Study in the UK – Further education

Further Education

Further education colleges are popular among post-16 students from overseas as they offer bridging courses for entry to UK universities. From foundation courses, these colleges offer both academic (e.g. GCSE and GCE A-level), vocational or career-based (e.g. certificate and diplomas) courses in business studies, accounting, hotel and tourism, logistics, beauty and computing science etc. And they also provide English language courses to the students who need to strengthen their English.

Further education colleges are closely linked with higher education institutions, universities and industries. Courses are designed in consultation with respective industries. Graduates are well equipped with up-to-date academic and technical knowledge and skills for employment or further studies.

Further education colleges are closely linked with higher education institutions, universities and industries. Courses are designed in consultation with respective industries. Graduates are well equipped with up-to-date academic and technical knowledge and skills for employment or further studies.

Entry requirement

High school graduates from mainland China , or Form 5 and Form 6 Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) students from Hong Kong , who hold IELTS 4.5 - 6.0 may consider applying for foundation courses. Those students who are still studying high school in mainland China may consider GCE A-level instead.

Courses

Course length varies: foundation courses usually last for one year. GCE A-level takes two years or fast track takes only one year. GCSE also takes two years while certificates/diplomas last for one or two years, depending on level.

Tuition fees (annual)

GBP7,000 to GBP14,000 per year, accommodation excluded.