Comprehensive Guide to Studying in the UK for Ghanaians

Hey there! Are you interested in studying in the UK and don’t know how to go about it?

Come closer let me give you the full gist on how to do so.

With this article, I will take you through the steps needed from the application process to the actualization process trust me to keep you covered.

Your dream of studying in the UK as a Ghanaian student is valid and as such it can be achieved. Follow me every step of the way as I take you through the step-by-step process. Stay glued!

Overview of the Guide

Thousands of international students study in the UK each year, giving the UK a consistently high ranking in popularity. With a diverse population and a reputation for distinguished schooling, the UK is an appealing location for Ghanaian students to flock to.

And for International students worldwide seeking an English-language education, what better place to study in the UK Ghana than the country that invented the language?

With an excellent higher education system and hundreds of world-class universities, the UK promises a rich experience for Ghanaian students. This guide is intended to help you learn more about studying in the UK as a Ghanaian student and includes sections on choosing the UK as a study destination.

Importance of Higher Education for Ghanaians

There is a widespread belief that tertiary education in Ghana can meet the needs of national

Development. This belief is not far-fetched. Tertiary education for Ghanaians is positioned to support the development of the country such as social, health, economic, and infrastructure needs.

Given the young history of liberated Ghana, there is not a large enough workforce educated with the skills or knowledge needed to maintain or develop their infrastructure.

That is why Ghanaians need to study in the UK and other first-world countries with top-notch educational systems. This will enable them to apply the knowledge back in their home countries making it better than they left it.

Why study in the UK

The following are some of the reasons why Ghanaian students should study in the UK.

• International student recruitment: Studying in the UK for Ghanaians allows them to be recruited while still in school or after school.

• Prestigious higher education: This allows you to have a respected and reputable education that stands you out from your peers.

• Choice of courses: You can make your choice from a large number of distinguished universities.

• Multiple scholarship opportunities: This is very important. There are a lot of scholarships for Ghanaian students to study in the UK

• Shorter courses: You have the opportunity to study short courses and programs for Ghanaian students in the UK which can open doors to job opportunities for you.
• Working while studying: This is another beautiful opportunity. It gives you the ability to earn while working.

1. Prestigious Universities

There are a lot of prestigious universities in the UK. Studying in the UK as a Ghanaian allows you to study in distinguished universities with prestigious degrees which helps stand you apart from your peers.

Why study at a prestigious university you may ask?

You get to enjoy high academic standards for one.

The research quality in these institutions is also better than most, meaning you will not only receive knowledge from the best but also have an opportunity to collaborate and work with the best to contribute to your field.

2. Quality Education System

The UK is known all over the world as an education hotspot. It ranks as one of the foremost countries for exceptional education quality, globally. A major reason for this may be the investments in education and teacher training institutions set up across the UK dating back to more than 500 years ago!

The UK education system is reputed worldwide for its high quality and standards

With world-recognised universities and quality that is government-guaranteed, the UK offers academic excellence which makes it, without doubt, the best education system in the world.

3. Diverse Culture and International Experience

The UK is filled with different individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Here are some facts:

• About 14.4% of the people in the United Kingdom in 2021 were born overseas.
• About 3,346,000 of them lived in London.
• 18% of people counted in the 2021 Census said they belonged to a Black, Asian, mixed, or other ethnic group.

Imagine studying among such a multicultural group of individuals. It broadens your mind and exposes you to new things as a Ghanaian student.

4. Research and Innovative opportunities

There are a lot of scholarships for Ghanaian students to study in the UK. some of them are grants for research and innovative opportunities.

Studying in the UK gives you access to such funds which can help you make a mark in your career or academic field.

5. Career Advancement and Global Networks

Studying in the UK for Ghanaians aids in career advancement and a global network. You get to build relationships that can advance your career in the future.

Also, with the quality of education you are set to receive, you can’t help but gain much-needed recognition in your career.

Keep Learning: Why Study in UK? Top Reasons and Benefits for Ghanaian Students

English Language Requirements for UK study

Courses and programs for Ghanaian students in the UK are usually in English. You need a sufficient level of English to complete your course take part in classes and discussions, and submit assessments such as coursework and examinations..

You need to demonstrate your English language level by taking an approved English language test like the International English Language Test System (IELTS).

Most universities in the UK ask for a minimum score of 6.0-6.5, but top universities may require a much higher IELTS score of 7 and above. Some universities also accept an IELTS score of 5.5.

