How to Study in the United Kingdom: Tips from Filipino Students

As Filipino international students in the United Kingdom (UK), we asked Karen Christine Moroño who is studying at the University of London and Kirk Marvin Narvaez of Kingston University London for some tips that they could share with those who are also planning to study in the UK and how IDP helped them fulfill their study abroad dream. 

Studying abroad is a truly a life changing experience, and with it, come big decisions and intricate preparations. Here are five tips you can count on from international students.

1. Decide on which country you would like to pursue your study abroad dream in

We all have different reasons for studying abroad. For Karen, she wanted a change of pace and a new environment. But it is important for you to choose a country that would fit your lifestyle, personality, and other preferences. 

“I’ve been here thrice. I also have relatives here, so it just makes sense for me to study here because it serves as my second home.” Karen adds that it is important for her to have relatives living in the UK as this helped her feel less homesick. Choosing a country to study in need not be stressful, as this should feel like a natural choice. 

For Kirk, he wanted to seek for new opportunities and the United Kingdom was part of his list.  

2. Pick a course you are passionate about 

You will have a greater chance of getting accepted in pursuing your studies in the United Kingdom if the course or program you chose is aligned with your preferences and educational background.   

Kirk attended IDP’s webinars to get to know schools in the United Kingdom and find out which schools offer his preferred course. 

Meanwhile, Karen recommends choosing a future-proof degree that would keep up with the demands of the ever-changing world. 

3. Make time for preparations 

It is important that you are able to gather the documents necessary for your study in the UK application early. It is a must to prepare your finances too, which includes your tuition and cost of living expenses.  

Kirk says that he prepared a year in advance just to be sure. He mentions, "Financial wise, you have to be prepared. But in the end, it's all worth it." 

4. Seek help from IDP’s Education Counselors 

Karen initially thought of going for a do-it-yourself application, however, when she saw the process and requirements, she felt overwhelmed. Karen then opted to seek help from IDP.  

"When I saw that IDP offers free counseling, I immediately signed up and received a call soon after. IDP is really supportive and not pushy. My application was really driven by my own decision and not the agency’s decision for me. Getting an agency to help you really helps." 

Kirk shares that his IDP Education Counselor was approachable and helpful. "It's like talking to a friend. I don't feel shy asking questions, and our communication is very easy and very smooth.” 

5. Start now 

Kirk says that pursuing your studies abroad gives you a lot of options for you and your family. Meanwhile, Karen advises aspiring international students to start as early as possible and if you try to do it, really just do it. 

"I’m not sure if you will agree with me, but I think that the only way that you can get something as big as this done, is to really put your heart into it and your intentions into it." 

She mentions how one shouldn't be half-hearted because studying abroad is truly the opportunity of a lifetime. 

Ready to kickstart your study in the United Kingdom adventure? IDP is here to help.

Preparing to study abroad seems like a ton of work, but you don’t have to do it all by yourself.  Like Karen and Kirk, you too can soon share your study in the United Kingdom experience.  

Here at IDP, we pride ourselves on guiding our students at every step of their study abroad journey—from giving insights and course advice on the different courses and programs available, providing visa application assistance, to getting you settled in your student accommodation.   

Get in touch with our friendly Education Counselors today to find out how you can begin your overseas student journey in the UK!