Your application journey

You’ve chosen to study in the UK – what next? There’s a lot to think about but we can help you through the application process as well as prepare you for your arrival. If you’re already studying at Staffordshire, there’s a wealth of information to explore.

 

Frequently asked questions

We've collated the most common questions we're asked by international students during the application process to help answer any queries you might have.​

Applying & entry requirements

How do I apply for a course as an international student?

Applying is simple. You can apply directly through our course pages for a Postgraduate/Master's degree, or via UCAS if you are applying for an Undergraduate/Bachelor's degree.

If you’d prefer local support, visit our country pages to find an agent in your country.

And If you would like help along the way, our friendly Recruitment Team is here for you - you can even book a Microsoft Teams appointment to chat with us one-to-one. 

What should I do if I can’t find my qualifications listed for my country?

If your qualifications aren’t listed under your country on our website, don’t worry, you may still be eligible to apply. Our international admissions team can advise you on whether your qualifications meet our entry requirements. Contact us or book a one-to-one Microsoft Teams appointment for tailored support. 

What are the academic and English language entry requirements?

Requirements vary depending on your course and where you are applying from. You can check:

Some courses may require higher levels, but we are here to guide you every step of the way. 

Are there country-specific entry requirements for my qualifications?

Yes, we provide tailored information for many countries to make things clearer. Just head to our country-specific entry requirements page to find out more.

How do I accept my offer?

For UCAS applications:

If you've received decisions from all your chosen institutions, UCAS will ask you to select two: your first (Firm) and second (Insurance) choices. If you'd like to hold University of Staffordshire as your firm or insurance choice, please indicate this on UCAS Track by the deadline provided by UCAS. 

For Direct/Non-UCAS applications:

Please visit the Applicant Portal to let us know if you wish to accept your offer. If you haven't previously logged into the Portal, follow the instructions in the acknowledgement email sent to you shortly after submitting your application. If you have logged in before but can't remember your password, please click the "Forgotten Your Password" button. 

How do I apply for a UK student visa?

Once you receive your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), you can apply via the UK government website.

What documents do I need for my visa and enrolment?

You will usually need:

  • Your offer letter
  • Your CAS
  • Proof of funds, as required by UKVI
  • Proof of your English language ability

Additional requirements may apply depending on your individual circumstances. For full details, visit the UK government website.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us - we’re here to support you throughout the process. 

Can I work while studying on a student visa?

Yes, most international students on a Student Route visa can work part-time (typically up to 20 hours per week during term time).

For more information, visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.

Fees, scholarships & costs

What are the tuition fees for international students?

Indicative fees for 2025/26:

  • Most courses: £16,750 
  • Nursing, Paramedic Science, Operating Department Practice, Midwifery: £19,000 

For all fee information, visit our Scholarships and fees page or check your course page for specific details.

Are there any scholarships or bursaries available for international students?

Yes, our SMART Scholarship is available to support many international students joining full-time, on-campus undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses. While some specialist or postgraduate research courses are not eligible, a wide range of courses do qualify.

Visit our Smart Scholarships page to see if your course is included.

What are the estimated living costs in the UK?

Living costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and location. For students in Stoke-on-Trent, you can expect to spend around £500 to £1,200 per month. This typically includes:

  • Accommodation
  • Food and groceries
  • Transport
  • Personal expenses and entertainment

This is generally more affordable than studying in larger UK cities such as London. We recommend checking the UKVI guidance on minimum living expenses as part of your visa preparations. 

Visa & immigration

How do I apply for a UK student visa?

Once you receive your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), you can apply via the UK government website.

What documents do I need for my visa and enrolment?

You will usually need:

  • Your offer letter
  • Your CAS
  • Proof of funds, as required by UKVI
  • Proof of your English language ability

Additional requirements may apply depending on your individual circumstances. For full details, visit the UK government website.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us - we’re here to support you throughout the process. 

Can I work while studying on a student visa?

Yes, most international students on a Student Route visa can work part-time (typically up to 20 hours per week during term time).

For more information, visit the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.

Accommodation & arrival

Is university accommodation available for international students, and how do I apply?

Yes, we guarantee to offer welcoming and comfortable University accommodation to all international students in their first year with us at our Stoke-on-Trent campus, regardless of their year of study or level at the University.

You can explore your options and apply easily online through our Accommodation page. 

How do I get to the university from the airport?

We recommend planning your journey in advance. Our Stoke, Stafford and London campuses are well-connected by train from major UK airports, and directions are available on our campus pages to help make your arrival as smooth as possible. 

Support & welcome

What support is available to help me settle in as a new international student?

We know moving to a new country is a big step, and we are here to make that transition as smooth as possible. You will have access to our dedicated international support team, friendly orientation events, and peer-to-peer advice through Unibuddy.

You can also start making connections before you even arrive by joining our CampusConnect community.

For more information on what support is available visit our page on Life in the United Kingdom.

Is there an international orientation programme?

Absolutely! Our International Orientation is a great way to feel at home from day one. It is designed to help you settle in, meet other students, and find your way around campus.

We will send you all the details by email before you travel, so you know exactly what to expect. 

What other support is available around living in the UK?

We provide a range of support to help you settle into life in the UK and feel at home during your studies. This includes:

  • Pre-arrival advice to help you prepare before you travel, including what to pack and how to access health services like the NHS.
  • Help with everyday life, such as understanding UK customs and culture, managing money, shopping, and opening a bank account.
  • Safety and wellbeing guidance, including how to stay safe on and off campus, and how to access healthcare and emotional support if needed.
  • Support for families, if you're bringing dependants with you, including information on schools and childcare.

For more details, visit our page Life in the United Kingdom.

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021