It all depends on several factors like your school of choice and your course of study.

International students who need to obtain a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Student Route Visa are required to meet the English Language requirements.

Some countries are exempt from meeting these English language requirements.

Studying in the UK without IELTS

Yes, it is possible to study in the UK without IELTS. For this, you should have to fulfill English requirements such as having proof of over 70% in English in High School or taking an online interview conducted by the university alternatively you need to show proof of English as your medium of instruction in your previous school.

Keep Learning: Top Universities in UK Without IELTS

Preparing to Study in the UK

Overall, before studying in the UK, you should be aware of the following:

• Visa requirements to study in the UK from Ghana
• Courses and programs for Ghanaian students in the UK
• Selection process
• Tuition fees
• accommodation options for Ghanaian students in the UK
• cost of living in the UK for Ghanaian students
• Language proficiency
• Cultural differences
• Available student support services

Keep Learning: UK Admission Requirements for Ghanaians

Researching Universities and Courses

With over 160 universities to choose from in the UK, and limitless courses and study options on offer, you can make your UK university experience as special as you desire.

There are different types of universities in the UK: from world-renowned historic institutions; to more modern innovative facilities. This endless choice means you have the chance to customize your learning in line with your aspirations and career goals.

But it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some things to consider when deciding which university to study at in the UK.

• Ranking of the school of choice
• Comparison of different universities based on their teaching methods
• Tuition fees if within your budget
• School location, cost of living, and easy accessibility

All of these should factor into your research.

Keep Learning: How to Study in UK from Ghana: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding UK Visa Requirements for Ghanaians

If you want to study in UK from Ghana, you need to know the visa requirements for Ghanaians to enable you to plan.

You should submit the following documents to apply for a UK visa:

• UK visa application form.
• Two photographs.
• Your valid passport.
• Proof of funds to cover the living costs while in the UK.
• Proof of accommodation.
• Purpose of visa
• Tuberculosis test results
• Biometric information.

Types of UK visa

There are different types of UK visas available but which one you apply for all depends on the purpose of your visa.

Some of them are:

1. Work visas.
2. Student visas.
3. Family visas.
4. Tourist visas.
5. Business visas.
6. Transit visas.

Many UK visas can also be used to obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain, which is an important step on the path to British citizenship

Financial Planning and Budgeting

If you are a Ghanaian student intending to study in the UK, you need to consider your finances. From the tuition fees to the cost of living in the UK for Ghanaian students.

On average, students should allocate a monthly budget ranging from £800 to £1,200. This budget should cover essential needs like groceries, transportation, mobile phone bills, and various other miscellaneous expenses.

Pre-departure arrangement

There are some arrangements you need to make before leaving for your study in the UK. First of all is your accommodation. You are supposed to have made proper arrangements regarding where you will live either temporarily or permanently.

You are expected to be in the UK One month before the start of your program of studies, or the date you are required to be on campus (or one week, if your program is less than 6 months long)

Health and Medical Requirements

As a Ghanaian student studying in the UK, one of the requirements to get your visa application approved is to be in sound health with a valid medical certificate as proof.

However, once you arrive in the UK, you will need to register with the National Health Service (NHS) to get access to medical care during your stay in the UK.

UK Biometric Residence Permit

The biometric residence permit is a residence permit that holds a migrant’s biographic details (name, date, and place of birth) and biometric information (facial image and fingerprints) and shows their immigration status and entitlements while they remain in the United Kingdom.

You’ll need to provide your fingerprints and photo (biometric information) if you’re getting a biometric residence permit ( BRP ) as part of your visa or immigration application. You also need to: have a digital photo taken of your face. put your fingers on a glass screen to be scanned.

A biometric residence permit ( BRP ) can be used to confirm your: identity; right to study; and right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to.

UK Student Visa Process for Ghanaians

The visa requirements to study in the UK from Ghana are as follows;

• Reference number and supporting documentation for the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Study) application.
• A valid passport.
• Proof that you have enough money to pay for your living expenses while studying there.

Application Timeline and Deadlines

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before your course starts. You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

Required Documents and Application Materials

You will need the following documents to apply for your student visa.

