University preparation in Scotland for international students

Nowadays, Scotland is one of the most popular countries among international students wishing to get high-quality education abroad. SMAPSE offers 10 best Scottish schools and colleges where foreign students can get preparation courses that will help to enter prestigious universities in Scotland and abroad. Due to the list of TOP-10 prestigious schools and colleges in Scotland, you will definitely find the most appropriate option. Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts at any time as they are always ready to answer all your questions. 

Education International students aspiring to pursue higher education in Scotland typically have two primary pathways. They can either secure their place post-high school graduation, equipped with a certificate and an IELTS score of 6.0, or they can opt for a university prep course known as the Scottish International Foundation Program.

The Scottish International Foundation Program serves as a bridge for foreign students, facilitating their admissions to renowned Scottish universities such as Aberdeen, Robert Gordon, and Dundee. These are among the most revered institutions in the nation.

To be eligible for the Scottish International Foundation Program, a student needs a high school certificate with commendable grades and a qualifying score in IELTS or TOEFL. Depending on the individual's proficiency and the outcome they aim for, the program's duration can vary:

• 3-month program: Primarily a summer course running from July to September, this program focuses on preparing students for specific subject exams. University preparation course fees for this duration stand at approximately £1,750.

• 9-month program: Spanning from January to September, this course is tailored for those boasting exemplary school final exam results. Here, participants prepare for the Foundation exams in September, subsequently proceeding to the university admissions phase in October. The estimated cost is £4,850.

• 12-month program: Commencing in September, this extensive program encompasses an intensive English course, paving the way for students to achieve the fluency required by Scottish universities. Additionally, students secure an SCE educational certificate, recognized by numerous global institutions. Successfully clearing the SCE exempts students from the Foundation certification. In instances where both exams are undertaken, universities consider the combined results for admissions.

For optimal results, experts often suggest foreign students immerse themselves in the Foundation program for 1-2 years at a Scottish high school.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

Do all schools provide ESL courses for foreign students? How important is it?

Yes, universities offer an English language course for foreign students, but keep in mind that for enrollment you will still have to have some knowledge (usually it is B2-C1 on the CEFR scale) - otherwise you simply will not enter the university, which means that ESL will not be available to you. Support is offered to students who have been able to enroll but are still experiencing a little difficulty – but ESL will not become a major part of your studies, so you should not rely on it too much.

• Top-notch Education: Scotland boasts four universities ranked within the global top 200, as per The Times.

• International Recognition: Diplomas from Scottish institutions carry significant weight globally. Remarkably, over 80% of Scottish alumni land prestigious jobs within six months post-graduation.

• Cost-effective: The cost of preparing for university in Scotland is relatively lower than many European counterparts. Monthly expenses, including living and academic costs, range between £500 to £1,000.

• Vibrant Student Life: Scotland's compact nature morphs it into one colossal student-centric city. Every academic year witnesses an influx of over 45,000 students hailing from 150+ countries.

As highlighted, Scotland offers a more economical study avenue. Depending on the chosen institution – be it school, college, or a university prep course – annual university preparation course fees oscillate between £6,000 to £13,000. Per trimester, students can expect costs ranging from £3,000 to £5,000.

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