Studying in schools and high schools in England can be a pathway to entering the country's universities. In this post, we will discuss the conditions and tuition fees. England draws in international students year after year, thanks to its reputation for excellent schools and a wide range of educational programs.

 

Choosing to study in England is considered a safe and secure path to immigration. The English school system consistently ranks among the world's top five, and diplomas from their high schools are highly respected worldwide. This opens doors for graduates to prestigious universities anywhere on the globe. Join us at Let's Go Uni to take a closer look at the conditions for studying in English high schools.

 

Studying in Schools and High Schools in England

 

The English education system is one of the most well-known systems in the world. Children must be educated by the age of 5. At this stage, they receive government education known as early childhood education and follow the British curriculum, EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage). After completing this stage, children will enter the next grade. According to the education system, the educational stages are divided into four stages:

 

  • Stage 1 (for infants aged 5 to 7)
  • Stage 2 (for young people aged 7 to 11)
  • Stage 3 (for ages 11 to 14)
  • Stage 4 (for ages 14 to 16)

Primary education includes stages 1 and 2; while secondary education is divided into stages 3 and 4.

 

Education in England is compulsory between the ages of 5 and 16. England welcomes over 500,000 international students from all over the world each year, making it one of the top study destinations. Studying in England can be a pathway to gaining residency and entering the job market. England's renowned education system, with its high standards, makes it a top choice for international students seeking quality education and valuable skill development. This paves the way for a smoother transition to university for graduates of English high schools.

 

With smaller class sizes, students benefit from personalized attention from teachers and can fully utilize the school's resources. This is a major concern for families sending their children abroad. They worry about the challenges of adapting to a new environment, which can sometimes feel overwhelming or even unsafe. However, English schools boast a strong safety record. Trained teachers and staff provide 24/7 supervision, giving parents peace of mind.

 

 

England School Types

 

There are a wide range of schools in England to suit all budgets. State secondary schools are completely free to attend, but this free education is only for resident applicants. International students generally choose private and boarding schools. Some of the types of schools in England are:

 

  • State Schools

 

State schools offer free education and are under government control. Most of these schools follow the National Curriculum for England. Foreign applicants are not allowed to attend these schools unless their parents are residents of England.

 

  • Private Schools

 

These schools are also known as "independent schools." The Office for Standards Inspection (Ofsted) must register and inspect all private schools. Entry to these schools is subject to a fee. There are approximately 2600 schools that accept international students. 

 

  • Further Education Colleges

 

These schools tend to be located in urban areas and aim to teach science and technology. Entry to further education colleges is free, and costs are covered by the government and in partnership with companies.

 

  • Boarding Schools

 

These schools are designed to educate and accommodate international students. Students between the ages of 10 and 19 can enter these schools. Students can enroll in schools that are exclusively girls' or boys' schools. These institutions are suitable for those who cannot bring their families with them and charge tuition and housing fees.

 

Study Conditions for England High Schools

 

High school in England typically starts at the age of 11 for most students. After completing primary school, applicants enter secondary school, which has two stages: 11 to 14 years old (pre-GCSE) and 14 to 16 years old (GCSE). Foreign applicants who wish to enter this stage must either enter at the age of 11 or wait until the age of 13 and take a year before the two-year GCSE course. During the pre-GCSE course, students learn a wide range of subjects, such as music, mathematics, science, English, and more.

 

If applicants intend to enter English universities, they must take A-Levels or BTEC courses before entering university and prepare accordingly. While English language certificates aren't typically mandatory for high school applications in England, a strong grasp of English is essential. Most schools expect students to have at least a B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is best to apply to high school a year in advance, and admissions generally take place until January.

