Choosing a university or college
If you are already living outside your home country, selecting a university or college will depend on the field of study you are interested in, and the quality of education you desire. You should also consider which city best suits you. Check out our feature on choosing a university or college course in the UK for more tips on making this important decision.

Remember that even if the universities located near you do not have a reputation for quality higher education, there will always be individual centres of excellence. Check out ratings on the internet such as Expatica’s listing of the best business schools worldwide, which will help you to choose a university in your country or city of residence.

Types of degree
In the UK, higher education generally refers to work towards a college-degree-level or foundation degree education. The degree levels are Foundations (similar to an Associates degree in the US), Bachelor, Masters and Ph.D.

In general, a Foundations degree takes a year to complete; a Bachelor takes three years, a Masters a minimum of one year and a Ph.D a minimum of three.

Student exchange programmes
Students wishing to study abroad can take advantage of a student exchange programme to go to a university or college outside of their home country. As well as educating the students in their chosen field of study, these programmes enable the expat students to learn a new language and culture.

Naturally, students need to carry out adequate research so they can be well-prepared for the university application process. But parents can also help. Read an expert’s advice to both students and parents on how to get through the application process. Also read our features on the application process for expats and on dealing with the application forms.

Part-time and online programmes
Even if you’re not sure you want to pursue a degree, you may consider taking courses, including online course, that interest you. See our feature on finding university or college courses in the UK.

Higher education programmes for expats and accompanying spouses can sharpen skills, improve self-esteem and help ensure that an expatriate’s assignment is a success.

The Open University offers a variety of courses, most of which Expat university students can study singly or combine with others to obtain a qualification. Student can choose the order, timing and type of courses they want, and can study online from anywhere in the world. Ask our expert about this and other online degree programmes.

Check out Expatica’s Courses & Workshops channel for more information on part-time and fulltime courses. Also take a look at our Adult Continuing Education listings.

Student life
Visit our Educational/Professional listings to find events organised by universities and students.