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

Q: What degrees can I study at the University?
A: The University of Sussex degrees available to students successfully completing the Foundation Year can be seen in the undergraduate degree progression table. Pre-Masters students can progress to one of eight taught Masters degrees - see list in question below.

Q: How can I find out about the degree courses?
A: The University of Sussex online prospectus has links to all of the undergraduate degree subjects. More information about the Taught Masters programmes that are open to Pre-Masters students can be found by following these links:

* subject to confirmation

Q: Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at the University?
A: Yes, if you obtain the required grades at the end of your ISC course, you are guaranteed a place on a University of Sussex degree. However, progression from the Pre-Medical Foundation course is to the Pre-Medical programme, not to a degree.

Q: What grades do I need on my Foundation Year or Pre-Masters course to gain a degree place?
A: You can find the grades required for each degree in the progression tables below.

Q: When do I have to choose the undergraduate degree I want to study?
A: You apply to take a particular subject route through the foundation course, in line with your intended area of undergraduate study, and then select your actual degree course during your foundation year (except on the Pre-Medical Foundation route).

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 your ISC course.

Q: Can I go on to study at a different university?
A: If you take your Foundation Year or Pre-Masters at the University of Sussex International Study Centre, you are expected to go on to study your degree or Pre-Medical course at the University of Sussex. 

Courses at the ISC

Q: Who are the ISC courses validated by?
A: The University of Sussex

Q: Who are the ISC courses taught by?
A: ISC Foundation Year 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, and some also lecture on degree courses at Sussex.

Q: Where are the ISC courses taught?
A: The courses are taught on the University of Sussex campus – you will study alongside British and other International students. The International Study Centre is based in the Mantell Building.

Q: How will I be assessed during the Foundation Year and Pre-Masters courses?
A: By a mixture of unseen examinations, assessed coursework, presentations, case studies and extended essays.

The Foundation Year

Q: Who is the course designed for?
A: The International Foundation Year is for international (non-UK/EU) 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.

The International Foundation Year is designed to bridge the gap between your high-school studies and Sussex's undergraduate degrees.

Q: What subjects can I study?
A: You can choose from seven Foundation Year subject routes:

Q: What will I study on the foundation course?
A: The course is modular. You will study four or five core subjects (e.g. English and Study Skills) and five to eight specific subject modules which vary depending on your foundation route. For most routes, you will study three of these modules in term 1, three in term 2 and four in the final term.

For the Pre-Medical foundation you will study four of these modules in term 1, four in term 2 and five in the final term.

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 9 and 11 weeks.

Q: How long do I study each module?
A: Each module lasts one term and is studied for five hours per week.

The Pre-Masters course

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 Business, Economics and Management subjects. Successful students can choose to progress to one of eight 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 does the Pre-Masters course last?
A: That depends on your English level:

  • 3 terms if your English level is equivalent to IELTS 5.0
  • 2 terms if your English level is equivalent to IELTS 6.0

The length of a term varies between 9 and 11 weeks.

Location in the UK

Q: How far is campus from the centre of the city?
A: 8 minutes from Brighton by train, 20 minutes by bus. Read more information about travelling around the local area.

Q: How far is Brighton from London
A: 1 hour from London by train

Q: What is the nearest city like?
A: The seaside city of Brighton & Hove really does have everything: sun, beaches, brilliant clubs, great places to eat, fabulous shops, a truly cosmopolitan vibe and an extraordinary atmosphere of tolerance and freedom. Students form 10 per cent of the city’s population, so you can be confident that your needs will be catered for. Read more about the city of Brighton. The Visit Brighton website gives information for visitors.

Q: What is the cost of living?
A: The cost of living in Brighton is a little lower than London, but it is higher than many other places in the UK. See sample monthly living costs for a student at the University.

Q: What area of England will I be studying in?
A: Brighton is on the South Coast of England in the county of Sussex. Some of the most beautiful countryside England has to offer can be found just outside the city. The South Downs that surround Brighton provide breath-taking views, tranquil walks and plenty of opportunities for paragliding, mountain biking, hiking or sedate picnics. See a map of the region.