 

 

Documents Required for Admission

 

Applicants who wish to study in schools in England will need to provide specific documents. Most of the documents presented in this section will be common to all schools in the country:

 

  • Application Form (Completed)
  • School Report & Transcripts
  • ID & Passport (Copy)
  • Health Insurance
  • App Fee Receipt

 

Best High Schools in England

 

England has 6,343 secondary schools, of which 4,425 are state schools and 1,065 are private schools. International applicants have become interested in many of these schools because of the high quality of education they provide. Some of the best schools that foreign students can attend are:

 

  • St Paul's Girls' School
  • Wycombe Abbey School
  • Haberdashers' Boys' School Elstree
  • Godolphin & Latymer School
  • James Allen's Girls' School
  • Putney High School
  • Withington Girls' School
  • Hampton School
  • Bancroft's School
  • Manchester High School for Girls
  • Winchester College
  • St Albans High School for Girls
  • Sevenoaks School
  • Wellington College
  • Radley College
  • Benenden School

 

England Schools and High Schools Tuition Fees

 

Secondary education in England can be either free or expensive, depending on the school. There are two main types: state-funded schools (free to attend) and private schools (with tuition fees). International students typically apply to private schools, which range from around £20,000 to £50,000 per year. The good news is that the government offers scholarships to help ease the financial burden for international applicants.

 

Scholarships for High Schools in England

 

One of the important issues that has preoccupied families is the conditions for free education and the use of scholarships for applicants under the age of 18. Receiving a secondary school scholarship is very difficult and competitive. Only those who have obtained excellent grades and made significant progress in the first year will have the opportunity to use the scholarship and financial aid.

 

The good news is that the government offers scholarships and financial aid to help talented students get into top universities, sometimes even waiving entrance exams. However, it's important to be aware that some of these scholarships may not cover all your expenses in the first year.

 

Accommodation in High Schools in England

 

Boarding Schools

 

Those students who intend to study in England without their family can either enroll in boarding schools or opt for homestay accommodation. Dormitory rooms in boarding schools can be either single or shared with other students. These dormitories are located close to the school and are highly secure. Staying in a dormitory will minimize commuting time.

 

Homestay

 

The other option for accommodation is a homestay. Living with an English family that has received government approval is essentially what homestay means. These families can accommodate one or more students and provide them with nutritious meals. If applicants choose homestays for accommodation, they will not only improve their language skills but also become familiar with the country's culture and pay lower costs.

 

Working While Studying in High Schools in England

 

One of the significant features of studying in England is that international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. The question that now arises is whether students under the age of 18 are also allowed to work while studying. If international students intend to work while studying, they can start at the age of 16. They are permitted to work full-time during the summer. According to English labor laws, the wages of individuals under 18 are paid through the PAYE system.

 

 

England Student Visa

 

The Tier 4 student visa is for applicants between the ages of 4 and 17 who intend to enroll in an educational institution. This visa allows students to participate in courses for at least 6 months. To apply for a visa, an acceptance letter from the school is required. The embassy has set some conditions that applicants must meet. Providing proof of financial means is one of the prerequisites for obtaining a visa. Parental consent is another required document. The visa application fee is £348, and visa issuance takes between one and three weeks. The documents required for applying for a student visa are as follows:

 

  • ID and passport
  • Application Fee
  • School Acceptance
  • Academic Transcript
  • Parental Consent
  • Financial Proof
  • Insurance
  • UK Address
  • Passport-size Photo

 

Guide to Obtaining a Dependent Visa or the UK

 

Unfortunately, there is currently no visa issued by the embassy called a parent or guardian dependent visa. Student parents cannot be legal guardians alongside their children for the entire duration of their studies. However, there is a type of tourist visa that allows parents to visit their children. This type of tourist visa has a validity period of 6 months and can be obtained by sending an invitation letter from the school. Parents who obtain a visa will not be able to work, change their visa status, or start a business.

 

Advantages of Studying in UK Schools and High Schools

 

The main advantage of entering the UK is that it offers an international degree that is recognized in many countries around the world. Other benefits of attending these schools include the following:

 

  • Advanced Education System
  • No English Proficiency Required
  • Top Country for Education
  • High Standard of Living
  • Valuable Degree
  • Diverse Culture
  • Prestigious Universities
  • Social Security
  • Post-Graduation Stay Option
  • Financial Aid Opportunities

 

Conclusion

 

Today, there are few people who do not dream of studying in UK schools and high schools or are unaware of the facilities available there. This country is one of the top 5 countries in terms of the standard education system and can offer a bright future for individuals. Most of its graduates have held major positions in the country and have been able to continue their education.

 

While parents can't get a dependent visa to accompany their children studying in the UK, the government offers support to ease concerns. This includes providing various student accommodation options. Need more help? The Let's Go Uni agency website can connect you with experienced advisors who can guide you through the process of enrolling your child in a UK school. Just schedule a consultation appointment on their website!