You should expect to have a mixture of lectures, seminars (or small discussion groups) and “tutorials.” Tutorials are weekly one-on-one or small group discussions with a “tutor,” or professor.

The UK has a strong tradition of close academic discourse between student and tutor, although its universities also place great value on independent research.

Assessment varies by institution, but tends to reflect the UK teaching method and style. Your teachers probably will grade you through a mix of continuous assessment (a combination of written work and oral examinations throughout the year), a final dissertation and final exams.

When you finish your degree, you will be classed in one of the following ways:

• First-class honors (a first)
• Upper second-class honors (a 2.1)
• Lower second-class honors (a 2.2)
• Third-class honors (a third)
• Ordinary

Students normally discuss any academic problems with their tutors first. Individual institutions can provide you with more information on student support services, as well as their assessment methods.