We know that dreaming of studying in the UK from Ghana is a big and exciting step. It means thinking about new places, different ways of learning, and a future full of possibilities. But we also know it can seem like a lot to figure out – where to start? What do you need? How much will it cost?
That’s exactly why we put this guide together for you. We want to give you all the important information in one place so you don’t have to spend hours searching everywhere. We’ll walk you through everything, step by step, making it clear and simple. Think of us as your friendly guide on this amazing journey from Ghana to the UK.
Contents
- 1 Why Study in the UK from Ghana?
- 2 Best UK Universities to Study at for Ghanaian Students
- 3 Best Courses to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
- 4 The Cost of Studying in the UK for Ghanaian Students?
- 5 Can You Study in the UK for Free as a Ghanaian Student?
- 6 How to Get Scholarships to Study in the UK as a Ghanaian Student
- 7 How to Apply to Study in the UK from Ghana
- 8 Entry Requirements to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
- 9 Visa Requirements to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
- 10 Work Conditions for Ghanaian Students in the UK
- 11 Can You Stay in the UK After Your Studies?
- 12 Conclusion
- 13 FAQs
Why Study in the UK from Ghana?
Thinking about why so many students from Ghana choose the UK? It’s a great question! The UK has a world-class education system that’s respected everywhere. When you graduate from a UK university, your degree opens doors around the globe, and you can stay in the UK after finishing your studies, work, and after 5 to 6 years, get UK citizenship.
Other than that, many Master’s degrees in the UK are just one year long. This means you can get a postgraduate qualification and start your career sooner compared to some other countries.
Best UK Universities to Study at for Ghanaian Students
Many UK universities actively welcome students from Ghana. They understand your qualifications and can offer specific support. Some universities you might consider include those with strong programs in your area of interest and good international student services. Researching universities like the University of Buckingham, Loughborough University, or the University of Greenwich (which have been mentioned as welcoming Ghanaian students) can be a good starting point, but remember there are many, many more!
Best Courses to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
Fields like Business, IT, Healthcare (like Nursing or Public Health), Engineering, and Law are often popular choices for international students, including those from Ghana. These subjects are strong in the UK and offer good career prospects.
The Cost of Studying in the UK for Ghanaian Students?
The cost of studying in the UK for students from Ghana involves two main things: tuition fees and living costs.
UK Tuition Fees for Ghanaians
Tuition fees for students from Ghana vary a lot depending on the university and the course.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees
These can range from about £11,000 to £38,000 or more per year. Arts and humanities courses might be at the lower end, while science, engineering, and medicine courses are often more expensive.
Postgraduate (Master’s/PhD) degrees
These can also vary widely, from around £13,000 to £30,000+ per year. MBAs or specialised postgraduate programs can be higher.
Living Costs in the UK
The UK government suggests you need about £1,136 per month for living costs if you study outside London.
Living Costs in London
If you plan to study in London, it’s more expensive. You’ll need about £1,483 per month.
Can You Study in the UK for Free as a Ghanaian Student?
Studying in the UK completely for free is very difficult, as international students usually have to pay full tuition fees. However, it’s not impossible to study with significant financial help!
Full Scholarships Exist
While rare and very competitive, some scholarships can cover all your costs, including tuition, living expenses, flights, and more. These are usually fully funded scholarships.
Getting a full scholarship means you’ll need an excellent academic record and often meet specific requirements based on your subject, background, or achievements. You need to apply early and make a strong case for why you deserve the scholarship.
How to Get Scholarships to Study in the UK as a Ghanaian Student
Finding and winning scholarships is a key way to fund your studies. It takes time and effort, but it’s definitely worth trying.
University Scholarships
Numerous UK universities offer their own scholarships, particularly for international students. These might be based on merit (your grades) or need (your financial situation).
Government Scholarships
Programs like the Chevening Scholarship and Commonwealth Scholarships are well-known UK government scholarships open to students from Ghana. These are highly competitive.
External Organisation Scholarships
Various trusts, foundations, and organisations offer scholarships for specific subjects or students from certain regions.
How to Apply to Study in the UK from Ghana
Applying to a good university in the UK can seem difficult, but breaking it down makes it manageable.
