Choosing to study in the UK is a really exciting decision and you probably have lots of questions
about what to do next.
You might have met us in your country already and have decided which universities you want
to apply to.
Or you might still be choosing.
At Birmingham we want the application process to be as smooth as possible, so this film
will tell you how to apply to either undergraduate or a postgraduate programme.
So what's first?
If you are applying for undergraduate study you need to do this via UCAS where you can
apply for up to five programmes.
Just visit the UCAS website and follow the instructions.
If you are applying for postgraduate study you need to apply directly to us by visiting
our application portal.
Whether you are applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme, you'll need to
provide your documents to support your application.
You're going to need an English language qualification such as an O-level, IELTS or TOEFL, your highest
qualification or predicted grades which can be proven using a certificate, transcript
or statement of results, a personal statement and then one or two references.
Also we're going to need a copy of your passport.
You must provide certified copies of all of these documents with your application and
they must be stamped and certified by either your institution, the British Council, a notary
or one of our overseas representatives.
There are three ways to supply your supporting documents.
Firstly you can post the certified copies to our admissions office.
Secondly you could hand them to an International Officer like myself when you meet me at an
overseas event such as an exhibition, or you could go to your local representative office,
your agent, who will stamp the documents and submit them on your behalf.
Once you've applied, wait to hear from UCAS if you're an undergraduate, or directly from
us if you are a postgraduate applicant.
It can sometimes take a few weeks or a few months to hear from us but we'll always keep
in touch with you so you don't need to worry.
If you are a successful applicant then you will receive an offer.
This could be unconditional or conditional.
An unconditional offer means that you don't have to meet any requirements and able to
accept your place at Birmingham.
A conditional offer means that there will still be criteria you must meet before you
can become a student here.
Depending on the course you have applied for, these could include achieving your predicted
grades, providing additional evidence of your qualifications, passing a Criminal Records
Bureau check, having an interview or audition, taking an aptitude test or submitting a health
certificate.
If you've applied through UCAS you need to choose your firm choice of university and
then an insurance, which is usually a back-up just in case you don't get the grades you
need for your firm choice.
If you are a postgraduate applicant you simply need to accept your place at Birmingham.
As soon as you've made Birmingham your firm or accepted choice, you can start applying
for accommodation and planning the exciting journey ahead.
So what happens next?
As an international student you will be guaranteed university accommodation for your first year
here.
Once you've accepted us as your firm choice, you'll be able to apply and pay your deposit,
which is the only fee you'll have to pay before you arrive in Birmingham.
It's best to apply as soon as possible to ensure you get your first choice accommodation.
The deadline for applying for accommodation is the 31st July.
We have a variety of rooms available, including Halls of Residence, family and apartment accommodation,
or we can help you to find a home in the private rental sector too.
We want you to feel prepared and look forward to your time at Birmingham so we'll keep in
regular contact with you throughout the application process.
We'll be sending you information on things like choosing somewhere to live, financial
support and scholarships.
If you have any questions you can contact us either through your local representative
office, online via our Facebook and Twitter pages, or via email.
You could also meet with one of our officers if we visit your country and our international
student advisory service is available online.
We offer pre-departure briefings in your home country to help you prepare to come to Birmingham,
and offer an extensive week of event on campus to introduce you to life in the UK.
If you apply to Birmingham you'll join students from 150 different countries and study alongside
academics who are global experts in their field.
Birmingham is a fantastic choice and you will be part of a thriving and dynamic community
here.
We hope to see you soon and good luck with your application.