The UK has a well-deserved reputation world-wide for providing high quality higher education. The existing 111 universities and 60 higher education colleges award a wide variety of degrees to suit most educational aspirations. Most institutions have degree awarding powers recognised by the UK authorities (UK and Scottish Parliaments, Welsh and Northern Ireland Assemblies), others award the degrees of recognised institutions.

The growth of the Internet has led to an increased number of unofficial organisations claiming to offer UK qualifications granted by UK institutions. These institutions generally adopt a name which could be associated with a UK location and may have a postal address in the UK. This may give the impression that it is a recognised UK university or college. Also, they may charge ridiculously low fees. These organisations are not recognised in the UK and therefore, generally, the UK authorities have very little information, if any, about such institutions.

A complete list of the recognised universities and colleges can be found on the site of the Department for Education & Skills

Reasons for studying in the UK

UK education has a unique reputation which will give you a head start in your career

UK qualifications are recognised all over the world

There are strict quality checks on courses, ensuring high standards

There is a huge range of courses and places in which to study, enabling you to choose the type of institution and location you prefer

The UK education style is personal, with a high level of student support, ensuring that you will not fall behind or feel isolated

The UK is at the front of scientific and creative innovation and you could learn alongside some of the world’s top intellects, providing an excellent atmosphere for study

More intensive, shorter degree courses will save you time and money in gaining a high quality education

For undergraduate studies, there is a centralised application system through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Starting from September 2005, all UCAS applications should be completed electronically through ucasapply.