The UCAS System (for undergraduate)
If you’re applying for a Bachelor’s degree, you’ll usually use the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) online system. You can apply for up to five courses at separate universities. You will have to pay a small fee of 25 pounds.
Direct Applications (for postgraduate)
For Master’s or PhD degrees, you often apply directly to the university through its own online application portal.
Entry Requirements to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
As a student from Ghana, to apply to UK universities, you will usually need these documents:
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
For a Bachelor’s degree, UK universities will look at your senior secondary school qualifications. They will assess how your results compare to the UK’s A-levels or equivalent. Strong passes in relevant subjects are usually required.
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
For a Master’s degree, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree from a admitted university. The required grade or class of your degree will depend on the UK university and course you’re applying for (e.g., a strong Second Class Upper or First Class might be needed for competitive programs).
English Language Requirements
Almost all Ghanaian students will need to prove their English language ability, either via an English language test or by providing a letter from a previous university or school confirming that the medium of teaching was English.
Secure English Language Tests (SELT)
You’ll usually need to take an approved test like IELTS for UKVI. The required score varies by university and course, but typically ranges from 5.5 to 7.0 or higher.
Visa Requirements to Study in the UK for Ghanaian Students
Getting your visa is a critical step. You’ll need a UK Student visa (formerly known as the Tier 4 General student visa).
If you are from Ghana and desire to study a course longer than six months in the UK, you will need a UK Student visa, formerly known as TIER 4 Visa..
Key Student Visa Requirements
To apply for a UK student visa in Ghana, you’ll need:
- A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Proof of Funds
- English Language Proficiency
- A Valid Passport
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate
Atlas Apply Guides You Through the Visa Process
The visa application can be detailed. We help you understand the requirements, gather your documents, and complete the application correctly.
Work Conditions for Ghanaian Students in the UK
Can you work while you study in the UK? Yes, the Student visa usually allows you to work, but there are rules. Most students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during university term time. During official university holidays, you can usually work full-time.
You cannot work in certain jobs, like being self-employed, working as a professional sportsperson or coach, or working as an entertainer. Your work must not interrupt with your studies in the UK.
Work Rights After Graduation
After finishing your degree, you may be eligible for the Graduate route visa, which allows you to stay and work. We’ll cover this next.
Can You Stay in the UK After Your Studies?
Yes, there are options for international students from Ghana who want to stay in the UK after graduating.
The Graduate Route Visa
This is a fantastic option! If you complete an eligible degree in the UK, you can apply for the Graduate route visa.
How Long Can You Stay?
The Graduate route allows you to stay in the UK for two years after finishing your course. If you complete a PhD or other doctoral qualification, you can stay for three years.
What Can You Do on This Visa?
You can work at any skill level, switch jobs, and look for work. It gives you valuable time to gain work experience in the UK.
Conclusion
Studying in the UK from Ghana is a rewarding experience that can set you up for a great future. From choosing the right course and university to navigating applications and visas, there are many steps involved. It’s a journey that requires careful planning and attention to detail.
But you don’t have to do it alone. Atlas Apply is here to help you every step of the way. We understand the process for Ghanaian students and can provide the guidance and support you need to make your dream of studying in the UK a reality.
Ready to take the next step? Have questions about universities, applications, or visas? Contact us today! You can reach us easily on WhatsApp at +447498782831. Let Atlas Apply be your partner in your UK study adventure!
FAQs
Yes, in most cases, you will need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) like IELTS for UKVI to prove your English proficiency for your visa and university admission.
After your biometrics appointment, the standard processing time is usually around 3 weeks. However, it can sometimes take longer, so it’s best to apply well in advance.
Rules for dependents joining students have changed. Currently, most new international students starting courses from January 2024 onwards cannot bring dependents unless they are studying a postgraduate course that is officially funded by a government or is a PhD/doctoral course.
No, during university term time, you are typically limited to working up to 20 hours per week on a Student visa. You can usually work full-time during scheduled university holidays.
CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. It’s a unique electronic reference number issued by your university once they offer you a place and you accept it. You need this number for your Student visa application.