• Passport with six-month validity.
• Student visa application form.
• Passport photograph
• Proof of admission.
• Proof of fund
• International student health insurance
• Transcript

Keep Learning: UK Visa Requirements for Ghanaians: Latest Updates and Guidelines

Personal Statement and Letter of Recommendation

A personal statement is part of your application to study at a UK university as a Ghanaian student. In a personal statement, you will write about

• What you hope to achieve on a UK university course,
• What you hope to do after your studies
• Why you are applying to this particular university.

You should include the following in your statement,

• Your career aspirations.
• How did you become interested in studying the subject
• Any relevant work experience you have that is related to the course or subject.
• What aspects of your previous education you have found the most interesting
• What attracted you to the particular university
• Other relevant academic interests and passions that display positive character and personality.

The average length for an undergraduate application is between 400-600 words, around one side of A4 paper or a maximum of 47 lines. Certain postgraduate programs may require a 1000-word personal statement, but this will be specified.

A personal statement is your first chance to show a demonstrable passion and understanding of your chosen subject away from exam results.

Keep Learning: Writing a Compelling SOP for UK Student Visa: Expert Tips and Tricks

While a letter of recommendation is written on your behalf by someone who knows you well.

It is an essay that talks about the good and bad points of the candidate. It is usually between 400 and 500 words long. Some details must be in a recommendation letter, like how long you’ve known the person and what kind of relationship you have with them.

Keep Learning: Expert Tips for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for UK Admission

Interview Preparation and Tips

Preparing for a UK student visa interview requires an extensive understanding of the requirements of the UK government for entry into the country, and it is essential to ensure that all necessary documents, including the acceptance letter from the educational institution and proof of financial means, are in order before attending your interview.

This process can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be if you have prepared properly and your documents are in order,

These tips will help you ace your interview

• Dress professionally
• Be on time
• Communicate course motivation with clarity
• Have your course details
• Be confident and concise

Scholarship to study in the UK for Ghanaian students

These are some of the scholarships Ghanaian students can apply to for studies in the UK;

• Jeff Schell Fellowships 2024.
• GSLS Travel Fellowships by the University of Würzburg 2024.
• Leakey Foundation Research Grants 2024.
• Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) PhD Fellowships 2024.

Keep Learning: Top UK scholarships for ghanaian students Can Apply

Top UK Universities for Ghanaians

UK universities are ranked on several factors including student satisfaction, graduate prospects, entrance qualifications, degree results achieved, student/staff ratio, services, and dropout rate.

Below are some of the highest-ranked universities for Ghanaian students to study at

• University of St Andrews
• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• London School of Economics and Political Science
• Imperial College London
• University College London (UCL)

Keep Learning: 19 Top UK Universities with low tuition fees for Ghanaian students to apply

Cost of Studying and Available Scholarships for Ghanaian Students

The cost of studying in the UK for Ghanaian students ranges from £12,000 to £38,000 for tuition alone but students can make use of available scholarships and grants to reduce the cost of studies.

Tuition Fees and Living Expenses

As an international student coming to the UK without dependants, you can expect to pay around £1300-£1400 per month in London or £900-£1300 in the rest of the UK to cover your accommodation, bills, groceries, and a range of other living expenses during your studies.

Your tuition fees will depend largely on your program and course of study. It should range from £12,000 to £38,000

Accommodation Options and Costs

The average cost for weekly rent in the UK in purpose-built student accommodation is £166. Private sector accommodation averaged £155 a week for an ensuite room and £228 for a studio.

Scholarships, Grants, and Financial Aid

Some of the scholarships and grants available to Ghanaian students studying in the UK are;

• Commonwealth Scholarships
• GREAT Scholarships
• Chevening Scholarships
• Marshall Scholarships
• BUTEX International Scholarship
• Gates Cambridge Scholarship
• Cardiff India Scholarships
• Charles Wallace Pakistan Trust scholarships
• Global Scholarships

Managing Finances and Budgeting Tips

Most Ghanaian students studying in the UK find themselves on a tight budget, so learning how to manage your money is important to cover everything you need. Here are a few budgeting tips:

• Create a budget.
• Stick to your budget.
• Check for student discounts.
• Avoid eating out as much as possible.
• Speak to campus services for help if you need one.

Keep Learning: Cost of Study in UK for Ghanaians

Conclusion

Study in UK for Ghanaians is possible if you have a comprehensive guide to prepare you for the journey ahead. This article was written to make the journey easy for you removing all hassles and equipping you with the much-needed guide to make your dreams of studying in the UK come true.

If you need further guidance, we are here to assist you. Submit your details and we will reach out to you. Take the bold step now!