Study Abroad - Attending College in London

Western Europe is the birthplace of the college tradition, and England is one of the foremost countries for these universities. Travelling to London is one thing, but attending school there is a dream that many share. With proper preparation, planning and information, prospective students can turn their dream into a reality with ease.

The first thing an aspiring freshman should do is look into travel visas. Unless one is a citizen of the United Kingdom, these are a necessity to work, live, and study abroad anywhere. Prior to this, a student must realize that college costs in London can range from 4,000 to 22,000 pounds per semester. This is in addition to room and board costs, which can make the trip even more expensive. If one is serious about going to school in London, they should plan accordingly for these costs. Of course, a student from abroad will also need a passport. This can take a good deal of time to get if the applicant does not already have one.

When one is aware of their particular requirements for a visa, it is time to start looking at colleges. One cannot actually receive a visa until they have proof of acceptance into a university. Luckily, London has one of the highest concentrations of universities in the world. There are over 40 universities within and near the city that accept students, including some that cater to an international audience exclusively. Unless an applicant has their heart set on one particular school, it is best to apply to three or more. One of these schools should be the first choice - that is, it should be the school a student wants to get into more than anything. This school should have slightly higher standards than the student believes themselves capable. After all, university is all about pushing oneself to achieve. There should also be two or more back-up schools that are applied to as well. These back-up schools should be of a high caliber as well, but should also be somewhat easier to get into, thereby assuring the student will get into at least one college.

Universities and Colleges in London want the same things other universities across the globe want from their students. This means every prospective applicant should have the highest test scores and extracurriculars they are capable of getting. If there is any way a student can increase their scores or add to their resume, it is wise to do so before applying. That way, the dean (or deans) of admissions will see this, and weigh it toward their application.

There are some universities in London that are considered the greatest in the world. While there are a number of rigorous schools that will test the mental capacity of their students, there are others which are more specialized, and offer a more relaxed discourse, while still instilling knowledge on their student body. People should never think that they can't get to London. If that is where one truly wishes to go to school, then it is not a fool's errand in any way, shape, or form.