UK FAQs

1.What is ATAS?

A.The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) requires all students who will be studying for a postgraduate qualification in certain sensitive subject areas on a time-limited visa, which includes a Tier 4 visa, to apply for a clearance certificate. The relevant subject areas are based on whether knowledge gained could be used in programmes to develop weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery.
ATAS applications are administered by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). It is a free online application. The standard ATAS processing time is 20 working days although this can increase to 6 weeks during the peak period July – September.

2.How do I open a bank account?

A.YAll the major UK banks have branches in Cambridge. Different banks offer different benefits and services to international students so it is advisable to check your options before making a choice. Most students open a current account which provides a visa debit card, which can be used to make payment in shops and online as well as take money from cash points (ATMs) up to a daily maximum limit, and is usually combined with an online banking service.
The banks advise students to visit one of their branches to discuss opening an account. You may need to book an appointment to make your application depending on how busy the bank is at the time you visit.
This is particularly likely at the beginning of the academic year. To open an account you will need to take your passport, UK visa (if applicable) and a letter from your College.

3.When and how do I get my CAS to support my Tier 4 visa application?

You will receive your CAS once you have met all of your offer conditions and your offer of admission is confirmed. Your CAS will be sent to you electronically. The Graduate Admissions Office issues CAS for new graduate students. All other CAS are issued by the International Student Team.

4. How do I collect my Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) after I arrive in the UK?

A. We advise you to select collection of your BRP from the University when completing your visa application. To do this, you will need to use the relevant ACL code in the relevant part of your visa application. Once you arrive in the UK, the collection location will depend on when you are starting your studies.

5 Where can I find the information on scholarships and financial support for studying in the UK?

Information on financing your studies in the UK can be found on our website under scholarships and financial support. And a database of scholarships can be found on our Study UK website scholarships page.

6 What’s the difference between a college and a university?

Colleges offer only undergraduate degrees while universities offer graduate degrees as well, but the terms are often used interchangeably.

7 Are there any age limitations to attend U.S. universities?

Colleges offer only undergraduate degrees while universities offer graduate degrees as well, but the terms are often used interchangeably.

8 What is the difference between "Undergraduate" and "Graduate" degrees?

Undergraduate programs follow high school and lead to an associate (two-year) degree or a bachelor (four-year) degree. Graduate programs follow a bachelor’s degree and lead to a master’s or doctoral degree.

9 What are the different types of undergraduate degrees?

Associate: a two-year program that either leads to a specific vocation or transitions to a bachelor program. Bachelor: a four or five-year program where students earn credits in a wide variety of courses.

10 What are the different types of graduate degrees?

Masters: two-year degree providing additional specialization. Doctorate: five to eight-year program certifying the student as a trained research scholar and/or professor.

11 Is it possible to take a professional degree program without first earning a bachelor's degree?

Yes, but they are highly selective and require a heavy course load across a total of six years of study.

12 Is it possible to obtain a bachelor's degree and a master's degree at the same time?

In a joint-degree program, students begin a graduate program in their fourth year of college, earning both degrees upon graduation.