The idea of sending your child to study in another country can feel like a big step, especially when the education system is different from your own. We’re here to help you understand what to expect and - more importantly - how you can help your child every step of the way.
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In the UK, students usually start university at age 18, after finishing their final school exams (known as A levels or equivalent qualifications like the IB Diploma). Most undergraduate degrees last three to four years, although some subjects - like medicine - may take longer.
UK universities offer a wide range of degrees, from business and computing to languages, sciences, creative arts and more. Students choose a shortlist of universities to apply to and apply through UCAS (more on UCAS coming up next).
Some courses are very focused from the beginning - for example, if your child chooses to study law, they will study law for all three years. Others offer more flexibility, with options to choose different modules or topics each year.
UK degrees are designed to help students gain knowledge, develop critical thinking skills and prepare for future careers. They are recognised and respected all over the world and prepare your child well for their career or further studies at postgraduate level.
Most students apply to universities in the UK through an organisation called UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). It’s a central application system used by almost all UK universities and colleges. Every year approximately 140,000 people from outside of the UK also apply through UCAS to study here.
Through UCAS, they can:
You can help your child by making sure they understand the process and meet important deadlines.
Applications usually open in September and close in January for most courses. Some courses, such as medicine or dentistry, have earlier deadlines.
Read our blog about applying through UCAS – a guide for parents of international students
Step-by-step guide for international and EU students
UCAS information for international students
Your child will need to decide which universities and courses they want to apply for. This is an exciting step. But with around 400 universities and colleges offering over 35,000 courses in the UK it can feel like there’s too much choice.
You can help by talking to them about what’s important. You might explore with them:
Encourage them to research different universities and courses. Most universities offer detailed information online, including entry requirements, course content, student life, and accommodation options.
Visiting university campuses helps them to choose. But when you’re applying from another country that’s not always possible. Many universities offer virtual tours which you can explore with your child. And at Newcastle we have an international airport only 30 minutes away from campus, making those quick visits easier to arrange.
Take our Newcastle University campus tour
Explore undergraduate courses at Newcastle
The UCAS application includes personal and academic details, predicted grades (from teachers), and a personal statement - made up of three questions. It is one of the most important parts of the application focussing on ‘what, why and where you want to study’.
You can help by:
Students also need a reference from a teacher. If your child is applying from a school that isn’t familiar with UCAS, suggest that their teacher or careers counsellor read the UCAS guidance.
Once the application is submitted, universities will respond with offers - these may be conditional (depending on final exam results) or unconditional (if they already meet the entry requirements).
Read our blog about the new UCAS personal statement – 2026 entry
Studying in another country can be expensive, so it’s important to talk with your child about tuition fees, living costs and how you will plan together. Because UK universities typically deliver three-year undergraduate degree programmes instead of the four-year programmes offered in other countries, the total cost can be more affordable.
In the UK:
You can help your child by:
Cities like Newcastle are more affordable than London - with rent and daily expenses often significantly lower. Newcastle University also offers a wide range of scholarships for international students, which can help reduce the cost of studying.
Search for Newcastle University scholarships
Explore our student financial support information and Cost of Living support.
Your child is making a big decision - and they will need your support, encouragement and belief in them. As you’ve read this far in this blog post, it’s clear to us that you care deeply about their next steps and supporting them. But now you have to navigate between supporting them while also encouraging their independence.
Here’s how you can help grow their confidence and independence, while also continuing to support and nurture them:
Try to find a balance between being involved and giving them space to grow. Choosing to study in the UK will help your child become more independent, develop new skills and build lifelong friendships.
If your child is thinking about studying in the UK, Newcastle is an excellent choice. The University:
As a parent, you want your child to be safe, happy and successful. Newcastle provides a supportive, friendly environment that helps students settle in and succeed.
See how Newcastle supports international students
Read our blog about what support is available for international students
Studying in the UK is a big opportunity. With your support, your child can make confident, informed choices - and begin a journey that will shape their future.