International student application information

Applying for a course

For information on how to apply, and links to application forms, please choose the type of course you wish to apply for.

Degree preparation and English Language courses

Pre-sessional pathways

Our pre-sessional English language pathways are ideal if you need to improve your English before starting one of our courses. We offer various pre-sessional programmes in partnership with Kaplan at the University of Essex International College based on your needs and English proficiency.

Degree preparation courses

We have degree preparation courses for international students who do not yet meet the entry requirements to apply directly for their desired Essex degree. They are designed to improve your study skills and subject knowledge, as well as your English if needed, to prepare you for your degree. If you pass with the required grades and good attendance, you are guaranteed a place on your chosen degree.

Find out more

Entry requirements

Academic and English language requirements vary by course and level of study. See the country-specific page for your country or browse our courses to find out the general and specific entry requirements for your country. You can find the English language requirements for your level of study through the application pages in the menu above.

Visas to study

If you aren’t a UK or Irish national, you may require a visa to study in the UK, you'll need to apply for the relevant immigration permission under the UK immigration system. You can find out if you need a visa, what type you need to apply for and much more by reading our immigration webpages.

On the immigration pages you'll also find further information about any proposed changes to student visa rules, including the rules around which students are eligible to bring dependants to the UK.

University of Essex International College

If you’re an international student, but do not meet the English language or academic requirements for direct admission to your chosen degree, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College, operated on the University's Colchester Campus by Kaplan International Pathways.