Q: What are the nearest international airports?
A: London Gatwick airport is 30 minutes by taxi and London Heathrow airport is 90 minutes. There are also coach services from both airports to the centre of Brighton. Read more information about travelling to Sussex by air. 

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
Mantell Building
University of Sussex
Falmer
BRIGHTON
BN1 9RF
UK

The University and its campus

Q: How well regarded is the University?
A: The University of Sussex is renowned nationally and internationally for its teaching and research excellence. 100% of subjects were awarded Grade 4 or 5 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise. The University was ranked 38th in the UK by The Times Good University Guide 2009 and 34th by The Guardian University League Table 2009. It was also placed 121st in the world by the Times Higher Education Supplement University Ranking 2007.

Q: Which subjects are rated particularly highly at the University?
A: The Guardian University Guide 2009 ranked these Sussex undergraduate subjects in the following positions in the UK:

- 4th Chemistry
- 13th Anthropology
- 16th Biological Sciences
- 16th Economics
- 18th Communication & Media Studies
- 18th Physics
- 21st Sociology
- 22nd Computer Science
- 24th Business and Management Studies
- 25th Mechanical Engineering

Q: How many students does the University have?
A: 10,800 students of which 73% are undergraduate and 27% postgraduate.

Q: How many international students does the University have?
A: Sussex's students and researchers come from over 120 countries. Around a third of the student population is from outside the UK.

Q: Will I be a University student while I study at the ISC?
A: Yes, you will be a member of the University of Sussex from the day you start at the International Study Centre.

Q: What is the campus like?
A: The University of Sussex campus is the only one in the UK to be entirely located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is idyllically set in acres of 18th century parkland, close to the South Downs and four miles from the centre of Brighton. The campus is a thriving community with its own pubs, shops and amenities. Read more about the campus.

Q: Will I have access to the University's academic and campus facilities?
A: You will have access to the full range of University services and facilities. See more information about the academic resources and campus services.

Accommodation

Q: Is accommodation guaranteed while I am at the International Study Centre?
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.

Q: Is accommodation guaranteed for the first year of the degree?
A: Currently there is no on-campus accommodation guaranteed for ISC students when they progress onto their degree. However, the University considers accommodation applications for first year undergraduate students. Provided you get your housing application in by the University's August deadline, you are guaranteed University-managed accommodation at the Falmer campus or in nearby Brighton & Hove.

Q: What type of accommodation is available to me?
A: Rooms are offered to ISC students on a first come, first served basis:

  • For Foundation Year students:
    En-suite and standard single rooms are offered on the University campus in Lewes Court, Brighthelm, Park Houses, Park Village, Swanborough and Stanmer Court. View more information about University-managed accommodation. If you are applying for accommodation after the deadline, you may be offered an alternative accommodation type.

Q: Are there cooking facilities in the accommodation?
Yes, all accommodation is self-catering and you will have access to a kitchen equipped with a cooker, fridge-freezer and kettle. Most also have microwaves.

Q: Where is the accommodation?
A: Lewes Court, Brighthelm, Park Houses, Park Village and Swanborough residences are all on campus. Stanmer Court is just outside campus, next to Falmer train station. You can see the accommodation location on a map of the University campus.

Q: How much is the accommodation?
A: This varies depending on the accommodation type. See accommodation prices - note that these are guide prices based on the 2008/09 academic year.

Q: What is included in the accommodation fees?
A: All accommodation is self-catering. Fees include services, internet/University network access and utilities (i.e. gas and electricity).

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 has a website with various private off-campus 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 Year?
A: A minimum background of high school graduation with good grades, or equivalent academic study. Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted.

Q: What are the academic entry requirements for the Pre-Masters course?
A: 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.

Q: What level of English language do I require for the ISC academic programmes?
A: Students must have an English language level equivalent to:

  • For the Foundation Year and three-term Pre-Masters course: IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 500 (173 computer based test)
  • For the two-term Pre-Masters course: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 570 (230 computer-based test)

Pre-course English Language Preparation (ELP) 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 the Foundation Year
  • 20 years old when they start the Pre-Masters

Q: Can 'overseas' students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: 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.

