Undergraduate courses normally last three years, but in some cases may be longer. British universities place great emphasis on their students' ability to undertake independent study. For this reason, many final year courses for first degrees include a research project or dissertation which forms an important part of the degree.

Applicants must satisfy both general and course requirements. General requirements usually consist of the
following:
1. A special number of subject passes at both GCE 'A' levels and GCSE at grade C minimum.
2. Equivalent overseas qualifications, such as the Indian CBSE and ICSE.

Students who do not have the entry qualifications for an undergraduate course may wish to apply for a
foundation course in the first instance. These range from four months to a year.

When to apply?
Applications are made through a computerised national system known as the Universities and Colleges
Admissions Service (UCAS). Students must complete a single UCAS form, which allows them a choice of six universities and courses. For many courses, overseas students are required to sit the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) exam which is regularly administered by The British Council.

UCAS forms should be submitted before 15 December of the preceding year. Students can start applying even if they have not received their final results. However, even after 15 December, applications can still be processed in the normal way until 30 June. After that, applications will be handled through the "clearing" process.

It is important to note that for Oxford and Cambridge, students must apply before 15 October of the year
proceeding their year of proposed entry.

The academic year
The academic year in Britain runs from late September/early October to June, usually with a month off at
Christmas and Easter.

How much will it cost?
Given below are indicative costs of studying in Britain per year:

The undergraduate courses are shorter and more intensive thus reducing living expenses. Students are entitled to free health treatment under the National Health Service when the courses lasts longer than six months. Students should ensure that they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of their stay, although it is normally possible to obtain permission to work upto 20 hours per week during term time and full time during holidays.