009 |
A: ELP term dates follow those of the foundation course (see above) EXCEPT for courses starting in Summer Term 2.
June 2008 ELP term dates: 16 June - 29 August
June 2009 ELP term dates: 22 June - 4 September
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 2008 or January 2009, you will progress to your degree in autumn 2009.
Applying
Q: How do I apply for the Undergraduate Certificate 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 four 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, 114kB), print it out, complete it and fax it back to us along with the relevant documentation.
- Request a prospectus in the post, complete the application form that is included and return it directly to the address printed on the bottom of the form.
- Complete the Find a Local Agent form to apply through an educational representative in your country.
Read about the steps in the admissions process.
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 ad 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.
Other
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 can I arrange an airport pick-up and how much is it?
A: You can request airport pick-up during the application process. Airport transfer prices can be found on the fees page.
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.
Q: If my question is not answered on this site, what should I do?
A: Contact a Student Enrolment Adviser phone on +44 1273 339333 or using the on-line form. They will be pleased to help you with any questions you have.