Q: Can UK and EU/EEA students apply to the International Study Centre?
A: Unfortunately we do not accept applications from 'Home' or EU students. 'Home'/EU students include 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

We would not be able to guarantee progression for UK and EU/EEA students taking the foundation course because competition for places from those students is very high. Instead we recommend students consider joining an A Level course at Bellerbys College.

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 Foundation Year and Pre-Masters 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 your academic programme. Read more about English language training for Foundation and English language training for Pre-Masters.

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 Language Preparation last?
A: One term for students with IELTS 4.0+. At least two terms for student with IELTS 3.0+.

Q: How is my English Language assessed for progression onto my ISC academic programme?
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 Foundation Programme you need an ESU score of 5.0 (or the equivalent).

Fees

 Q: What are the ISC academic and English language tuition fees?
A: Tuition fees in pounds sterling (GBP) are shown on the fees page.

 

Q: When do fees increase each year?
Fees for the academic year 2010/11 come into effect on 31 March 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, University administration fees and the credit card surcharge.

Q: What are the University degree fees?
A: The fee for degree tuition in 2010/11 at the University of Sussex ranges from £9,975 to £12,750 per year for 'overseas' students. See more information about University of Sussex tuition fees.

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 any StudyCare Insurance fees applicable) - this being the required Confirmation Payment.

For courses lasting three terms or more, the remaining tuition fees can be paid termly, one month before the start of each academic term, or in full in advance in preferred. However, fees for two-term (Pre-Masters) courses must be paid in full in advance.

Accommodation fees can be paid yearly in advance or termly.

Q: How can fees 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 a £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 my ISC programme?
A: You can start the International Foundation Year and three-term Pre-Masters in either September or January.
You can start the two-term Pre-Masters in either January or April.

 

Q: When can I start the English Language Preparation (ELP) course?
A: 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-Masters study plan options.

Q: What are the ISC term dates?

Term 2009/10 academic year 2010-11 academic year
Autumn 28 September to 11 December 2009 27 September to 10 December 2010
Spring 11 January to 26 March 2010 10 January to 25 March 2011
Summer 1 12 April to 18 June 2010 11 April to 17 June 2011
Summer 2 (Foundation & Pre-Masters) 21 June to 20 August 2010 20 June to 19 August 2011
Summer 2 (English Language Preparation) 28 June to 10 September 2010 4 July to 16 September 2011

Q: What date do I start my University of Sussex degree?
A: You will start your degree in the October following your ISC academic course start i.e. if you enter the Foundation Year or Pre-Masters in September 2010, you will start your degree in October 2011. If you start your course in January 2011, you will begin your degree in October 2011.

Applying

 Q: What is the deadline for applications?
A: Although there is no official deadline for applications, University-managed accommodation places fill up far 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 term.

 

However, subject to availability, we do continue to consider applications until 2 weeks after the start of an academic programme.

Note that the visa application process may cause delays to admission.

Q: How do I apply for the Foundation Year, Pre-Masters and English Language Preparation course?
A: You need to apply directly to the International Study Centre. You do not apply through UCAS. You can apply in three different ways:

  1. 1. 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.
  2. 2. Download the application form, print it out, complete it and fax it back to us along with the relevant documentation.
  3. 3. 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 admission 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 FAQs 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.

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 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.

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 and you must check with the school that you are allowed to work. If you have a student visa you are allowed to work for 20 hours per week in term time and any amount per week in holiday times. If you have a 'prohibition' stamp then you are not allowed to work. It is a very serious offence if you work without permission.

Further advice can be found on the University's International Student webpages.

Q: How do I get to the University of Sussex?
Full details of how to travel to the University are on the Maps and Transport page.

Q: Can I arrange 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 transfers cost £61 from Gatwick (LGW) and £91 from Heathrow (LHR).

Q: When should I arrive at the University?
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. Read the general pre-arrival information for new students.

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 the University of Sussex.

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 content with current students at Sussex?
A: Sussex 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.