5 Common Questions International Students Ask (And Our Answers)

The university application process can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded, especially when you’re doing it from thousands of miles away. Every year, we work with hundreds of international students who are brilliant, ambitious, and completely overwhelmed by the sheer volume of confusing information out there.

So let’s cut through the noise. Here are the questions we hear most often, answered honestly and practically.

1. How Early Should I Apply, and What Are the Deadlines?

Here’s the truth nobody tells you: the official deadline and the smart deadline are two very different things.

Most UK universities have rolling admissions for international students, meaning they review applications as they come in rather than waiting for a cut-off date. While the final deadline might be in June or July, the reality is that popular courses fill up fast. Apply in January for a September start, and you might find your dream course already at capacity, especially for competitive programs like Business, Computer Science, or Engineering.

The sweet spot? October through December of the year before you want to start. This is when universities have just opened applications, admissions teams are fresh and thorough, and you have the widest choice of courses and accommodation options. Plus, you’ll have breathing room to sort out your visa, which brings us to an often-overlooked point: the visa process itself can take 3-8 weeks during peak season. Applying early means you’re not frantically refreshing your visa application status in August while everyone else is already packing.

One exception: if you’re applying through UCAS for undergraduate programs, the main deadline is late January (typically January 29th), though international students can apply until June 30th. But again, earlier is better.

2. What Documents Are Required for the Application?

The standard list is straightforward: academic transcripts, personal statement, reference letters, passport copy, and English language test scores. But let’s talk about what really matters.

Universities aren’t just checking boxes. They want to see a coherent story. Your personal statement shouldn’t read like your CV in paragraph form (we’ve all been tempted). It should answer one question: why does this subject matter to you enough that you’re willing to move across the world to study it?

Here’s something most students don’t realise: the quality of your reference letter can make or break a borderline application. A generic “good student, shows up on time” letter does nothing. Your referee should speak to specific examples of your academic curiosity, resilience, or potential. If possible, choose someone who’s taught you in a subject relevant to what you’re applying for.

For transcripts, if your country uses a different grading system, include an official grading scale explanation. Don’t assume admissions tutors in York or Loughborough automatically know that 85% is exceptional in your education system, while 70% might be average elsewhere.

And critically: make sure everything is translated into English by a certified translator if your documents are in another language. An unofficial translation, no matter how accurate, will delay your application.

3. Can I Apply Without an English Test or Final Results?

Short answer: sometimes, but you need a strategy.

Many universities accept conditional offers for students awaiting final exam results. You apply with your predicted grades, receive a conditional offer, and then meet those conditions before enrollment. This is standard practice and nothing to worry about.

The English test situation is more nuanced. Some universities waive the IELTS/TOEFL requirement if you’ve studied in English for a certain number of years. Several UK institutions consider alternative evidence of English proficiency for reference; you can check Warwick’s requirements. This varies widely by university and program, so check specific requirements early.

If you do need to take an English test but haven’t yet, some universities allow you to apply first and submit scores later, as long as you meet the deadline they specify (usually a few months before the course start). However, this is risky. Test dates fill up, you might not get your desired score on the first try, and suddenly, you’re in a stressful race against time.

Our advice? Take the English test first, even if the university says you can apply without it. It removes uncertainty and immediately strengthens your application.

4. How Long Does It Take to Receive a Decision After Applying?

The official line is usually “2-8 weeks,” but let’s get real about what actually happens.

Most universities aim for 4-6 weeks during normal periods. However, if you apply in January when thousands of other students are also applying, it might stretch to 8-10 weeks. If you apply in November? You could hear back in 2-3 weeks because admissions teams have more bandwidth.

Here’s what slows things down: incomplete applications. If your transcripts are unclear, your reference letter is missing, or your English test scores haven’t arrived, your application sits in limbo. One missing document can add weeks to the process.

Also, some competitive courses conduct interviews or require portfolio reviews. Medicine, Veterinary Science, Architecture, and sometimes postgraduate research programs fall into this category. Factor in extra time if your program requires these additional steps.

Pro tip: After you submit, you’ll typically receive a portal login to track your application. Check it regularly, but don’t email admissions every week asking for updates. They’re processing hundreds of applications, and yours is in the queue. If it’s been longer than the stated timeframe, then reach out politely.

5. Can International Students Work During Their Studies?

Yes, but understanding the specifics will save you from nasty surprises.

On a Student visa, you’re typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This applies to most degree-level students at recognised universities. However, there are restrictions: you generally cannot be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson, or work as an entertainer.

The 20-hour limit is strict. Exceed it, even accidentally, and you risk jeopardising your visa status. “Term time” is defined by your university, not by when you happen to have classes. If your university says the term runs through mid-June, you’re limited to 20 hours weekly until mid-June, even if your exams finished in May.

Now, the practical reality: should you rely on part-time work to fund your studies? Probably not entirely. Part-time jobs near universities (retail, hospitality, campus jobs) typically pay £10-12 per hour. At 20 hours weekly, that’s roughly £800-960 per month before tax. It helps with living expenses, but it won’t cover tuition, rent, and food combined. Universities offer various support systems for international students, including job shops and career services that can help you find suitable work, but arrive with enough funds for at least your first term. For reference, you can check out the University of York.

One genuinely useful thing: many courses, particularly at universities like Loughborough with its strong industry connections, offer placement years or internships as part of the degree. These are different from casual part-time work, often paid better, and valuable for your career. Look into whether your course offers this.

The Real Answer to Your Unasked Question

Behind all these practical questions is usually one deeper concern: “Am I going to be okay?”

The answer is yes, but only if you prepare properly. International students who struggle aren’t usually less capable; they’re often just under-informed about the small details that compound into big problems. Start early, ask specific questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out for guidance when you need it.

Studying abroad is challenging. It’s also one of the most transformative experiences you’ll ever have. Getting the administrative stuff right just means you’ll have more energy for everything else: the late-night library sessions, the friendships that cross continents, and the moment when a complex idea finally clicks.